The Must-See Places to Visit in BucharesT

Palace of the Parliament

The Palace of the Parliament is one of Bucharest’s most iconic landmarks and is one of the largest administrative buildings in the world. Built by the communist regime, it’s a massive structure with opulent interiors that are a testament to the excesses of the era. Take a guided tour to learn more about its history and the fascinating stories behind its construction.

Old Town

Bucharest’s Old Town is a charming and historic neighborhood that’s full of life and energy. It’s a great place to explore on foot, with narrow streets, charming architecture, and plenty of cafes and restaurants to discover. Be sure to visit Stavropoleos Church, a small but stunningly beautiful 18th-century Orthodox church that’s considered one of the city’s architectural jewels.

Village Museum

If you want to learn more about Romania’s rural traditions and way of life, then the Village Museum is a must-visit attraction. The museum showcases traditional Romanian architecture and lifestyle, with authentic buildings from all over the country that have been relocated to the museum grounds. There’s also a picturesque lake on the premises, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Revolution Square

Revolution Square is the site of some of the most significant events in Romania’s recent history, including the fall of the communist regime in 1989. Visit the square to see the stunning architecture of the Royal Palace, the former home of the communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, and the Memorial of Rebirth, a monument that commemorates the revolution and the people who lost their lives during it.

Romanian Athenaeum

The Romanian Athenaeum is a beautiful concert hall that’s considered one of the most prestigious cultural venues in the country. It’s known for its stunning architecture, including its iconic dome, and is the home of the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra. Attend a concert or simply admire the building’s beauty from the outside.

Cotroceni Palace

The Cotroceni Palace is the official residence of the President of Romania and is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. It’s located in a large park that’s open to the public, and you can take a guided tour to see the opulent interiors and learn more about the building’s history.

With so much to see and do in Bucharest, these are just a few of the must-visit attractions. By exploring these fascinating sites, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of Romania’s rich history and culture.

If you only have three days to visit Bucharest

Here’s a three-day itinerary for a family visit to Bucharest, with a detailed list of places to visit for each day, in the style of Rick Steves:

Day 1:

9:00 am – Begin your day with a visit to the Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world. Take a guided tour to learn about the building’s history and see its opulent interiors.

11:30 am – After your tour of the Palace of the Parliament, head to the Old Town, a charming and historic neighborhood with plenty of cafes and restaurants to discover. Be sure to visit Stavropoleos Church, a beautiful Orthodox church that’s considered one of the city’s architectural jewels.

1:30 pm – Enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch at Caru’ cu Bere, one of Bucharest’s most famous restaurants. The restaurant has been in business for over a century and is known for its beautiful Art Nouveau interiors and traditional Romanian cuisine.

3:00 pm – Visit the Village Museum, which showcases traditional Romanian architecture and lifestyle. See authentic buildings from all over the country that have been relocated to the museum grounds, and take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque lake on the premises.

Day 2:

9:00 am – Start your day at Revolution Square, the site of some of the most significant events in Romania’s recent history. See the stunning architecture of the Royal Palace and the Memorial of Rebirth, a monument that commemorates the revolution and the people who lost their lives during it.

11:00 am – Visit the National Museum of Art of Romania, which is housed in the former Royal Palace. The museum has an impressive collection of Romanian art from the medieval period to the present day, as well as works by famous international artists.

1:30 pm – Have lunch at Hanu’ lui Manuc, a historic restaurant that’s been in business since the early 1800s. The restaurant serves traditional Romanian cuisine in a beautiful courtyard setting.

3:00 pm – Explore the Herastrau Park, the largest park in Bucharest. Take a stroll around the lake, rent a bike, or simply enjoy the beautiful green surroundings.

Day 3:

9:00 am – Begin your day at the Romanian Athenaeum, a beautiful concert hall that’s considered one of the most prestigious cultural venues in the country. Attend a concert or simply admire the building’s beauty from the outside.

11:00 am – Visit the Cotroceni Palace, the official residence of the President of Romania. Take a guided tour to see the opulent interiors and learn more about the building’s history.

1:00 pm – Enjoy lunch at La Mama, a popular restaurant that serves traditional Romanian cuisine with a modern twist.

3:00 pm – Finish your day at the Bucharest Botanical Garden, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. See a variety of exotic plants and flowers, and relax in the peaceful surroundings.

By following this three-day itinerary, you’ll be able to see some of the most iconic landmarks and attractions in Bucharest, as well as experience the city’s rich culture and cuisine.