My Bucharest

- Author's Tour

A journey told by someone who lives it (3–4 hours) A guided tour including, at the visitor’s choice, a visit to the Palace of Parliament, the Primăverii Residence (Ceaușescu’s Villa), Cotroceni Palace, or the Village Museum. Two of the above sites will be visited. Of course, we could also visit all of them—and maybe even stop by my favorite market. But everything depends on your energy, curiosity, patience, and willingness to part with a few rustling banknotes.

In 2007, television commitments brought me to Bucharest for the first time. Initially, I had no intention whatsoever of settling in Romania’s capital. Yet five years later, I was still here. At first, I was in love with this city. Of course, it wasn’t all smooth sailing from the start. There was also a period of rejection—I can’t say whether it was more my provincial mindset or its Balkan nature to blame. But in time, we adapted to each other, and I learned to love it with all its contradictions.

I let myself be absorbed by its ancient alleyways, by buildings that sometimes shine and sometimes brood, relics of the past two centuries. By the beauty and grandeur of Herăstrău and Cișmigiu parks; by the roar of traffic and the irritating congestion; by the efficiency of the metro and the scent of freshly baked pastries that fills every station. We became each other’s destiny. Today, I can say with certainty that Bucharest is my city.

So- MY BUCHAREST!

Before your trip to Romania, you have surely read that at the end of the 19th century Bucharest was called “Little Paris.”
And of course, during our tour we will see the very buildings that inspired this comparison.
First and foremost, the Romanian Athenaeum—a concert hall built in neoclassical style at the end of the 19th century, designed by the French architect Albert Galleron.

We will also stop at Revolution Square, a place steeped in history. One of the buildings that most captures visitors’ attention is the University Library, designed by architect Paul Gottereau.
In addition to the library, we will talk about the Royal Palace, the former headquarters of the Romanian Communist Party Central Committee, and the Kretzulescu Church.

At the entrance to the Old Town, we will pause in front of the CEC Bank building, also designed by Paul Gottereau, a graduate of the National School of Fine Arts in Paris. CEC Bank is one of Bucharest’s symbols and was built at the same time as Paris’s Petit Palais. The two buildings are remarkably similar.

Another building—and venue—you will certainly want to visit is Caru’ cu bere, which translates as “The Beer Wagon.” Dating back to the late 19th century.
It has remained true to its name through every era: the monarchy, communism, and today’s modern Romania.

We will then continue through the alleyways of the historic center. We will see Stavropoleos Monastery, walk along one of the Old Town’s most famous streets— Lipscani, visit the former Prince’s Court, and the historic inn Hanul lui Manuc.

Once you have chosen the two sites you wish to visit internally, we will head toward them.
Our route will cross the city’s main boulevards and arteries, allowing you to perceive the blend of Eastern and Western influences in the Romanian capital.
After all, Bucharest was born at the crossroads of major trade routes.

At the end of the tour, I will suggest lunch or dinner at one of the local restaurants, where you can enjoy a fresh craft beer brewed especially for that venue—or a glass of excellent Romanian wine.

And for those who love strong emotions, there will be a small glass of pălincă or țuică.

MY BUCHAREST is waiting for you!

PROGRAM SUMMARY

Highlights

Highlights: Revolution Square, the pedestrian area of Bucharest’s Historic Center, and the city’s main boulevards.
At your choice two of the following four tourist attractions will be visited (choice subject to availability): the Palace of Parliament, Ceaușescu House, Cotroceni Palace, or the Village Museum.

Note: Reservations for visits to the three palaces must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Without a reservation, it is not possible to access these palaces.
At the entrance of Cotroceni Palace and the Palace of Parliament, presentation of a valid ID card or passportis mandatory. Visitors will undergo a security check similar to airport controls.

DURATION: 3-4 hours

Included/Not Included

Included:
• Panoramic tour of Bucharest
• Transportation – car / minivan / coach (depending on the number of participants)
• English-speaking guide/escort

Not included:
• Entrance tickets to palaces and museums
• Meals
• Tips for guide and driver
• Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Included” section

Important Information

NOT SUITABLE FOR:
• Children under 8 years old
• People with reduced mobility

MEETING POINT:
• Our representative will contact you after booking to communicate the exact meeting point and departure time.

WHAT TO BRING:
• Comfortable shoes
• Umbrella

PROHIBITED:
• Consumption of alcohol and illegal substances!

Please Note

Please Note:
• You will be accompanied throughout the tour by an English-speaking guide.
• The money for entrance tickets must be given to the guide, who will purchase them for the entire group to avoid long queues at ticket offices.
• Students with a valid student ID and visitors over 65 years old with a passport are entitled to discounts.
• Consumption of alcoholic beverages on board the coach is strictly prohibited. In case of intoxication, the guide has the right to exclude the tourist from continuing the tour, and all tourist services will be automatically terminated.