BucharestRomania

Thanks to the French style boulevards, neoclassical palaces and large parks, Bucharest was known as the 'Paris of the East' during the communist period. Since the fall of communism, they’ve tried to restore the city to the original state. Visit it today and you will find restored palaces, churches full of frescoes, restaurants, an exciting nightlife and rich cultural experiences.

Start your visit by walking along the architectural highlights of Bucharest. Visit this Arcul de Triumf and admire its sculptures and the large granite monument that honours the Romanian soldiers who fought during the First World War. Make sure you take in the Palatul Parlamentului (Parliament Palace), one of the largest parliament buildings in the world.

Visit Revolution Square and behold the former royal palace, house to the former royal rulers of the country. The palace is now the location of the Muzeul National de Arta al Romaniei. You will also find the Kretzulescu Church here: this prayer house from the 18th Century is an example of the Brancoveanu style, with architectural features from the Renaissance, Baroque and Byzantine and Ottoman style.

Bucharest has lots of beautiful green spaces to relax in. An example is the Gradina Botanica Bucuresti, which is no less than 17.5 hectares. In Cismigiu Garden you can rent a rowboat on the lake and, in the winter, you can skate on the ice rink.

Visit the old town if you want to drink, eat and be merry. Find a restaurant that serves typical Romanian dishes consisting of sausage and cabbage before hitting the bars. Most of the clubs and bars stay open until sunrise. If you’re looking for some high culture, catch a show at Ateneul Român, the domed concert hall putting on the best classical music and ballet performances in the region.

International flights arrive at Henri Coanda Aeroportul Internaţional, about 16 kilometres north of the city. The city can also be reached from several surrounding European countries by train. Explore the art, history, culture and cafes of Bucharest on foot, by taking an inexpensive taxi or rent your own car.