BUCHAREST – PARIS OF THE EAST
Right now, Romania’s capital city of Bucharest is often overlooked by tourists looking for a city break in favour of its Western European counterparts. But, from this year on, Romania’s tourist industry is being predicted to grow exponentially.
In fact, Romania has just been featured as a stellar destination in Vogue’s Where To Travel In 2025.
This means that while Bucharest might be underrated and uncrowded right now and you’ll likely be beating the tourist masses to enjoy a more authentic Romanian experience – that might not be the case very soon – especially in response to the impact of over tourism in other places in Europe like Paris and Rome and Venice.
This makes Romania a great budget friendly European capital and top destination for travellers on a budget, with lots of low cost flights into (OTP) Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (Aeroportul Internațional Henri Coandă București).
Bucharest is still shifting politically, economically, and culturally. Romania became a member of NATO in 2004 and part of the European Union in 2007 but in January 2025 it became a Schengen member. With the removal of border controls, Romania is sure to see increased tourism and trade with other Schengen countries in the very near future, potentially driving up prices and speeding up economic growth.
Clearly, there has never been a better time than right now to visit Bucharest and the rest of Romania. So grab your camera, charge your phone, and let’s go and spend three days in Bucharest.
Let’s lose ourselves in the streets of a city steeped in a rich history and where its wide boulevards and Belle Epoque buildings offer a charm that’s hard to resist.
Why go to Paris France when you can go to the Paris of the East?
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- BUCHAREST – PARIS OF THE EAST
- BUCHAREST – CITY OF HISTORY AND BOHEMIAN CHARM
- WHERE TO STAY IN BUCHAREST ROMANIA
- BUCHAREST INFLUENCES AND HISTORY
- LITTLE PARIS OF THE EAST
- THE PALACE OF THE PARLIAMENT
- BUCHAREST TODAY
- BUCHAREST ART SCENE
- BUCHAREST CAFE CULTURE
- MY THREE DAY ITINERARY FOR BUCHAREST
- SEE MY BUCHAREST THREE DAY ITINERARY ON GOOGLE MAPS
- MY TOP TIPS FOR BUCHAREST
- LEARN A FEW PHRASES IN ROMANIAN
- WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BUCHAREST ROMANIA?
BUCHAREST – CITY OF HISTORY AND BOHEMIAN CHARM
Bucharest is an unexpectedly fascinating city. I say unexpectedly because, although this was my first visit to Romania, I hadn’t done any of my usual pre-trip research and planning. I’d literally arrived in Bucharest with absolutely no expectations whatsoever, except to catch up with some of my lovely Romanian friends, whom I’d previously met in Thailand.
And my first impressions after flying into Bucharest was of eye-popping wonder.
I always enjoy a city with a rich history and interesting culture, and I honestly didn’t know which way to turn or which building to stare at first or next, on my ride from the airport into the city centre.
Medieval churches, communist-era apartment blocks, and sleek modern skyscrapers all stood proudly together and then we drove past a huge Arc de Triumph and the eye-popping soon became jaw-dropping.
Who knew that this (until recently) considered off the beaten path destination was so rich in culture, mystery, and architectural marvels? Clearly there are so many things to do in Bucharest.
My dear Romanian friends soon educated me on how from its humble beginnings as a medieval fortress to its transformation into a Belle Epoque metropolis and subsequent reshaping under communism, every era in Bucharest’s history had left a fingerprint here.
If you are wondering if you can ‘do’ Bucharest as a weekend city break then the answer is – YES and you absolutely should – but spending three days exploring this fascinating city would be the ideal. See my three-day top sightseeing itinerary below.
But if you can stay for longer than two or three days then you could also get out of the city and into the Romanian Countryside to discover elaborate Romanian Palaces and to head into Transylvania to explore Bram Castle of Dracula fame!
Travel with me to Bucharest in Romania and let me introduce you to one of Eastern Europe’s most underrated gems – often dubbed the ‘Paris of the East’ – a city where history, rebellion, and bohemian charm, come together in perfect and sometimes chaotic harmony.
