· RO

Bucureşti

Bucureşti, Romania

Bucharest: A City of Contrasts Awaiting Your Discovery Bucharest, the vibrant heart of Romania, is a city that seduces you with its captivating contradictions. Grandiose architecture whispers tales of a regal past, while…

#capital city#cultural hub#historical landmarks#nightlife#Eastern Europe
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Bucureşti.

Top Hotels in Bucureşti

Top Flights to Bucureşti

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Bucureşti.

Tours

Explore the Beauty of Old Town

Wander through the historic Lipscani district, known for its charm and vibrant nightlife.

The Palace of the Parliament Tour

Visit the iconic Palace of the Parliament, one of the heaviest buildings in the world.

Shopping

Shopping at Băneasa Shopping City

Experience upscale shopping with a variety of international brands at this modern shopping mall.

Outdoor

Cişmigiu Gardens Walk

Enjoy a relaxing day in one of the city's oldest and most charming public parks.

Adventure in Herăstrău Park

Engage in various outdoor activities in one of the largest parks in the city.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Bucureşti.

Currency
lei | RON | Romanian Leu
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Bucureşti, Romania is 1.8 million.
Languages
Romanian, Romanian

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Bucureşti.

What people love

Bucureşti, also known as Bucharest, offers a unique travel experience with a mix of history, culture, and vibrant city life. Here are some pros of traveling to Bucureşti:

  1. Rich History: Bucureşti is a city with a long and varied history, evident in its architecture, museums, and landmarks. Visitors can explore the Palace of the Parliament, the Village Museum, and the historic Old Town to learn about the city's past.

  2. Cultural Attractions: The city is home to numerous cultural attractions such as art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Visitors can enjoy performances at the Romanian Athenaeum or visit the National Museum of Art to admire works by renowned Romanian artists.

  3. Nightlife: Bucureşti has a vibrant nightlife with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to suit all tastes. The Old Town is particularly popular for its lively atmosphere and bustling nightlife scene.

  4. Shopping: The city offers a diverse shopping experience, from luxury boutiques to local markets selling traditional crafts and souvenirs. Visitors can shop for unique items at places like Calea Victoriei or the Bucharest Christmas Market.

  5. Green Spaces: Bucureşti is home to several beautiful parks and gardens where visitors can relax and enjoy nature. Herăstrău Park, Cismigiu Gardens, and Carol Park are popular choices for outdoor activities and picnics.

  6. Day Trips: Bucureşti's central location makes it a great base for exploring other parts of Romania. Visitors can take day trips to places like the Transylvanian castles, the Black Sea coast, or the picturesque countryside.

Overall, Bucureşti offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Whether you're interested in exploring museums, dining at trendy restaurants, or experiencing the city's vibrant nightlife, Bucureşti has something to offer.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Bucharest, Romania include:

  1. Traffic congestion: Bucharest is known for its heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. Navigating the city by car can be challenging and time-consuming.

  2. Pollution: Bucharest has issues with air pollution, particularly during the winter months when coal is commonly used for heating. This can affect air quality and may pose health risks to sensitive individuals.

  3. Pickpocketing and scams: Like in any major city, tourists in Bucharest should be mindful of pickpocketing and scam attempts, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

  4. Language barrier: While many people in Bucharest speak English, there may still be some language barriers, especially in more rural areas or with older generations.

  5. Limited tourist infrastructure: Compared to other European capitals, Bucharest may have a more limited tourist infrastructure, with fewer amenities and services geared towards tourists.

Overall, while Bucharest has much to offer in terms of culture, history, and nightlife, travelers should be aware of these potential challenges when visiting the city.

Bucureşti, commonly known as Bucharest, is the capital and largest city of Romania. It has a rich and complex history that reflects its strategic location and cultural development over centuries.

Early History

  • Founding: The origins of Bucharest are somewhat obscure, but it is believed to have been founded in the late 14th century. The first reliable mention of Bucharest dates back to September 20, 1459, in a document signed by Vlad III (“Vlad the Impaler”), voivode of Wallachia.

Ottoman Period

  • 15th-17th Centuries: Bucharest became one of the residence cities of the Wallachian princes. Its advantageous location helped it grow as a center for trade and politics.
  • 1716-1821: During this period, known as the Phanariot Epoch, Wallachia (and thus Bucharest) was ruled by Greek Phanariot rulers appointed by the Ottoman Empire. This era significantly influenced the local culture and architecture.

19th Century

  • The 1848 Revolution: Bucharest was a focal point for the Romanian Revolution of 1848, which was part of the wider series of European revolutions.
  • Unification and Modernization: In 1862, Bucharest became the capital of the United Principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia, which later became Romania. The city saw rapid modernization and Western-style architecture, often earning it the nickname "Little Paris."

20th Century

  • World War I and Interwar Period: Bucharest was occupied by German forces during World War I but flourished in the interwar period, enhancing its cultural and architectural growth.
  • World War II: Bucharest underwent significant hardship during the war, including bombings by both the Allies and the Luftwaffe.
  • Communist Era: After WWII, Romania fell under communist control. Nicolae Ceaușescu, the country's leader from 1965 to 1989, reshaped much of Bucharest's landscape, including the construction of the massive Palace of the Parliament.

The 1989 Revolution and Post-Communist Era

  • Romanian Revolution: In December 1989, Bucharest was a central stage for the Romanian Revolution, which led to the overthrow of Ceaușescu.
  • Modern Developments: Since the fall of communism, Bucharest has seen significant economic growth, modernization, and integration into European institutions.

Significant Landmarks

  • Palace of the Parliament: One of the largest administrative buildings in the world, it was a key project under Ceaușescu.
  • Revolution Square: A historically significant site, where many events of the 1989 Revolution took place.
  • The Romanian Athenaeum: A concert hall that is a symbol of Romanian culture and an architectural masterpiece.
  • Arcul de Triumf: Inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, it commemorates Romania's military history.
  • Old Town (Lipscani District): Known for its historic buildings and vibrant nightlife.

Historical Figures

  • Vlad the Impaler: Also known as Vlad Dracula, he is one of the earliest notable rulers associated with Bucharest.
  • Nicolae Ceaușescu: The communist leader whose policies and projects significantly impacted the city.
  • Ion Mincu: An architect who contributed to the Neo-Romanian architectural style in Bucharest.

Bucharest continues to evolve, balancing its historical legacy with modern development, making it a vibrant and dynamic European capital.