Private: RedPatrol Bucharest Contrasts Tour in a Vintage Car
Active
3h - 4h
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 Bucharest of Contrasts Tour cross the entire city to uncover Europe’s most contrasting capital—a mix of 19th-century Belle Époque charm, stark Soviet ideology, massive Socialist urban planning, and raw post-Socialist realities. A fully restored vintage Dacia from the ’70s–’80s becomes your time-travel vehicle through Bucharest’s diverse worlds.
During the tour, we explore:
• The Bourgeois Royal Quarter of the 19th century
• The Soviet Quarter of the 1950s
• The Socialist Bedroom neighbourhoods of the 1970s
• The post-socialist city ghetto (80s-90s)
• The Socialist Quarter surrounding the Parliament House (80s)
From Cotroceni’s aristocratic villas to the vast 1970s housing estates and the striking Ferentari ghetto, you’ll experience real life across Bucharest’s layers of history. This unique ride offers memorable street impressions and truly special photos with an iconic Romanian classic car—the ultimate off-the-beaten-path Bucharest city tour.
Available options
2025
3 to 4 hours tour in Bucharest<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Dacia 1300/1310 <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Transport in a guided circuit in Bucharest
Tour personalized gift
Hotel pickup and drop-off from Bucharest
Water in the car
During wintertime our cars are heated !
Professional local guide (& driver) in your car
Detailed itinerary
1
Uranus, exploration of the area where the unimagined demolition that Ceausescu started in the 80s stopped due to the Romanian Revolution
2
The Bourgeoisie neighborhood that started in the XIX th Century from the first Royal Palace of Romania. Brief presentation
3
The first Royal Palace of Romania, built in the Modern Monarchy Era. A brief presentation of the belle epoque Bucharest.
4
- A presentation of a working class comunist blocks of flat area where a shoping mall was buit on the ruins of a communist canteen
- stop for photos and stories
5
Exploration of the Ferentari fallen industrial area buit by communists in the 70s
6
Exploration of the Ferentari blocks of flats area. The industrial area of Bucharest that transformed in the post socialist 90s from a workers area into a city ghetto. One of the most contrasting areas of Bucharest. A visit in the peasant market
7
The ruined area of the Socialist times, left abandoned after the collapse of the socialist factories. A brief exploration. Stories about the rise an fall of this nehbordood.
8
The Colonel's Quarter, the first Soviet Occupation era neighborhood. A brief presentation of how was life in the Stalinist days in Bucharest.
9
The biggest civil building from the world, The House of the Parliament lies in a neighborhood of 20 square km that was completely rebuilt after complete demolition. The story of the neighborhood and the House.
What's not included
Food and drinks other than those offered in the car
Any personal shopping
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
9 reviews
5★
8
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You will not drive the Dacia car
Dacia 1300/1310 is a 70- 80’s classics car that do not include AC, ABS, GPS navigation servo-direction or automatic gear drive.
All the cars provided by Red Patrol are fully restored classics that meet fully the safety traffic regulations.
The Red Patrol provides quality and safe conditions tours with fully restored vehicles and we do not allow the participation with pets or children under 10 years old.
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
