Previously known as the ‘Paris of the East’ for its long leafy avenues and grand buildings, the architecture did suffer under the Communist regime of Nicolae Ceausescu, but there is still plenty to see and do in Bucharest. The dictator’s most grandiose and overblown gesture, the Palace of Parliament, is now the city’s main tourist attraction.
To construct the building Ceausescu ordered more than 40,000 residents to be relocated and he demolished a large section of the historic old town, including 26 churches. Construction commenced in 1984 with 20,000 workers and 700 architects, though by the time of Ceausescu’s execution in 1989 it was still far from complete.
Today, the building houses the Romanian Parliament as well as an international conference centre. It is second in size only to The Pentagon with 1,100 rooms, the largest of which has a sliding roof that can accommodate the arrival and departure of a helicopter! The interior is characteristically opulent, full of grand gestures and is a must see on the tourist trail.
The historic buildings of Bucharest are now being restored and there are plenty of museums, galleries and impressive Orthodox churches to visit. Revolution Square and the stunning Central Library are also worth spending time in. Summer sees the opening of festive beer gardens throughout the city and the nightlife scene is growing and lively. For gentler pursuits, take a trip to Cismigui Garden, Bucharest’s most central green space. Beautifully landscaped by Carl Meyer in the 19th Century, at the heart of the Garden is a spectacular lake – ideal for paddling in summer and skating in winter.
An International Music Festival is held every May. EuropaFest attracts more than 300 musicians from over 50 countries to Bucharest playing everything from jazz, blues, rock, pop and classical. The Winter Gifts Festival at the Museum of the Romanian Peasant in December is the perfect place for Christmas shopping showcasing the talents of over 150 local artists.
Outside of the capital you’ll find a rich and diverse landscape. Cliff top castles, historic towns, the dramatic Carpathian Mountains and sandy beaches of the Black Sea Coast are all within easy driving distances. With numerous ski resorts where good snow coverage is guaranteed in winter and hot summer months for perfect for basking by the Black Sea, choose a flight to Bucharest for a refreshingly different break city break or longer holiday.
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Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (also known as Otopeni) is located 16,5 km from the city centre of Bucharest.
By car
The airport can be reached via National Road DN 1.
Bt taxi
Pre book your door-to-door airport transfers with easyJet’s partner Holiday Taxis. We cater for the Business and Leisure Traveller.
Public taxis can be found in the taxi rank outside the arrivals terminal of the airport.
By coach
The 783 Express line connects Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport with the city centre. Journey time is approximately 60 minutes. The bus stop can be found outside the departure and arrivals terminals.
783 Express line operates a regular schedule: On Monday-Friday between 05:30 and 20:00 (every 15 minutes); and between 20:30 and 23:00 (every 30 minutes). On Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays between 05:30 and 23:00 (every 30 minutes).