Best Things To Do in Bucharest

Bucharest is Romania's picturesque capital, the country's most populous city and one of the most visited places in Eastern Europe, so it's no surprise that during your trip you'll find a wealth of attractions to discover in this destination. From museums to illustrious buildings, monuments to medieval castles, Little Paris offers something for everyone.

Some of the best things to do in Bucharest include visiting the Palace of Parliament, taking a communist-themed tour, visiting Villa Ceausescu, seeing the National Museum of the Villa, taking a trip to Dracula's Castle, visiting Cismigiu Park, walking along the Macca Vilacrosse Passage, touring the Cotroceni Palace and taking in the views of the city from the Arc de Triomphe, among other activities.

Visiting Bucharest's Palace of Parliament is not only one of the best things to do in Bucharest, but also in Romania as a whole, as this building is one of the most emblematic and famous in the country. Known for its imposing presence and neoclassical architecture, the palace represents Romanian grandeur and history.

Built during the communist regime of dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, the palace is the largest administrative building in Europe and the second largest in the world, second only to the Pentagon in Washington DC. Construction began in 1984 and was completed in 1997, using exclusively Romanian materials to reflect the country's independence. Its design combines neoclassical elements with influences from traditional Romanian architecture.

The history of the Palace of Parliament, then, is intertwined with Romania's political past. During the 1989 Revolution, the building witnessed crucial events that led to the overthrow of the communist regime. Today, the palace houses both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, and has become a symbol of the country's democracy and sovereignty that you can tour during your visit.

One of the best ways to learn about Bucharest's heritage and tradition is to explore the traces of the communist past in the Romanian capital, which you can do on one of the city's best tours. These tours will take you to discover the sites and events that shaped the country during the Ceausescu regime and the repercussions it had on today's society.

One of the highlights of this activity will be a visit to the Palace of Parliament, also known as the People's Palace. Built by Ceausescu, this architectural colossus stands as a symbol of the excess and oppression of the communist regime. In addition, you can also explore the National Museum of Contemporary Art, which was once the People's House, a residential area demolished to make way for the construction of the palace.

These tours will give you an insight into the complexities of Romanian history that led to restrictions and struggles for freedom and you will have the opportunity to explore monuments such as the Revolution Square. At these sites you can also see how communist urbanism radically transformed the cityscape.

Villa Ceausescu, located in the exclusive Primaverii neighbourhood, was the private residence of former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and his wife Elena. Today, it is a testament to the opulence and extravagance of the communist regime in its heyday, even as Romania became one of the poorest countries in the Soviet bloc during the second half of the 20th century.

The villa was home to the Ceausescu family for much of their rule and is distinguished by its amalgam of modern architecture and luxurious interior design, with elegant lounges, extensive gardens and an underground swimming pool. Here you will have the opportunity to explore the rooms, which retain much of the original furnishings and décor, providing a unique insight into the lifestyle of the communist elite.

Here you will gain an insight into how the Ceausescu family lived in isolation from the rest of the population, accentuating the stark social inequalities of the time. It is also home to an exhibition that briefly summarises the history of the country, which is ideal if you plan to visit Bucharest in 2 days or even less.

The National Museum of the Villa is not only one of the best museums in Bucharest but also a cultural treasure that houses a rich collection of art and historical objects. It is housed in the Stirbei Palace, a residence built in the 19th century, which serves as the perfect setting for the various exhibits on offer to visitors.

The museum presents various exhibitions, ranging from contemporary art to historical pieces spanning different periods and styles. However, one of the most outstanding collections is that of 19th century Romanian art, which includes works by renowned artists such as Nicolae Grigorescu and Theodor Aman. In addition, you can also learn about the history of the Romanian aristocracy through the exhibition of period costumes and objects.

The National Museum of the Villa not only focuses on history but also highlights contemporary Romanian creativity. Modern art lovers can enjoy temporary exhibitions showcasing the diversity and innovation of local artists, making it one of Bucharest's cultural epicentres.

To visit Dracula Castle from Bucharest is to immerse yourself in the mysterious legend of Count Dracula. Located in the Carpathian Mountains in the Transylvania region, this iconic building is known as Bran Castle and has been linked, in part, to the story of the world's most famous vampire, Bram Stoker's Count Dracula.

Bran Castle, with its pointed towers and medieval architecture, offers visitors a unique experience. There you can explore the interior of the castle, where the rooms are decorated with period furniture and exhibits telling the history of the place and the legend of Dracula. However, although Vlad III the Impaler inspired the historical figure on which the myth of Dracula is based, there is no evidence that he ever resided in this castle.

