bucharest culture trip

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Bundle & Save
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Bucharest in 2 Days: A Cultural Journey Through Romania's Capital

March 29, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a 2-day cultural odyssey through Bucharest with Trip.com, where history and artistry intertwine. Day 1 kicks off with the grandeur of the Palace of Parliament, a museum housed within one of the world's largest buildings, for a one-hour tour. Next, wander for two hours through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, a tapestry of historic sites and charismatic neighborhoods. Conclude your day with a visit to the National Museum of Art, immersing yourself in Romanian masterpieces for two hours. Day 2 opens with the elegant Romanian Athenaeum, a symbol of national culture, for a brief yet enriching 30-minute visit. Continue your journey through Romanian heritage at The National Museum of the Romanian Peasant for an hour, delving into rural traditions. Then, step into the life of a former dictator at the Primaverii Palace, the House of Ceauşescu, for a two-hour exploration of its opulent rooms. Finally, unwind in the serene expanse of Parcul Herăstrău, a city park offering a tranquil retreat to reflect on your Bucharest adventure.

• Day 1: Unveiling Bucharest's Grandeur and Charm

Palace of Parliament

Begin your Bucharest adventure with a visit to the grand Palace of Parliament, a monumental edifice that stands as a testament to the city's complex history. With just an hour to explore, immerse yourself in the museum's captivating exhibits, which reveal the palace's intricate architecture and political significance. Located at Strada Izvor 2-4, this iconic landmark is not just a feast for the eyes but also a symbol of Bucharest's storied past.

Attraction Info

• Strada Izvor 2-4, București, Romania
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Next, meander through the cobblestone streets of Bucharest's Old Town, a vibrant tapestry of characteristic neighborhoods and historic sites that echo the city's rich cultural heritage. Allocate a good two hours to soak in the area's enchanting atmosphere, where every corner tells a story, and the architectural beauty transports you to a bygone era. The Old Town is a living museum, a place where the pulse of Bucharest's heart can truly be felt.

• Bucharest, Romania
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open 24 hours

National Museum of Art

Conclude your day with an artistic flourish at the National Museum of Art, where for two hours, you can admire an exquisite collection of Romanian and international masterpieces. Nestled on Calea Victoriei 49-53, this art gallery is a sanctuary for art lovers and a highlight of Bucharest's cultural scene. Let the museum's diverse array of paintings and sculptures inspire you and offer a serene retreat from the bustling city life.

• Calea Victoriei 49-53, București 010063, Romania
• Open on Wed-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

Calea victoriei residence, superb studio cismigiu gardens - private heating - free wifi - panoramic view, primo apartment - cismigiu gardens, intercontinental athenee palace bucharest, an ihg hotel.

• Day 2: Cultural Treasures and Green Escapes in Bucharest

The Romanian Athenaeum

Begin your second day in Bucharest with a visit to the Romanian Athenaeum, an iconic symbol of the city that stands as a testament to Romania's cultural heritage. This architectural gem, nestled at Strada Benjamin Franklin, is not just a museum but a concert hall that has captivated audiences for over a century. With its opulent interior and rich history, a brief half-hour stay will leave you enchanted by its classical beauty and the stories it holds within its walls.

• 1, Strada Benjamin Franklin 1-3, București 030167, Romania
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-2 hour

The National Museum of the Romanian Peasant

Next, enrich your cultural journey at The National Museum of the Romanian Peasant. Located on Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff, this museum offers an immersive hour-long experience into the rustic life of Romania's rural inhabitants. With an extensive collection of textiles, icons, ceramics, and other traditional artifacts, the museum paints a vivid picture of peasant culture and its influence on the Romanian identity.

• Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff 3, București, Romania

Primaverii Palace (House of Ceauşescu)

Continue your exploration of Romania's past with a visit to the Primaverii Palace, the former residence of Nicolae Ceauşescu. This museum at Bulevardul Primăverii provides a unique two-hour glimpse into the private life of Romania's communist leader. The opulent interiors and well-preserved rooms offer a stark contrast to the modesty of peasant life you've just witnessed, providing a thought-provoking reflection on the country's history.

