Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is a vibrant metropolis that offers a diverse mix of activities, attractions, and experiences for travelers. From exploring ancient churches and strolling through beautiful parks, to indulging in traditional Romanian cuisine and experiencing the city’s buzzing nightlife, there are plenty of things to do and see in Bucharest. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best attractions and activities that Bucharest has to offer, helping you to plan the perfect itinerary for your upcoming trip to this fascinating city. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends and family, you’re sure to find something that captures your interest in the lively streets of Bucharest.

The 5 Best Things to Do in Bucharest

1. Bucharest Jewish Heritage Private Tour
2. Gita Giornaliera Dei Castelli Piu Famosi Della Transilvania
3. Small Group Daytrip Visit Peles and Bran Castles
4. 4 Days Medieval and Rural Transylvania Private Tour from Bucharest
5. 7 Days Transylvania and Wooden Churches of Maramures from Bucharest

The 5 Best Things to Do in Bucharest

1. Bucharest Jewish Heritage Private Tour

Bucharest Jewish Heritage Private Tour allows you to discover the historic Jewish heritage of Bucharest with your very own local guide. The private tour is tailored to your group only, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. The tour covers four main stops, including the impressive Great Synagogue and the charming Choral Temple. Entrance fees are included in the tour package, as well as an optional coffee and pastries break. The meeting point is at the Starbucks of the Manuc Inn in Bucuresti, with the tour kicking off at 10:00 AM. The tour concludes back at the meeting point, and you can expect the entire experience to last approximately four hours. The tour is family-friendly, but not wheelchair accessible. Strollers are permitted, and service animals are also allowed. The cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. So, if you want to discover the Jewish heritage of Bucharest in an intimate setting, this private tour will not disappoint you!

2. Gita Giornaliera Dei Castelli Piu Famosi Della Transilvania

Venture deep into Transylvania and discover two of Romania’s most famous castles on this day trip. The first stop is the sumptuous Peles Castle where you can admire historic artwork, armor and tapestries, all while surrounded by forest in a fairytale-like setting. Next, connect with Romania’s chilling vampiric lore at Bran Castle, also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’, where you’ll explore Gothic chambers and turrets that seem to be plucked straight from a horror movie. After exploring the castles, take a walking tour around the old town of medieval Brasov. The tour includes a professional driver/tour guide, hotel pickup and drop-off from central selected hotels, transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle, tips for the tour guide and driver, and entrance fees (50 RON Pel). Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see two of Romania’s most magnificent castles on this unforgettable tour.

3. Small Group Daytrip Visit Peles and Bran Castles

If you want to explore the famous castles of Romania without any hassle, then the Small Group Daytrip Visit Peles and Bran Castles is perfect for you. Discover the story of Vlad Dracul at Bran Castle, also known as “Dracula’s Castle”, and then head to the stunning Peles Castle. You’ll have the chance to explore medieval Brasov and enjoy some free time to stroll and dine. This tour is an excellent way to learn about Romanian history and country life. The itinerary is well-planned to maximize your time outside of Bucharest, and you’ll be provided with an air-conditioned vehicle, tour guide, and entrance fees to the castles. The tour guide and driver’s tips are also included. You can head directly to the indicated pick-up points or request for a hotel pick-up.

4. 4 Days Medieval and Rural Transylvania Private Tour from Bucharest

During this 4-day small-group tour from Bucharest, explore Transylvania’s rich culture and history. Drive through the Carpathian Mountains and marvel at the spectacular landscapes. Visit cities like Sintra, Sighișoara, Brasov, and more. Feast on traditional Transylvanian cuisine and see the legendary Bran Castle that inspired Stoker’s Dracula. Overnight accommodation in 3-star hotels or guesthouses is included, as well as dinners and breakfasts throughout the tour. Please note that admission tickets to sites are not included, and other meals/drinks and photo fees are also excluded. You can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup in Bucharest.

