Things to Do in Bucharest
Bucharest, in recent years has grown significantly in popularity, becoming one of the most up-and-coming tourist destinations in Europe for its
Romania's capital city of Bucharest was once known as the 'Paris of the East' or 'Little Paris' for its striking architectural similarity to the French capital city. However, during the course of the 20th century, much of this grand architecture was demolished in favor of Soviet-style, neo-classical architecture that largely defines the city today. Along these fascinating, tree-lined city streets, you'll find fantastic eateries, affordable bars, a bustling nightlife, and, for now, an absence of the intense tourism like you see in other major capital cities. What's more, the city is surrounded by an abundance of lush nature which is well worth checking out.
The best way to discover the city's main sights is by taking a free walking tour of Bucharest, or this Bucharest private tour. If you have specific interests in the city, there are more specialized tours available also, like this free Bucharest history tour, this Communist Bucharest free tour, or, during the winter, even this Bucharest Christmas free tour!
What Are the 'Must-See' Landmarks in Bucharest?
Start your adventure in Bucharest by exploring the charming Old Town (Lipscani District), the beating heart of the city. This historic quarter is filled with winding cobblestone streets, vibrant cafés, and centuries-old architecture that reflects a mix of neoclassical, baroque, and Art Nouveau influences. This part of the city dates all the way back to the medieval period, and has plenty of history to unveil, along with a bustling nightlife, which you can discover on this Bucharest pub crawl.
A short walk from the Old Town, continue your journey on to the Romanian Athenaeum, a stunning, neo-classical concert hall which is sure to impress both inside and out. As well as concerts, this venue hosts exhibitions, lectures, and many other cultural events, which are usually worth checking out!
Another must in Bucharest is a guided tour of the Palace of the Parliament, also known as the People's House. This fascinating structure is the second-largest administrative building in the world, after the Pentagon in the United States of America. Due to its sheer weight, the building sinks 0.2 inches (6 millimeters) each year.
Revolution Square (Piața Revoluției) is another must in Bucharest. Best known as the setting of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s final speech in December 1989, which was shortly thereafter followed by intense confrontations between protestors and the government forces, which would come to be known as the Romanian Revolution of 1989, an event that led to the end of communism in the country.
Just outside the city, you can't visit Bucharest without visiting Bran Castle, better known in English as Dracula's Castle. Check it out on this day trip to Dracula's Castle from Bucharest!
The Best Museums and Galleries in Bucharest
This historic city, it should come as no surprise, is home to a number of fantastic museums that seek to encapsulate its rich history from a number of different angles. Discover the city's history lived under the communist regime, which lasted over 40 years, with a ticket to the Museum of Communism in Bucharest. See what homes looked like, wear the clothes that were worn, and even taste the foods that were commonly eaten during this time.
Also, check out the Village Museum, a fascinating open-air museum that showcases traditional Romanian village life. With Civitatis, you can enjoy a tour of the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum + Herastrau Park.
Another 'must' is the National Museum of Art, which is housed in the stunning Royal Palace in Revolution Square. Here, you can explore a large collection of medieval and modern Romanian and international art from the collection of the country's royal family.
Day Trips from Bucharest
Just outside the city, you can't visit Bucharest without visiting Bran Castle, better known in English as Dracula's Castle. This castle is one of the most famous landmarks in the country, dating back to the 14th century, when it was built by the Saxons. Since then, it has served many purposes, including as a royal residence under Queen Marie. The name 'Dracula's Castle' comes from its supposed resemblance to Castle Dracula in Bram Stoker's classic Dracula. Check it out on this day trip to Dracula's Castle from Bucharest!
Another must from Bucharest is a visit to salt mines. Perhaps the most impressive salt mines in the country are those of Slanic in Prahova. These mines are the largest in Europe, and can be easily discovered as part of this day trip to Slanic Salt Mines from Bucharest!
There are lots more day trips from Bucharest with Civitatis:
