Romania’s capital and largest city is one of the most dynamic and diverse capitals in Eastern Europe. Bucharest is often overlooked as a city to visit with so many to choose from within the European continent, however, it is definitely one that should be on your bucket list. Romania’s capital has a complicated history, unique architecture and a captivating energy that is both surprising and beautiful. Meanwhile, the city’s culture does not revolve around the tourist market in the way that other European cities such as Paris and London do and this makes it a fantastic capital to visit and get a true experience of local life.
Visit one of the largest buildings in the world
The world’s largest parliamentary building is at home in Bucharest and The Palace of Parliament is also one of the largest buildings of any kind across the globe. The magnificent building is a testament to Romania’s engineering skill whilst also highlighting the megalomania of the country’s former dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu. The building is over three million square feet and the hour-long tours on offer takes in just a fraction focusing on the architecture as well as the history and legends of Bucharest.
Hours: Open daily 9am-5pm in summer and 10am-4pm in winter
Price: From 40RON adults and 10RON children
Explore Old Town Bucharest
In the decades before WW2, Bucharest was nicknamed ‘Paris of the East’. The city was bursting with art noveau architecture and palaces that bore incredible resemblance to the French capital. Whilst sadly a lot of the old city was destroyed in the earthquake of 1977, some of it can still be found and admired in the Old Town district of Bucharest. This small district seems like another world in comparison to the concrete architecture of the modern city and is the most visited area of Bucharest by tourists. The Old Town is like a shabby chic version of the Parisian city, beautifully rustic and really makes you feel like you have been transported to Paris.
Hours: 24/7
Price: Free
Join the free walking tour
The city of Bucharest is very easy to navigate and walker friendly meaning exploring the Romanian capital is a breeze. Whilst it is simple to explore independently, Bucharest’s free walking tour is the best way to truly discover the city. Whilst taking in the sights, the insightful tour guide will take you on a journey through the city’s history from the legend of Dracula to the 1989 revolution. Joining the walking tour is also a great way to get recommendations, hints and tips of where to eat, drink and visit in the city from a local’s perspective.
Hours: Tour starts at 10:30 daily
Price: Free but tipping is expected
Eat at Food Hood Bucuresti
Food Hood Bucuresti is one of the coolest places in the city. Taking inspiration from American food trucks, Food Hood Bucuresti is a great place to enjoy street food, craft beer and live events. Live music is on every evening whilst you can also find daytime activities such as yoga classes and record fairs. With its casual vibe, delicious grub and lively atmosphere, Food Hood Bucuresti is the place to be, particularly in summer.
Hours: Wednesday to Friday 6pm-2am and weekends 11am-2am
Price: Free entry but event and menu prices may vary
Stroll around Herăstrău Park
Herăstrău Park is one of Romania’s prettiest parks and the biggest in Bucharest. The 187-hectare park is built around Herăstrău Lake where visitors can hire a boat to take out on the water. The park is also full of bike trails, sculptures and a Japanese garden to explore whilst the Village Museum is a great reflection of Romanian heritage. If you fancy a bite to eat whilst visiting the park, there is a great selection of kiosks and restaurants including Bucharest’s Hard Rock Café.
Hours: Daily 10am-8pm
Price: Free
Discover history at Sighet Memorial Exhibition
Romania is a country that has suffered and has a turbulent history but decided to stay relatively quiet about it in comparison to other countries. However, just exploring the neighbourhoods of Bucharest, it is evident, especially when you notice buildings with bullet damage. Whilst most museums in Bucharest focus on the culture, heritage and positive past of the country, Sighet Memorial Exhibition is housed in a former prison and dedicated to the history of communist control. The exhibition takes visitors on a journey to experience what life was like in Romania during that period through a series of text and imagery.
Hours: Daily 9:30am-6:30pm
Price: 10RON adults and 4RON children
Go Michael Jackson hunting
No, the King of Pop has not risen but Bucharest is full of dedications to him. Michael Jackson is seen as somewhat of a hero throughout Romania as he was the first high profile celebrity to visit the country after the uprising on his 1992 The Dangerous Tour. Not only is there a memorial monument located in Herăstrău Park but there are also other tributes to discover across the city.
Hours: 24/7
Price: Free
Watch the Unirii Square Fountain Show
If you are visiting Bucharest during the spring or summer, don’t miss watching the Unirii Square Fountain Show. Every evening during the warmer months, the fountain showcases a grand performance of light, music and dancing water. The 44 fountains create a dazzling spectacle that could rival the performances of other well-known fountains across the world.
Hours: Every evening in the spring and summer. Start time is dependent on sunset and can be modified depending on weather conditions
Price: Free
Witness the sunset from Pura Vida Sky Bar
Whilst Romania isn’t a country famous for its sunset, Bucharest offers a magnificent one best witnessed as the backdrop to the copper rooftops of the city. The best location to view is from Pura Vida Sky Bar, a trendy bar surrounded by the roofs of Bucharest that glisten with the descending sun.
Hours: Sunset. View is dependent on weather conditions
Price: Menu items vary
Escape the city in search of Dracula
If during your trip to Romania you are only staying in Bucharest, it is worth spending a day venturing further afield to Transylvania is search of Dracula. Whilst the excursion is long, it is worth it with the tour visiting incredible Romanian castles including Bran Castle, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Hours: Varies by tour operator
Price: Varies by tour operator
Whilst Bucharest doesn’t usually top many bucket lists, the city is a unique one to explore with an abundance of heritage, culture and even legend. As Romania is a country with reasonable prices, exploring Bucharest is affordable regardless of budget and a destination suitable for everyone to visit.
