Top 10 things to do in Bucharest

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1. Parliament Palace

Visiting the Parliament Palace is among the top 10 things to do in Bucharest – it is one of the largest buildings in the world and visually it almost separates the city into 2 parts – the old and the new town. Its spectacular architecture has a post-modern style with some eclectic details and elements. With more than 5000 rooms, it consists of 12 floors, as well as some underground levels. The majesty of the Palace has no equals – the interiors are decorated only with the best materials produced in Romania, such as marble, bronze, steel, beautiful carpets, rich embroidery and massive curtains.

2. Arcul de Triumf

The first version of the Arc was built in the late 1870’s to celebrate Romania’s independence, but it was made of wood and was replaced in 1920 by Peter Antonescu. This landmark was built in Bucharest to honour the brave soldiers who died in the World War II. It is made of granite and was created by Romanian artists, resembling the same monument in Paris, France.

3. Revolution Square

When in the city, take a walk to the Revolutiei Square, as it is one of the top 10 things to do in Bucharest. This is the place where, allegedly, Romanian leader and Dictator Ceausescu spent his last minutes in power. There are historical landmarks and cultural sites all around the square, such as the Parliament Palace, the Athenaeum, and the National Art Museum of Romania, which is the former Royal Palace, a building that is now the Ministry of Interior, but used to be the headquarters of KGB and the Central Committee, as well as the Library.

4. Cismigiu Garden

One of the most beautiful places in Bucharest is the famous Cismigiu Garden, located in the very heart of the Romanian capital. It was built in 1830, when under the orders of General Kiselev, the head of the Russian Administration in Romania, the swamp that was located there was drained and a beautiful park was built on its place. More than 30,000 plants, trees and flowers were brought and planted here from all over the country and now it is a picturesque and cozy park with luscious green pathways, patios, fountains and sculptures. There is also a lake that turns into an ice skating rink in the winter.

5. Village Museum

Built in the 20th century, visiting this unique and interesting place is among the top 10 things to do in Bucharest. It consists of various peasant houses that were brought here from some of the most isolated parts of the country and portrays the rustic architecture and rural way of life in Romania. This ethnographic museum consists of more than 300 structures and buildings, including windmills, churches and washing facilities, all of which can be visited and explored.

6. Muzeul National de Arta al Romaniei

The National Museum of Romanian Art was built in early 19th century and is the best way to learn about the culture of the country. It is home to numerous paintings, photographs, books, costumes, manuscripts and engravings that can help shed light on the history of Romania.

7. Romanian Athenaeum

The Athenaeum of Bucharest was created in the 19th century by the French architect, Albert Galleron, who also designed the building of the National Bank of Romania. It is a beautiful, richly decorated concert hall that is home to the Bucharest Philharmonic Orchestra. Not only can one marvel at the concerts that take place here, but also at the stunning building itself.

8. Jewish History Museum

Jewish History Museum is located in a Synagogue that was built in 185 AD. It is quite interesting and tells about the life, history and faith of Jewish people in Romania, who first came here in the 16th century, and the collection includes unique paintings, books, personal belongings of famous people and more, representing the life of Jewish people in Romania prior to World War II.

9. Calea Victoriei

Victory Avenue, built in the 17th century, is one of the oldest streets in Romania’s capital. It is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, shopping arcades and souvenir stores. Take a stroll down this fascinating street and explore the charm of the city, sit in one of the cafes, order a hot cup of coffee and look around, to get a sense the way that locals live.

10. Go Dancing

Bucharest, home to some famous resident DJ’s is known for some of the best nightclubs in the world, with shows, dancers and great music. If you are in the city, arrange a night out on the town, with dancing till the dawn at Bamboo, LeGaga, BOA, Fratelli or Gaia – locals consider them to be the best clubs in Europe!