With its grand architecture and lively social scene, Romania’s capital city of Bucharest offers an unmistakeable yet underrated charm.
Admire the elaborate historical buildings of the Ateneul Roman Concert Hall and the Patriarchal Cathedral, and some sample some local living with hearty food and drink in the many bars and restaurants that spill onto the streets. Bucharest is also the gateway to Romania’s oft overlooked stunning countryside, with the Carpathian mountains home to medieval castles and quaint townships, while the Black Sea coast features stunning white sand beaches too.
What you’ll love most about Bucharest
- Discover the architectural splendor of Bucharest at the Palace of the Parliament, one of the world’s largest and heaviest buildings, where guided tours reveal opulent interiors and the complex history of Romania’s communist era
- Stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town (Lipscani), where historic churches, vibrant nightlife, and a mix of neoclassical and baroque buildings create a lively atmosphere, inviting exploration and cultural discovery
- Visit the Village Museum (Muzeul Satului), an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life with authentic houses, churches, and mills transported from different regions of the country, offering a fascinating glimpse into rural heritage
- Enjoy the serene beauty of Herăstrău Park, the largest park in Bucharest, where you can take a leisurely boat ride on the lake, explore lush gardens, and relax in scenic surroundings, all within the heart of the bustling city
- Delve into Romania’s artistic heritage at the National Museum of Art, housed in the former royal palace, where extensive collections of medieval, modern, and contemporary Romanian art, as well as European masterpieces, provide a rich cultural experience
- Savour the flavours of Romanian cuisine, from hearty dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mici (grilled sausages) to sweet treats like papanasi (fried doughnuts), as you dine in traditional restaurants and trendy eateries that celebrate Bucharest’s culinary diversity