Bucharest

Day 1: Historical Wonders of Bucharest

Morning Activity:
Palace of the Parliament

• Description: Explore the second-largest administrative building in the world, a colossal symbol of the Ceaușescu regime. Guided tours reveal opulent rooms and fascinating history.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Book tickets in advance online to skip the lines. Dress code is smart casual.

Lunch Suggestion:
Caru' cu Bere

• Description: Enjoy traditional Romanian dishes in a historic beer hall setting. Try their sarmale (cabbage rolls) and local beer.
• Location: Strada Stavropoleos 5

Afternoon Activity:
Old Town (Centrul Vechi)

• Description: Stroll through the charming cobbled streets, featuring colorful buildings, historic churches, and vibrant cafés. Stop by the ruins of the Old Princely Court.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Hanu' lui Manuc

• Description: Dine at one of the oldest inns in Bucharest, offering a mix of Romanian and Balkan cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
• Location: Strada Franceză 62-64

Day 2: Art and Culture of Bucharest

Morning Activity:
National Museum of Art of Romania

• Description: Discover Romania's rich artistic heritage, featuring works from medieval times to contemporary art.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Visit on Wednesdays for free admission.

Lunch Suggestion:
La Mama

• Description: Sample home-style Romanian dishes in a friendly environment. Try the mici (grilled sausages) or a hearty soup.
• Location: Multiple locations

Afternoon Activity:
Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum

• Description: Explore an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life with authentic houses and artifacts.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Bring a camera for beautiful outdoor shots.

Evening Activity:
Attend a Show at the Romanian Athenaeum

• Description: Experience a classical music concert in this stunning concert hall, renowned for its architecture and acoustics.
• Location: Strada Benjamin Franklin 1-3

Day 3: Day Trip to Transylvania

Full-Day Trip:
Bran Castle and Peles Castle

• Description: Visit the legendary Bran Castle, known as Dracula's Castle, and the fairy-tale Peles Castle in Sinaia.
• Estimated Duration: Full Day (8 hours)
• Tips: Join a guided tour for a seamless experience. Dress comfortably for walking.

Lunch Suggestion:
Restaurant in Sinaia

• Description: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant offering mountain cuisine, including hearty stews and grilled meats.

Return to Bucharest in the evening.

Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

Morning Activity:
Herăstrău Park

• Description: Relax in Bucharest's largest park, where you can stroll or rent a boat on the lake.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Bring a book or a picnic for a leisurely morning.

Lunch Suggestion:
Terasa Doamnei

• Description: Enjoy a casual meal overlooking the lake, specializing in fresh salads and grilled dishes.
• Location: Inside Herăstrău Park

Afternoon Activity:
Arch of Triumph and Kiseleff Park

• Description: Visit the iconic Arch of Triumph and relax in the adjacent Kiseleff Park, a beautiful spot for a leisurely walk.
• Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours

Evening Activity:
Dinner at 5 to Go

• Description: Enjoy a modern twist on Romanian cuisine in a trendy eatery.
• Location: Strada Radu Boiangiu 1

Day 5: Local Culture and Cuisine

Morning Activity:
Private Half-Day Tour in Bucharest City

• Description: Discover Bucharest's main attractions with a local guide, including the Calea Victoriei and Revolution Square.
• Estimated Duration: 4 hours
• Tips: Customize the itinerary based on your interests.
• Book your tour here

Lunch Suggestion:
Pizzeria Napoletana

• Description: Savor authentic Neapolitan pizza in a cozy setting, perfect for a casual lunch.
• Location: Strada Eforie 1

Afternoon Activity:
Street Art Tour in Bucharest

• Description: Explore the vibrant street art scene, discovering murals and graffiti that tell the city's story.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Check local guides for the best spots.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at The Artist

• Description: Experience fine dining with a creative twist on Romanian cuisine in an art-filled environment.
• Location: Strada Selari 13

Day 6: A Historic Journey

Morning Activity:
Jewish Legacy Tour

• Description: Explore Bucharest's Jewish heritage with visits to synagogues, the Holocaust Memorial, and the Jewish Museum.
• Estimated Duration: 4 hours
• Tips: A knowledgeable guide will enhance your understanding of the history.
• Book your tour here

Lunch Suggestion:
Simbio

• Description: Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
• Location: Strada Negustori 26

Afternoon Activity:
Visit the National History Museum

• Description: Delve into Romania's past through various exhibits, including the Romanian Crown Jewels.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Check for any temporary exhibitions.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at La Cantine de Nicolai

• Description: Dine at a popular local bistro renowned for its cozy ambiance and delicious dishes.
• Location: Strada Căderea Bastiliei 47

Day 7: Adventure in Nature

Full-Day Trip:
Bear Sanctuary and Bran Castle

• Description: Visit the largest bear sanctuary in Europe, followed by a guided tour of Bran Castle. Learn about bear conservation and the Dracula legend.
• Estimated Duration: Full Day (8 hours)
• Tips: Bring a camera for the sanctuary.
• Book your tour here

Lunch Suggestion:
Restaurant near the Sanctuary

• Description: Enjoy lunch at a local eatery featuring traditional Romanian dishes.

Return to Bucharest in the evening.

Summary

This 7-day itinerary captures the essence of Bucharest, blending historical exploration, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. You'll visit iconic landmarks, savor local cuisine, and discover hidden gems, creating lasting memories in Romania's vibrant capital. Whether you’re delving into its rich history or enjoying the local flavors, each day offers a unique perspective of Bucharest’s charm and allure.