Travel around Bucharest with Bobby
One of the main reasons I chose to visit Bucharest was the city’s unique blend of deep history and modern life. Seeing massive landmarks like the Palace of Parliament and exploring the remnants of the communist era always intrigued me. I also wanted to experience the Paris-like atmosphere with its Belle Époque architecture. I had heard about Bucharest’s lively café culture and vibrant nightlife, so I was expecting a socially dynamic environment as well. A city where history, culture, and entertainment come together was too exciting to pass up!
Day 1Stepping into Bucharest’s Past
My journey in Bucharest began with a bang as I visited one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—the Palace of Parliament. Known as the second-largest administrative building in the world, this massive structure is truly awe-inspiring. As I toured its grand halls, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of history here, with remnants of the communist era around every corner. The sheer size of the building was enough to leave me speechless.
After the tour, I strolled over to Bucharest’s Old Town, a lively area full of narrow streets, historic buildings, and buzzing cafés. I stopped at Caru’ cu Bere, a historic restaurant known for its Romanian cuisine and traditional beer. My first taste of sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat) paired with a local beer was the perfect introduction to Romanian food. The warm, rustic atmosphere of the restaurant matched the charm of Old Town perfectly.
The Palace of Parliament is a must-see, but be prepared for a lot of walking—it's enormous! Also, Old Town is great for both history and nightlife, so plan to explore it by day and night.
Day 2 A Walk Through Time
On my second day, I wanted to experience the greener side of Bucharest, so I started my morning at Herăstrău Park. The park, which wraps around Lake Herăstrău, was a peaceful escape from the city bustle. I rented a bike and cycled through its tree-lined paths, stopping by the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum. This open-air museum showcases traditional Romanian village life, with authentic wooden houses and churches. It felt like stepping back in time, and I could almost imagine the rural life of centuries ago.
For lunch, I headed to a nearby bistro for some ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), which is surprisingly popular here. It had a unique, tangy flavor thanks to the vinegar and sour cream, and it was filling enough to fuel my afternoon adventures.
In the evening, I visited the Romanian Athenaeum, a beautiful concert hall that’s also one of Bucharest’s architectural gems. The neoclassical design and the grandeur of the interior were breathtaking. Although I couldn’t catch a concert, the tour alone was worth it.
Lunch was a hearty bowl of ciorbă de burtă, a traditional Romanian tripe soup. The tangy, sour flavor was different from anything I had tried before, but it grew on me with each spoonful. The nearby bistro provided a cozy setting for a relaxed meal.
Food
Returning to the same hotel, the comfortable bed and central location made for a relaxing evening after a long day of sightseeing. The hotel remained a solid, convenient choice.
Accomodation
Cycling through Herăstrău Park was a peaceful break from the city. The open-air Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum was a unique highlight, offering insight into Romania’s rural history. The Romanian Athenaeum, with its stunning architecture, was a perfect way to end the day.
Activity
Herăstrău Park is the perfect place for a relaxing morning, and renting a bike is a great way to explore. If you have time, try to attend a concert at the Romanian Athenaeum—it’s a truly magical venue.
Day 3 A Dive into Bucharest’s Complex History
Day three was dedicated to diving deeper into Bucharest’s communist history, starting with the National Museum of Romanian History. The museum gave me a comprehensive overview of Romania’s past, from ancient times through the communist era. The exhibits on the Ceaușescu regime were particularly eye-opening, showing how this period of history shaped the city and its people.
In the afternoon, I visited Ceaușescu’s Mansion, also known as the Spring Palace. This luxurious home, once belonging to the former dictator, was filled with lavish decorations and decadent furnishings that seemed worlds apart from the reality of life for most Romanians at the time. It was a stark reminder of the contrasts in power during the communist period.
For dinner, I decided to try a modern twist on Romanian cuisine at Kane, one of Bucharest’s trendiest restaurants. The dishes were creative, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques. I had a plate of mici (grilled minced meat rolls), but this time with a gourmet presentation that was both delicious and artistic.
Dinner at Kane was a real treat, offering a modern twist on traditional Romanian flavors. The mici I tried were presented in a gourmet style, and the creativity of the dishes stood out. It was a great balance of traditional tastes with a contemporary touch.