The distance between Bucharest and Bran Castle is approximately 170 kilometres, so visiting it on an organised tour will also allow you to take part in a picturesque journey through Romania's rural landscapes in one of the best full-day activities to do from the Romanian capital.

For a different experience in Romania, you can visit Cismigiu Park, which offers an oasis of serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. This park, inaugurated in 1847, is one of the oldest in the Romanian capital and covers 17 hectares, combining lush greenery, trees and a central lake, creating an ideal setting for walking or cycling.

The park also offers a wide range of activities, from hiking the trails to boating on the central lake. Also, if you plan to visit Bucharest during Christmas, you will find Christmas Eve decorations in the park, as this celebration is very popular in the Romanian capital.

Inside the park, the well-planned gardens are home to a varied collection of sculptures and monuments that add an artistic tinge to Cismigiu. In addition, the Kretzulescu Palace, built in the 18th century, is located at the southern end of the park and adds a historic architectural element to this experience, which is ideal for both summer and winter in Bucharest.

The Passage Macca-Vilacrosse, built at the end of the 19th century, is known for its distinctive architecture and welcoming atmosphere. With an unobtrusive entrance from Lipscani Street, this passage unfolds inside with its glass and wrought-iron ceiling, creating a magical journey that is the protagonist of the best guided tours in Bucharest.

As you walk through the passage you will discover a variety of boutique shops, cafes and restaurants offering an eclectic mix of products and experiences. From antique shops to contemporary fashion outlets, the passage is the epicentre of the city where tradition and modernity converge. In addition, the cafés and restaurants in the passage provide an authentic Romanian gastronomic experience.

The history of the Macca-Vilacrosse Passage dates back to the late 19th century when it was built by architect Felix Xenopol and, although originally conceived as a commercial and entertainment space, the passage has stood the test of time and has been carefully restored to preserve its historic charm.

Cotroceni Palace is the official residence of the Romanian president and also houses the Cotroceni National Museum. Built in the 17th century, this building has witnessed the transformation of Bucharest over the years and has become a symbol of Romanian sovereignty and identity.

The palace also impresses with its neoclassical architecture and the Renaissance elements of the façade and interior, as well as the extensive gardens and statues that adorn the complex. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the luxurious rooms of the palace, which feature period furniture, works of art and decorative details that reflect the elegance of the Romanian aristocracy.

In addition, the Cotroceni National Museum, which is one of the best museums in Bucharest, exhibits a fascinating collection ranging from historical artefacts to contemporary works of art, providing a comprehensive insight into the culture and history of Romania.

Note that visiting the Cotroceni Palace will allow you to travel through the centuries of Romanian history and gain an in-depth understanding of the country's evolution, making it an unmissable site for tours of the Romanian capital, whether you plan to visit Bucharest in 1 day.

Bucharest is known as Little Paris for the uniqueness of its buildings and the Arc de Triomphe, which provides a unique perspective of the Romanian capital, contributes to that nickname. Although this memorial does not reach the heights of its Parisian counterpart, its 27-metre height provides a fascinating view of the city and ensures that it is one of the highlights of guided tours in this destination.

Located in Revolution Square, Bucharest's Arc de Triomphe stands out for its French-inspired architecture and rich history. Built in 1935 to commemorate Romania's participation in the First World War, this historic monument also houses a lookout point and, although its height is modest, its strategic location in the square and its setting of open areas and low buildings offer a sweeping panoramic view.

The history of the Arc de Triomphe is also intrinsically linked to the historic events that have marked Romania's history. Since its construction, it has witnessed significant moments, including the 1989 Revolution that led to the overthrow of the communist regime. Revolution Square, where the arch stands, is a living testimony to the struggle for freedom and democracy in the country.

One of the best ways to experience Bucharest's nightlife is to take a tour of the city's pubs. The Romanian capital has many party areas but the most distinguished is the Lipscani District, the old historical centre of the city which is now home to a wide variety of pubs and bars, each with its own charm and style.

Among the most traditional and prominent pubs here is Caru' cu Bere, a historic establishment with architecture that combines neo-gothic elements with art nouveau details. Dating back to 1879, this pub offers not only a gastronomic experience, but also an immersion into Romanian culture through its décor and traditional cuisine.

Another must-visit venue is Expirat, located in a former brewery, known for its alternative atmosphere and eclectic musical offerings. This pub often hosts live performances by local artists, making it one of the best places to discover Bucharest's art scene, even if you plan to visit the city for 3 days or even a shorter stay.

This district is also home to the Pura Vida Sky Bar, located on the rooftop of a building, giving you panoramic views of the city while enjoying innovative cocktails. Also, very close to Lipscani, Smardan Street is famous for its numerous bars and pubs, ranging from trendy to traditional.