Guides

An Ultimate Bucharest Travel Guide

September 26, 2022

Bucharest is fascinating! Bucharest is pulsating! Bucharest is full of surprises!

The Romanian capital leaves no stone unturned to intrigue its dear travelers with its multiple personalities that comprise an ultimate mix of a Balkan vibe with Oriental influences, a thriving Western-inspired city, and French-inspired architecture transformed by 40 years of communism.

Parts of the beautiful city of Bucharest feel like they might have been taken from 19^th-century Paris (at first glance), and it may seem rough around the edges, but there’s something for everyone. Although Bucharest isn’t as visually appealing as some of the other Eastern European capitals, travelers to this gorgeous city can still count on its rare collision of an optimistic future and an enthralling past, well-complemented by the typical tourist things to do like the Old Town area and the Palace of Parliament.

Feel intrigued?

Few destinations in Eastern Europe can match the energy and verve of Bucharest. Plan a trip to this stunning city and explore the picturesque churches of Lipscani, walk the streets of the Old Town area, marvel at the enormous Palace of the Parliament, or catch a cut-price feast at the Bucharest National Opera.

Bucharest is full of life. And through this Bucharest tour guide, you will learn why more and more tourists fall in love with this inviting city.

Bucharest Tour Guide – Top 5 Reasons to Plan a Bucharest Holiday

Owing to its elegant architecture, Romania’s capital was once known as “Little Paris”. Whether you are back to discover more or it is your very first trip to Bucharest, the Romanian capital will leave you to drool over its trendy cafes, fine dining, urban gardens, captivating architecture, and, most importantly, beautiful, friendly locals. Here are the top reasons to visit Bucharest: fun, recreation, and sheer hedonism.

1. Thriving Cultural Center:

Bucharest reclaiming its position as the cultural hub of the Balkan has been a striking scene to witness. Not only do the well-known cultural centers like the National Opera House and the National Theater continue to lure people, but also lesser-known venues like Green Hours 22 spare no effort to impress by showing the city’s growing jazz scene.

2. Steeped in Rich History:

Bucharest’s history covers the time from the early settlements until it became the capital in 1862. All these years, decades, and centuries have erected numerous landmarks that provide in-depth historical information about the city.

The time-honored buildings, spectacular palaces, striking monuments, and sprawling parks have witnessed the glorious past of Bucharest.

To sneak peek into Bucharest’s rich history, walk through the famous historical landmarks – Palace of Parliament, Arcul de Triumf, Cotroceni Palace, Carol Park, Bellu Cemetery, Coltea Hospital, Curtea Veche, Biserica Sfantul Gheorghe Nou, and Palatul Primaverii – that adorn the city.

3. Wonderful Collection of Marvelous Museums:

The National Library is located on Calea Victoriei in Bucharest, Romania.

Marvel at the stunning works by European masters at the National Museum of Art, discover the holocaust at the Jewish History Museum, and tour the residence of the President at the majestic Cotroceni Palace, Bucharest takes pride in its astounding assortment of awe-striking museums.

The capital is home to more than 60 memorial houses and museums. Each museum has a unique story to tell. Whether you are captivated by the country’s rich folklore or Romanian art, you will unearth many interesting and exciting elements of the past.

4. Electrifying Nightlife:

Bucharest has earned a reputation for being an ultimate destination for party lovers. Spots like Club A, Control Club, Beat of Angels, True Club, and Beluga Music & Cocktails have helped Bucharest transition to hedonism from communism. The city never shies away from bringing you an abundance of venues that will tell how complex and eccentric the nightlife is.

Indeed, Bucharest has come a long way since the days of communism. You can see several pubs, bars, and clubs popping up everywhere. From jam-packed clubs and romantic beer gardens to decadent spas and rooftop bars, Bucharest’s lively and entertaining atmosphere won’t disappoint you if you plan to spend an evening with your gang.

5. Gourmet Dining Scene:

No Bucharest vacation is complete without its traditional Romanian food. The people of Romania love their food, and they believe that you, too, will fall for the delicious Romanian dishes, mostly comprised of meat and vegetables. Dishes like Sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled meat rolls), ciorba, salata boeuf (beef salad), salata de vinete (roasted eggplant salad), jumari (pork greaves), and tuica (Romanian plum brandy) will surely water your mouth. Almost all major Romanian restaurants, bistros, and gastro-bars in Bucharest serve good authentic food and drinks.

Best Time to Visit Bucharest

Spring – March through May – is when Bucharest is at its best. The weather is warm & pleasant; the surrounding is beautiful; the parks are green, rambling, and full of flowers; and the birds sing happily.

Fall is also a nice time to be around in the city if you plan a romantic escape with your better half. Enjoy a walk along Calea Victoriei and appreciate Bucharest’s important landmarks and picturesque streets.

Avoid visiting the city in September and October – as the seasons start to shift – and you may expect a few showers. So, if you don’t like getting drenched, you prefer to stay indoors and enjoy a glass of mulled wine with your partner.

Conclusion

A Bucharest vacation isn’t just about exploring its unique attractions but understanding a complex past giving way to its modern sensibility.

Take in the city’s charm by wandering through the vibrant city, admiring the beautiful works of art and exhibits at museums, and getting lost in the lanes of the Old Town – for curious eyes, Bucharest holds many treasures. Use this ultimate Bucharest tour guide to plan a perfect vacation with your near and dear ones.