Romania's largest city was the political and economic center of the country, was heavily bombed during World War II, suffered from the brutal interventions of the communist dictatorship, and has been experiencing a new bloom since the turn of the millennium. Despite all of this – or perhaps because of it – Bucharest has a very special charm. In the lively streets, you'll find cozy cafés and bars, imposing buildings tell of past epochs, and the green parks invite you to relax.

• Monumental Architecture: From the Palace of the Parliament to impressive churches
• Diverse Neighborhoods: Historical alleys, alternative scene districts, and modern business areas
• Vibrant Nightlife: Numerous bars, clubs, and pubs – especially in the Lipscani district
• Green Oases: Many parks and gardens, ideal for relaxing and walking
• Cultural Highlights: Museums, theaters, and traditional markets

• Founded: 1459, first documented mention
• Population: approx. 1.8 million (as of 2024)
• Area: approx. 228 km²
• Elevation above sea level: 60–90 meters
• River: Dâmbovița runs through the city
• Tallest building: SkyTower (137 m)
• Largest square: Piața Unirii, one of the largest city centers in Europe
• Longest street: Calea Victoriei, one of the most beautiful streets in the city
• Largest structure: Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world
• Nickname: "Paris of the East" due to its French-style architecture
• Coldest month: January with an average of -1 °C
• Warmest month: July with an average of 30 °C
• Number of metro stations: 63

5 curious facts about Bucharest

1. The heaviest building in the world
   The Palace of the Parliament is the heaviest building in the world, with over 4 million tons of marble, steel, and concrete – and the second-largest administrative building after the Pentagon.

2. Bucharest has a "lost city" beneath it
   There is an extensive tunnel system beneath the city, partly dating back to the communist era and now inhabited by stray dogs and homeless people.

3. The Arc de Triomphe of Bucharest
   The city actually has its own triumphal arch, the Arcul de Triumf, which resembles the French Arc de Triomphe.

4. The oldest pub in Romania
   Caru' cu Bere, the most famous restaurant and beer house in the city, has existed since 1879 and is known for its unique interior.

5. A city with many names
   Bucharest was once called "Little Paris" because of its culture; today, some districts bear nicknames like "Little Istanbul" or "Romania's Manhattan."

The first documented mention of Bucharest dates back to 1459, when Vlad III Drăculea ("Dracula") established a residence here. In the 17th century, the city grew rapidly and became the most important trading center in the region. However, it remained under Ottoman influence for a long time, which is still reflected in its architecture and culture today.

From the "Paris of the East" to Communist Dictatorship

In the 19th century, Bucharest underwent significant modernization. Wide boulevards, luxurious palaces, and a thriving cultural scene made the city the "Paris of the East." However, after World War II, the communist regime under Nicolae Ceaușescu took control. In the 1980s, Ceaușescu had entire neighborhoods demolished to make way for the massive Palace of the Parliament and socialist apartment blocks.

Bucharest after the 1989 Revolution

With the overthrow of dictator Ceaușescu in 1989, a new era began. Since then, the city has developed rapidly: modern skyscrapers, trendy neighborhoods, and a vibrant art scene now characterize the cityscape.

Bucharest is divided into 6 sectors (Sectoare), which are further divided into numerous neighborhoods (Cartiere). Each of these sectors has its own character: while Sector 1 represents luxury and diplomacy, Sector 5 is known for its contrasts – from opulent avenues to socially disadvantaged areas.

Bucharest is located in the southeast of Romania, about 60 km from the Bulgarian border. The city stretches across a flat plain along the Dâmbovița River.

• Neighboring countries of Romania: Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Ukraine, Moldova
• Major neighboring cities: Ploiești (60 km north), Ruse (70 km south, Bulgaria)
• Climate zone: Temperate-continental with hot summers and cold winters
• Average temperatures: -2°C in January, 30°C in July

🌸 Tip: The best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is pleasantly mild and the city feels especially vibrant.

Alongside magnificent 19th-century palaces, Orthodox churches hide in courtyards, and modern skyscrapers rise towards the sky. Those interested in architecture, history, or simply the vibrant city life will find numerous impressive places here.

