Bucharest - Belle Epoque streets, grand boulevards and lively old town

Bucharest is a city of contrasts and surprises. Elegant tree-lined boulevards with Belle Epoque mansions sit beside monumental squares, and behind the grand façades there are courtyards, cafés and music venues. It is a rewarding choice for a city break, for travellers who want a lively capital at good value, and for anyone interested in a city that is still discovering its own character.

The city suits couples, friends and families who enjoy a mix of history, parks and nightlife. Mornings can be spent exploring museums and gardens, afternoons wandering the old town, and evenings enjoying traditional food and music.

Highlights of Bucharest

• The Palace of the Parliament: One of the largest administrative buildings in the world, an imposing monument with guided tours available.
• The Old Town: The historic heart of the city, known locally as Lipscani, is full of restored buildings, courtyards and bars.
• Revolution Square: A large public square with important historic buildings and a central place in the city's modern history.
• Herăstrău Park: A lakeside park with gardens, walking paths and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a stroll or a picnic.
• The Romanian Athenaeum: A concert hall with an elegant domed interior, a beautiful place to hear music.
• The Village Museum: An open-air museum with traditional houses, churches and farmsteads from across Romania.
• Cișmigiu Garden: A central park with a lake, shady paths and a charming atmosphere in the heart of the city.

When to visit Bucharest

Late spring and early autumn are generally the most pleasant times to visit. The parks are green, the weather is comfortable for walking, and outdoor terraces are open. These seasons suit a combination of sightseeing and time spent outside.

Summers can be hot, and the city has many open-air events and festivals. Winters are cold, with snow in some years, but the city's cafés, museums and festive markets make the season cosy and memorable.

Practical tips for Bucharest

• Currency: The Romanian leu is used. Cards are widely accepted in the centre, but keep some cash for smaller shops and markets.
• Language: Romanian is the national language, and English is commonly spoken by younger people and in hotels and restaurants.
• Getting around: The centre is walkable, and the metro, buses and trams cover the wider city. Ride-booking services and taxis are widely used, so check the details before you set off.
• Local customs: Romanians value hospitality, and guests are often offered coffee or a meal at home. Greeting people politely in Romanian is always appreciated.
• What to pack: Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven pavements, a light jacket for the evenings and warm layers in winter.

A stress-free start at your departure airport

Plan your trip to your departure airport early, compare car parks with Parkoni and book a space in advance, then start the holiday relaxed. Once the parking is sorted, you can look forward to the first walk along the boulevards and a warm welcome in the old town.