Guide To 30 Best Things To Do In Bucharest
Bucharest, the capital of Romania is quickly climbing up the radar of many a traveller and is becoming one of the more trendy destinations in Europe to visit. Especially those looking for some of the lesser visited capitals like; London or Paris.
The country’s capital is bursting with excitement, beauty and mystery, and is fast becoming a popular destination in Eastern Europe, as there are so many fun things to do in Bucharest.
Coined the ‘new Berlin’ – Bucharest is buzzing with excitement; the party scene is powerful, yet the scars from the Soviet hold lie just under the surface.
This vibrant city has a rich history and lots to offer, so here’s a list of 30 things to do in Bucharest, but first..
How many days to spend in Bucharest
Contrary to popular belief, there are a number of things to do in Bucharest, albeit most within walking distance from one another. I’d say the optimal amount of time needed for visiting Bucharest is 2-3 days, making this destination a perfect city for a weekend getaway. This way you can see all the best Bucharest attractions and get a real vibe of the city and it’s culture.
How to get around Bucharest
Getting around Bucharest is easy as many of the attractions in the centre are within walking distance from one another.
To travel further out, you can use the metro, which is affordable and easy to navigate. The tickets are sold in the machine at the station; 5 lei (around £1) for 2 trips.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi or Uber, which is what we did when visiting Therme Bucharest.
Best things to do in Bucharest
1. Visit the Palace of Parliament
It’s impossible to put together a list of things to do in Bucharest without discussing its communist past. This massive parliamentary building was constructed during the communist era and is the second largest building in the world – second only to the Pentagon.
Explore one of the largest administrative buildings in the world, known for its impressive architecture. The structure alone is so vast that it actually takes a full hour just to walk around it!
You can book a tour to go inside the parliament building and experience another side to its imposing architecture. To save your feet from walking the distance around the building, the entrance for tourists is to the right hand side of the building when you’re facing it straight on. You’re welcome!
THE DETAILS
Where | Palace of Parliament, Strada Izvor, Bucharest, Romania
2. Free Walking Tour of Bucharest
Free walking tours have become increasingly popular in Europe in recent years, and for good reason. They’re great for finding your bearings in a new city and you can also ask your guide for insider tips on the top restaurants, bars and the best things to do in Bucharest.
I should note that free tours aren’t actually free, you essentially pay by way of a tip at the end of the tour.
THE DETAILS
Where | These tours take place daily, in English and in Spanish.
3. Explore Centrul Vechi; the Old Town
The redevelopment of Bucharest Old Town was to entice locals and tourists alike to enjoy some social drinking while spending a bit of coin – and it was a success!
The Old Town is full of streets full of bars, restaurants, kebab shops and loud music, all housed in grand buildings.
Wander through narrow streets, admire historical buildings and simply just enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Top tip – While here, check out ‘Umbrella Street’ on Pasajul Victoriei. This is probably the most photographed spot in Bucharest.
4. Experience the Bucharest Nightlife
While Bucharest is fantastic during the day, there’s a whole other side of it to see after dark.. and one of the best things to do in Bucharest is to experience the nightlife. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs, bars, and live music venues to suit various tastes.
Pub crawls are a great way to explore the capital’s hotspots, with Old Town offering a particularly wide range of options. From the upscale to the sweat-drenched and everything in between, you can easily stay out all night in the capital!
5. Cărturești Carusel; the prettiest book store in Romania
Cărturești Carusel is a spectacularly large, beautiful bookshop in the heart of Bucharest. Situated in a repurposed 19th-Century old bank, it has six levels that is filled with over 10,000 volumes of the written word to buy in-store and is a bibliophiles paradise.
It’s also incredibly pretty with elegant decor inside; similar to the likes of Livraria Lello in Porto, but this place has an entirely different vibe. The intricate archways, spiralling staircases, overflowing bookshelves and classic columns have made this bookstore ridiculously Instagram worthy.
As well as mountains of books and things to buy, Cărturești Carusel also has a multimedia space in their basement, a modern art gallery on the first floor and a light-filled café on the mezzanine floor.
