Both Bucharest and Romania have a tainted image among foreigners. Some people may be wary of visiting the region after years of political unrest and its association with a specific vampire.
The city, however, is bursting at the seams with excitement, beauty, and mystery and is quickly becoming one of the hip locations in Eastern Europe.
After starting as a royal retreat, the city became an artistic and cultural mecca, especially for its architectural splendor. However, it also has up-to-date activities, including amusement parks, guided tours, and lively nightlife. So, whether in the Middle Ages or today, you will never run out of cool things to do in Bucharest.
1. Take a stroll in Lipscani (Old Town), Bucharest
Stunning architecture, literary donations, and… ghosts? Your location has to be Lipscani. Bucharest’s historic center remains as much of a cultural and historical hub as it was in the early modern era. You could spend your whole vacation simply exploring the region; there are many unique attractions and fun-themed tours to participate in.
Carturesti Carusel is a lovely bookshop with beautiful furnishings and more than 10,000 volumes to peruse, perfect for soaking up the city’s thriving literary scene.
Kilometer Zero is a fun landmark for geography buffs since it indicates the halfway point between Bucharest and the rest of Romania’s major cities. University Square is a popular meeting spot for residents and visitors alike. If monuments are more your speed, you may admire the grand sculptures of illustrious historical figures, including professors, artists, and even kings and queens.
2. Check out the opulence of the Parliament Building, Bucharest
The Palace of Parliament in Bucharest is an exciting piece of political history. It is conveniently located in the middle of town. This is the most prominent edifice in Europe, and it’s quite a sight to see just by itself.
This massive marble mansion was initially built as a nuclear bunker and ballroom for dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu.
The edifice is a testament to the decadence of Ceaușescu’s rule. Still, it also serves as a showcase for the country’s tremendous progress after the fall of communism.
3. Visit the Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History to look at fossils and butterflies.
When you’re done admiring the museum’s art, go to the Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History to take in some of the natural world’s finest creations.
Spanning 2 million fossils, jewels, and taxidermied animals provide fascinating glimpses into evolution over billions of years and are a must-see for science buffs.
Check out the rebuilt bone of a wooly mammoth, read up on the intricacies of the Black Sea, and gawk at the vividly colored and intricately patterned butterfly specimens.
Don’t miss the fantastic Romanian flora and wildlife in the lower-level exhibits. As you take in these breathtaking natural world exhibits, you’ll understand why this museum is often regarded as one of Europe’s best.
4. Stop by the Romanian Athenaeum for a show.
The Romanian Athenaeum is a fantastic tribute to good music with its magnificent columns and regal dome.
This stunning structure was first opened to the public in 1888. It has since played home to several classical music events, such as the annual George Enescu Festival, which honors the life and work of the Romanian composer and musician who gave the festival its name.
5. Stroll around the Cismigiu Gardens, Bucharest
Once you’ve returned to town, one of the best ways to relax is by strolling around Cismigiu Gardens. Visit a stunning exhibit including over 30,000 types of local plants, and some extraordinary specimens brought all the way from Viennese collections.
Then, see the memorials of the French and American servicemen. They died in Romania during the two world wars, and the stunning sculptures honoring Romania’s most celebrated authors and social reformers.