The most famous landmarks of Bucharest

• Palace of the Parliament (Palatul Parlamentului) – The second largest administrative building in the world
• Athenaeum (Ateneul Român) – A magnificent concert hall with a stunning dome
• Triumphal Arch (Arcul de Triumf) – Bucharest's own version of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris
• Old Town (Centrul Vechi) – Historical streets, lively bars, and cafés
• Calea Victoriei – The most elegant street in Bucharest with luxury boutiques and historic buildings
• Stavropoleos Monastery (Mânăstirea Stavropoleos) – A hidden gem of Orthodox architecture
• Village Museum (Muzeul Satului) – An outdoor museum featuring traditional Romanian houses
• Revolution Square (Piața Revoluției) – The square where the revolution against Ceaușescu began
• Carol Park (Parcul Carol) – A picturesque park with monuments and viewpoints
• Therme Bucharest – One of the largest thermal baths in Europe

A route for a perfect sightseeing day

As Bucharest is quite sprawling, it’s worth planning a clever route. Here’s a suggestion for a day full of highlights:

Morning:

• Start at the Palace of the Parliament and take a tour of the impressive building
• Stroll along Calea Victoriei, the most magnificent street in the city
• Visit the beautiful Athenaeum, the cultural gem of Bucharest

Lunch:

• Enjoy a traditional lunch at the famous restaurant Caruʼ cu Bere in the Old Town
• Wander through Stavropoleos Monastery and admire the delicate paintings

Afternoon:

• Visit the Village Museum to get a glimpse of traditional Romanian architecture
• Relax in Carol Park, one of the most beautiful green spaces in the city

Evening:

• Experience the nightlife in the Old Town, where bars and restaurants are open until the early morning hours
• If you prefer a more relaxed setting, enjoy the city lights from the SkyTower Rooftop Bar

📍 Tip: If you have more time, consider a trip to Therme Bucharest, a gigantic thermal spa with tropical palm trees and sauna landscapes.

The Romanian cuisine is a blend of Balkan cuisine, Ottoman influences, and Eastern European traditions. In Bucharest, you can find everything: from traditional markets with hearty dishes to modern fusion restaurants.

Sarmale (Romanian Cabbage Rolls)

Cabbage leaves stuffed with meat and rice, served with sour cream – the national dish of Romania.

Mici (Romanian Grilled Sausages)

Small, spicy meat rolls that are grilled and eaten with mustard. Perfect for a quick snack!

Ciorbă de burtă (Tripe Soup)

A creamy soup with a sour taste – not everyone's cup of tea, but a classic in Romania.

Papanasi (Romanian Curd Doughnuts)

Fried dough balls with sweet cream and jam – a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Țuică (Plum Schnapps)

A traditional Romanian spirit that is often served as an aperitif.

Even though Bucharest is not a river city like Paris or Prague, water plays an important role here. The Dâmbovița flows through the city, and numerous artificial lakes offer opportunities for recreation.

🎉 Tip: The Herastrau Lake is especially a popular place in summer for walking, boating, or having lunch by the water.

Bucharest is the economic, political, and academic center of Romania. Here are the largest banks, companies, and universities in the country.

Population Statistics – Who Lives in Bucharest?

• Population: approx. 1.8 million (as of 2024)
• Population density: approx. 7,800 residents/km²
• Ethnic groups: Over 90% Romanians, small minorities of Roma, Hungarians, Jews, and Turks
• Average age: approx. 42 years
• Official language: Romanian, many people also speak English or French

Industries in the City

• IT & Technology – Bucharest is Romania's technology center
• Automotive Industry – Many suppliers for major European car manufacturers
• Finance – Home to the country’s most important banks
• Tourism – More and more travelers are discovering Bucharest as a travel destination

Education and Universities

Bucharest has some of the best higher education institutions in the country:

• University of Bucharest – The oldest and most prestigious university in Romania
• Technical University of Bucharest – Specializes in engineering sciences
• Academy of Economic Studies Bucharest – Leading university for economics and finance

🎓 Tip: If you are interested in architecture, visit the Ion Mincu University of Architecture and Urban Planning – one of the most prestigious institutions in this field.

