Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a mix of the old and the new. Modern infrastructure is sprouting up all over Romania’s “Little Paris,” a sign of the country’s booming economy. In a way, it has changed the atmosphere and the landscape of the city. Luckily, some of its ancient churches and palaces still remain intact.
It’s no longer a surprising sight—old establishments right next to contemporary edifices now make up Bucharest’s appeal. Don’t be intimidated by the city’s sophistication, though. You can definitely explore it without spending a fortune. All it really takes is some good research skills. To help you plan a budget trip, here’s a rundown of some of the things you can experience in Bucharest for free!
1. Join a free Bucharest walking tour
Several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) run free walking tours in European cities like Bucharest. One example is Bucharest Walkabout, a group which aims to make Romania a more friendly place for tourists and also to teach them the art of smart traveling. They have knowledgeable guides who guide independent travelers or small groups to the city’s most beautiful attractions by foot. Their itinerary usually includes Stavropoleos Convent, an Eastern Orthodox nunnery, and the Ruins of Vlad’s Citadel, a castle which is associated with Dracula. Other stops are Manuc’s Inn, Palace of the Parliament, Revolution Square, and Victory Boulevard. Although the tour is free, the group also appreciates donations from guests.
2. Take a stroll along Calea Victoriei
Exploring Bucharest by foot is the best way to save money. If you love taking long walks, then head over to Calea Victoriei, a major avenue located right in the heart of the city. It is adorned with picturesque houses and palaces on the northern part of this street, while upscale shops and hotels fill the street’s southern side. Calea Victoriei was paved in 1825 but was only named Calea Victoriei in 1878 after Romanians won independence. At present, it remains the most prestigious thoroughfare of Bucharest and a delightful sight that welcomes every tourist who wish to catch a glimpse of the life in Romania’s Little Paris.
3. Relax at the Cismigiu Gardens
Bucharest has plenty of public parks where you can relax and enjoy great views without spending a dime. One good example is Cismigiu Gardens, a 17 hectare (42 acre) park located in central Bucharest. Since 1854, it has been popular as a recreational area among the locals. It has a lake, where city dwellers cool down during summer and ice skate during winter when the water freezes. There are benches and shaded alleys, both offering nice spots for a picnic. Another thing you will see inside is the Writers’ Ring, where you can see busts of the most renowned Romanian writers. The park is open 24 hours a day.
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4. Marvel at the graffiti in Garajul Ciclop
It was in the 1920s when buying new cars was a trend among affluent people in Bucharest. The need for a garage turned up as well, and that is why the car depot named Garajul Ciclop was built. Almost a hundred years later, this industrial building is now a filled with art created by local graffiti artists. In fact, it has been recognized by the government as a historic monument. It’s a must-see if you love street art. Meanwhile, for cycling enthusiasts, there’s a colorful bike shop located on the building’s ground floor. They sell a variety of bikes and other sporting goods as well.
Bucharest Tour Guide
Crinu Ivan
I have been a registered national guide since 2018 and I have provided over a hundred local tours in Bucharest. At least a dozen trips to different areas of Romania such as Transylvania, Dobrogea, or the seaside. Looking forward to going on tours with you!
5. Admire the architecture in Hanul lui Manuc
Hanul lui Manuc, or simply Manuc’s Inn, is the oldest hotel building located in Bucharest. It was originally built in 1808 by an influential Armenian named Emanuel Marzaian who was called Manuc Bey. At present, Manuc’s Inn is considered a historic monument and a famous destination for its remarkable Balkan-Ottoman architecture. The building’s main highlight is its balconied courtyard, usually used as a venue for cultural performances. Aside from the hotel itself, there are also restaurants, coffee shops, and other commercial establishments in the area. It is one of the few remaining caravansaries of southeastern Europe, so make sure you put it in your itinerary!
6. Catch a glimpse of the Palace of the Parliament
Speaking of Bucharest’s architectural gems, you will find another one on a hill located in the heart of the city. It is the Palace of the Parliament, the seat of the Parliament of Romania and the second largest government building in the world. Spanning 365,000 square meters (3928827.3 square feet), it houses Romania’s Senate and Chamber of Deputies, as well as The National Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of the Palace, and the newly established Museum of Communist Totalitarianism. Fun fact: this massive building is one of the man-made structures on earth, which is visible from outer space. Over 400 architects worked together to create this ornate building.
7. See the domes and murals of Saint Nicholas Church
Saint Nicholas Church, also known as the Bucharest Russian Church, was built in 1905 with the initiative of then Russian Ambassador Mikhail Nikolaevich Giers. Located near University Square, it features remarkable Russian religious architecture with seven onion domes. There are many Orthodox churches in Bucharest, but this one stands out because the domes were once covered with gold. Additionally, its altar is modeled after that of the Arkhangelsk Cathedral in Moscow. It also has murals in Russian Art Nouveau style. The church is currently undergoing renovation, but it is still open to anyone who wishes to see and admire its beauty.
8. Check out Bucharest’s Old Town
Bucharest’s Old Town offers a glimpse of what the city was like before World War II. It was once a bustling commercial center where bars and restaurants were dotted along the cobbled streets. Merchants from across the country came here to sell or trade their goods, which explains why inns were established long ago in this part of the city. Meanwhile, the local houses in the Old Town had narrow facades, which were designed to save space, different from the traditional Romanian houses with a garden in front. Some of the historical structures you might encounter while taking a stroll along the Old Town’s streets are The Old Court and The Old Palace of the Chamber of Commerce. In case you get hungry, there are restaurants along the Stavropoleos Street like the Caru’ cu Bere, which offers delicious local food and homebrewed beer.
9. Visit the Romanian Athenaeum
One of the most renowned landmarks of Bucharest is the Romanian Athenaeum, a concert hall that opened in 1888. Its main feature is a dome with an ornate architectural design. It is the premier destination for Bucharest’s musical events. In fact, it is home to the George Enescu International Music Festival, an annual event in honor of the Romanian classical music composer. Although you have to pay for tickets if you wish to watch one of the concerts inside, guests are free to admire its gardens and exteriors.
10. Unwind in Herastrau Park
Herastrau Park, the largest public park in Bucharest, is a destination you surely won’t miss when you visit the northern part of the city. It is located around Lake Herastrau, where you can sail aboard a small boat. The park is divided in two sections: the Village Museum, which has houses and other structures depicting a traditional Romanian village, and the recreational area where guests can set-up a picnic or play outdoor games. Other facilities you will find inside the 110 hectare (272 acre) park include a yacht club, an open-air theater and a sports club.
Discovering Bucharest on a budget
Although Bucharest is Romania’s commercial center, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to shell out tons of money just to enjoy your trip. Plan your vacation accordingly and you will surely have a great time in the city called Little Paris!
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