It was created with more than just a bookstore in mind, it’s an experiment of cultural living. An innovative place for people to visit, where they can read, socialise, be inspired and connect.
THE DETAILS
Where | Cărturești Carusel, Strada Lipscani 55, București 030033
6. Stroll through Herăstrău Park
Herăstrău Park is one of the jewels in Bucharest’s crown, which might explain why so many locals spend their Sunday afternoons here in the summer. Stroll through and enjoy the largest and most scenic park in Bucharest.
There is a lake, walking paths, restaurants and recreational activities to do here and this small group tour includes a visit to this park. You can take a bike ride along the Herăstrău Lake and enjoy the scenic lakeside views while cycling on designated bike paths.
THE DETAILS
Where | Parcul Herăstrău București
7. Peek into the past at the Dimitrie Gusti; National Village Museum
Near Herăstrău Park, you can experience traditional Romanian village life through an open-air ‘museum’ of authentic old buildings, showcasing history in a really concrete way.
It’s a clever idea to preserve traditional homes from all over the country for everyone to enjoy; you can even enter some of the buildings to see reconstructed rooms.
Not an ideal rainy day activity as it is all outdoors, but you can easily spend a good few hours here on a dry day, as it is truly fascinating!
THE DETAILS
Where | Muzeul NaÈ›ional al Satului “Dimitrie Gusti”
8. Go shopping on Calea Victoriei
Calea Victoriei is a busy, long avenue that boasts high-end boutiques, art galleries, coffee shops and restaurants. You will likely use this main thoroughfare many times over when visiting Bucharest’s landmarks, but if shopping is your vibe, then this is the place to be.
Other great retail therapy locations in the city include Lipscani Street with its shops, restaurants and bars.
9. Relax at Therme Bucharest
Unwind in one of Europe’s largest wellness centres; Therme Bucharest which is situated right by Otopeni airport and is about 30 minutes away from the city centre. This thermal spa and wellness centre is one of the best things to do in Bucharest and features numerous pools, saunas, relaxation areas, restaurants, bars and more.
Read more about Therme Bucharest: All You Need To Know About Europe’s Largest Spa here.
THE DETAILS
Where | Therme Bucharest, Calea BucureÅŸti, Romania
10. Learn about Communism in Bucharest
No list of things to do in Bucharest would be complete without the mention of Communism. The history of Communism in Romania is long and complex, and you can explore some of its impacts on this Communist Tour.
It teaches you about the rise and fall of the infamous dictator Ceausescu while you walk past communist-era landmarks, learn all about the political figures that defined the era and see important sites linked to this history, including Ceausescu Mansion.
11. Have a drink with a great view at a rooftop bar
Towering high above the leafy green city of Bucharest is 18 Lounge. An upscale restaurant and bar and of all the things to do in Bucharest, this is the place to be for a stunning view of the city; the great lakes and the Arcul de Triumf.
This bar and restaurant specialise in luxurious offerings, with finely curated cocktails and a seasonally-influenced menu to choose from, including a handful of vegan and vegetarian offerings too.
Simply take in some of the best views of the city, while enjoying a glass of Prosecco, or a coffee.. depending on the time of day, of course!
THE DETAILS
Where | 18 Lounge, PiaÈ›a Presei Libere 3-5 City Gate – South Tower, 18th Floor, BucureÈ™ti 013702
12. Enjoy Bucharest’s Vibrant Coffee Culture
One of the most unexpected parts and best things to do in Bucharest is exploring their coffee culture. Bucharest is a city where you really have to search for the hidden gems, and walking around from coffee shop to coffee shop is easily one of the best ways to get to know the city.
13. Tour The House of CeauÅŸescu
Nicolae Ceausescu was one of the most infamous figures in Romania’s history, and you can explore the fascinating story of his rise and fall with this guided tour of the House of Ceauşescu.
As you wander through the opulent halls of this mid-1960s residence, you’ll catch a glimpse of some truly lavish features, from a private movie theatre to a former indoor pool that currently serves as a photo gallery.
It’s a fascinating and somewhat sobering reminder of the misuse of power, and a unique piece of architecture to boot.
