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Looking for exciting things to do in Bucharest? This vibrant city in Romania is full of surprises. From historical buildings to peaceful parks, Bucharest has something for every traveller. You can explore its communist past, enjoy cultural shows, or relax by the lake. The city is a mix of old charm and modern energy. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or longer, you won’t run out of places to explore. In this blog, we’ll help you find the best things to see in Bucharest and plan the perfect trip.
Top 10 Things To Do In Bucharest
Here are the best things to do in Bucharest, from Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum to House Of Ceaușescu (Primăverii Palace).
1. Visit The Palace Of The Parliament
Photo: Jorge Franganillo / Wikimedia Commons
This giant building is one of the most famous things to see in Bucharest. It’s the second-largest administrative building in the world and a major symbol of Romania’s communist past. You can join a guided tour to see its huge rooms, long hallways, and elegant designs. The tour also explains the country’s political history. If you’re wondering what to do in Bucharest to learn about its past, this is a must-visit. Don’t forget your ID for entry.
Location: Dealul Arsenalului, Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: Union Hall
Ideal Trip Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
2. Explore The Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum
Photo: Pudelek / Wikimedia Commons
This open-air museum shows real village houses and farms from all over Romania. Set in Herăstrău Park, it’s peaceful and full of charm. Over 270 original buildings display traditional Romanian life, from old churches to barns and homes. They moved and rebuilt each building here to represent the country’s history. It’s one of the best things to see in Bucharest if you love learning about different cultures and ways of life.
Location: Șoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff 28-30, Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: Wooden churches from Maramureș
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 3 hours
3. Attend A Performance At The Romanian Athenaeum
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
The Romanian Athenaeum is a beautiful concert hall known for its amazing sound and stunning design. With its round dome and gold accents, it’s a favourite for locals and visitors alike. This is one of the top things to explore in Bucharest if you enjoy live music. It’s home to the George Enescu Philharmonic and hosts many events. Even if you don’t attend a concert, you can take a short tour to admire the building’s art and history.
Location: Strada Benjamin Franklin 1-3, Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra
Ideal Trip Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
4. Discover The History Of Revolution Square
Photo: Vyacheslav Bukharov / Wikimedia Commons
Revolution Square played a big role in Romania’s history. This is where huge protests in 1989 led to the fall of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s communist regime. Today, you can see important landmarks here, including the former Communist Party headquarters and the Memorial of Rebirth. If you’re interested in recent history, this is one of the most meaningful things to see in Bucharest. It’s also a good spot to reflect and take photos.
Location: Piața Revoluției, Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: Memorial of the Victims of Communism
Ideal Trip Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
5. Wander Through Lipscani (Old Town)
Photo: uliana soboleva / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Lipscani, or Old Town, is the lively heart of Bucharest. This historic area boasts cobbled streets, colourful buildings, cafes, shops, and bars. By day, it’s perfect for slow walks and exploring boutiques. At night, it becomes one of the most fun things to watch in Bucharest, thanks to its active nightlife. You’ll also find charming bookstores and old churches nearby. It’s a great place to experience the local vibe, eat Romanian food, and meet friendly people.
Location: Central Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: Stavropoleos Monastery
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 4 hours
6. Stroll Through Cismigiu Gardens
Photo: Gabriel / Wikimedia Commons
Cismigiu Gardens are the perfect spot for a quiet break in the middle of the city. This is the oldest public park in Bucharest, with shady paths, colourful flowers, and a small lake. You can rent a boat, feed the ducks, or relax on a bench under the trees. It’s one of the most peaceful things to see in Bucharest, especially on a sunny afternoon.
Location: Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta, Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: Cismigiu Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 to 2 hours
7. Tour The House Of Ceaușescu (Primăverii Palace)
Photo: Idobi / Wikimedia Commons
This grand home belonged to Romania’s former dictator, Nicolae Ceaușescu. Today, it’s a museum that shows the leader’s lavish lifestyle. Expensive furniture, gold details, and large art collections fill the rooms. The tour gives you a unique look at life during Romania’s communist years. It’s one of the more unusual things to explore in Bucharest.
Location: Bulevardul Primăverii 50, Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: Gold-plated bathroom
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
8. Climb The Triumphal Arch (Arcul de Triumf)
The Triumphal Arch is a large stone structure that looks like the famous arch in Paris. It celebrates Romania’s independence and military victories. On national holidays, you can climb to the top and enjoy the amazing views of the city. It’s one of the best outdoor things to see in Bucharest. Trees and wide streets surround the arch, so it’s great for photos. Come during the day for fewer crowds and clear skies for pictures.
Location: Kiseleff Road, Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: Observation deck
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
9. Admire The Stavropoleos Monastery
Photo: fusion-of-horizons / Wikimedia Commons
This small but stunning monastery sits quietly in the heart of the Old Town. It’s a peaceful place with beautiful stone carvings, wooden details, and painted walls. Inside, you’ll find a small church and a quiet courtyard. It’s one of the most charming things to see in Bucharest and a perfect spot to relax in while exploring the city. Many visitors enjoy sitting here for a few minutes just to enjoy the calm.
Location: Strada Stavropoleos 4, Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: Icon-filled chapel and cloisters
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 to 45 minutes
10. Relax In Herăstrău Park
Photo: Crislia / Wikimedia Commons
Herăstrău Park is the biggest green space in the city and one of the most relaxing things to do in Romania. You can rent a bike, take a boat ride on the lake, or walk the long, tree-lined paths. The park also has cafes, playgrounds, and statues. It’s popular with families, couples, and runners. The air is fresh and the space is wide, making it perfect for a break from busy streets. Weekends are especially fun and full of life.
Location: Sector 1, Bucharest, Romania
Major Attraction: Herăstrău Lake and Village Museum
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Bucharest is a city full of energy, history, and charm. From grand buildings to quiet parks, there’s something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re into culture, nature, or nightlife, the many things to do in Bucharest will keep you entertained. These ten activities offer a great mix of fun and learning. So if you’re planning a trip and wondering what to do in Bucharest, start with this list. Plan a trip with TripXL now!
Cover Photo: George / Unsplash