• Bulevardul Primăverii 50, București 014192, Romania
• Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm

Parcul Herăstrău

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through Parcul Herăstrău, Bucharest's oasis of tranquility. Spend an hour at this expansive city park, located on Soseaua Nordului, where you can unwind amidst lush greenery, serene lakes, and beautifully landscaped gardens. It's the perfect way to relax and reflect on the rich tapestry of experiences you've enjoyed throughout your Bucharest itinerary.

• Soseaua Nordului 7-9, Bucharest 077190
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour

Studio Win Herastrau

Urban retreat - aviatiei, top things to do in bucharest-2024.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

<h3>Trending Searches</h3>

Popular Content

• Concord 1 Day Itinerary
• Koh Phra Thong 1 Day Itinerary
• Tonglu 2 Days Itinerary
• Shaoxing 1 Day Itinerary
• Tallinn Helsinki 4 Days Itinerary
• Qionghai Lingshui 5 Days Itinerary
• Nanjiang 1 Day Itinerary
• Sapporo Noboribetsu 3 Days Itinerary
• Chenzhou 2 Days Itinerary
• Madrid Vega de Toledo 2 Days Itinerary
• Narita 1 Day Itinerary
• Toronto 3 Days Itinerary
• Medina 1 Day Itinerary
• Luoyang 2 Days Itinerary
• Lubeck 1 Day Itinerary
• Zhuhai 2 Days Itinerary
• Daegu 1 Day Itinerary
• Chongqing Chishui 5 Days Itinerary
• Providencia 1 Day Itinerary
• Huidong Dongguan 3 Days Itinerary
• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Romania’s capital sometimes gets a bad rap, but in fact it's dynamic, energetic and lots of fun. Many travellers give the city just a night or two before heading off to Transylvania, but that’s not enough time. Allow at least a few days to take in the very good museums, stroll the parks and hang out at trendy cafes and drinking gardens. While much of the centre is modern and the buildings are in various stages of disrepair, you'll find splendid 17th- and 18th-century Orthodox churches and graceful belle époque villas tucked away in quiet corners. Communism changed the face of the city forever, and nowhere is this more evident than at the gargantuan Palace of Parliament, the grandest (and arguably crassest) tribute to dictatorial megalomania you’ll ever see.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palace of Parliament

The Palace of Parliament is the world’s second-largest administrative building (after the Pentagon) and former dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu’s most infamous…

Romanian Athenaeum

The exquisite Athenaeum is the majestic heart of Romania’s classical-music tradition. Scenes from Romanian history are featured on the interior fresco…

Former Ceauşescu Residence

This restored villa is the former main residence of Nicolae and Elena Ceauşescu, who lived here for around two decades up until the end in 1989…

Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum

One of the few attractions in Bucharest aimed squarely at kids, this natural-history museum, showing off Romania's plant and animal life, has been…

Cişmigiu Garden

West of Calea Victoriei is the locally beloved Cişmigiu Garden, with shady walks, a lake, cafes and a ridiculous number of benches on which to sit and…

Snagov Monastery

Tiny Snagov Island, at the northern end of Snagov Lake, is home to Snagov Monastery and Vlad Ţepeş' alleged final resting place. The small stone church…

Museum of the Romanian Peasant

The collection of peasant bric-a-brac, costumes, icons and partially restored houses makes this one of the most popular museums in the city. There’s not…

Văcărești Nature Park

What was supposed to be a 6km-long dam during the communist era, left abandoned after the 1989 Revolution, turned over 22 years into a vast urban delta…

Latest stories from Bucharest

Festivals & Events

Apr 17, 2019 • 6 min read

Planning a trip to Bucharest but not sure when’s the best time to visit? From April to September, Bucharest becomes a stomping ground for the creative…

Apr 15, 2019 • 5 min read

Dec 5, 2018 • 6 min read

Dec 20, 2017 • 5 min read

Nov 3, 2017 • 5 min read

Aug 8, 2017 • 4 min read

Jan 13, 2017 • 6 min read

Oct 5, 2016 • 5 min read

Jul 19, 2016 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Bucharest

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Bucharest with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

• The Best Hotels In Bucharest

The Best Hotels from Which to Explore Bucharest

Known as Little Paris at the beginning of the 20th century, Bucharest features a genuine mix of cultural influences and a multifarious identity – marked by the totalitarian heritage of the recent past and the bustling, cosmopolitan lifestyle of today. Want the best tip to explore the capital’s rich and controversial history? You will need a hotel that is in the middle of everything, so check out this list of the best hotels in Bucharest.

