What is There to See and Do in Bucharest?

Situated on the banks of the River Dâmboviţa, Bucharest is the capital of Romania, and it’s a city with an amazing cultural and historical heritage, as well as plenty of attractions for tourists. From stunning castles, beautiful parks and picturesque neighborhoods, to unique museums, lively music and a vibrant nightlife, Bucharest offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed holiday, here is what to see and do in Bucharest.

Explore Historic Sites

Bucharest is full of incredible historical, cultural, and architectural sites to explore. The city has many churches and cathedrals, including one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, the Patriarchal Cathedral at Curtea Veche. In addition, there are several impressive palaces, including the Palace of Parliament, which is the world’s second biggest administrative building.

For those interested in experiencing the city’s rich history, a visit to the Village Museum is a must. Located in Herastrau Park, the museum consists of a vast outdoor collection of traditional Romanian houses, churches, and farms dating back to the 19th century.

Discover Unique Museums

There are many unique and interesting museums in Bucharest that offer great insights into Romanian culture and history. The Museum of Dracula is a must for horror movie fans, while history buffs will find plenty to love at the National Museum of Romanian History. The National Village Museum offers a unique chance to explore traditional Romanian villages straight out of fairytales, while the Natural History Museum has a wide selection of wildlife specimens on display.

Experience a Variety of Cuisines

Bucharest has a wealth of great restaurants to try out. The city has a mix of traditional Romanian dishes as well as international offerings like Italian and French cuisine. For authentic local dishes, head to Caru cu Bere, one of the oldest restaurants in Bucharest. For more contemporary restaurants, try out Ciorba Concept or The Artist.

Take a Sightseeing Trip

Taking a sightseeing trip around Bucharest is one of the best ways to take in all of its beauty. One of the top sightseeing trips to take is through Cișmigiu Park, which offers spectacular views of the city’s skyline. Other popular destinations include Old Town and the House of Ceaușescu (Former Communist Leader’s residence).

Enjoy Music and Nightlife

Bucharest has some great music venues as well as lively nightlife. The city is home to some world-famous clubs such as Paper Café and Boiler Club that offer great music and atmosphere. For live music venues, head to No Boring Café or Epoca Loft. Additionally, there are plenty of bars and pubs scattered throughout the city that offer great cocktails as well as lively conversation.

Conclusion

Bucharest is an incredibly vibrant city with a lot to offer both tourists and locals alike. From impressive historic sites to unique museums, delicious cuisines and plenty of nightlife options, there is something for everyone in Bucharest. For more information about what to see and do in Bucharest, visit the Romania Insider website for insights into some of the city’s best attractions.

An Insider’s Guide to Bucharest: Exploring Romania’s Capital City

Bucharest is the capital city of Romania and is known for its diverse and vibrant atmosphere. From the dynamic nightlife to the impressive museums, the sprawling parks and historic landmarks, there is plenty to explore in this fascinating city. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit and things to do in Bucharest, including some hidden gems that only locals know about.

Attractions and Landmarks

Bucharest has plenty of attractions and landmarks to keep visitors entertained. Here are a few must-visit spots:

The Palace of the Parliament

The Palace of the Parliament, also known as the People’s Palace is the largest administrative building in the world. It was built in the 1980s during the communist era and covers an area of 3.77 million square feet. Take a guided tour and marvel at the sheer size and grandeur of this building, which features marble staircases, chandeliers, and an impressive collection of artwork.

The Romanian Athenaeum

The Romanian Athenaeum is a beautiful concert hall and is considered one of the city’s cultural treasures. Completed in 1888, it features a neoclassical façade and frescoes depicting famous Romanian artists and scholars. Attend a concert or admire the architecture of this stunning building.

The Old Town (Lipscani)

The old town of Bucharest is the heart of the city and features a collection of historic buildings, cafes, and shops. Take a stroll along the cobbled streets and admire the classic architecture, which has been restored in recent years. Stop by one of the several art galleries or museums in the area.

Cultural Experiences

If you’re interested in experiencing the culture of Bucharest, there are plenty of options to choose from:

Museum of the Romanian Peasant

The Museum of the Romanian Peasant is a fascinating museum that showcases the rural life and customs of Romania. The museum features a large collection of traditional costumes, textiles, ceramics, and artifacts, including agricultural tools and handmade objects. This museum is a great place to learn about Romania’s history and customs.

The National Museum of Art of Romania

The National Museum of Art of Romania is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. This iconic museum features an extensive collection of Romanian and European art from the 14th century to the present day. Among the museum’s collection are works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, El Greco, and Bruegel.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions

Get away from the crowds, and explore some off-the-beaten-path suggestions for Bucharest:

Carturesti Carusel Bookstore

The Carturesti Carusel Bookstore is a hidden gem in the center of Bucharest. The building has been restored and transformed into a stunning bookstore that features over 10,000 books on three floors. This bookstore is not just a place to buy a book, but also an experience in itself.

Therme Bucharest

Therme Bucharest is an enormous indoor-outdoor spa that offers visitors natural thermal waters in the middle of Bucharest. There are a variety of indoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms, as well as landscaped outdoor pools, sun loungers, and tropical gardens. A perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Dining Spots

Bucharest has a vast array of restaurants to suit every budget and palate. Here are a few dining spots you won’t want to miss:

Biutiful by the Lake

Biutiful by the Lake is one of the best-loved restaurants in Bucharest, and it’s easy to see why. Set on a lake in the north of the city, the restaurant offers a beautiful view and an intimate atmosphere with live music. The menu focuses on traditional Romanian cuisine with a modern twist.

Caru’ cu Bere

Caru’ cu Bere is one of Bucharest’s most famous restaurants, and for a good reason. This restaurant has been serving up traditional Romanian dishes since 1879 in an unforgettable setting. The interior design is stunning, featuring carved wood, stained glass, and intricate mosaic floors.

In conclusion, Bucharest offers an amazing array of sites, sounds, and experiences that every tourist should explore. Whether you’re interested in art, history, food, or simply want to relax and unwind, Bucharest has something to offer. This insider’s guide is just the beginning of a grand adventure in Romania’s fascinating capital city.