14. Admire Arcul de Triumf
Yes, Bucharest has an Arc de Triomphe too, and much like its iconic counterpart in Paris, Bucharest’s Arcul de Triumf is a monument to perseverance and military victory.
First built in 1878 to celebrate Romania’s newfound independence as a country, the original structure made from wood didn’t survive and has since undergone quite the makeover, rebuilt masterfully with granite.
It continues to serve as a historical landmark; and though it may have a famous twin, this fascinating structure is a marvel of its own.
15. Visit the Bucharest Christmas Markets
If you’re visiting during Christmas time, you must experience the festive atmosphere and shop for local crafts and treats. Much like many other cities across Europe, Bucharest hosts annual Christmas Markets at various locations across the city. The most impressive festive market is held directly in front of the larger than life parliament building itself.
16. Amble around Cișmigiu Gardens
Enjoy the tranquility of the centrally located green space, Cișmigiu Gardens. This is the oldest park in the capital city, centred around a beautiful artificial lake and is perfect for leisurely walks and boat rides.
17. Visit the National Museum of Art of Romania
With its vibrant cultural scene, Bucharest is the perfect place to check out some high-quality art and explore a diverse collection of Romanian and European art spanning various historical periods.
The Romanian National Museum of Art, situated inside the Royal Palace of Bucharest, is an ideal first stop. Along with a magnificent collection of works by the nation’s finest artists (as well as masters from all over Europe and Asia), it lies directly in front of Calea Victoriei.
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18. Look out for Street Art
Another reason Bucharest has been coined ‘New Berlin’ in the past decade or so, aside from the buzzing nightlife is owing to the sheer amount of street art around nearly every corner.
I always think it’s important to allow yourself some time to explore off the beaten path and soak up the atmosphere regardless of where you go. My advice would be to walk in the opposite direction to where the crowds are headed. People are so focussed on their main goal, they become ignorant to the other things around them; the charming streets, wonderful architecture, secret alleys, street art and simply the joy of people-watching.
19. Visit the Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History
If history is more your thing, you can explore fascinating exhibits showcasing natural history, biodiversity, and evolution at the Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History.
This spectacular assortment of over 2 million specimens; fossils, gems and taxidermy creatures is a must for science fans, offering great views into billions of years of evolution from all over the world.
20. Experience the unique Museum of Senses
Now this unique museum concept is much more up my street than natural history.
On arrival, your journey begins with a challenging mirror maze; gaze at dozens of versions of yourself in the mirror room. You can create your own unique hologram, overcome your fear of heights through the infinite vortex tunnel and enter a desert of mind-blowing optical illusions, including a 2D cafe room. You can even attempt to recline on a bed of several thousand nails.
In this wildly interactive space, you’re not just a visitor, you’re part of the exhibit! Book cheap tickets here to experience this fun concept for yourself.
21. Try a covrig; Romanian pretzel
Much of Romanian cuisine is meat based, so being mostly vegan, I can’t recommend much that you can try food wise. However, of all the foodie things to do in Bucharest, sampling a covrig is a must.
Covrigi are Romanian baked goods, similar to pretzels. They consist of salted bread topped with poppy seeds, sesame seeds or large salt grains. They usually don’t contain sugar and are considered a national delicacy.
Try it and let me know what you think! Though I was only in Bucharest for a very short time, I managed to grab one at the airport for breakfast on my way home and really enjoyed it.
If a more relaxed foodie tour is more your thing, this Bohemian tour of the markets will give you the opportunity to try the beloved local ‘mici’ street snack and local beers from craft breweries in Bucharest too.
22. Go underground in Bucharest
Not only is the metro in Bucharest is the best way to get around the city, but it is also an interesting place to explore. Instead of rushing to and from the station give yourself some time to admire the 1970’s and 1980’s architecture of the metro stations and soak up the atmosphere.
Almost every station has something interesting and unique to offer; my favourite were Titan, Gara de Nord, Politehnica, Universitate and Eroilor.
