Private Walking Tour: Essential Bucharest + Hidden Gems
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover a Bucharest that's very much alive and constantly changing. From the belle époque, turn-of-the-century iconic Victory Avenue downtown also with some 1930s Manhattan influences to the new Civic Centre, a 1980s totalitarian utopia turned current dystopia dominated by the surroundings of the largest Parliament in the world, you get the full experience and the chance to understand this unforgiving city that many love to hate while uncovering hidden gems off the beaten path. Mandatory observations along the dedicated routes also come with exciting side information.
Available options
Private Walking Tour: Essential Bucharest + Hidden Gems
What's included
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Experience the most famous avenue in Bucharest, with its amazing landmarks! Palaces, museums and mansions tell the story of how this great street was turned into the centre of highlife in the first part of the last centry. Travel through the decades and learn how Victory Avenue was affected by wars and earthquakes and how it was reborn. Explore hidden places and uncover urban mysteries right at the heart of the Romanian Capital to get a flavour of Bucharest eclectism at its best!
2
Stop 2
Our guide will offer exclusive insights about iconic landmarks on the square
3
Our guide will offer exclusive insights about iconic landmarks on the square
4
Our guide will offer exclusive insights about iconic landmarks on the avenue
5
Everyone knows the Parliament (a.k.a. the People's House), that gigantic palace in the heart of Bucharest and the large avenues surrounding it, but is that what Bucharest is all about? This tours goes behind the scenes and unveils how the Romanian Capital's central street network was destroyed, how historical areas were cut off from the city life, became isolated and started decaying, all of them sacrificed for a new, dystopian city centre where Ceaușescu would rule supreme.
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
49 reviews
5★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
At the fence in front of the garden of the Athenaeum, bordering Calea Victoriei (Victory Avenue)
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