1. epoque hotel.

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

An exclusive retreat in the heart of the city, the only Relais & Chateaux Hotel in Romania stands next to one of the oldest gardens of Bucharest, the Cișmigiu Gardens. Rest your head comfortably in the sophisticated suites in a historic Neo-Romanian style, with plush rooms and a distinctive mansard roof. And don’t miss the indoor heated swimming pool, plus a ritzy spa with its menu of pampering therapies. An upscale French restaurant, a grand lounge and a seasonal terrace are perfect for long evenings.

2. Hotel Capitol

One of the city’s most sophisticated and prestigious landmarks, this glorious lodging dates back to 1901 and has eclectic facades, wrought-iron details, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It overlooks Calea Victoriei – the oldest and most famous avenue in Bucharest, dating back to the late 1600s. With modern and up-to-date fittings, this polished hotel carefully preserves its history and long tradition. The elegant restaurant features plush decor and high ceilings, and every Thursday, you are invited to dine exclusively on traditional Romanian dishes.

3. Europa Royale Bucharest

Situated on the oldest street in Bucharest, this ultra-central hotel combines the city’s tempestuous history with modern energy. The 19th-century building houses unfussy rooms with fresh brown-and-beige designs and stylish bright apartments with sweeping views of the vibrant cityscape. The indoor garden with its glass atrium is a neck-craning novelty, creating an intimate atmosphere. A gourmet experience designed by chef Alex Cătănoiu is the perfect add-on to your culinary experience – reinterpreted local recipes mixed with the taste of Mediterranean dishes.

5. Lido by Phoenicia

Sitting on one of the main downtown thoroughfares, Lido is a part of Phoenicia Hotels and staying here means easy access to the main attractions. If you’re into art deco, this is no doubt the place you should stay. You will feel as if you’re living in an art gallery – with all the comforts of a premium, exquisite hotel. Luxuriously furnished rooms combine modernity with the elegance of interwar Bucharest, creating a space of luxury, opulence and good taste.

6. Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel

This refined hotel opens up to the banks of the Dâmbovița, delivering super-modern comfort in a newly built monument building with charming landmarks an easy walk away. The interior features classic decor with an exuberant twist, yet remains functional with surprising ornaments, warm colours, and refined textures. The best ways to spend an evening is in one of the numerous stylish cafes in this old city neighbourhood, or Manuc’s Inn (a venue for hungry travellers since the Middle Ages).

7. InterContinental Bucharest

Romania’s Leading Hotel, as awarded by the World Travel Awards in 2019, the InterContinental is set in a high-rise tower offering modern luxury and unforgettable views in the heart of Bucharest. The rooms with balconies have ample views of the Palace of Parliament – the second largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. A perfect add-on is the rooftop health club’s terrace and the fitness center with spa amenities and an indoor pool. Dining ranges from the Modigliani Restaurant, the Intermezzo Bar with piano and stylish classical décor, and the Corso brasserie with a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

8. Sarroglia

Boutique Hotel

Here’s a hip, contemporary hotel with a rooftop terrace delivering skyline views and a hot tub. It’s in one of the interwar-built neighborhoods of the capital, a 15-minute walk to the old town. With trendy, modern rooms and retro-style furnishings, Sarroglia also has a spacious lounge displaying a fine art collection, where artists and art lovers get to mingle. A Japanese restaurant with outdoor seating on-site makes surprisingly-good ZenSushi dishes – something quite unique for Romania.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

Which are the best boutique hotels to book in bucharest.

Bucharest’s Best Contemporary Art Galleries

See & Do

How to spend 24 hours in bucharest.