23. Watch a performance at the Romanian Athenaeum
The Romanian Athenaeum is a magnificent concert hall and landmark in the city. The building may look beautiful on the outside, but it is even more extraordinary inside. Originally constructed in 1888, it continues to host a wide variety of prestigious classical music events and is home to the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra.
You can attend a concert here or simply just appreciate the neoclassical architecture of this iconic music hall.
24. Discover Jewish Heritage in Bucharest
Visit the Great Synagogue and the Jewish History Museum to learn about the history and culture of the Jewish community in Bucharest.
25. Enjoy the diverse architecture
One of the greatest things to do in Bucharest is to simply wander around and enjoy the diverse architecture of the city. Often referred to as Little Paris, it is apparent why through the French influence in the Haussmann style architecture dotted throughout the city.
However, the streets of Bucharest are such a mix of styles that it can be hard to define them clearly.
26. Admire the traditional churches in Bucharest
The Old Town is the perfect area to see some of the city’s gorgeous traditional churches, including New St. George Church, Stavropoleos Monastery Church, The Choral Temple and Biserica Zlătari.
Biserica Sfântul Anton, the oldest church in town, is particularly striking, with a marvellous stone exterior and fascinating museum inside.
Admire the beautiful architecture and intricate frescoes of the historic Eastern Orthodox monastery; Stavropoleos Monastery Church. Inside, the walls are painted ornately, while the garden hiding behind the church houses a set of pretty cloisters, perfect for soaking up some history.
27. Explore more of Bucharest on a bike tour
Bucharest is not only an extremely interesting historical city but is actually pretty big, so one of the best things to do in Bucharest is take a bike tour. They can be really fun too!
You have the option of spending a couple of hours cruising through the highlights of Bucharest on a 2 hour highlights bike tour or take a more in depth half a day bike tour.
You’ll pedal past most of the monuments listed here and get to see smaller neighbourhoods, that you may not have otherwise visited. There’s something for every level of cyclist to indulge in with these tours.
28. Visit Bucharest Botanical Garden
If green spaces are your thing, the Bucharest Botanical Garden is a haven for plants of all types. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through a paradise of fruit trees, flowers and shrubs, as well as a fantastic collection of greenhouses. There’s even a museum on site; home to over 1000 varieties of plants from all over the world.
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29. Take a day trip to Peles Castle
If you have longer in the city, consider exploring the surrounding areas such as Peles Castle on this tour.
Peles Castle is a neo-renaissance castle in Romania, one of the best castles in Europe that’s actually relatively new. Finished around 100 years ago, it might not be the oldest but it certainly is one of the prettiest you can visit when in Romania. The castle itself is around 50 miles, or so from the capital city of Bucharest and can easily be visited on a day trip. Don’t forget to visit the murals within the inner court, too.
Another popular castle to visit is Hunyad Castle, which is about 200km west of Bucharest.
30. Take a day trip for Dracula!
It must be said that one of the best things to do in Bucharest is to actually leave the city to visit some of the country’s amazing castles. Bran Castle is the most visited attraction in all of Romania, thanks to Bram Stoker and his legend of Dracula.
You don’t need to attempt to get to the castle yourself as this tour offers transportation to Transylvania and back to Bucharest. It is a long, 12 hour tour but the trip includes stories about Vlad the Impaler, a visit to Peles Castle and a stop at Brasov, located in the heart of Transylvania.
If you’re making your own way there, this tour is only an hour long guided tour of Bran Castle and you get skip the line tickets included too. I would also recommend heading to Bran mid-week, earlier in the day to get the best possible photos of the castle.
Where to stay in Bucharest
If you are not a fan of nightlife I would avoid staying in the Old Town, which is the nightlife hub of Bucharest. Instead, choose some other central location to be close enough to the main Bucharest landmarks without the loud music.
I stayed at the Holiday Inn Bucharest in the business and financial district, around a 40 minute walk away from Old Town. There were great transport links to all parts of town and restaurants nearby too.
As you can see, there are so many things to do in Bucharest and so much more to discover, it’s impossible to be bored here.
Enjoy your time exploring this fascinating city in Eastern Europe!