Bucharest , Romania

The Real tour of Communism

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(649 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Real Tour of Communism will take you through all of the major aspects regarding the life under communist rule in Romania which lasted officially from 1948 to 1989.
The Communism era was marked by the dictator Nicolae Ceausescu who ruled Romania for most of this period (1965-1989).
We will discover the landmarks of the Communist era to understand how the city's architecture was influenced and changed for ever. But also the former locations of the Secret Police where Romanians were interrogated and tortured too.
The tour ends in the Revolution Square where Nicolae Ceausescu had his last speech on Dec 21st 1989 few days before he was executed together with his wife.

Available options

Tour on Communism Regular

Tour on Communism: The aim of The Tour of Communism is to offer tourists a guided tour that will take them through all of the major aspects regarding life under communist rule in Romania which lasted from1948 to 1989.

Exceptions

What's included

A snack that survived to present days since the Communism times.

3 hour walking tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Patriarchal Palace used to be the former headquarters of The Great National Assembly during the Communism period.

Stop 2

Find out the story of the second largest building in the world.

Find out how some churches from 16th and 17th were lucky to be literally moved/translated (and not demolished).

In the Old Town of Bucharest there were the favorite restaurants of the Communists leadership. We will discover the story behind them.

Stop 5

The revolution against the Romanian communist party was the only bloody one in the former Iron Curtain. You'll discover the last days of Nicolae Ceausescu in power and the first days of freedom after 40+ years of communism.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

236 reviews

5★

224

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

413 reviews

5★

396

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress accordingly

Meeting point

In front of the Patriarchal Cathedral. Address: Aleea Dealul Mitropoliei 25

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