The Best Hostels in Bucharest

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1001675637
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Explore Bucharest

Plan your bucharest holiday: best of bucharest.

Essential Bucharest

Trending in the forums

Bucharest Is Great For

Historical tours.

Ghost Tours

Cultural Tours

Eat & drink

• Best Time to Visit Bucharest
• Events & Festivals in Bucharest
• How To Reach Bucharest
• Restaurants in Bucharest
• Bucharest Map
• Things To Do in Bucharest
• Bucharest Itineraries
• Bucharest Tours
• Bucharest Hotels

Art and Cultural Attractions in Bucharest

• Things To Do In Bucharest
• Arts And Culture

Top Places for Art and Cultural Activities in Bucharest

A trip to Bucharest cannot be complete without understanding its rich heritage. The art and cultural activities in Bucharest will give you an insight into the city's history, traditions, and artwork. While visiting the cultural attractions in Bucharest would prove to be informative, attending its artsy events will leave you entertained. From cultural performances to historical monuments that give you a glimpse of the past, take a look at this list to know Bucharest better. Include these in attractions in your itinerary for Bucharest and have a great vacation.

Check the list of top places for art and culture in Bucharest:

Stavropoleos Monastery

Religious Site, Monastery

Museum Of The Romanian Peasant

Art Museum, Architecture , Specialty Museum

Patriarchal Cathedral

Church, Religious Site

National Museum Of Romanian History

Museum, History Museum, Architecture

Biserica Sfantul Antonie- Curtea Veche

Church, Religious Site, Leisure, Architecture

Parcul Alexandru Ioan Cuza

Bar, Church, Park, Walking Area

Bellu Cemetery

Religious Site, Monument, Cemetery

Museum Of Art Collections

Art Museum, Museum, Sculpture

Kretzulescu Church

Rotenberg-uzunov

Art Gallery

Biserica Domnita Balasa

Church, Religious Site, Architecture

Biserica Sfantul Gheorghe Nou

Church, Historical Site, Statue

Radu Voda Monastery

Biserica Bucur

Antim Monastery

Art & Culture Tours

• Private Sightseeing Tours in Bucharest
• History & Heritage Tours in Bucharest
• Local Culture & Education Tours in Bucharest
• Day Trips in Bucharest
• Luxury Tours in Bucharest

Best Culture Trips

Similar Experiences

Best Culture Trips - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Best Culture Trips

Similar Experiences

Best Culture Trips - All You MUST Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Select currency
• U.S. Dollar US$
• British Pound £
• Australian Dollar A$
• Canadian Dollar C$
• Swiss Franc CHF

Tours, Activities and Things to do

• Culture & History Tours
• Reset All Filters

19 Excursions start from

Our picks for Bucharest

• 1 Explore the famous Dracula castle (Bran Castle)
• 2 Visit the beautiful Peles Castle
• 3 Take a walking tour of Bucharest
• 4 Visit Sinaia Monastery
• 5 Try some of the best local wines on wine tasting tours
• 6 Visit the Palace of Parliament
• 7 Visit Snagov Monastery
• 8 Take a day tour to Veliko Tarnovo
• 9 Visit the famous Transfăgărășan road
• 10 Visit Constanta

Things to do in Bucharest

• City Tours (6)
• Day Tours & Trips (16)
• Special Interest & Theme Tours (1)
• Art & Museum Tours (3)
• Architecture Tours (16)
• Archeology Tours (3)
• History & Heritage Tours (18)
• Nature & Panoramic Tours (5)
• UNESCO Tours (1)
• Food & Drinks (4)
• Tickets (1)

Trip duration

Tour destination.

