Best Places to Visit in Bucharest

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a captivating city rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. This beautiful city, the largest in Romania and the sixth largest in Europe, is sure to fill every minute of your travels with excitement. Not only is Bucharest notable for its museums, exhibitions, historical sites, and heritage, but also for its vibrant nightlife.

When it comes to Eastern Europe, Bucharest stands out with its charming details at every corner. From the Old Town to the Palace of the Parliament, and from Stavropoleos Monastery to Herăstrău Park, Bucharest boasts incredibly impressive places to explore. For those passing through or planning to travel to Bucharest, we've compiled a list of must-see spots. Here are the essentials for your Bucharest journey:

Palace of the Parliament

The Palace of the Parliament, impossible to miss in Bucharest, is known as the world's second-largest administrative building. This colossal structure also bears traces of the communist regime. Its imposing architecture and meticulous design attract visitors from far and wide. Make sure the Palace of the Parliament is on your list when visiting Romania.

Old Town

One of Bucharest's most historically significant areas is the Old Town, known as the city's historic center. As you stroll around, you'll see colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, lively cafes, and restaurants. Feel free to take plenty of photos, try local delicacies, and shop for souvenirs in the nearby stores. If you want to uncover the city's history, Old Town is a must-visit.

Ateneum

Located in the heart of the city's entertainment district, Ateneum is a concert hall frequently hosting performances. This grand venue is also one of the national symbols of the city. It's a favorite spot for those seeking enjoyable leisure time and is home to the Romanian Philharmonic Orchestra.

National Museum of Art of Romania

Art enthusiasts interested in Romania's unique history should definitely visit the National Museum of Art of Romania. From the 14th to the 20th century, numerous significant artistic pieces are displayed here. Even if history isn't your thing, you'll be mesmerized by the artworks on show. Checking the museum's opening and closing hours beforehand is advisable.

Herăstrău Park

One of Bucharest's most important natural areas is Herăstrău Park, also the largest park in the city. Within the park, you'll find lakes, islands, and forests. It's an ideal destination for those looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle and spend time in nature. Enjoy activities like walking, cycling, picnicking, or boating in the park.

Village Museum

The Village Museum, an open-air museum, showcases traditional houses and agricultural buildings from various regions of Romania. You might want to visit this museum to see many important structures from Romania's early periods.

Victory Avenue

Another iconic landmark of the city, Victory Avenue, is a must-visit during your trip. Dedicated to the soldiers who fell in the Romanian War of Independence, the Victory Avenue holds great national significance. It's also a popular tourist spot and gets frequent visitors.

Stavropoleos Monastery

Dating back to the 18th century, Stavropoleos Monastery is an Orthodox monastery known for its wooden carvings and beautiful frescoes. It's one of Bucharest's most important historical heritages and continues to attract both local and foreign tourists.

Caru' cu Bere

Caru' cu Bere is a brewery from the 19th century and one of the most popular tourist spots. Here, you can enjoy not only beer but also delicious traditional meals. It's highly recommended for food enthusiasts interested in Romanian cuisine.

Lipscani Street

If you want to experience Bucharest's lively side, Lipscani Street is the place to be. This street is the oldest and most famous in the city, lined with restaurants, cafes, and luxury shops. It's a tourist hotspot where you can taste local flavors and do some shopping.

All these spots mentioned are places we highly recommend seeing in Bucharest. Besides these, there are many more museums, art galleries, theaters, and opera houses in the city. You'll also find a variety of places offering beautiful meals at different price ranges. Bucharest, with its blend of traditional and modern aspects, promises a city where you'll have a lot of fun exploring.

Best Time to Visit Bucharest

If you're considering a trip to Bucharest, the best times are usually April-May and September-October. The weather during these months is perfect for sightseeing and enjoying your time. You can opt for flights from Istanbul to Bucharest, which take approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Traveling by train or bus to Bucharest is also possible but will take considerably longer. The currency used is the Romanian Leu (RON), and both Romanian and English are widely spoken. It's also worth noting that there are accommodation options to suit every budget, and booking early can secure you stays in luxury hotels.