Discover Bucharest: Top 10 Must-See Spots in Romania's Capital
Posted on June 3, 2024 • 9 minutes • 1882 words
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Welcome to Bucharest, the vibrant capital of Romania! Known for its fascinating blend of history, culture, and modern energy, Bucharest offers an incredible array of sights and experiences. Whether you’re drawn to its grand architecture, lively arts scene, or lush parks, there’s always something to explore. Most travelers flock to Bucharest in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, the city’s charm is evergreen, boasting attractions and activities that will captivate you no matter the season. Let’s dive into the top 10 must-see spots in Bucharest that you won’t want to miss!
10 best things to see in Bucharest
10. Cărturești Carusel
When you visit Bucharest, make sure to stop by Cărturești Carusel, one of the city’s most beautiful bookstores. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this stunning, multi-level store is housed in a restored 19th-century building. The elegant, spiral staircase and bright, modern interior create a unique and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for book lovers. To get there, you can take the metro to the Universitate station and walk for about 10 minutes. Don’t miss the top floor café, offering great views and a quiet place to enjoy a coffee while reading your new book. Be sure to check out the carefully curated selection of books, unique gifts, and local crafts.
9. Herastrau Park
If you’re in Bucharest, visiting Herastrau Park should be at the top of your list. Spread across 400 acres, this beautiful park offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. You can enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Herastrau Lake, take a walk along the scenic pathways, or relax in one of the charming cafes. Additionally, the park houses the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum, where you can explore traditional Romanian homes and artifacts. Getting to Herastrau Park is easy; you can take the Metro to Aviatorilor Station or a short taxi ride from the city center. Just make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring some water, especially if you plan to spend the whole day exploring!
8. Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History
If you find yourself in Bucharest, a visit to the Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History is a must. This fascinating museum offers a deep dive into Romania’s diverse natural heritage, featuring everything from dinosaur fossils to colorful butterfly collections. Getting there is easy: you can take the Bucharest Metro to Piata Victoriei station, which is just a short walk from the museum. Once inside, be sure to visit the impressive displays of taxidermy animals and the interactive exhibits that make learning both fun and engaging. Don’t miss the section on the Black Sea’s marine life; it’s particularly stunning and informative.
7. Mogosoaia Palace
If you’re exploring Bucharest, a visit to Mogosoaia Palace is a must. Just a short 10-kilometer trip from the city center, this stunning historical site offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can easily get there by car, bus, or even a bike ride. The palace features beautiful Brâncovenesc architecture and lush gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the art museum inside the palace, where you can learn about Romania’s rich history. Keep an eye out for the intricate details in the stonework and the serene lake nearby. It’s a perfect spot for both history lovers and nature enthusiasts!
6. National Museum of Art of Romania
When you’re in Bucharest, the National Museum of Art of Romania is a must-visit spot that offers a deep dive into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Located in the former Royal Palace in Revolution Square, the museum showcases an impressive collection of Romanian medieval and modern art, as well as European paintings. To get there, you can take the metro to the Universitate or Piata Romana stations, which are both a short walk away. Make sure to pay special attention to the Romanian Modern Art section, where you can admire works by famous local artists like Nicolae Grigorescu and Constantin Brâncuși. Also, don’t miss the European Art Gallery, which houses masterpieces by artists such as El Greco and Rembrandt. The museum often hosts temporary exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see!
5. Lipscani (Old Town)
You should definitely visit Lipscani (Old Town) when you’re in Bucharest. It’s the heart of the city, filled with charming streets, historic buildings, cozy cafes, and vibrant nightlife. To get there, you can easily take the metro to the University (Universitate) or Unirii Square (Piața Unirii) stations. Both are just a short walk away from Lipscani. As you stroll through, pay attention to the beautiful architecture, particularly the Stavropoleos Monastery, and don’t miss the lively atmosphere in the evenings when the area comes alive with music and people. It’s a perfect spot to experience the local culture and history.
4. National Village Museum
When you’re in Bucharest, you should definitely visit the National Village Museum. It offers a unique glimpse into Romania’s rural history with over 270 authentic peasant houses, churches, and mills brought from all over the country. To get there, you can take a short bus ride using bus lines 131, 331, or any other local transport heading towards King Michael I Park near Herăstrău Lake. You’ll find the museum’s entrance nearby. Pay special attention to the traditional crafts and live demonstrations; they reveal how people lived and worked in the countryside many years ago. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking on uneven paths!
