In southeast Romania, on the banks of the Dâmbovita River, Bucharest is the country’s dynamic capital, as well as its artistic and cultural hub. It is a city like no other with a Communist history that has shaped its very heart. Our Bucharest holidays are led by experienced guides, who take you to the most fascinating sites and lesser-visited places to be immersed in Romanian culture. Mingle with the local craftsmen, taste traditional foods and explore historic buildings that reveal the city’s heritage.
You’ll also find an eclectic mic of architecture – Brancovan, neo-Romanian, art nouveau, and Communist-era – blending with the modern landscape. In the period between the two world wars, the city’s elegant structures and sophisticated elite earned Bucharest the nicknames ‘the Paris of the East’ and ‘Little Paris’. Although many buildings and districts in the historic centre were damaged or destroyed by war, the city has experienced an economic and cultural boom in recent years. Holidays to Bucharest steer you to both the old and new parts of the city, where you can witness the diverse architectural influences.
While a large part of the centre is modern, it’s worth exploring the quieter corners and seeking out the ancient Orthodox churches and Belle Epoque villas on Bucharest trips. One of the most imposing and infamous pieces of Communist architecture is the Palace of Parliament, which is the second largest building in the world. Although it is a reminder of Bucharest’s dark past, it has a fascinating history.
Visit the Old Town: Dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, Bucharest’s Old Town is one of the earliest settlements in Romania and is home to some of the most impressive buildings in the city. Throughout the centuries it has been a place of significance where princes, tradesmen and travellers have gathered. Since the communist age, the Old Town has been re-established with many of the ancient buildings having undergone restoration. Trips to Bucharest never cease to amaze you with its captivating contrasts of ancient and modern. While one moment you’re ambling through cobbled streets lined with restaurants and cafes, the next you could be staring up at the magnificent palace.
Take a tour of the Palace of the Parliament: A vital piece of Romanian history and a must-see site on holidays to Bucharest is the Palace of the Parliament. Built between 1984 and 1997, the palace is the second largest administrative building in the world with over 3,000 rooms, and once housed the family of dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu. In order to construct the palace, he cruelly destroyed local neighbourhoods and even parts of the Old Town. Still today the building remains incomplete and is a harsh reminder of Bucharest’s communist past.
Visit the Romanian Athenaeum: A building of pure elegance and beauty, the Romanian Athenaeum is one of the most prestigious landmarks in the city and is well worth visiting on trips to Bucharest. Taking pride of place in the heart of the city, this domed concert hall opened in 1888 and is home to the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra. Inside this almost Greek temple-like building you’ll find the most ornate gold-leaf ceiling, marble staircases and a circular fresco depicting the history of Romania.
Explore the Old Princely Court: Standing inside the Old City, the Old Princely Court, known locally as Curtea Veche, has played host to several noteworthy residents, including a Wallachian princess and Vlad the Impaler. The latter was a brutal leader famous for torturing his enemies and was also the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. This is the oldest of the city’s medieval monuments, dating back to the 15th century and houses ancient artefacts and 13th century testimonies. If you want to uncover some of the darker history of the city on Bucharest holidays, this is a fascinating place to visit.
Visit the National Museum of Art of Romania: Housed in the city’s former Royal Palace, the National Museum of Art of Romania boasts an incredible collection of medieval and modern art as well as the Royal Collection. Spread throughout various rooms are over 100,000 pieces with art from famous Romanian artists such as Gheorghe Tattarescu, Theodor Aman, and Nicolae Grigorescu. Adjacent to the museum is the European Gallery, where you can admire art by Monet, Rubens, El Greco, Renoir and Rembrandt. Art lovers should definitely pay the museum a visit during trips to Bucharest.
FAQs about Bucharest
When is the best time to visit Bucharest?
The vibrant capital city of Romania, Bucharest offers a wealth of experiences that you can enjoy throughout the year. However, to witness the city in all its glory, the best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and the early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures, which makes it perfect for sightseeing on foot and exploring the city’s architecture, parks and museums. Spring sees the landscape abloom with flowers and there’s a lively atmosphere on the streets, while during the autumn months the trees are filled with colourful foliage and there are plenty of cultural events and festivals to enjoy. One of the best reasons for visiting in these seasons is that you’ll avoid the summer crowds.
How long do I need for Bucharest holidays?
When planning holidays to Bucharest, the duration of your stay is dependent on what you’d like to do and see. Ideally, spending between 2-4 days in Bucharest will give you plenty of time to discover its rich history and main sights. As well as visiting iconic landmarks such as the Palace of the Parliament, there’ll be time to explore the charming Old Town, sample traditional Romanian cuisine and visit the city’s museums.
What are the best things to do in Bucharest?
This lively capital is filled with history, culture and a fusion of both modern and 18t h and 19th-century buildings. Start by exploring the impressive Palace of Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world. Wander through the charming Old Town, filled with historic buildings, trendy bars and world-class restaurants. Don’t miss the beautiful Stavropoleos Monastery, a hidden gem that boasts beautiful architecture. Explore the lungs of the city at the tranquil Cismigiu Gardens and immerse yourself in the local culture at one of the traditional Romanian restaurants, where you can try authentic local cuisine.
What is the cuisine like in Bucharest?
Bucharest is home to a culinary scene as diverse and exciting as the city itself. From traditional Romanian dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mititei (grilled minced meat rolls) to international cuisines found in chic cafes and swanky restaurants, the food here is a delicious blend of flavours inspired by various cultures. Food markets such as Piata Obor and Piata Matache are perfect spots for sampling fresh produce, local cheeses and meats. For a taste of street food, head to Lipscani area for tasty kebabs and crepes. Don’t forget to try a glass of tuica, a popular Romanian fruit brandy.
What are the best historical sites to visit in Bucharest?
Playing host to many historical sites that are strewn across the city, Bucharest is a treasure trove for history buffs. One must-visit site is the Palace of the Parliament, a huge building built by former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. It stands as one of the largest administrative buildings in the world and boasts opulent architecture and lavish interiors. Another prominent historical site is the Old Town, an enchanting warren of cobbled streets lined with charming 19th-century buildings and pavement cafes. The Village Museum is also worth a visit as it gives you an insight into traditional Romanian village life with its collection of authentic rural houses.
What cultural experiences are there in Bucharest?
Bucharest’s cultural scene is a rich tapestry of old-world charm and contemporary performances and there are endless experiences to enjoy. The open-air Village Museum invites you to step back in time and explore traditional Romanian village life, while for the art lovers, the National Museum of Art features an impressive collection of European masterpieces. If you have a passion for the arts, Bucharest also has a lively music and theatre scene, with performances at the Romanian Athenaeum and alternative shows in hidden venues across the city. The annual calendar is also packed with cultural events and vibrant festivals, from the acclaimed George Enescu International Festival celebrating classical music to the Bucharest International Film Festival showcasing the best of world cinema.
Is it safe to travel to Bucharest?
The Romanian capital is generally a safe place for visitors, however, as with any city, it’s always advisable to be cautious and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas, to avoid theft during your Bucharest holidays. The city has a low crime rate compared to other European capitals, and the people are friendly and welcoming.
Romania exceeded expectations – what a beautiful and varied country! Cristi was a great guide and all in all I would highly recommend this trip.