Food
The hotel continued to be a comfortable base for my stay. While nothing extravagant, its proximity to key sites and clean rooms made it a convenient choice.
Accomodation
Exploring Ceaușescu’s Mansion and the National Museum of Romanian History was a deep dive into the city’s communist past. Both provided valuable insights into Romania’s political history, with Ceaușescu’s Mansion being particularly eye-opening in its luxury.
Activity
Bucharest’s history is fascinating but complex, so take your time exploring the museums to fully appreciate it. And for foodies, Kane is a must-try spot for a modern take on Romanian flavors.
Day 4A Night to Remember
On my final day in Bucharest, I decided to experience the city’s famous nightlife. But before the sun set, I explored the bustling streets of Piata Unirii, where modern shopping centers stand side by side with historic buildings. It’s a great place for a bit of last-minute souvenir shopping, and I couldn’t resist picking up some local wines and crafts.
As the evening rolled in, I headed back to Old Town, where the streets come alive at night. I started the night at a rooftop bar with a view of the city lights, sipping on a cocktail while soaking in the atmosphere. Afterward, I wandered into one of the lively bars in the heart of Old Town, where locals and tourists mingled over music and drinks. The energy of the city was contagious, and I ended up dancing until the early hours of the morning.
To recharge after all the dancing, I decided to grab a late-night snack at one of the local food stalls in Old Town. The smell of freshly grilled mici, traditional Romanian sausages, was irresistible, and I quickly ordered a portion with mustard and bread. It was the perfect way to satisfy my hunger and experience a bit more of the local flavor. As I strolled through the cobblestone streets, savoring each bite, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to Bucharest—the blend of history, modernity, and vibrant nightlife had made my final night in the city truly unforgettable.
Dinner was a mix of small bites at a rooftop bar in Old Town, featuring local cheeses and meats. The food was light but complemented by the stunning city views, making the experience unforgettable.
Food
The hotel remained consistent in comfort and service. Having stayed there throughout my trip, I appreciated the familiarity and ease of checking in and out, though a bit more luxury would have been welcome.
Accomodation
The nightlife in Old Town was electric, with rooftop bars offering great views and lively clubs keeping the energy going. The combination of the evening cityscape and vibrant party scene made it a perfect farewell to Bucharest.
Activity
If you’re a night owl, Bucharest’s Old Town is the place to be. The rooftop bars offer stunning views, and the nightlife scene is vibrant and full of energy.
Summary of My Trip
Bucharest impressed me with its deep history and modern energy. The remnants of the communist era show how the past and present coexist in every corner of the city. The sheer size and grandeur of the Palace of Parliament gave me a better understanding of Romania’s recent history. Old Town offered both historical landmarks to explore during the day and a lively atmosphere at night. The food, especially traditional dishes like sarmale and ciorbă de burtă, reflected the rich cultural heritage of the region. Herăstrău Park and the open-air museum were perfect escapes to experience the city’s natural beauty. The nightlife was vibrant and fun, with rooftop bars providing stunning city views. Accommodation in the city center was convenient, though I could have opted for something more luxurious. Getting around was easy, and navigating the city felt relaxed. Overall, Bucharest won me over as a city that offers a perfect balance of history, culture, and entertainment.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Bucharest is a city that blends history and modernity, offering something unique for every traveler. Its historical landmarks, vibrant social life, and rich cultural experiences make it an unforgettable destination. From iconic attractions to authentic local cuisine, Bucharest never ceases to surprise and captivate.
At Caru' cu Bere, I enjoyed a classic Romanian dish, sarmale, paired with local beer. The cabbage rolls were rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The restaurant's rustic ambiance added to the authentic experience.
Food
I stayed at a mid-range hotel near Old Town, offering easy access to the city’s main attractions. The room was clean and comfortable, with modern amenities, but the view wasn’t remarkable. The staff was friendly and helpful.
Accomodation
The tour of the Palace of Parliament was awe-inspiring, and the sheer size of the building made the experience memorable. Exploring Old Town afterward provided a nice balance of history and lively atmosphere.
Activity