Bucharest Travel Guide

Grey and boring buildings of the Nicolai Ceausescu-era stand side by side with ornate French palaces, modern edifices and medieval churches. While it is the most prosperous city in its country, Bucharest constantly has to deal with problems brought about by urban growth, like unbearable traffic, pickpocketing and stray dogs. Some visitors do not feel comfortable with the convoluted eclecticism of Bucharest, but the capital city and cultural and economic hub of Romania holds an appeal all its own. As you wander along Calea Victoriei or get a panoramic view from atop the Arcul de Triumf, you'll come to agree that this is a place unlike any other and that the best way to enjoy it is to accept the lively diversity it offers.

Sights

Tour the Parliament Palace near the Piata Unirii and get a splendid view from Ceausecu's former balcony. The impressive open-air Village Museum which holds 300 traditional buildings, furniture, pottery and other exhibits from villages all over the country is a wonderful way to get acquainted with the traditional Romanian way of life. More Romanian tradition can be experienced at the Museum of the Romanian Peasant. Other museums not to be missed include Cotroceni Palace Museum, the National History Museum and the Military History Museum. Bucharest also has many lovely parks and you should take the time to stroll around the Cismigiu Garden, the Botanical Garden and the Carol Park. And don't miss the classical music concerts held at the majestic Romanian Athenaeum and the Curtea Veche Church, where coronations of Wallachian princes were once held.

Dining

You'll never go hungry in Bucharest. From traditional Romanian dishes of soup, fish, meat stew and grilled skinless sausages to cottage cheese-filled desserts to pizzas and steaks, there are many restaurants around Bucharest that will cater to your every whim. Many restaurants can be found along the Old Center that lies between the Dambovita River to the south, Calea Victoriei to the west, Calea Mosilor to the east and Regina Elisabeta Boulevard to the north. The clubs and bars are numerous along Unification Square and Roman Square as well as in the Lipscani and Regie areas.

Shopping

Shopping has become a public passion in Bucharest, so there are plenty of places to splurge. Check out the Bucuresti Mall, Romania's first shopping mall located in a Ceausescu-era abandoned food warehouse.

Where to Go in Bucharest