WHERE TO STAY IN BUCHAREST ROMANIA
In Romania I mostly stayed with a friend but for my first night and last few days, I stayed at the iconic Grand Hotel in University Square, within walking distance from the Old Town.
Built in 1967, The Grand Hotel (previously it was The Intercontinental) is the tallest hotel in Bucharest and so it is also a city landmark and located right next to the National Theatre. From my room, the panoramic views of the city and those overlooking the busy Balcescu Boulevard were mesmerising.
Interestingly, during the Romanian Revolution of 1989, the hotel became the base for the foreign press as the vantage point from the balconies provided a perfect view of the protests in University Square.
FIND YOUR PERFECT PLACE TO STAY USING THIS INTERACTIVE BUCHAREST MAP
BUCHAREST INFLUENCES AND HISTORY
Our cultural appreciation of Bucharest begins back in the 14th century and the medieval period. The Old Princely Court (Curtea Veche) is the oldest monument in Bucharest was built as a palace residence by Vlad Țepeș (Vlad the Impaler aka the blood sucking inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula story!) Take the tour!
Then there’s the city’s Brâncovenesc style early religious churches like the decorative Stavropoleos Monastery, built by a Greek monk in 1724, with its intricate wood carvings and serene courtyard with Romanian Orthodox influences. What makes this small church unique is that it houses a library of over eight thousand books on theology, byzantine music, (the largest collection in Romania) plus arts and history.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries were a period of significant transformation for Bucharest as the influence of French architecture is undeniable here with many buildings mirroring Parisian designs that have earned this city the nickname of ‘Little Paris’ or ‘Paris of The East’.
This era saw the rise of neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles, evident in iconic buildings such as the National Bank of Romania, the Romanian Athenaeum with its elaborate facade and opulent interior, and the CEC Palace, with its distinctive glass dome.
LITTLE PARIS OF THE EAST
Many of Bucharest’s broad boulevards, like Calea Victoriei, and its grand buildings, such as the Central University Library, the CEC Palace, and the Palace of Justice, were designed or inspired by French architects or Romanian architects educated in Paris.
This is the reason for the Belle Epoque style seen in Bucharest’s palazzos, concert halls, and cafes, which was popular in Paris during this period and includes ornate facades and elegant designs in the Neoclassical and Art Nouveau influence.
Romania’s own Arc de Triumph or Arcul de Triumf stands as a landmark in the northern part of Bucharest and was built in 1935 to commemorate Romania’s victory in the First World War.
THE PALACE OF THE PARLIAMENT
The communist regime (1947-1989) left an enduring mark on Bucharest’s architectural landscape. Imposing structures – its grandeur reflecting the desire to project power and control – such as the colossal Palace of the Parliament (formerly known as the House of the People) stands today as an opulent and controversial symbol of the era.
The Palace of the Parliament, commissioned by Nicolae Ceaușescu, and built while much of Romania was struggling economically is said to be the heaviest building in the world and the second largest administrative buildings – second only to The Pentagon in Washington USA. Top tip: Book a tour in advance.
BUCHAREST TODAY
Today, wandering around the old streets of Bucharest, offers a unique opportunity to witness the evolution of architectural styles and to understand the cultural and historical influences that have shaped the city because the buildings tell a story of resilience, ambition, and transformation. I highly recommend a City Highlights Walking Tour and if you prefer a one to one guided experience you can book a Private Walking Tour and Guide and if you’d prefer to experience The Best of Bucharest with a fun ride then check out A Private TukTuk Tour!
Vintage markets and antique shops are delightfully tucked into side streets, offering everything from Soviet-era memorabilia to Romanian ceramics. I also enjoyed shopping in the modern malls and in the high street ‘names’ the prices were so low compared to elsewhere in Europe and so, loving a bargain, I bought several new outfits including a jacket and shoes!
If you happen to need a break from the city buzz and a brief respite between cultural activities, you should know that Bucharest also has lots of tranquil botanical gardens and grassy parks with trees and lakes and fabulous water features, in which to relax.
