There are some destinations that fly under the radar. Perhaps it's because they lack the glamour of hearing the names London, Vienna, Rome ...and so on... But this is the quintessence of travel. To discover new places and let them "win you over" in their own way. This is what happened with Bucharest! A city we certainly didn't have high on our preference list, but which managed to be a very pleasant city break, full of surprises, beautiful corners, and a warm, unexpected energy.
Walking through its streets, we discovered a city that balances between the old and the new: imposing buildings with French architecture, trendy cafes in courtyards full of greenery, and an atmosphere that makes you feel at home right from the start. The Old Town is bursting with life—music, stylish shops, and smells of local food that draw you in to try them. And the best part? Everything is within short distances, ideal for relaxed, unscheduled walks.
How to get there
There are flights to Bucharest all year round, both from Athens and Thessaloniki. However, if you live in Northern Greece and you like road trips, you can also go by road! You will need a Green Card and vignettes both in Bulgaria as well as in Romania ...and you will pay a small toll fee at the Bulgaria – Romania border. If you travel in winter, it is mandatory the use of winter tires, and since both countries belong to the Schengen area, there are no longer checks and queues at the borders. Regarding the road network, from Promachonas until slightly after Sofia, the road is a closed motorway (except for the 18 km in the Kresna Gorge). From there to the Bulgarian border, the road is a provincial road and requires a little attention. To "break up" the route, we would recommend at least one overnight stay in Sofia.
Where to stay?
Η πόλη είναι αρκετά απλωμένη, αλλά τα αξιοθέατα βρίσκονται όλα στο κέντρο, οπότε καλό είναι να μείνεις κάπου εκεί κοντά. Ακόμα όμως κι αν επιλέξεις κάποιες από τις πιο μακρινές περιοχές, επίλεξε να βρίσκεσαι κοντά σε σταθμό μετρό ή τραμ για να μετακινείσαι εύκολα και γρήγορα παντού. Μια καλή πρόταση είναι this που μείναμε εμείς.
What to see
In the center
- The Palace of the People
The Palace of the People is the ultimate symbol of the excess of the Ceaușescu era and one of the most impressive buildings you will ever see. With over 1,000 rooms, 12 floors, and a height of 84 meters, it is the 2nd largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. Its interior is adorned with Romanian marble, handmade carpets, crystal, and one of the largest chandeliers in Europe. Guided tours (reservation essential) lead you through reception halls, huge corridors, and impressive staircases, reminiscent of a movie palace.
The National Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Communist Totalitarianism are also housed here.
Right across the street, in Izvor Park, you will find one of the most beautiful playgrounds in the city — a real wooden "castle."
2. Patriarchal Cathedral of Saint Demetrius the New
The official cathedral of the Romanian Orthodox Church is located on a hill overlooking Bucharest and constitutes a serene, imposing spot in the city.
Dedicated to the patron saint Saint Demetrius, it hosts his relics, which is why it is one of the most important pilgrimage sites.
The cathedral impresses with its Byzantine architecture, domes, and frescoes that cover every surface. The surrounding area, quiet and verdant, offers a small respite from the hustle and bustle of the center.
- Hanu’ lui Manuc (Manuc's Inn)
One of the most historic buildings in the city, built in 1806 by the Armenian diplomat Manuc Bey. The building functioned as a traditional caravansarai, with rooms and balconies surrounding a huge courtyard, where travelers and merchants rested.
The Treaty of Bucharest (1812), which ended the Russo-Turkish War, was signed here. Today, the place has been restored, maintaining its medieval charm, and hosts a restaurant famous for its traditional Romanian cuisine, offering an authentic culinary experience in a historical setting.
4. Museum of Communism
A small but interesting museum that details everyday life under the Ceaușescu regime. You will see a "typical communist apartment" with authentic objects, children's toys, propaganda material, and short stories from residents of that era. Don't leave without trying nechezol, the... coffee substitute from the period of shortages. The museum's vision goes beyond nostalgia and presents the realities of harsh life under communism, including the crimes and human rights violations that were committed.
- Cărturești Carusel – the most photographed bookstore
The "Caruselul de Lumină" (Carousel of Light) is one of the most famous bookstores in Europe. Housed in a beautiful neoclassical building, it stands out for its white curved staircases, balconies, the natural light that floods the space, and its six floors full of books, art, and gifts. The building was constructed in 1903 as the headquarters of the Chrissoveloni Bank, owned by a wealthy family of Greek bankers. Must stop: Go to the top floor for coffee and the best photo of the space — the spot looks like something out of a period film.
- Grand Café Van Gogh
The most artistic café in the city. The entire space is inspired by Van Gogh — from the arches to the walls that resemble "Starry Night." Lively, bright, and full of details, it is ideal for those who love art, photos, and atmosphere. (Reservation is essential)
- Stavropoleos Monastery
A small diamond of Bucharest, built in 1724 by the Greek Ioannikios Stratonikeas. The church combines Byzantine, Ottoman, Arabic, and Baroque architecture — a unique combination rarely found elsewhere. Its courtyard is wonderful, featuring marble tombstones with Greek inscriptions and a tranquility that makes you feel like you are in a monastery outside the city.
- Palatul CEC
One of the most photogenic buildings in the city. Neoclassical, with an impressive glass roof and a façade reminiscent of Paris. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century and became a symbol of financial stability. Its lighting at night is spectacular!
- Macca – Vilacrosse Passage
A romantic arcade with a glass roof in yellow tones, ideal for a walk, coffee, or dessert.
It is reminiscent of 19th-century European arcades and is one of the most relaxing spots in the city, away from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town.