Bucharest is a city full of life – throughout the year, there are exciting events, cultural festivals, and traditional celebrations. Whether you love music, theater, sports, or culinary highlights, the Romanian capital offers numerous opportunities to fully enjoy urban life.

Overview of the Main Events in Bucharest

🎉 Tip: The George Enescu Festival is a must for classical music lovers – the best orchestras from around the world perform here.

Bucharest has so many exciting places to offer that you might not be able to decide what to see first. Depending on whether you're traveling alone, with a partner, or with family, there are different ways to explore the city.

Five Excursion Destinations in Bucharest

1. Mogoșoaia Palace
   About 15 km outside Bucharest lies this beautiful 17th-century palace, surrounded by a large park and a lake. Perfect for a break from the city!

2. Snagov Lake and Monastery
   Here, the grave of Vlad the Impaler (Dracula) is said to be located. The drive to the lake takes only an hour, and you can take a boat tour to the small monastery island.

3. Târgoviște – The City of Dracula
   Located an hour from Bucharest, Târgoviște was the old capital of Wallachia. Here you will find the Chindiei Tower, where Vlad the Impaler resided.

4. Therme Bucharest
   One of the largest spas in Europe, with a tropical atmosphere, huge pools, saunas, and wellness areas – ideal for a relaxing day.

5. Comana National Park
   A paradise for nature lovers, about 40 km south of Bucharest. Here you can hike, go boating, or simply enjoy the tranquility.

Three Recommendations for Couples in Bucharest

1. Romantic Boat Ride on Herăstrău Lake
   In the summer, you can rent a rowboat or take a small boat tour – especially beautiful in the evening.

2. Evening Stroll on Calea Victoriei
   The illuminated buildings and vibrant nightlife make this street the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.

3. Dinner with a View at NOR Sky Casual Restaurant
   This restaurant in the tallest building in the city offers breathtaking panoramic views of Bucharest.

Three Recommendations for Singles in Bucharest

1. Bar-Hopping in Lipscani District
   Bucharest's old town is known for its wild nightlife – here you will find cool bars, clubs, and live music.

2. Attend a Football Match with FCSB or Dinamo Bucharest
   The atmosphere in the stadiums is legendary – especially during the city derby!

3. Street Art Tour through Sector 2
   Bucharest has numerous impressive murals – a guided street art tour will show you the best spots.

Three Recommendations for Families in Bucharest

1. Bucharest Zoo
   The zoo is a highlight for children, featuring over 150 species of animals and many interactive attractions.

2. Orășelul Copiilor – The Children's Park
   An amusement park with carousels, slides, and playgrounds – ideal for a family outing.

3. Muzeul Antipa – The Natural History Museum
   Exciting dinosaur skeletons, interactive exhibits, and a large section on Romanian wildlife make this museum an experience for children.

Three Hotel Recommendations for Bucharest

1. Epoque Hotel (Luxury)
   A 5-star boutique hotel with great design and an excellent spa area.

2. Hotel Cismigiu (Mid-range)
   Located right next to Cismigiu Park, it combines tradition with modern comfort.

3. Little Bucharest Old Town Hostel (Budget)
   Perfect for backpackers and young travelers, right in the center of the old town.

Rules & No-Gos in Bucharest

• Beware of pickpockets – Especially in the Old Town and in the metro, be mindful of your valuables.
• Do not drink tap water – Although the water is officially drinkable, many locals avoid it due to the plumbing.
• Watch out for taxis – Prefer using Bolt or Uber, as many taxi drivers charge tourists inflated prices.
• Clothing in churches – In Orthodox churches, women should cover their shoulders and knees, while men should not wear shorts.

Public Transport in Bucharest

Bucharest has a well-developed public transport system, which can sometimes feel chaotic.

• Metro – The fastest and most reliable way to get around.
• Bus & tram – Affordable, but often overcrowded and late.
• Bolt & Uber – A safer alternative to conventional taxis.
• E-scooters & bike-sharing – Ideal for short distances in the city center.

🚌 Tip: A multi-ride metro card is worth it if you’re staying longer in the city.

Weather in Bucharest