3. Romanian Athenaeum
When you’re in Bucharest, a visit to the Romanian Athenaeum is a must. This stunning concert hall, built in 1888, is an architectural gem with its grand dome and neoclassical design. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and an opulent interior that will take your breath away. The Athenaeum is home to the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra, so you might even catch a wonderful concert. To get there, you can easily take the metro to Universitate or use a taxi, which are quite affordable. While you’re there, pay attention to the amazing details in the building’s design, both inside and out, and don’t miss the chance to take a peaceful stroll through the surrounding garden.
2. Stavropoleos Monastery
Visiting Stavropoleos Monastery in Bucharest is a must for anyone looking to experience the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. This peaceful oasis, located right in the heart of the Old Town, is a masterpiece of Romanian Orthodox art and dates back to the early 18th century. To get there, you can easily walk from the University Square, which is just a short 10-minute stroll. Alternatively, you can take the metro to the University station and walk from there. When you visit, make sure to admire the intricate carvings and frescoes, and don’t miss the beautiful inner courtyard, which offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The monastery also has a small but charming library and a collection of old religious books and icons, making it a treasure trove for history buffs.
1. Palace of the Parliament
When you’re in Bucharest, you simply cannot miss visiting the Palace of the Parliament. It’s the second-largest administrative building in the world, and its grand architecture will leave you in awe. To get there, you can easily take a taxi, or use public transport like buses or the metro. The nearest metro station is Izvor. Be sure to bring your ID, as you’ll need it to enter. Inside, pay attention to the stunning interiors, intricate decorations, and take a guided tour to learn fascinating details about its history and construction. It’s a must-see landmark that offers a unique glimpse into Romania’s past and present.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time of the year to visit Bucharest?
The best time to visit Bucharest is from late April to June and from September to early October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for exploring the city’s parks, cafes, and historic sites. July and August can be quite hot, with temperatures often soaring, so it might not be the most comfortable time for sightseeing. Winter months, especially December to February, can be very cold and snowy, but they offer a unique charm with beautiful holiday decorations. If you are on a budget, visiting during the winter months can also be more economical as prices for flights and accommodations tend to be cheaper.
2. Should I rent a car in Bucharest?
Deciding whether to rent a car in Bucharest depends on your plans and comfort with driving under specific conditions. The roads in Bucharest are generally in good shape, but traffic can be very heavy, especially during rush hour. Parking is often a challenge, with limited spaces and some areas you need to pay for parking. On the other hand, Bucharest has a decent public transport system, including buses, trams, and a metro, which can get you to most tourist spots conveniently and affordably. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are also widely available and reasonably priced, so you have plenty of options if you decide not to rent a car.
3. What are different ways to get to Bucharest?
Getting to Bucharest is quite easy with several transportation options available. If you’re flying, Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) is the main airport serving the city, located about 17 kilometers north of the city center. From the airport, you can take a direct bus (Route 783) or a train to reach the heart of Bucharest. If you’re already in Romania and prefer public transport, you can take a train or a long-distance bus from major cities like Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, or Constanța. The train system is well-connected, and buses are frequent and comfortable. For those who enjoy driving, Bucharest is accessible by major highways from most Romanian cities. For instance, you can take the A1 highway from Pitești or the A2 from Constanța. Regardless of how you choose to travel, reaching Bucharest is straightforward and convenient.
4. Are there things to do with children in Bucharest?
Absolutely, there are plenty of things to do with children in Bucharest! The city has many parks, like Herastrau Park, where kids can enjoy playgrounds, boat rides, and wide open spaces. The Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum is another great spot, full of fascinating exhibits that are sure to captivate young minds. Don’t miss Terra Park, an amusement park with rides and games for all ages. The Bucharest Zoo offers a chance to see a variety of animals up close. For an educational twist, head to the Romanian Peasant Museum, which has interactive exhibits that both kids and adults will find interesting.
5. Is Bucharest safe to travel to?
Yes, Bucharest is generally safe to travel to. Like any major city, it’s important to stay aware and take basic precautions. Tourists in Bucharest typically have a great experience, though it’s wise to be aware of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Scams can happen, too, like overcharging for taxis or fake tour guides. To stay safe, keep your valuables out of sight, stay alert to your surroundings, and use reputable services. By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy all that Bucharest has to offer without worry.
