Best 20 things to do in Bucharest, Romania

Welcome to Bucharest, the city where Dracula meets modern-day Romania! Get ready to sink your teeth into the best this vibrant capital has to offer. From exploring the enchanting historical charm of the Old Town, where medieval buildings have a love affair with trendy cafes and bars, to indulging in a deliciously chaotic nightlife that will leave even the most energetic vampires gasping for air. Don't forget to take a ride on the iconic Palace of Parliament, the colossal reminder that when Bucharest builds a government building, they really go big or go home. So, whether you're a culture vulture, party animal, or just addicted to gargoyles, Bucharest welcomes you with open jaws...uh, arms!

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1. Carol Park

4.6 (15284)

Bulevardul Mărășești, București, Romania

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to Carol Park in Bucharest, a playful and charming oasis in the heart of the bustling city! Discover this magical green gem, where lush lawns invite you to frolic like an over-caffeinated squirrel, and towering statues make you question if you've wandered into an open-air superhero museum. Stroll through the park, keeping an eye out for the majestic Athenaeum replica, which proudly declares, "Why travel to Greece when you can take a petite detour right here?" So, grab your sense of humor and embark on a whimsical adventure in Carol Park, where even Peter Pan would feel at home.

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2. Old Town

Old Town, Bucharest, Romania

Welcome to Old Town in Bucharest, a place where history and hedonism collide! Stroll through these narrow streets and feel like you've entered a time warp, where once-upon-a-time buildings now house more bars than you can shake a cocktail stick at. Get lost in the labyrinth of cobbled lanes, where every corner unveils a new hidden gem – whether it's a charming café, a quirky shop, or a street performer who thinks they're auditioning for a world-class circus. So, put on your walking shoes, brace yourself for the unexpected, and brace yourself also for a few DJ enthusiasts who might be a little too passionate about their playlists.

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3. Museum of the Romanian Peasant

4.4 (3124)

Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff 3, București, Romania

Welcome to the Museum of the Romanian Peasant in Bucharest, where even the most sophisticated city dwellers can experience the astonishing culture of peasants without actually milking cows or pulling weeds! Discover a whimsical world where hay bales become art installations, chickens strut their stuff on traditional rugs, and don't be fooled, that may not be just a mound of earth but an adorably crafted ceramic pot! So, leave your stilettos at the door, because here you'll be navigating through a charming labyrinth of quirky artifacts that could make even the trendiest hipsters consider a career in plowing fields.

www.muzeultaranuluiroman.ro

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4. The Village Museum

4.6 (9008)

Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff 28-30, București 011347, Romania

Nestled in the heart of Bucharest, The Village Museum stands proudly as a time machine that takes visitors on a hilarious journey back to the days when people donned peculiar hats and shoes with more holes than Swiss cheese. This open-air museum offers a chance to marvel at the ingeniousness of our ancestors, who built houses resembling oversized birdhouses and had an inexplicable love for fences taller than Shaquille O'Neal. Prepare to chuckle your way through this delightful eccentricity and leave with a newfound appreciation for the innovative architectural wonders of bygone eras.

muzeul-satului.ro

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5. Herastrau Lake

4.6 (465)

Herăstrău Lake, Bucharest, Romania

Welcome to Herastrau Lake, the aquatic gem of Bucharest! This breath-taking body of water is like that elusive unicorn you've always dreamed of—only it’s real! With its shimmering waters, picturesque shores, and an impressive lakefront promenade that's perfect for a leisurely stroll, Herastrau Lake will make you question why you ever settled for walking on boring old land before. Speaking of land, prepare to have your socks knocked off by the variety of activities available on the lake's shores. Whether you're a seasoned sailor, an aspiring windsurfer, or a professional people-watcher, Herastrau Lake has got you covered. So, grab your binoculars for some intense birdwatching or simply take a paddleboat ride with your friends, because let's be honest, nothing says "teamwork" like trying to row in sync while laughing hysterically at your lack of coordination. But wait, there's more! At Herastrau Lake, you'll find an assortment of charming lakeside restaurants, which serve both delicious cuisine and prime opportunities for amusing people watching. So, whether you're in the mood for high-class fine dining or want to devour a hearty bowl of soup while pretending it's a Michelin-starred meal, Herastrau Lake has got you covered with its culinary wonders. Go ahead and savor the food with gusto, for after all, you'll have plenty of time to work off those extra calories on your inevitable return visit to this extraordinary lake.

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6. Herăstrău Park

4.6 (56111)

Bucharest, Romania

Welcome to Herăstrău Park, the green oasis of Bucharest that is more than just a place to escape the concrete jungle! Take a leisurely stroll among the lush trees and marvel at the park's vast lake, where you can witness the relentless battle of ducks and swans for prime sunbathing spots. For a touch of adventure, hop on a paddleboat and venture into these treacherous waters, bravely paddling away from kamikaze seagulls aiming for your picturesque selfie.

