In the Footsteps of the Dictator Ceausescu - Rise and Fall

Bucharest , Romania

In the Footsteps of the Dictator Ceausescu - Rise and Fall

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About this experience

Get a fascinating overview of how Ceausescu met his fate becoming the youngest communist and how and where he met his wife, a woman of commitment and ambition.

In this tour you will go by car in Ferentari neighborhood, also known as the gipsy’s site, at the Palace of Parliament, Ceausescu's greatest achievement, you’ll visit his family main house known as Ceausescu Mansion, and also you’ll stop in the Revolution Square, where the rise and the fall as we know it, happened.

A story less known but as good as any history lesson with a great overview of Bucharest.

Start your private tour with a pickup from your hotel in Bucharest and settle in for the tour which will cover a large part of the city, with stops for stories, pictures and visits.

Available options

In the Footsteps of the Dictator Ceausescu - Rise and Fall

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Hotel Pickup and dropoff

Entry/Admission to Ceausescu Mansion (Primaverii Palace)

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Europe's biggest administrative building is definitely one of the most impressive buildings in Europe, and one of the biggest in the world.

We only see it from outside but the story and the look it’s definitely impressive.

The palace stands out both in magnitude and in its luxurious interior garnished with beautiful design elements (furniture, carpets, mirrors, porcelain) manufactured in famous shops from the country and from abroad.

The place where former communist president Ceausescu had the first speech in 1968 and the last speech in 1989 at the former headquarters of the Communist party. 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.

Revolution Square is a square in central Bucharest, on Calea Victoriei. Known as Palace Square until 1989, it was renamed after the Romanian Revolution of December 1989. The former Royal Palace (now the National Museum of Art of Romania), the Athenaeum, the Athénée Palace Hotel, the University of Bucharest Library and the Memorial of Rebirth are located here.

Stop 4 Pass by

The historical and most known street in Bucharest, with Art Nouveau buildings, many monuments, shops, restaurants and points of interes

The story of young Nicolae starts in the car and you’ll have the first break in the poor neighborhood of Ferentari, once known for the poor workers and dangerous gypsies.

Will learn about the place where he met his future wife, Elena Petrescu, and their love story and struggles until they got married.

What's not included

Coffee and/or Tea

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT RO

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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