Experience Bucharest, a vibrant city where grand architecture,
rich culture, and lively street life come together, offering all the
charm of Europe with fewer crowds and a warm, local spirit.
City guide BUCHAREST
Welcome to Bucharest, Romania's vibrant
capital, where history and modernity blend
seamlessly. Known as "Little Paris," it boasts
striking architecture, diverse cuisine, and a
thriving cultural scene featuring museums
and theatres. With charming parks, lively
street life, and a warm, welcoming
atmosphere, Bucharest offers a unique
European experience.
Those who have travelled to Europe's more
popular cities know how crowded they can
get. Bucharest has all the charm but with far
fewer tourists, allowing you to feel more like a
local and truly discover all the city has to offer.
Must-Sees:
Explore Bucharest's wide boulevards and
iconic sites, including the Romanian
Athenaeum, Arch of Triumph, and the colossal
Palace of Parliament—the world's largest
civilian building, featuring ornate interiors
and crystal-chandeliered rooms. Muzeul
Satului, the open-air Village Museum, features
traditional historic dwellings from across
Romania such as rustic cottages, farmhouses,
and water mills.
Lose yourself in the cobbled maze of the
Old Town, where cosy cafes and vibrant folk
music fill the narrow streets. The Spring
Palace, once Nicolae Ceaușescu's residence,
showcases untouched treasures from the
1989 revolution. Wander along Calea Victoriei
(Victory Avenue), Bucharest's elegant
promenade, lined with architectural gems like
the National Art Museum, National Library
and Crețulescu Church.
Gastronomy:
Bucharest's culinary scene is a delicious fusion
of old-world flavours and modern flair. Tuck
into beloved Romanian staples like mici, juicy
grilled sausages bursting with smoky spice; or
W I N T E R I S S U E 2 6
EXTEND YOUR STAY
IN BUCHAREST
Take some extra time to enjoy
Romania's capital before or after your
Passage to Eastern Europe voyage. This
three-night extension allows you to
explore all the city has to offer, and
venture further afield to the
Transylvanian countryside.
sarmale, cabbage rolls stuffed with a savoury
mix of meat and rice. Warm up with a
steaming bowl of ciorbă, the zingy sour soup
that locals swear by. A fresh covrig—a soft,
salty pretzel—is a great grab-and-go bite.
Beyond the comfort food, Bucharest is
brimming with wine bars pouring velvety reds
and crisp whites from Romania's sun-
drenched vineyards. Pull up a chair at a cosy
café, sip on expertly brewed coffee, and treat
yourself to a pastry (or two).
Clockwise, from below left: Village Museum Huts,
Bucharest; Old Town, Pedestrian Street, Bucharest;
Romanian Polenta Sarmale Cabbage Rolls.
viking.com | 20
LEARN MORE