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7. Eroilor Park

4.3 (7623)

Splaiul Independenței, București, Romania

Welcome to Eroilor Park, where Bucharest effortlessly merges tranquility and duck-chasing adventures! This urban oasis is a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, where visitors can bask in the intimate presence of countless trees—perfect for hiding from that slightly-too-friendly mime troupe on the corner. The park offers a splendidly picturesque lake, a true gem for those brave enough to paddle authentically in a swan-shaped pedal boat whilst battling their inner fear of capsizing in front of potential Instagram influencers.

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8. Palace of the Parliament

4.5 (3552)

Strada Izvor 2-4, București, Romania

Welcome to the Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest, a colossal beast of a building that could easily double as a prop for a "How to Spot an Extraterrestrial" movie. With over 1,100 rooms, it's so immense that even marathon runners would need a Segway tour to explore it all. Keep your eyes peeled for the grandiose chandeliers; they're so massive they could probably land a small aircraft if they ever decided a career change was in order.

www.cdep.ro

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9. Cismigiu Gardens

4.3 (35093)

Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta, București 030167, Romania

Welcome to Cismigiu Gardens, the green oasis in the heart of bustling Bucharest! This insanely green wonderland will make you wonder if you've accidentally stumbled into a real-life version of "The Secret Garden". Take a leisurely stroll among the vibrant flowerbeds, while carefully avoiding the strategically placed squirrels waiting to pounce on unsuspecting visitors with their acorn grenades. Don't forget to dodge the swan mafia ruling over the scenic lake, just in case they demand a toll for crossing their aquatic territory.

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10. Revolution Square

Piața Revoluției, București, Romania

Welcome to Revolution Square, the place where history and absurdity merge in the heart of Bucharest! This vibrant square is home to the colossal Palace of Parliament, an architectural marvel so massive that it could easily house a population of minotaurs. Take a stroll in this surreal space, where the air is infused with a mix of communist nostalgia and a touch of whimsy, making it a must-visit spot for those with an appetite for both history and satire.

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11. Romanian Athenaeum

4.8 (11474)

1, Strada Benjamin Franklin 1-3, București 030167, Romania

Welcome to the Romanian Athenaeum in Bucharest, a magnificent building that will make you feel like you've stepped into the world's most grandiose wedding cake. With its elegant neoclassical architecture, adorned by intricate reliefs and towering columns, it's no wonder locals affectionately call it "The Wedding Cake Palace." Inside, you'll find a stunning concert hall that will leave you wondering if the angels themselves come down to perform their heavenly symphonies. So grab your opera glasses and prepare to be serenaded as if you were sitting on a cloud with a divine chorus of Romanian musicians.

fge.org.ro

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12. Stavropoleos Monastery

4.7 (3219)

Strada Stavropoleos 4, București 030167, Romania

Tucked away in the enchanting streets of Bucharest, the Stavropoleos Monastery beckons visitors with its irresistible charm, akin to a mischievous smile on a mysterious stranger. Stepping onto the hallowed grounds, one is greeted with an architectural fusion that can only be described as the lovechild of Byzantine grace and Romanian flair, leaving bewildered tour guides scrambling for words that sound remotely intelligent. As you wander through the monastery's intricate courtyard, you may find yourself wondering if you've stepped into a hidden corner of Hogwarts, where ancient secrets mingle with the scent of burning incense.

www.stavropoleos.ro

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13. Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum

4.6 (9008)

Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff 28-30, București 011347, Romania

Welcome to the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum, a place where you can stroll through Romania's cultural heritage without actually time traveling! This quirky outdoor museum in Bucharest showcases over 200 authentic rural houses from all over the country, making it the perfect spot to satisfy your desire for village life without getting chased by chickens or stung by bees. So, grab a selfie stick, put on your vintage peasant hat, and prepare for a delightful journey back in time, complete with charming haystacks, picturesque windmills, and possibly a cow named Gertrude if you're lucky!

muzeul-satului.ro

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14. Cotroceni Palace

Cotroceni, Bucharest, Romania

Nestled in the charming heart of Bucharest, the Cotroceni Palace awaits your esteemed presence like a butler in a Shakespearean comedy. This staggering architectural marvel, reminiscent of those in old fairy tales, exudes an irresistible charm that will leave you questioning whether you've stumbled upon a real-life palace or simply woken up in a deliciously elaborate dream. Prepare to be enchanted by the palace's sprawling gardens, where the hedges whisper tales of long-gone royals and the flamingos perform synchronized dances to entertain even the dullest of tourists.

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15. Mogosoaia Palace

4.7 (13727)

Strada Valea Parcului 1, Mogoșoaia 077135, Romania

Welcome to the mesmerizing Mogosoaia Palace, where one might consider using a GPS to navigate its vast grounds because getting lost in its labyrinthine charm is oddly fashionable. This architectural gem, nestled in Bucharest's backyard, dubbed as a "faintly royal chicken coop," will leave you feeling equal parts confused and enchanted. Be prepared to gape at the palace's whimsical blend of Romanian, Oriental, and Slightly-Confused-Job-Description architectural styles that will surely make you scratch your head and ponder life's greatest mysteries.

www.restaurantpalatulmogosoaia.ro

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16. Ion Voicu Park

4.5 (2860)