Why not live like a local and take a picnic or a book to relax in Cismigiu Park (also known as Central Park) or to Herastrau Park next to the Arch of Triumph which also offers open-air cafés and boat rides on the lake?
BUCHAREST ART SCENE
Bucharest is known for its music scene and its energetic nightlife, from trendy bars in the Old Town to emphasis on classical music in the parks during hot summer evenings.
There really is something for everyone and this includes a diverse art scene with lots of art galleries and art markets and a thriving street art scene. Arthur Verona Street and Graffiti Urban are known locations for colourful murals and street art installations.
Why not take a street art tour of the city’s alternative art spaces that buzz with a contemporary energy. Or simply wander through the city streets and passageways and the green parks. I enjoyed coming across many of the city’s statues and sculptures while getting lost in Bucharest’s immersive cultural embrace.
The photos below are taken outside The Grand Hotel (then The Intercontinental) which is located next to the National Theatre in Bucharest where you can see these fabulous sculptures of famous Romanian playwright Ion Luca Caragiale (I. L. Caragiale).
BUCHAREST CAFE CULTURE
Thirsty and hungry yet? Take a street food tour or looking for an interesting cafe? Bucharest is a café lover’s dream. The Old Town (Centrul Vechi) is packed with lively cafés, quirky bars, and eclectic restaurants, perfect for an afternoon espresso or a late-night cocktail.
For something truly special, visit Caru’ cu Bere, a gothic-style beer hall that feels like stepping into another century. Romanian cuisine is hearty, flavourful, and surprisingly diverse. Think sarmale (cabbage rolls), ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), and mititei (grilled meat rolls) paired with local wines or țuică, a powerful plum brandy.
MY THREE DAY ITINERARY FOR BUCHAREST
Day 1: The Heart of Bucharest – History, Architecture & Old Town Vibes
Morning: Palace of the Parliament – Start your day with a tour of this jaw-dropping symbol of Ceaușescu’s reign. It’s massive, ornate, and full of stories. Book a tour in advance. Then walk down Bulevardul Unirii, designed to rival the Champs-Élysées, and take in the imposing socialist architecture.
Lunch: Hanu’ lui Manuc – A historic inn turned traditional restaurant. Enjoy Romanian classics like sarmale or ciorbă de burtă in a charming courtyard.
Afternoon: Old Town (Centrul Vechi) – Explore cobbled streets full of lively cafés, boutiques, and bookstores. Visit Stavropoleos Monastery – A tiny, serene 18th-century church with beautiful frescoes and stone carvings. Stop by Carturești Carusel, a dreamy multi-level bookstore often called one of the most beautiful in the world.
Evening: Have Dinner at Caru’ cu Bere – An iconic neo-Gothic beer hall with stained glass, traditional food, and folkloric ambiance. Grab a drink in Lipscani District – explore rooftop bars like Nomad Skybar or a cocktail bar like Fix Me a Drink.
Day 2: Parks, Museums, and Romanian Culture
Morning: Herastrau Park (King Michael I Park) – Rent a bike or boat and cruise the lake. Then stop at Dimitrie Gusti Village Museum, located inside the park. It’s an open-air museum with traditional houses and buildings from across Romania.
Lunch: Eat at Hard Rock Café by the lake or try Casa Doina for a more refined Romanian meal in a historic building.
Afternoon: Visit the Romanian Athenaeum – A neoclassical concert hall and national symbol. Even if you don’t see a concert, the interior is stunning. Then explore The National Museum of Art of Romania (inside the former Royal Palace) for European and Romanian masterpieces.
Evening: Dinner in the trendy neighbourhoods of Dorobanți or Floreasca with upscale restaurants and cafés. Try Kane or Sardin for modern Romanian or Mediterranean fusion. Optional: Catch a show at the Bucharest National Opera or Teatrul Național.
Day 3: Local Life, Hidden Gems & Day Trips
Morning: Explore Calea Victoriei, one of the oldest and most elegant streets in Bucharest. Stop by George Enescu Museum (a beautiful art nouveau villa), and check out the Macca-Vilacrosse Passage, a hidden arcade with stained-glass ceilings.
