Bucharest Visit: Discover the Rich History, Vibrant Culture, and Exquisite Cuisine
Experience the magic of a Bucharest visit with our comprehensive 3-day guide. Whether you’re marvelling at grandiose architecture, delving into the city’s tumultuous history, or indulging in delicious Romanian fare, Bucharest promises an unforgettable experience.
Day 1: Historical Bucharest
Morning: The Palace of Parliament
Start your Bucharest visit with a guided tour of the Palace of Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. This colossal structure, constructed during Ceausescu’s regime, is a testament to the city’s complex past.
Tip: Booking a tour in advance is highly recommended as it’s the only way to enter and see the lavish interiors of this iconic building.
Lunch: Hanu’ lui Manuc
After exploring the Parliament, head to Hanu’ lui Manuc for lunch. Located near the historical center, this inn offers traditional Romanian dishes in a rustic setting, perfect for experiencing authentic local cuisine.
Location: Strada Franceză 62-64, Bucharest
Afternoon: Old Town Stroll
Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Bucharest’s charming Old Town. Visit the Stavropoleos Monastery and the National Bank of Romania, notable for their architectural beauty. Don’t miss the vibrant Lipscani Street, lined with boutiques, cafes, and bars, pulsating with life and history.
Dinner: Caru’ cu Bere
Conclude your Bucharest visit day with dinner at Caru’ cu Bere, a historic beer hall that offers not only a feast for your taste buds but also a journey back in time with its neo-Gothic architecture and lively atmosphere.
Location: Strada Stavropoleos 5, Bucharest
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
Morning: Museum of Art of Romania
Begin your second Bucharest visit day at the National Museum of Art of Romania, housed in the former royal palace. This museum boasts an extensive collection of Romanian and European art that narrates the cultural saga of this fascinating region.
Lunch: Cucina di Eleni
For lunch, try Cucina di Eleni, offering a delightful array of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, providing a lighter fare to refresh you for the rest of your day’s adventures.
Location: Strada Benjamin Franklin 5, Bucharest
Afternoon: Village Museum and Herastrau Park
Spend your afternoon at the Village Museum, an open-air ethnographic museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life. It’s situated in Herastrau Park, the city’s largest park, ideal for a relaxing walk or a boat ride on the lake.
Dinner: La Placinte
Enjoy dinner at La Placinte, where you can sample traditional Moldovan cuisine, including their famous pies and mamaliga (polenta).
Location: Bulevardul Primăverii 19, Bucharest
Day 3: Modern Bucharest
Morning: Therme Bucharest
Start your final Bucharest visit day with a trip to Therme Bucharest, Europe’s largest relaxation and entertainment complex based on thermal waters. It’s a perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate before exploring more of the city.
Lunch: Therme Bistro
Have a refreshing lunch at the Therme Bistro, right inside the complex, offering a variety of healthy and hearty meals to complement a morning of relaxation.
Afternoon: Ceausescu’s Spring Palace
Visit Ceausescu’s Spring Palace, the lesser-known residence of the former dictator, to get a glimpse into the private lives of Nicolae and Elena Ceausescu.
Dinner: NOR Sky Casual Restaurant
Wrap up your Bucharest visit with dinner at NOR Sky Casual Restaurant, which offers not just gourmet cuisine but also panoramic views of the city from the top of a skyscraper.
Location: Calea Floreasca 246B, Bucharest
Conclusion
This 3-day Bucharest visit has been crafted to give you a taste of everything the city has to offer: rich history, expansive culture, and delicious cuisine. Bucharest is a city that combines the old with the new and the traditional with the modern in the most seamless way. As you prepare for your journey, don’t forget to purchase your vignette, which is required for driving on Romanian roads. Make it easy by using the Vignetim app, available on both the Google Play Store and the App Store. Vignetim offers a user-friendly interface and supports over 25 languages, ensuring you can navigate this requirement smoothly and continue to enjoy your travel hassle-free.
If you want to know more about the vignettes in Romania, you can check our blog article.