Expert walking tour: Romania beyond the headlines

Bucharest , Romania

Expert walking tour: Romania beyond the headlines

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

Romania’s emergence as a frontier of the West, as it is today, makes it part of the western history. That is why a visitor walking through Bucharest centre will give you the chance to discover a cultural, political and historical puzzle originating in the influence of the Ottoman empire, followed by the successive advances and retreats of Eastern and Western allegiances and finally ending in half century of communism.

You will be surprised by the stories of the Romanian kings, dictators and aristocratic families originating in the darkness of history.

This tour is an incredible way to get under the skin of a country, with less emphasis on ordinary tourism, you’ll go off the beaten track and have a former journalist or academic accompanying you out along the way. You don’t need to be an expert in politics or foreign affairs to join. Everyone has an enquiring mind. It really is more like experiencing a kind of documentary than going on a typical group tour.

Available options

Expert walking tour: Romania beyond the headlines

Pickup included

What's included

photos along the route

Soda/Pop

Bottled water

welcome coffee

small surprise

English and French speaking expert guide

Detailed itinerary

That is the place where communism collapsed in Romania, where the Royal Family enjoyed the last demonstration of support before being expelled by the new soviet-backed rulers and where Romania left the Axis and joined the Allied forces in the fight against Nazism.

Stop 2

You will explore the early history of the city by walking on its main avenue, linking the southern official residence of the early rulers to the other northern extreme of the historical city, currently Piata Victoriei.

Stop 3

Until after World War 1 it was the northern limit of the city. Then, all the area beyond became the new preferred ground for interwar new buildings, airshows, automobile races and…parties. Romanian royalty, with its complicated life was part of the story.Then, when communists took over the new elite accommodated itself in the luxurious buildings confiscated from the rich. They enjoyed their own social events and shared their life in an almost exclusive district, conceived mainly for the use of the leaders of the working class.

The Old Princely Court Museum (Curtea Veche) houses the oldest historical testimonies of Bucharest, dating from the 13th century.

What's not included

Gratuities for your local expert guide

Tickets to museums or other sights

transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

inside Novotel hotel from Calea Victoriei.

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