10 Free Activities In Bucharest That Will Make Your Trip

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The capital city of Romania is filled with history and has plenty of activities for you to do while you’re on vacation that you don’t have to pay a penny for. From huge cemeteries to buildings and gardens, Bucharest is sure to have at least a few things that will interest you during your stay.

1. Calea Victoriei:

One of the most famous streets in the world, it’s rich with a history that spans more than three centuries. Originally opening its “doors” to traffic in 1692, it’s now a great place to go for a stroll and check out the shops that have managed to secure a place on the road. You’ll be able to see churches, houses, shops, museums and hotels on the road.

2. Jewish History Museum:

Once being home to more than 800,000 Jewish citizens before they were forced to leave due to WWII, the Jewish History Museum now shows off many of the Jewish contributions that helped Romania become what it is today. In order to gain access to this museum you will need to bring your passport.

3. Walking Tour:

Through Guided Bucharest you can tour the city and view hundreds of year’s worth of history with an expert guide. The tour begins every day at 10:30 AM and 6 PM. You can expect this tour to take up somewhere between one and a half and two hours.

4. Bellu Cemetery:

The cemetery opened up in 1858 and is the oldest and most well-known cemetery in Bucharest.  It’s known to be the resting place of nearly all of the greatest Romanian’s since its opening, including musicians, writers, scientists, artists, academics and poets who are all grouped together according to profession.

5. Cismigiu Gardens:

The massive garden was finished in 1860 and has more than 30,000 trees along with exotic plants that were brought from Vienna. You can find cafes, large playgrounds, and many refreshment kiosks to quench your thirst. The gardens are the perfect place to have a picnic and spend part of your day not doing anything.

6. Parliament Palace – Casa Poporului:

The Parliament Palace is probably most known for its massive size, giving it the title of the second largest government building in the world. It costs money to enter the building, but it’s still worth the trip to go and see the impressive structure for yourself, even if you don’t go inside.

7. Stavropoleos Church:

The tiny church dates back to 1724 and has stunning wood and stone carvings. The church is also home to its own courtyard that has many tombstones dating back to the 18th century. The church is open between 7 AM and 8 PM and is located in Old Town.

8. Relax At Herastrau:

The largest park in Bucharest, it stretches over 187 hectares! It surrounds Herastrau Lake and much like Cismigiu Garden, it’s the perfect way to spend part of your day. If you are looking to spend money, the park is home to many exciting things to do such as the Reef Aquarium,  the Summer Theatre, boat trips, bike rentals and much more.

9. Old Town (Lipscani):

Known for being the only remaining part of Bucharest left from pre-WWII, it’s easy to have fun in this part of town where you can marvel at the old architecture and the vibrant atmosphere. When you’re done you can grab some drinks and great food as it’s known for being one of the best places to go for a night on the town.

10. Hanul lui Manuc:

The oldest operating hotel building in Bucharest was recently restored and is home to a restaurant, several bars, coffee house, and many stores. The building alone is amazing to look at and it has its very own courtyard.