- University square
The actual "center" of Bucharest — the point where the modern history of Romania begins. It was a key location for the 1989 Revolution demonstrations and is currently surrounded by historical buildings: the University of Bucharest, the National Theatre, the Suțu Palace, and the Colțea Hospital. Suitable for a stop, photos, and a short walk.
- Pasajul Victoria – the famous Umbrella Street
It dates back to 1913, in Art Nouveau style. Today it has become famous thanks to its colored ceiling with hundreds of umbrellas. One of the most Instagram-friendly spots to stop, have a drink, and take bright photos.
- Memorial of Rebirth – Piața Revoluției
The monument of the 1989 Romanian Revolution, with a white column 25 m high and a metallic "flame" on top. The final moments of the Ceaușescu regime unfolded here — it was from here that he spoke to the people and from here that he escaped by helicopter. The monument aims to commemorate the country's rebirth after decades of dictatorship.
- National Museum of Art of Romania
Housed in the Royal Palace, the museum features over 100,000 works: Rembrandt, Monet, Renoir, El Greco, Tintoretto, and of course, a complete collection of Romanian art. One of the most organized and notable art museums in Eastern Europe.
- Royal Palace
The former residence of the Romanian royal family, built in an imposing neoclassical style. After the removal of King Michael I, the building was converted into a museum. Here you will see the historical halls, the throne, and the glamour of the old dynasty. (It is located in the same building as the National Museum of Art)
- Romanian Athenaeum (Ateneul Român)
The jewel of Bucharest. Neoclassical, with Corinthian columns and an impressive dome, it resembles a European opera house. Its interior is magical – a circular space with frescoes that narrate the history of Romania. Even if you don't attend a concert, it is worth a photo and a walk in the exterior area.
Outside the City Center
- Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History
It is one of the oldest and most impressive museums in Romania, dedicated to nature and the planet's biodiversity. It was founded in 1834 and is named after the famous biologist Grigore Antipa, who organized it scientifically and created its first modern exhibitions. Over two million exhibits are presented in its spaces — from dinosaur fossils and rare insects, to taxidermied animals from all over the world, impressive marine exhibits, and interactive installations. The museum is extremely child-friendly, with rich audiovisual material and realistic representations of ecosystems that make learning a true exploration experience.
- Arc de Triomphe (Arcul de Triumf)
A symbol of Romania's national pride, it was initially built in 1878 to honor the country's independence and acquired its current form in 1936, inspired by the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The monument, standing 27 meters high, is decorated with reliefs and inscriptions that narrate the struggles and victories of the Romanian people, particularly during the First World War.
- King Michael I Park
Herăstrău Park, known today as King Michael I Park (Parcul Regele Mihai I), is the largest and most famous park in Bucharest, a true green oasis in the northern part of the city. It stretches around Herăstrău Lake, offering wonderful routes for walking or cycling, boat rides in the summer, and many relaxation spots by the water. Inside you will find beautiful gardens, playgrounds, cafes and restaurants, such as the popular Berăria Herăstrău, as well as important sights like the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum, with traditional Romanian houses from every corner of the country.
- Therme Bucuresti
It is a good enough reason by itself to visit Bucharest! Detailed information can be found in our previews this one.
Food – Drink
Although Romanian cuisine is not particularly well known, it is worth trying some of its specialties:
– Pretzel/Ring-shaped bread with poppy seeds & baked goods (you'll find them at Luca): Fresh, delicious, and inexpensive – ideal for breakfast.
– Mici (small sausages without casing): Grilled, rich, and juicy, they are the national dish of Romania. They are usually served with mustard and thick french fries.
– Pastrama de Oaie cu Mamaligută: Mutton pastrami with polenta, a traditional rural flavor.
– Salată de Boeuf: Cold salad similar to Russian salad, ideal as an appetizer.
– Ciolan de Porc la Cuptor: Baked pork knuckle, one of the most filling local dishes.
– Tochitură Bucovineană: Beef stew with potatoes or polenta.
– Papanasi cu Smântână: Doughnuts/fried cheese dumplings with sweet cream and jam.
– Sarmale: Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice.
– Ciorbă de Burtă: Sour tripe soup
– Cașcaval Pane: Fried cheese
– Țuică: Δυνατό απόσταγμα από δαμάσκηνα.
One of the most famous places in the city is Caru’ cu Bere, perhaps the most iconic in the city, offering Romanian cuisine inside an impressive Neo-Gothic building. Also extremely popular is Hanu’ lui Manuc, the country's oldest inn-restaurant, and Lacrimi și Sfințiwhich blends classic Romanian recipes with a modern approach. For a more urban vibe, the Simbio and Shift offer modern cuisine in beautiful settings, while Mahala stands out for creative dishes with local ingredients. For brunch, go to Mayfair 39and don't you dare leave Bucharest without having a drink at the Linea / Closer to the Moon is an amazing rooftop restaurant & bar that offers a magical panoramic view of the city, especially of the historical center (reservation is essential). Outside the center, the Boogie bar has an elegant garden with a warm and pleasant atmosphere, while if you are looking for a rooftop with the best view in Bucharest the Nor is by far the highest bar restaurant in the city and will impress you! (reservation is essential)
Closing
Bucharest may not shout from afar, but it wins you over up close. It is a city that you experience by walking: in the parks, in the small courtyards with cafes, in the neighborhoods that change pace from street to street. Over a weekend, we discovered a city that combines its old glamour with modern vibrancy, offering an experience much more interesting than we expected.
Bucharest reminded us that sometimes the most beautiful trips are the ones you didn't plan with high expectations... but they reward you with authentic moments. ❤️
