Bucharest

Originally built to house all offices of the Communist ruling officers during Ceausescu’s regime, the imposing Palace of Parliament is Romania’s most famous building. Tours are open to the public, showing off the opulent staircases and chandelier-filled rooms and offering great insight into the building's history. The palace also houses Romania's National Museum of Contemporary Art.

Similar to its Paris namesake, Bucharest’s Triumphal Arch, standing tall at 26 metres, remembers Romania’s Great War soldiers and its reunification in 1918. Initially, the arch was built out of wood in 1922, and was then finished in Deva granite in 1936. The Triumphal Arch becomes the main stage for the military parade every December 1st, when Romanians celebrate their National Day.

Lipscani, Bucharest’s historical centre, retains an irresistible old town charm. It is located between Calea Victoriei, Boulevard Bratianu, Boulevard Regina Elisabeta and the Dambovita River. Its collection of winding streets boasts antique markets, bric-a-brac spilling out from tiny boutiques and some of the city’s most appealing restaurants and bars.

Romania’s most impressive art collection is displayed in the old sprawling royal palace. Here you can see works by Rembrandt and El Greco among a great collection of European art assembled by the Romanian royal family, as well as works by celebrated Romanian artists.

This museum, situated in a stunning former synagogue built in 1850, tells the tragic story of Romania’s Jewish population in the country, and their important contributions to Romanian culture and history. Make sure to catch the moving tour to get the best experience.

While the University of Bucharest Square saw some of the darkest days of Ceausescu’s regime, events at the Revolution Square heralded the beginning of a new age. Close by is the former Royal Palace, now home to the National Art Museum, the Romanian Athenaeum and the Athenee Palace Hotel.

Named after King Carol I of Romania, this park, designed by the French landscape architect, offers lush vegetation and panoramic views of Bucharest. You can find plenty of open-air concerts in the summer at Arenele Romane, or simply enjoy the fresh air and green spaces at any time of year. The park also includes several monuments, such as a Mausoleum, the Cantacuzino Fountain built in 1870 and Fântâna Minelor și Carierelor fountain completed in 1906, the Giants' Statues, the Zodiac Fountain. The Technical Museum is a great place to explore Romanian history of technology.

Stavropoleos Monastery Church in Bucharest is a striking example of Romania's Brâncovenesc style, blending Byzantine, Ottoman, Renaissance and Baroque influences. Built in 1724 by Ioannikios Stratonikeas, this religious monument features polyfoil arches, arabesque patterns and an impressive iconostasis. Housing a rich collection of 18th-century icons and ecclesiastical objects, it's a testament to Romania's artistic and spiritual heritage.

King Michael I Park, still referred to by locals as Herăstrău Park, spans 187 hectares around a picturesque lake. Renowned for its serene beauty and sheer size, the park offers an escape from the urban hustle. Enjoy boating on the lake, exploring the Japanese Garden, or simply unwinding amidst nature. This green oasis reflects the city's heritage and is perfect for leisurely strolls or vibrant outdoor activities.

Cișmigiu Gardens, the oldest park in Bucharest designed by Carl Meyer in the 1850s, features a stunning rose garden in the north and a classic French garden on the west. Stroll along its tranquil paths or rent a boat to explore the largest lake, complete with its own island. This charming park offers a peaceful retreat, steeped in the city's history and elegance.

The Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral, founded in the 1650s by Prince Constantin Șerban, stands as a beacon of faith and history on Dealul Mitropoliei. Known for its Brâncovenesc style façade and a cappella choir, the cathedral is a key site for Orthodox observances in Bucharest. It houses the relics of Saint Dimitrie Basarabov, patron saint of the city, and offers stunning city views, especially at sunset.