5. 7 Days Transylvania and Wooden Churches of Maramures from Bucharest

Spend six days exploring Romania’s Transylvania and Maramures regions with a private tour led by an English-speaking guide. This tour includes visits to the famous wooden churches of Maramures, historic monasteries, and time in the medieval town of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Dracula. You’ll also visit the 14th-century Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle. The tour includes five nights of accommodation, two homemade dinners in a Maramures house, a professional English speaking guide, and entrance fees (30 euros per person). You can either head directly to the meeting point in Bucharest or request pickup at your address. Other meals/drinks, unless specified, and photo fees are not included. This private tour provides a flexible, personal experience for a more enjoyable trip.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bucharest: Everything You Need to Know

Visiting a new city can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know much about the place you’re visiting. Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is no exception. In this blog post, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about Bucharest, so you can feel more prepared and confident during your visit.

1. Where is Bucharest Located?

Bucharest is located in the southeastern part of Romania. It lies on the banks of the Dambovita River, and it’s surrounded by the Southern Carpathians. Bucharest is the country’s largest city and its cultural, economic, and financial center.

2. What’s the Best Time to Visit Bucharest?

The best time to visit Bucharest is during the spring (from April to June) and in the fall (from September to early November). These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. However, if you don’t mind the harsh winter temperatures, you can visit the city in December, when Bucharest turns into a winter wonderland, with plenty of Christmas markets and festivities.

3. What are the Must-See Tourist Attractions in Bucharest?

Bucharest has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and there are many things to see and do. Some of the must-see tourist attractions in Bucharest include:

• The Palace of the Parliament: This is the second-largest administrative building in the world, after the Pentagon. The Palace was built during the Ceaușescu regime and today serves as the seat of the Romanian Parliament.
• The Old Town: Also called Lipscani, this is the historic center of Bucharest, with narrow streets, old churches, and traditional houses. Here you can find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
• The Village Museum: This is an open-air museum located in Herastrau Park. It showcases traditional Romanian houses and crafts from different regions of the country.
• The Romanian Athenaeum: This is one of the most iconic buildings in Bucharest. It’s a concert hall that hosts classical music performances and other cultural events.
• The National Museum of Art of Romania: This museum houses the country’s largest collection of Romanian art, including works by famous painters like Nicolae Grigorescu and Stefan Luchian.

4. Is Bucharest Safe for Tourists?

Bucharest is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as in any other big city, there are some precautions you should take to avoid common tourist scams and to be aware of pickpockets. Don’t leave your valuables unattended in public places or in your hotel room. It’s also recommended that you avoid walking alone at night, especially in dimly lit areas.

5. What’s the Currency Used in Bucharest?

The currency used in Bucharest and the rest of Romania is the Romanian Lei (RON). You can exchange your money at bank exchange offices, exchange bureaus, or ATMs. Credit cards are also widely accepted in Bucharest, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers.

6. What’s the Language Spoken in Bucharest?

The official language spoken in Bucharest is Romanian. However, many people in the city, especially in the tourism industry, speak English, French, German, or Italian. You can also find signs in English in most tourist areas, such as museums, hotels, and restaurants.

7. What’s the Transportation System Like in Bucharest?

Bucharest has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a subway system. The subway system, also called Metrorex, is the most efficient way to get around the city, especially during rush hours. You can buy one-way tickets or a rechargeable card that you can top up at any subway station. Taxis are also available in Bucharest, but make sure you use only licensed operators and avoid getting overcharged.

8. What’s the Cuisine Like in Bucharest?

The cuisine in Bucharest and the rest of Romania is a mix of Balkan, Turkish, Hungarian, and Austrian influences. Some of the typical dishes you should try include:

• Mici: These are small grilled meat rolls made of minced beef and lamb.
• Sarmale: Stuffed cabbage rolls with ground pork or beef, rice, and spices.
• Mamaliga: A type of polenta made of cornmeal, served with sour cream, cheese, and meat.
• Papanasi: A type of dessert made of fried dough covered in sour cream and jam.

9. What’s the Nightlife Like in Bucharest?

Bucharest has a diverse and vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs. The Old Town is the center of the nightlife in Bucharest, where you can find many pubs and bars with a laid-back atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, you should head to the clubs located near the Herastrau Park or in the northern part of the city. The parties in Bucharest usually start late in the evening and last until morning.