Strada Dumbrava Roșie 7, București 030167, Romania

Welcome to Ion Voicu Park, where Bucharest's urban chaos meets a symphony of leisurely chaos! This sprawling green haven is the perfect spot for confused tourists trying to escape the city's labyrinthine streets. With its winding paths and bushes taller than some skyscrapers in nearby neighborhoods, you're bound to feel like an adventurous explorer, just with a latte in hand and no need for survival skills.

www.adp2-bucuresti.ro

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17. Victory Avenue

2.9 (145)

Piața Victoriei 1, București 011791, Romania

Welcome to Victory Avenue, affectionately known as the "Fashionista's Paradise" of Bucharest! Stroll along this illustrious boulevard, where delightful cafes beckon you to take a break from your shopping spree and enjoy a fancy croissant or, if you're feeling adventurous, a three-tiered unicorn-themed dessert. Be prepared to avoid the well-dressed fashionistas zooming by on their electric scooters, creating a peculiar mix of high fashion and low-speed chases.

www.gov.ro

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18. Stavropoleos Church

4.7 (3219)

Strada Stavropoleos 4, București 030167, Romania

Welcome to Stavropoleos Church in Bucharest, where architectural wonders blend with a pinch of enchantment and a hint of Instagrammability! This compact masterpiece will leave you speechless for all the right reasons. As you step inside, brace yourself for a stunning display of Byzantine music, ancient icons that definitely predate the invention of selfies, and an adorable courtyard that could double as a secret hideout for Bucharest's mischievous squirrels.

www.stavropoleos.ro

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19. Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History

4.7 (16421)

Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff 1, București 011341, Romania

Welcome to the Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History in Bucharest, where you'll embark on a wild journey through time, space, and everything in between! Brace yourselves for a museum experience that’s a mix of Jurassic Park and Doctor Who, minus the actual dinosaurs and time travel, of course. Get ready to marvel at a mishmash of extraordinary specimens, interactive exhibits, and we promise, no creepy taxidermy staring into your soul here!

www.antipa.ro

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20. National Museum of Art of Romania

4.6 (7888)

Calea Victoriei 49-53, București 010063, Romania

Welcome to the National Museum of Art of Romania in Bucharest, where art comes alive with a side of quirky charm! Prepare to be dazzled by the grandeur of this historic building, which hilariously resembles a gigantic cake with its numerous layers and tasty-looking façade. Inside, feast your eyes on an impressive collection of Romanian masterpieces - these artistic wonders will make you appreciate art as much as another slice of cake...almost.

www.mnar.arts.ro

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bucharest by plane is to fly into Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP), which is located approximately 17 km north of the city center. There are many airlines that fly to OTP from various destinations worldwide.

Car

Driving to Bucharest is possible from neighboring countries. The most direct routes from Hungary or Bulgaria are via the A1 highway. However, visitors should be aware that traffic in Bucharest can be congested and parking can be difficult in the city center.

Train

Although it is possible to get to Bucharest by train, it is not the most efficient method of transport. However, if traveling from nearby countries such as Hungary or Bulgaria, there are a number of daily train services available. The train station in Bucharest is Gara de Nord.

Boat

Unfortunately, it is not possible to reach Bucharest by boat as the city is not located near any major waterways.

Bus

Getting to Bucharest by bus is a convenient option, with many international bus companies operating services to the city. Eurolines and Flixbus are two popular companies that offer services from multiple destinations. The bus station in Bucharest is called Autogara Filaret.

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Budget-friendly Guide to Historic Bucharest

Bucharest may not be the first European city that comes to mind for budget travel, but it's a fantastic destination that won't break the bank. Start with a visit to the stunning Palace of the Parliament, the world's second-largest administrative building, then explore the charming Old Town with its colorful buildings and lively cafes. Finally, head to Herastrau Park for a peaceful stroll and a chance to experience the city's natural beauty.

Bucharest in 48 Hours: Culture, Nature & Food

Explore the historic Old Town and charming Lipscani neighborhood, both filled with affordable restaurants and cafes. Visit the Palace of the Parliament, the second largest administrative building in the world, with a guided tour costing less than $10 USD. Take a day trip to nearby Transylvania to see Bran Castle, also known as Dracula's Castle, and the stunning countryside.

Discover Bucharest: The Ultimate 3-Day Adventure

Explore the Romanian history in the city's landmarks such as the Palace of the Parliament and the Arcul de Triumf. Enjoy some of the finest tastes of the Romanian cuisine in local eateries like Caru' cu Bere or Hanul Manuc. Save on accommodation costs by staying in budget hotels or hostels, and prepare to be amazed by the beauty and charm of Bucharest on a limited budget trip.

Exploring Bucharest: A Fun-Filled 4 Day Family Adventure!

Bucharest, the vibrant capital of Romania, offers a plethora of family-friendly activities that will captivate both kids and adults alike. Uncover the city's rich history by visiting the iconic Palace of Parliament or strolling around the charming Old Town. Explore the beautiful parks, such as Herastrau Park or Tineretului Park, where you can enjoy picnics, boat rides, and playgrounds, making Bucharest the perfect destination for a memorable family trip.