Known as The Land of Dracula, it could easily be assumed Romania is a dark and dreary place to visit, but this is not the case. Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant nightlife. There are stunning landmarks, buildings, and landmarks to tour as well as gorgeous parks and gardens to stroll through.
Here are just a few of the tourist attractions in Bucharest, Romania that offer a glimpse at the past, present, and future of Bucharest.
Romanian Athenaeum:
A concert hall constructed in 1888, this is known as the most beautiful building in Bucharest. It is considered to have best acoustics in Eastern Europe making concerts and symphonies an amazing experience. If you are unable to attend a concert, it is still worth visiting. The majestic building features gorgeous marble staircases, impressive columns, ornate ceilings, and stunning architecture reminiscent of ancient Rome. The gardens in the front of the building include a sculpture of the famous poet, Mihai Eminescu.
Old Town:
This is the historic center of Bucharest and is an ideal place to walk, day or night. It is a trendy entertainment district that is a unique mixture of history and modern day living. There are numerous pubs, shops, and restaurants located between museums, a monastery, and preserved buildings to tour. It is known for its lively nightlife including dancing, good music, and bars with plenty of drink options. The best part is that it is known for being a very safe area.
The National Museum of Art of Romania:
Located in Revolution Square, this museum features three floors filled with beautiful paintings, medieval artifacts, relics, religious and modern art. Rembrandt, Monet, Pallady, El Greco, and many more notable artists have pieces on display. The museum includes many of the most notable works of art from Romanian artists in the past several centuries. It is a must for art lovers, but it also appeals to those with a little knowledge of art history.
Cismigui Gardens:
This expertly landscaped park has something for everyone. There is a small lake for rowing in the summer and ice skating in the winter, a playground, a rotunda surrounded by pedestals of busts of famous writers, walking paths, and a corner dedicated just to engaging in a game of chess. You can pick up a snack, sit on one of the numerous benches, and watch the swans, ducks, and birds interact with one another. As the oldest park in Bucharest, it contains several national landmarks.
The Palace of Parliament:
This is the second largest building in the world (after the Pentagon). It was built in 1984 to honor Nicolae Ceausescu, the dictator known for a cruel streak that left the people of Romania suffering in horrible conditions for decades. A revolt in 1989 ended his reign and resulted in his execution along with his wife. The tour guides provide a detailed account of life in communist Romania. The entire building, as well as the furnishings in it, were built only from things that originated in Romania. Overall, it is an impressive building, full of history, that offers gorgeous views of the city.
