Bucharest Essential Tour: Old Town, Calea Victoriei & Communism
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2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Discover from a passionate local guide Bucharest’s amazing journey from a medieval fortification into a Belle Epoque city and how it was then mutilated by a gruesome dictatorship. On this 2.5-hour small group walking tour, you will go to the main landmarks in Bucharest and hear its amazing tales. Learn about the gory times when Dracula was roaming the streets of Bucharest to the devastating communist regime led by the dictator Nicolae Ceausescu.
Available options
Bucharest Tour in Spanish
Bucharest Essential Tour: Old Town, Calea Victoriei & Communism
What's included
Tourist map of Bucharest
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Find out about the most beautiful building in Bucharest
2
See the statue of Romania's first king, Carol I, the former Royal Palace and the impressive University Library and find out all about the incredible story of monarchy in this country.
3
Stop 3
In the imposing Revolution Square you will understand the harsh communism oppression and how much control the totalitarian regime exercised over the locals’ lives. Tales of incredible evolution and achievements, but also about hunger and food rations will be told, topped by images from those times, for a more dramatic effect.
Here you will also hear the story of the bloody revolution in December 1989 and the ultimate downfall of the Dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, witnessing the birth of the democratic Romania.
4
Stop 4
Afterwards we will walk on the avenue where kings had their daily strolls - the romantic Calea Victoriei. Superb Belle Epoque structures like the CEC Palace, Grand Hôtel du Boulevard or the University Library can be admired.
5
At the beginning of the tour we will walk in the Old Town of Bucharest, on the steps of the most gruesome character in history – Vlad Dracula and discover his forgotten fortress. In the nearby caravanserai, Manuc’s Inn, an impressive former commercial settlement, learn how Bucharest evolved at the merger between two different worlds: the East and the West. Later, we will take you to find an eclectic mix of buildings like the National Bank of Romania, the Stavropoleos Monastery and the Villacrosse Passage and you will surely be charmed by the lively atmosphere in this quarter.
What's not included
Lunch
Coffee and/or Tea
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
17 reviews
5★
17
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Tripadvisor
5.0
123 reviews
5★
118
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The guide is waiting in front of the columns of the Romanian Athenaeum building. The guide will hold a sign that reads BTRIP Bucharest Walking Tour in blue letters.
About Bucharest
Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a vibrant city known for its blend of historic architecture and modern development. With a rich cultural scene, lively nightlife, and significant historical landmarks, it offers a unique experience for travelers.
Top Attractions
Palace of the Parliament
One of the largest administrative buildings in the world, a symbol of communist architecture and power.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
€7-10
Old Town (Lipscani)
The historic center of Bucharest, filled with charming streets, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife.
Historical/Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore
Village Museum (Muzeul Satului)
An open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life with authentic houses and buildings.
Cultural
2-3 hours
€3-5
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sarmale
Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices, usually served with polenta and sour cream
Main Course
Contains meat and gluten
Mămăligă
Polenta made from cornmeal, often served with cheese, sour cream, or meat dishes
Side Dish
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Ciorbă
A sour soup made with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or fish, often served with a boiled egg and sour cream
Soup
Can be vegetarian or with meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Carpathian Mountains
Skiing in Poiana Brașov
Spa treatments
Strolling through Herăstrău Park
Visiting museums and art galleries
Attending classical concerts at the Romanian Athenaeum
Boating on Lake Herăstrău
Skiing
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest time of the year with the most outdoor activities and festivals. However, it can be crowded with tourists.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Romanian
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Romanian Leu (RON)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 (EEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
Bucharest is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious at night and avoid poorly lit streets.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers or requests
Getting there
By air
- Henri Coandă International Airport • 16.7 km (10.4 miles) from city center
- Aurel Vlaicu International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By train
Gara de Nord, Băneasa
By bus
Autogara Nord, Autogara Sud
Getting around
Public transport
Clean, efficient, and affordable. The metro system is the fastest way to get around Bucharest.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Lipscani)
Dorobanți
Cotroceni
Day trips
Peleș Castle
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
A stunning neo-Renaissance castle nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family.
Bran Castle
160 km (100 miles) • Full day
A medieval fortress often associated with Dracula, offering a glimpse into Romania's rich history and folklore.
Sinaia
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
A beautiful mountain town known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Bucharest International Film Festival (BIFF) • April
George Enescu Festival • September
Bucharest Pride • June
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Romanian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover hidden gems and local culture
- Use public transport or walk to get a sense of the city's rhythm and avoid traffic
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