Optional Shopping: Browse for antiques and local crafts at Obor Market (for a raw local vibe) or Baneasa Shopping City for modern retail.
Optional Half-Day Trip: Mogoșoaia Palace – A beautiful and nearby 17th-century palace and gardens.
Late Afternoon / Evening: Wind down with a quiet walk in Gradina Cismigiu, Bucharest’s oldest public garden. Final dinner at The Artist – One of the city’s top fine-dining experiences with creative Romanian-inspired dishes.
SEE MY BUCHAREST THREE DAY ITINERARY ON GOOGLE MAPS
MY TOP TIPS FOR BUCHAREST
Wear comfortable shoes as the Old Town and historical areas are best explored on foot.
Book trips and tours and tickets online and in advance to avoid disappointment.
Bookmark My Bucharest Three Day Itinerary on Google Maps.
Keep your personal belongings secure especially in crowded areas like the Old Town.
Learn a few Romanian phrases as it’s appreciated even though English is widely spoken.
LEARN A FEW PHRASES IN ROMANIAN
1. English: Hello / Good day
Romanian: Bună / Bună ziua Pronunciation: boo-nuh / boo-nuh zee-wah
2. English: Do you speak English?
Romanian: Vorbiți engleză? Pronunciation: vor-beets en-gleh-zuh?
3. English: How much does this cost?
Romanian: Cât costă asta? Pronunciation: kut kos-tuh ah-stah?
4. English: Thank you / You’re welcome
Romanian: Mulțumesc / Cu plăcere Pronunciation: mool-tsoo-mesk / koo pluh-cheh-reh
5. English: I would like a coffee, please
Romanian: Aș dori o cafea, vă rog Pronunciation: ash doh-ree oh kah-fee-ah, vuh rog
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BUCHAREST ROMANIA?
A month-by-month guide to visiting Bucharest, Romania, including weather, tourist flow, and key festivals or events that might help you choose the best time to visit. Correct at time of writing. Do check ahead for seasonal events and opening times.
Generally, the best time to visit Bucharest is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to early October). May and September hit the sweet spot for weather, events and manageable crowds.
March (Spring Awakening) Weather: 10–22°C (50–71°F). Blossoming parks, fewer tourists, cozy café culture. Events: March 1: Mărțișor – Traditional spring celebration with red-and-white tokens.
April to June (Spring) Mild temperatures (15–25°C / 59–77°F) perfect for walking tours and outdoor cafés. Parks in bloom: Herăstrău and Cismigiu Gardens are vibrant and colourful. Fewer tourists: Less crowded than summer. Events: May Street Festival: Art, music, and urban projects on Arthur Verona Street
June – August (Summer Buzz) Weather: 25–35°C (77–95°F) Lively nightlife, outdoor terraces, open-air events. Hot weather and more tourists. Events: June: B-FIT in the Street! International street theatre festival. July: Summer Well Festival. Indie music festival just outside the city. August: George Enescu Festival (biennial). Prestigious classical music event.
July–August (Summer) Can be hot (up to 35°C / 95°F) and some locals leave for vacation making parts of the city feel quieter. Lots of events and festivals. Great nightlife.
September to early October (Autumn) Cool comfortable climate: Great for city exploration without the summer heat. Fall colours: Bucharest’s many tree-lined streets and parks are beautiful in gold and red. Cultural season: Theatres, opera, and concerts resume after summer breaks.
September – October (Golden Autumn) Weather: 15–25°C (59–77°F). Perfect walking weather, vibrant fall colours
Events: September: Bucharest International Film Festival (BIFF). October: White Night of the Galleries. Contemporary art in open galleries citywide
November – February (Winter & Holidays) Weather: -5 to 5°C (23–41°F) Festive vibe, snow-dusted architecture. Cold, shorter daylight hours.
Winter (December–February) Festive Christmas markets especially around University Square. Cold weather and shorter days so some sights may have limited hours. Events: December: Christmas Market at University Square – Lights, mulled wine, crafts. January 24: Unification Day – Cultural events and parades. February: Dragobete (Feb 24) – Romanian Valentine’s Day.
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