10. What are Some Day Trips You Can Take from Bucharest?

If you have more time to spend in Bucharest, you should consider taking some day trips to nearby destinations, such as:

• Brasov: This is a charming medieval city located in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains. You can visit the Black Church, go on a walking tour of the old town, or take a cable car ride to the nearby mountain resort of Poiana Brasov.
• Sinaia: This is a beautiful mountain resort town located about 2 hours away from Bucharest. Here you can visit the Peles Castle, the former summer residence of the Romanian monarchs, or take a scenic train ride through the mountains.
• Constanta: This is a coastal city located on the Black Sea, about 3 hours away from Bucharest. Here you can visit the ancient Roman ruins of Tomis or relax on the beach.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Bucharest

If you’re planning to visit Bucharest, the Romanian capital, you will be amazed by the mix of old and new, of modern culture and ancient traditions that the city has to offer. To help you make the most of your trip, we have compiled a list of things to do and see in this vibrant city:

Explore the Historical Center of Bucharest

The Old Town of Bucharest, also called Lipscani, is a maze of streets packed with restaurants, bars, and cafes. The area is home to several important historical and cultural monuments, such as the Stavropoleos Monastery, the Palace of Justice, the National Bank of Romania, the National Museum of Romanian History, and the Church of St. Anton.

Visit the Palace of the Parliament

This immense building, formerly called the House of the People, is the second-largest administrative building in the world, after the Pentagon. The Palace of the Parliament has over 1,000 rooms, several museums, and even a conference center. The imposing structure required 700 architects and over 20,000 workers to build, and it has been called the craziest building in the world.

Admire the architecture

Bucharest’s architecture is a mix of styles, from the neoclassical, Art Nouveau, to communist-era concrete blocks. Some of the most beautiful buildings in Bucharest are CEC Palace, University Palace, Romanian Athenaeum, and National Museum of Arts. It’s worth taking a stroll along the main boulevards or wandering the side streets to appreciate the buildings of Bucharest.

Enjoy the Parks and Gardens

Bucharest is a green city, with numerous parks scattered across the city. One of the largest and most popular parks in Bucharest is Herastrau Park, which is home to several museums, lakes, and gardens. Another park worth visiting is Cismigiu Garden, which is located in the heart of the city and has a beautiful lake.

Explore the Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden in Bucharest is one of the largest and oldest botanical gardens in the country. The garden has over 10,000 plant species from all over the world, as well as a beautiful greenhouse and several ponds. The Botanical Garden is a perfect place to escape the noise and traffic of the city and enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature.

Relax at the Tineretului Park

Tineretului Park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The park is perfect for picnics, sports, and relaxing walks. There is a lake in the middle of the park, and you can rent boats to paddle around the water.

Discover the Culture of Bucharest

Bucharest is a city rich in culture, and there are several museums and galleries worth your time.

Visit the Village Museum

The Village Museum is an open-air museum that showcases the traditional village life of Romania. The museum has over 300 houses, barns, and churches from all over the country, and you can see how people used to live in rural Romania.

Admire the Art at the National Museum of Art of Romania

The National Museum of Art is home to an extensive collection of Romanian art, from classical to contemporary. The museum has over 70,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Experience the Music at the Romanian Athenaeum

The Romanian Athenaeum is a jewel of Bucharest’s cultural heritage. The building is home to the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra, and it hosts numerous concerts throughout the year. The grand hall of the Athenaeum is an impressive space, with a stunning ceiling fresco and excellent acoustics.

Indulge in the Romanian Cuisine

Romanian cuisine is a delightful mix of Eastern and Western European flavors, with a focus on hearty and filling dishes.

Taste the Traditional Romanian Dishes

Some of the most famous Romanian dishes include sarmale, a traditional dish of stuffed cabbage rolls, mici, a type of grilled sausage, ciorba, a sour soup, and mamaliga, a tasty cornmeal porridge. You can try these dishes in most restaurants in Bucharest.

Experience the Street Food

Although Bucharest has many fine dining options, its street food scene is also thriving. You can taste delicious grilled meats or try langos, a Hungarian fried dough, at one of the many street food vendors that are scattered across the city.

Visit the Food Markets

The food markets in Bucharest are another great place to experience the Romanian cuisine. The most famous of them, the Obor Market, offers a wide selection of local products, from fresh vegetables to cured meats and honey.

Conclusion

Bucharest is a city that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to parks and food. This guide should have provided you with enough information to plan your trip and make the most of your time in the Romanian capital. To fully appreciate the beauty and charm of Bucharest, you should book your ticket and visit this vibrant city as soon as possible.