Bucharest

Originally built to house all offices of the Communist ruling officers during Ceausescu’s regime, the imposing Palace of Parliament is Romania’s most famous building. Tours are open to the public, showing off the opulent staircases and chandelier-filled rooms and offering great insight into the building's history. The palace also houses Romania's National Museum of Contemporary Art. There are tours available all year round; however, it's essential to reserve your tour slot beforehand, as advance booking ensures availability for this captivating experience.

The Romanian Athenaeum concert hall is home to the superb Filarmonica George Enescu and the hub of Bucharest’s musical activity. Exquisite mosaics and historical frescoes adorn the 19th-century circular building, which hosts impressive orchestral concerts and other performances. You can visit the ornate, domed, circular building without attending a concert, too.

This delightful museum opened in 1906 and is widely regarded as Romania’s best, a veritable treasure trove of pottery, icons and clothing. It also houses the fascinating Communism Exhibition and the ruins of an 18th-century Transylvanian wooden church.

This museum, situated in a stunning former synagogue built in 1850, tells the tragic story of Romania’s Jewish population in the country, and their important contributions to Romanian culture and history. Make sure to catch the moving tour to get the best experience.

While the University of Bucharest Square saw some of the darkest days of Ceausescu’s regime, events at the Revolution Square heralded the beginning of a new age. Close by is the former Royal Palace, now home to the National Art Museum, the Romanian Athenaeum and the Athenee Palace Hotel.

Cișmigiu Gardens, the oldest park in Bucharest designed by Carl Meyer in the 1850s, features a stunning rose garden in the north and a classic French garden on the west. Stroll along its tranquil paths or rent a boat to explore the largest lake, complete with its own island. This charming park offers a peaceful retreat, steeped in the city's history and elegance.

ARCUB is a cultural gem in Bucharest's Lipscani district, showcasing the city's identity through various artistic expressions. This Art Deco marvel, completed in 1934, now hosts over 200 yearly events, highlighting artists beyond conventional institutions. Its elegant 320-seat auditorium, accessible via a grand staircase, is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Bucharest.

The Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral, founded in the 1650s by Prince Constantin Șerban, stands as a beacon of faith and history on Dealul Mitropoliei. Known for its Brâncovenesc style façade and a cappella choir, the cathedral is a key site for Orthodox observances in Bucharest. It houses the relics of Saint Dimitrie Basarabov, patron saint of the city, and offers stunning city views, especially at sunset.