BUCAREST
Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a city that combines the charm of the past with a vibrant modern atmosphere. One of its most impressive landmarks is the Palace of Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world and a symbol of the country’s political power and recent history. The city is also an ideal starting point for exploring Transylvania, a region known for its breathtaking landscapes, medieval castles, and fascinating legends, including the story of Dracula. Bucharest offers a unique combination of culture, history, and nature, making it an interesting destination to discover.
3-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1
PIATA UNIRII
Piața Unirii is one of Bucharest’s main squares, located in the heart of the Romanian capital. It is an important landmark connecting several central streets, including Calea Victoriei and Bulevardul Unirii.
The square is known for its large size and the modern architecture surrounding it, alongside historic buildings and shopping centers. Piața Unirii is also famous for its central fountain and serves as a lively meeting point for both tourists and locals.
It is one of Bucharest’s iconic locations, representing the meeting point between the old and the new.
ROMANIAN PATRIARCHAL CATHEDRAL
Located in the heart of the capital, the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral is the official seat of the Patriarch of the Romanian Orthodox Church. Built between 1655 and 1657, the cathedral is an example of traditional Romanian ecclesiastical architecture, featuring an elegant façade and beautiful frescoes inside.
It is dedicated to Saints Constantine and Helena, who are celebrated for their role in the spread of Christianity. The cathedral is a highly revered place of worship, as well as a popular destination for visitors interested in discovering Romania’s religious history.
Opening Hours
Opening hours for visitors (outside of religious services) may vary. It is recommended to check the latest information on the official website of the Romanian Patriarchate or contact the Bucharest Tourist Office directly for current visiting hours.
Admission: Free.
LIPSCANI
Lipscani is the oldest and liveliest neighborhood in Bucharest’s historic center. In the past, it was the city’s commercial heart, where merchants from across Europe came to sell their goods.
Its narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings, churches, and elegant old mansions. Today, Lipscani is famous for its nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and lively venues.
It represents the meeting point between Bucharest’s history and its young, modern spirit.
STAVROPOLEOS CHURCH
Located in the city center, the monastery is a beautiful example of Byzantine and Brâncovenesc architecture, featuring elegant stone decorations, frescoes, and a peaceful courtyard.
Inside, visitors can admire valuable religious icons, while the complex also houses a small monastic library. Stavropoleos Church is an important place of worship and a symbol of Romania’s Orthodox tradition.
Approximate Opening Hours (Always Check in Advance):
Weekdays: Approximately 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
Weekends & Sundays: Hours may vary slightly, with the church often closing earlier on Sunday afternoons.
Masses: Morning services take place before 9:00 AM and evening services after 6:00 PM, while general access remains available during the day.
Admission: Free.
CARTURESTI CARUSEL
Cărturești Carusel is one of the most beautiful and fascinating bookstores in Bucharest, often described as an architectural “gem” of the city. Located in the heart of the historic center on Strada Lipscani, the bookstore occupies a historic 19th-century building that has been carefully restored, preserving its original charm while combining it with an elegant, modern design.
The interior is spectacular, featuring high ceilings, wooden staircases, and a central gallery overlooking three floors of books.
Orario: 10:00 - 20:00 (tutti i giorni).
CALEA VICTORIE
Created in the 17th century as a route connecting the Royal Court with the northern part of the city, Calea Victoriei is now a symbol of Bucharest’s elegance.
Along the avenue, you’ll find important landmarks such as the CEC Palace, the Romanian Athenaeum, and the National Museum of Romanian History. Originally known as Podul Mogoșoaiei, the road was initially paved with wood.
Today, Calea Victoriei is considered the cultural and social heart of Bucharest, combining history, architecture, and modern city life.
DAY 2
PARLIAMENT
Bucharest’s Casa Poporului, also known as the Palace of Parliament, is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the world. Built during the Ceaușescu regime, it is renowned for its immense scale and grand neoclassical architecture.
