Depending on your flight time, you may find yourself with only a few hours to see the sights of Bucharest’s old town.
But what to see if you don’t have too much time to spare?
Don’t worry, I got you! As always, I researched the key sights that were walkable and worthy of a photo or two, and a few hours is plenty to see the best of Bucharest.
First stop:
Grand Cafe Van Gogh – this place is popular, so I’d advise that you book in advance via their website if you can. And it’s easy to see why. The place is covered in replica art from the great painter himself, and is quite a sight to behold.
The food is also excellent, and my caramel and cream French toast was so delicious. It was also reasonably priced considering its popularity.
And if you ask nicely, you may be allowed to climb the winding staircase and take a peek at the upstairs room, which are both just stunning.
Second stop:
The Church of “Stavropoleos” Monastery – just around the corner from Cafe Van Gogh is this historic religious site. This place was giving serious Seville or even Moroccan vibes.
It’s free to enter the gardens, and is definitely worth a look and a moment’s quiet contemplation if that’s your thing. You may also want to step inside the building itself too, but of course, make sure you’re suitable covered and be respectful of those praying as it is a place of worship.
Third stop:
Carturesti Carusel book store – whether you’re an avid reader or not, you must take a look inside this store as it really is a beautiful work of architecture. Stay and shop or take the lift to the top floor where you’ll find the cafe. When you’re done, you can explore the cafes and shops of Bucharest’s main shopping street.
Fourth stop:
The Fountain of Universitate – this isn’t hugely spectacular, but it gives off a refreshing spray which is pretty nice on a hot day! And it makes a cute photo stop too.
Fifth stop:
Umbrella Street – We’ve finally arrived at the famous Umbrella Street, or officially known as Pasajul Victoria. This covered walk through is the ideal Instagram photo opportunity and the colours are just off the chart.
Also, I highly recommend grabbing an ice cream or sorbet cup from the stand at the end, the lavender flavour ice cream was absolutely divine!
These were my key sights that I wanted to see in the short time we had, but if you have a little longer than I’d recommend adding in Cercul Militar Național (The National Military Club), The Roman Athenaeum, Caru’ cu bere and Monument cu Ceas, which puts on a spectacular light show after dark.
Or, for something a little more fun (and to save your tired legs), consider a tuk-tuk tour or similar. We did this in Porto and absolutely loved it!
Happy travels! ✈️
(post contains affiliate links)
