Top Things to Do in Bucharest

About the City

Bucharest, the vibrant heart of Romania, thrums to the beat of history and modernity. Picture towering buildings with Communist-era stoicism softened by the elegant belle époque architecture, like a city wearing its history on its sleeve. The streets buzz with life, from chatty cafes spilling onto sun-drenched sidewalks to the lush retreat of Herăstrău Park, an urban oasis where locals recharge. In the Old Town, each cobblestone whispers tales of a bygone era, now hosting an array of lively pubs and bars where the nights are long and brimming with energy. Don't miss the imposing Palace of the Parliament, a colossal testament to grandeur and ambition, second only to the Pentagon in size, it's both an awe-inspiring and a slightly overwhelming sight. But let's not view the city through rose-colored glasses; the traffic can be a snarling beast, testing the patience of even the calmest drivers. Winters can grip the city with a frosty hand, turning each breath into a chilly reminder of the season, while the stray dogs' situation tugs at animal lovers' heartstrings. Bucharest is a blend of rough and smooth, a place where you can find secret gardens hidden behind austere facades, eclectic art in unexpected corners, and a spirit that's at once resilient and welcoming. It's a place that might just surprise you.

Things to Do in Bucharest

Chow Down on Chiftele

Food & Drink

Get your munch on with Chiftele, Romania's answer to meatballs. But oh, these aren't any ordinary meatballs – they've got a herby, spicy kick, and come with a side of 'bet you can't have just one'. Fr...

Picnic in the Gardens of Paradise

Outdoors

Lay down your picnic blanket and get ready to nibble your snacks in the prettiest green spots Bucharest has to offer. Just picture a chill day, lounging in the sun, watching clouds that look like cott...

Snoop Around Ceausescu's Bunker

The Unexpected

Ever wondered what's under the feet of Bucharest bigwigs? Slink your way into the underground bunker of Romania's notorious dictator, Ceausescu. Hidden beneath the Spring Palace (Ceausescu's former di...

Retro Ride on a Vintage Tram

The Unexpected

Step back in time with a ride on one of Bucharest's classic trams. These relics on rails are like time machines with a day pass! Hop on, grab a wooden seat, and feel the city's history rattle and hum ...

Give New Life to Old Books at a Charming Book Cafe

The Unexpected

Imagine a cozy nook teeming with the sweet scent of espresso and the gentle rustle of book pages. It's time to sip some java and save a book from a dusty shelf! Find an old read, buy it for a song, an...

Embark on an Art Quest in Quirky Galleries

The Unexpected

Don your art aficionado hat and set out on a quest for the quirky and the avant-garde! Sniff out the galleries tucked away in Bucharest's bustling nooks where you've got more chances of spotting a wil...

Paddle Party in Herastrau

Outdoors

Splash squad, assemble! It's time to take the 'funboat' out for a spin on Lake Herastrau. Don your captain's hat and paddle through the biggest park in Bucharest, striking envy into the hearts of duck...

Bucharest's Botanical Bliss

Outdoors

Hey there, green thumb gang! Get ready to tiptoe through the tulips (and other botanical babes) at the Bucharest Botanical Garden. This living library is a paradise for plant lovers. You can't help bu...

Urban Jungle Jogging

Outdoors

Lace up your sneakers and channel your inner Usain Bolt as you scoot through the city's many parks. Not only will you kiss bye-bye to those extra vacay calories, but you'll also look mighty fine dodgi...

Roll the Boulevard

Outdoors

Strap on those rollerblades and start your own rolling rally down Bucharest's boulevards! Zigzag between fellow tourists and locals, and get your groove on to some street tunes. You'll have as much fu...

Guzzle Down a Clatite

Food & Drink

Ready for a sweet rendezvous? Clatite is how Romanians do crepes, and they're flipping fantastic! These thin, delectable treats can go from zero to yum with an array of fillings – think jams, cheeses,...

Find Your Zen in a Garden of Memories

Sights

Ready for a quiet moment in the city's soul? The Carol Park Mausoleum awaits with its solemn beauty and a garden that's straight out of a thoughtful indie film. Take a stroll through this lovely park ...

Gawk at Gothic Glory

Sights

Time to get a little eerie with some neo-gothic vibes at Stavropoleos Monastery. Squeeze through the crevices of Old Town to reveal a tiny courtyard that's home to one of the most insta-gothic spots i...

Soak Up History at the Museum of the Romanian Peasant

Sights

Ready to get schooled, but, like, in a fun way? The Museum of the Romanian Peasant drops knowledge bombs on traditional life with crazy-cool artifacts and attire that'll have you feeling like you've b...

Unveil the Mystery of the Arcul de Triumf

Sights

Get your very own Parisian vibe with a Romanian twist at the Arcul de Triumf! This grand arch stands tall and proud, and it's the go-to spot for snapping pics that'll make your pals think you've hoppe...

Witness Elegance at the Kretzulescu Church

Sights

Tucked away amidst the hustle and bustle, Kretzulescu Church offers a peaceful respite with its beautiful brâncovenesc style architecture. Step inside and feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden gem, ...

Nibble on Cozonac

Food & Drink

Sprinkle a sweet twist to your Romanian food quest with Cozonac, the braided bready beauty that's the life of the party during holidays, but who's stopping you from making any day festive? This swirly...

Dive into Papanasi

Food & Drink

Strap in for a doughy delight 'cause you're about to experience the joy that is papanasi! These are fried or boiled doughnuts that take a swim in a pool of sour cream and then get a shower of sweet-an...

Feast on Fasole batuta

Food & Drink

Spoon into the hearty world of Fasole batuta, a creamy whipped bean dip that's the Robin to any Romanian grill dish's Batman. It's smooth, it's garlicky, and it'll make bread jump out of the basket ju...

Conduct Your Own Wine Tasting

The Unexpected

Channel your inner sommelier and go for a spirited frolic through Bucharest's vinous landscape. Swirl, sniff, and sip your way across various bars, getting a taste of Romanian terroir straight from th...