Our Dream Trip to Romania

My husband and I had dreamed of visiting Romania for years, and we finally made it happen (before the pandemic, of course!). The country was even more stunning than we imagined—we’re already dreaming of our next trip!

Why Bucharest Stole Our Hearts

Bucharest surprised us with its breathtaking architecture and charm. One of our favorite routines was waking up at sunrise to stroll the quiet streets before the crowds arrived. There’s something magical about watching the morning light glow on the old copper and glass rooftops.

If you’re considering a trip to Bucharest, we can’t recommend it enough! Here are some must-do activities:

Top Things to Do in Bucharest

1. Sip Coffee at Carturesti Carusel

• A perfect spot to unwind with a book and a warm drink.
• Instagram-worthy—great for photos!
• Ideal for a relaxing break after a day of exploring.

2. Tour the Palace of the Parliament

• A massive communist-era building with a controversial past.
• Second-largest administrative building in the world (after the Pentagon).
• Guided tours available—don’t miss it!

3. Stroll Down Victoriei Avenue

• Best explored in the early morning.
• Key landmarks along the way:
  • National Museum of History
  • Revolution Square
  • Museum of Art Collections
  • Cantacuzino Palace
• Pro tip: Plan your route on Google Maps to avoid backtracking!

4. Dine at Hanu’ lui Manuc

• A historic inn with a charming courtyard.
• Live music and dancing on some nights—locals love it!
• Delicious food and a unique atmosphere.

5. Wander the Old Town

• The best area to stay in Bucharest.
• Full of history, cafes, and hidden gems.
• Great Airbnb options (we didn’t stay in hotels).
• Don’t miss:
  • Manuc Inn (one of the oldest churches)
  • Stavropoleos Monastery
  • The historic merchant streets

6. Explore the Ancient Churches

• Some of our favorite memories were visiting these centuries-old churches.
• Their beauty and history feel like stepping back in time.
• Must-see churches:
  • Stavropoleos
  • Bucur
  • Coltea
  • Sfantu Gheorghe

7. Relax in the Parks

• Perfect for a picnic or a break from sightseeing.
• Our favorites:
  • Carol Park
  • Herastrau
  • Cismigiu

8. Indulge in Romanian Pastries

• We couldn’t get enough of them!
• Must-try treats:
  • Fresh pretzels (sweet or salty)
  • Romanian cheese pie
  • Apple strudel
• Pair with a hot drink for the perfect snack.