Today, the building houses the Romanian Parliament as well as the National Museum of Contemporary Art. With more than 1,100 rooms, it is one of Bucharest’s main tourist attractions and a striking symbol of the power of the communist regime and its monumental architecture.
OPENING HOURS (DAILY)
March – October: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
November – February: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last admission at 3:30 PM)
SPECIAL CLOSURES
25 December
1 January
TICKET PRICES (APPROXIMATE)
Adults: Approximately 60 RON (around €12–13)
Students: Approximately 30 RON (around €6–7)
Children (7–18 years): Approximately 20 RON (around €4–5)
REVOLUTION SQUARE
Revolution Square (Piața Revoluției) in Bucharest is a historic and symbolic landmark in the Romanian capital. It was the scene of crucial events during the 1989 Revolution, which led to the fall of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s regime.
The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Royal Palace and the National Museum of Art of Romania. It remains an important symbol for Romanians, who remember it as the heart of the country’s movement towards change and freedom.
Today, the square is also an important public space and tourist attraction in the city.
THE ROMANIAN ATHENAEUM
The Romanian Athenaeum (Ateneul Român) is one of Bucharest’s most prestigious and recognisable landmarks, and an enduring symbol of Romanian culture and music.
Built between 1886 and 1888 in the neoclassical style, the Athenaeum is renowned for its impressive façade and magnificent concert hall, which hosts outstanding classical music performances.
The Romanian Athenaeum is more than just a concert venue: it is also a symbol of Romania’s cultural resilience, having played an important role during periods of political and social upheaval.
Today, it remains one of Bucharest’s most important cultural landmarks and tourist attractions.
APPROXIMATE OPENING HOURS (TO BE VERIFIED)
Weekdays (Mon–Thu): 9:00–10:00 AM and 2:00–6:00 PM (last admission at 9:30 AM / 5:30 PM)
Weekend (Fri–Sun): 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (last admission at 5:30 PM)
GENERAL PRICES (APPROXIMATE)
Concert tickets: Prices may start from around 40–80 RON (€8–16) for the less expensive seats, with higher prices for special events or better seating.
Sightseeing visits: A small admission fee is generally charged to visit the interior, although access may sometimes be included with a concert ticket when attending an event.
PARCUL HERASTRAU
Herăstrău Park is the largest and most famous park in Bucharest, located in the northern part of the city, around Lake Herăstrău.
Within the park lies the Village Museum (Muzeul Satului), an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian houses from different regions across the country.
The park is a peaceful green oasis and one of the city’s main meeting places for both locals and tourists, offering a pleasant escape from the bustle of Bucharest.
BUCAREST THERMAL
The Bucharest Thermal Baths are one of the city’s most popular attractions, making them an ideal place to spend a few relaxing hours during your stay. With numerous pools, wellness areas, and a tropical atmosphere created by palm trees and indoor gardens, they offer a pleasant experience that differs from traditional sightseeing.
They are especially perfect for unwinding after a day spent exploring the Romanian capital.
DAY 3
TOUR TRANSILVANIA
I highly recommend dedicating the entire third day to a tour of Transylvania. It is a truly special excursion that allows you to visit iconic towns and castles such as Sinaia, Peleș Castle, Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle), and Brașov all in a single day.
I was lucky enough to experience them in the snow, and the experience was simply fantastic. Walking through historic streets, admiring the architecture of the castles, and taking in the atmosphere of the villages makes the day truly unforgettable.
The tour perfectly combines history, legend, and breathtaking landscapes. It is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the magic of Transylvania in a single day without missing its most iconic highlights.
WHAT TO EAT IN BUCHAREST
Mici are a traditional Romanian dish and are particularly popular in Bucharest. They are small, grilled rolls of minced meat, usually made with beef or a mixture of meats, seasoned with garlic, pepper and other spices.
They are served hot, typically accompanied by mustard and bread, and are considered one of the most popular and authentic dishes of Romanian cuisine.
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