Bucharest

Ultimate Travel Guide to Bucharest, Romania πŸ‡·πŸ‡΄

Overview

Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modernity. Known as “Little Paris” due to its Belle Γ‰poque architecture, Bucharest offers a unique experience for every kind of traveler. This guide will help you explore the best of Bucharest! πŸŒ†

Places to Visit πŸ›οΈ

  1. Palace of Parliament: The second-largest administrative building in the world, this iconic structure showcases Neo-Classical architecture and requires a guided tour to fully appreciate its grandeur. 🏰
  2. Old Town (Ipate-Sfantu Gheorghe) : Bucharest’s historic heart, filled with charming eateries, bars, and souvenir shops. Don’t miss the stunning Stavropoleos Church! πŸ›οΈ
  3. The Arch of Triumph: A smaller replica of its Parisian counterpart, it marks the Unknown Soldier’s Tomb. Offers a panoramic view of the city. πŸŒ†
  4. Cismigiu Gardens: The oldest and most central park in Bucharest, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. πŸžβ˜€οΈ
  5. Museum of the Romanian Peasant: Offers an insight into traditional rural life in Romania. 🌾
  6. Village Museum: Showcases authentic traditional Romanian villages, moved brick by brick to Bucharest. 🏰🏑
  7. Bucharest Zoo: Home to over 200 species, it’s a great place for families and animal lovers. 🦁🐘
  8. The National Art Museum: Houses an extensive collection of Romanian and European art. 🎨

Activities πŸŽ‰

  1. Dracula’s Castle (Brasov or Sinaia) day trip: Explore the legendary home of Vlad the Impaler, approximately a 2-hour drive from Bucharest. πŸ°πŸ—ΊοΈ
  2. Visit the nightclubs in Old Town: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Bucharest offers numerous clubs playing various music genres. πŸ’ƒπŸ•Ί
  3. Take a food tour: Discover traditional Romanian cuisine through guided tastings. 🍽️
  4. Attend a concert at the Athenaeum: This historic concert hall hosts classical music concerts and recitals. 🎢
  5. Explore Ceausescu’s Dacha in Snagov Monastery: A short boat ride from Bucharest, visit the former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu’s summer residence. 🚀β›ͺ️
  6. Visit the Bear Sanctuary: Located 30 km north of Bucharest, this sanctuary aims to rehabilitate and protect brown bears rescued from poor living conditions. πŸ»β˜€οΈ

Where to Eat πŸ”

  1. Caru cu Bere : A traditional tavern in Old Town serving delicious Romanian dishes and homemade beer. 🍺πŸ₯©
  2. La Mama : Offers authentic Romanian food with a modern twist, located in the heart of Bucharest. πŸ½οΈπŸŒƒ
  3. Hanu’ lui Manuc: Another tavern in Old Town, famous for its mamaliga (Romanian polenta). πŸ₯˜πŸ›οΈ
  4. Malin & Giraffe : A trendy spot known for its creative cuisine and rooftop terrace with city views. πŸŒ†πŸ½οΈ

Where to Stay 🏨

  1. Ramada Plaza Bucuresti Major Field: Luxury hotel offering modern rooms, a fitness center, and an excellent location near the Old Town. πŸ¨πŸ’Έ
  2. Hotel Cismigiu : Located in the heart of the city, this boutique hotel offers elegant rooms and a charming terrace. πŸ¨πŸ’°
  3. Airbnb: Affordable apartments and houses for longer stays or larger groups. πŸ πŸ’Ό
  4. Hostels: Budget-friendly options like Hostel Mostel, Hostel Bucuresti Central Park, or Hostel Casa Alina if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget. 🏑✈️

Things to Know πŸ€”

  1. Romanian currency: Leu (RON). Euros are not widely accepted, but ATMs are common throughout the city.
  2. Language: Romanian is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas and many young people speak basic to fluent English.
  3. Electricity: 230V with European standard plugs (Type C, F, or H).
  4. Safety: Generally safe during the day, but take precautions at night, especially in less touristy areas.
  5. Tipping: In restaurants, tip around 10% if service was good.
  6. Public Transportation: Buses (RATB) and trams are affordable and cover most of the city. Tickets can be bought from kiosks or drivers. Uber is also widely available. 🚌🚦
  7. Tap Water: Safe to drink in Bucharest, but bottled water is readily available. πŸ’§πŸ₯€
  8. Emergency Number: 112 for police, fire department, and ambulance.

Tips πŸ”

  1. Bargain at the markets: Haggling is expected in markets like Obor or Măgurele.
  2. Street Food: Try street foods like sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat), and mititei (Romanian sausage). πŸ½οΈβ„οΈ
  3. Coffee Culture: Stop by a cafΓ© to enjoy traditional Romanian coffee, known as “Turkish Coffee” or “Cafe Turcesc.” β˜•οΈπŸ™οΈ
  4. Free Walking Tours: Join free walking tours offered by organizations like Sightseeing Bucharest or Free Walking Tour Bucharest to explore the city with a local guide. πŸ§­πŸ‘£
  5. Local Festivals: Plan your trip around traditional Romanian festivals like “Merry CaramidΔƒ” (Spring Equinox) or “Ursul TΓ’rgului” (Bear Market). πŸŽ‰πŸŽ†