Bucharest has something for everyone during the summer months and has lately become a preferred place for city breaks. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or simply enjoying the vibrant city atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see in Bucharest. The weather is warm, making it ideal to explore outdoor attractions, even hot during summer time, when you can enjoy the coolness of secret gardens and parks of the city.

In a two-day trip to the capital of Romania, you can explore some of the city’s attractions. And, as there are many that you can choose from, we have put together for you a two-day program proposal, to try some things to do in Bucharest.

Transportation and Accommodation

The most common way to arrive in Bucharest is via airplane. You will arrive at Henri Coanda International Airport. From there, there are some easy ways to go to the city center – you can either call a cab from the touch screen terminals or take a licensed taxis without prior request, with fares between 1.89 lei/km and 3.5 lei/km, that are available in a taxi stations located at the exit of the terminal. Another option is the train that will take you to Gara de Nord, the main railway station of the city, with transportation connections to the entire city.

For accommodation, there are plenty of hotels in Bucharest that you can choose from. If you want a centrally located hotel, close to most important city attractions and things to do in the city, Hotel Cismigiu is the place to choose when you travel to Bucharest. The rooms are actually apartments, fully furnished and equipped with all the facilities for a comfortable stay.

Fantastic hotel experience. This is a fantastic Bucharest hotel that is made what it is by the staff. The front desk team especially were super helpful, polite and made sure we had a great stay. Nothing was too much bother, we really felt looked after. The room was superb, we really liked the way it was arranged like an apartment as we stayed for a number of days and the extra space made our stay even more enjoyable. The location is also very good, just a short walk to the old town with other things such as a little mini-mart just across the street. The top floor space where the breakfast is served looks great and has some nice views. The pub (I’m doing it a disservice – it’s very big) has great food that can be ordered as room service. (Terry, UK, Booking.com)

Day 1 – Old City, Parliamentary House and Unirii Fountains

After a rich breakfast at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, Cișmigiu – Bistro la Etaj, start your Bucharest sightseeing tour! Take a stroll on the street where the hotel is located – Elisabeta Boulevard – the oldest boulevard and the first major artery cut in a straight line in the capital, called The Broadway of Bucharest at the beginning of the century.

You are five minutes away from the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Admire the beautiful architecture, visit historical landmarks like the Stavropoleos Monastery, and indulge in the lively atmosphere of the numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars. Certain street names in the Old City still evoke the guilds that used to operate there, such as Blănari (Furriers’ Street) or Șelari (Saddlers’ Street). This charming area has been revitalized into a fashionable pedestrian zone, featuring restored buildings housing boutiques, restaurants, cafés and bars. One notable spot to visit is Pasajul Macca-Vilacrosse, located on the west side. This shopping passage, dating back to 1891, is adorned with a yellow stained glass roof, casting a warm glow on its surroundings. If you love books, do not miss Carturesti Carusel Bookstore, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.

After lunch in one of the many restaurants in the Old City, continue your day with a visit to Parliamentary Palace. It is one of things to see in Bucharest, as it is the second biggest building in the world (after the Pentagon), perfectly encapsulating Nicolae Ceaușescu’s megalomania. The tour will take 1,5 – 2 hours, and you can book tickets in advance here.

In the evening, take a walk down Unirii Boulevard, which starts from the Parliamentary House. At 21.30, a spectacular show of water, light and music, called The Water Simphony, will take place here every weekend day. The fourth edition of the show at the fountains brings a new theme – Rhapsody of the Waters – a show in which the lights and water will harmonize with the music of the most famous Romanian composers, in the year in which we celebrate 120 years since the first audition of the famous work signed by George Enescu, “Romanian Rhapsody”. Put that on your “things to do in Bucharest” list.

End your day on Calea Victoriei, one of the main arteries of the city, that becomes pedestrian on weekend days. You will enjoy your time in nice shops, restaurants, fancy bars, cafes or gelaterias, as well as watching the street shows that are being organized here during summer days. Head back to your cozy apartment in the hotel or, if you are in the mood for a party, back to the Old City, where the bustling nightlife begins.

Day 2 – Village Museum, Food Markets and Walking Tours

If you want to know more about Romanian culture, but do not have the time to leave Bucharest and visit the country, then The Village Museum is the perfect place to take a glimpse of the authentic Romanian traditions and culture. Set up in the beautiful King Mihai I Park – the biggest park of the city, which deserves itself a visit – the Village Museum is a beautiful collection of traditional houses, from all over Romania. Opened in 1936, this open-air ethnographic museum holds the distinction of being one of the first of its kind worldwide. It is an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the country’s cultural heritage,  providing a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of Romanian rural life.

For lunch, try some traditional Romanian food! One of the most sought – after unconventional places to eat is Obor Farmer’s Market. Here, people come in the weekend to try the beloved ‘mici’, a mouthwatering street snack that Bucharest locals can’t get enough of. Or,  you can try an organized tour, such as Bohemian Markets Tour, where you will enjoy street snacks – such as ‘covrigi,’ a pretzel-like treat that’s famous in these parts – as well as some refreshing local craft beers from top-notch breweries across the city. A local English-speaking guide who knows all the ins and outs of the city will take you to discover hidden neighborhoods like the Armenian quarter and the old Jewish quarter.

If it’s a rainy day, there are plenty of museums and cultural attractions to see in a city break in Bucharest, many of them situated at a short distance from the hotel.

Your city break in the capital of Romania can’t possibly cover all the things to do in Bucharest in the short span of two days – still, it is worth trying to take a sample of what this eclectic city has to offer. For further information and recommendations, be sure to ask our hotel’s Reception for support.

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