• Snagov Monastery (1)
• Peles Castle (6)
• Dracula's Castle (Bran Castle) (5)
• Sinaia Monastery (2)
• Veliko Tarnovo (2)
• Constanța (1)

Bucharest Culture & History Tours

Bucharest City Sightseeing Guided Tour

Once named the “Little Paris of the East”, Bucharest is full of the pretty places, the wo!... Read more

Day Trip To Dracula's Castle from Bucharest

Join us on this amazing day trip and explore a stunning castle in Transylvania, unique in.... Read more

Dracula's Castle with Wine and Cheese Tasting - Full Day Tour from Bucharest

Use this opportunity to learn about interesting Romanian history, including various legen.... Read more

Day Trip to Romanian Royal Residence in Sinaia from Bucharest

Book this tour and discover Peles Castle, known as one of the most stunning castles in Eu!... Read more

Day Trip to Bulgaria from Bucharest

Fulfill your day on this amazing full day tour to Bulgaria from Bucharest. You will have .... Read more

Dracula`s Castle and Peles Castle Full Day Tour from Bucharest

Enjoy a lovely drive through Prahova Valley to your first stop, Pelest Castle. Visit one .... Read more

Bucharest city tour Charm of the Belle Epoque

Where you will see the line where West met the East and its multicultural diversity, Boeh.... Read more

The Ashes of Communism from Bucharest

Join us and explore all the major squares and buildings where the action took place durin.... Read more

Authentic Walking Tour of Bucharest

Discover the most remarkable tourist attractions in the city, such as the Romanian Athena.... Read more

Traditions in Bucharest: Village Museum and Wine tasting tour

Enjoy yourself walking through a medieval village and discover Bucharest’s Village Museum.... Read more

Communist Bucharest Tour

Explore the city and learn about the communist influance on the city and on the Romanian people. From the ver!... Read more

Bucharest Surroundings Half Day Tour

You are looking for beautiful nature and amazing history? Join us on a half day tour from…... Read more

Bucharest travel guides and recommendations

• 1 Top 10 Things to do in Bucharest
• 2 Day tours to Bran Castle (Draculas Castle) from Bucharest
• 3 Day trips to Brasov from Bucharest
• 4 Day Trips to Peles Castle from Bucharest
• 5 Day Trips to Bulgaria from Bucharest
• 6 Visiting Snagov Monastery from Bucharest
• 7 Most Popular Day Tours from Bucharest

Our guests personal experiences on Bucharest Culture & History Tours

i found this guided tour on Bucharest on the web, while preparing to visit Romania. the price suited me and i ordered it. tour organizer answered for every question i asked, and provided all the information i needed. our guide, Roberto, arrived just in time, as scheduled, to our hotel and called my cell to ask where am i. he took me and my wife threw the old city to his van, on the way telling history of the city, and showing its most popular and interesting sites. next we had approximately a hour long tour around Bucharest, viewing parliament palace, cathedral and other main city sites. after that we visited village museum where we had free time for another hour to walk by ourselves. at the end, our guide asked where to drop us (to return to our hotel where we met, or would we like walk around). we thanked him and left. to concluded it was very interesting tour giving main picture of Bucharest and our guide gave us a great time.

Our tour guide was amazing. He was able to answer any questions we had for him and was very knowledgable about the city. He even gave us some pointers on where to eat and good places to shop.

Excellente excursion, on a eu la chance d'avoir un guide en français qui nous a fourni beaucoup d'informations sur l'histoire de la Roumanie et il avait un agréable caractère merci Rasvan COCA pour cette agréable excursion avec vous. Une excursion à ne pas rater

The day tour to so-called "Dracula's Castle" was a Big Con. There was a Count Dracula, but his castle was much more north in Transylvania than that to which we were taken. At the other castle, Peres, we had to wait more than one hour before being admitted, such was the volume of tours visiting. We, who believed we were going to see Dracula's Castle should have had our money refunded, and the tour organizers should re-name their tour.

• Best price guarantee
• Privacy and security
• Terms of Service
• Payment conditions
• Suppliers program
• Affiliate program
• Blogger cooperation
• Free Newsletter
• Reward Points Program
• Tailor made tours and trips
• Hire a guide
• Hire vehicle & driver
• Attractions
• All destinations

Save your wishlist by logging in!

Connect with your favorite social network, or log in with your email.

Register now for FREE

• access your wishlist from anywhere
• see all your orders
• add reviews and share them with other travelers
• get info about special promotions and discounts
• get all the news about the new and exciting offers

Yes please, register now!