Bucharest 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Bucharest’s History and Culture

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Café Veritas, a cozy spot serving traditional Romanian coffee and pastries.
  • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Visit the Palace of the Parliament (free admission, but guided tours require booking in advance), an impressive architectural wonder and one of the world’s largest buildings.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Take a stroll through the beautiful Cismigiu Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the National Museum of Art (10 RON admission), featuring an extensive collection of Romanian and European art.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy traditional Romanian cuisine at Caru’ cu Bere, a lively restaurant serving delicious dishes like sarmale and mamaliga.
  • 10:00 PM: End the day with a scenic walk through the illuminated streets of Bucharest, taking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Accommodation

Consider staying at Hotel Europa Royale Bucharest or Grand Hotel Continental, both centrally located and offering comfortable rooms.

Transportation

Use public transportation (metro, bus, or tram) to get around the city. You can buy tickets at kiosks or online through the TPBucharest app.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Learn some basic Romanian phrases to show respect for the local culture.
  • Exchange currency upon arrival, as not all places accept credit cards.

Day 2: Discovering Bucharest’s Modern Side

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Visit the trendy Lipscani District, known for its street art, independent shops, and hip cafes. Grab a coffee at Druk Coffee or Origo.
  • 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Explore the ** Bucharest Museum of Contemporary Art** (free admission), featuring innovative exhibitions and installations.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Take a break at Herăstrău Park, a peaceful retreat with beautiful lakeside views.
  • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Wander through the bustling Unirea Shopping Center, offering a wide range of international brands and local products.

Evening

  • 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Enjoy a modern Romanian dinner at Bistro de l’Arte or Upstairs, both serving creative, farm-to-table cuisine.
  • 11:00 PM: End the day with a visit to the lively Old Town, where you can find bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Other Things of Interest

  • The Romanian Athenaeum: A stunning concert hall hosting various performances throughout the year.
  • Street Food Festival: If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to check out this popular festival featuring local vendors and delicious eats.
  • Free Walking Tours: Join a guided tour to explore Bucharest’s hidden gems and learn about its rich history.

Things to Know

  • Romania is part of the EU, but not in the Schengen Area, so make sure you have the necessary travel documents.
  • The local currency is the Romanian Leu (RON).
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as Bucharest can be quite rainy.