Darkside Tour of Bucharest - small group

Bucharest , Romania

Darkside Tour of Bucharest - small group

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(138 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

Bucharest has a very dark past. It's time you found out about it!

Join us and dive into the city’s intriguing history, its deepest, darkest secrets. This is not your average history lesson and what you learn on this tour won’t likely be in your guidebook — so get ready to be shocked, awed, and entertained.

Available options

summer schedule

schedule: Bucharest has a very dark past. It's time you found out about it!

What's included

Subway transportation

Local guide

Street Snack

Detailed itinerary

Enjoy the walk and stories inside the Bellu Cemetery, the first modern graveyard in the city and a place filled with love stories, unique architecture and even mysteries waiting to be resolved.

Stop 2

Discover the starting point of the most important protests in our recent history. Learn about the victims that bravely fought during the Revolution of 1989, the ones who believed in an occidental future and fought the miners in the '90s, as well as the recent anticorruption battle. All of them started here.

Stop 3

Next travel back in time in the beginning of the 20th century to find out all about the scandalous times that Bucharest had before the Communist Regime took power. In 1927, around 12.000 prostitutes and escorts were working in Romania. Among them, there were ladies of night such as the beautiful gypsy dancer, Zaraza.

Stop 4

A very important and emotional spot that gives goosebumps to every Romanian. Learn about the Romanian gulag, the cruel dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and how difficult was the life in the '80s for the local people. Travel in time back to the 22nd December 1989 when shootings took place and many innocent people died facing Securitatea (the secret police). This place represents a symbolic end for the communist regime in Romania. Discover how it happened.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

61 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

77 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for child aged 15 and under

Meeting point

At the mail entrence of Ion Luca Caragiale National Theatre
Bulevardul Nicolae Bălcescu 2, București 010051, Romania

Important notes

• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Minimum age is 15 years

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