Legend says that Bucharest (Bucuresti) was founded by a local shepherd, Bucur. Esti is meant to be a ‘welcome’ so the name Bucuresti roughly means ‘Welcome to Bucur’s town’. A personal greeting to each person that visits Bucharest!
Bucharest is the capital city of Romania, so visiting Bucharest, like any capital city, isn’t a true depiction of the country. However, with such an interesting back story, Romania’s capital certainly has a lot to offer.
Random fact: Michael Jackson visited Bucharest twice. On the first time he visited he yelled to the massive crowd “Hello Budapest!”… Luckily he is loved so much by Romanians that they forgave him, I’m told. On his second visit he got the name of the city correct! phew…
Bucharest Cocktail Culture
Yes, I said it – Bucharest has a cocktail culture! Cocktails in Bucharest are anywhere from 2 Euros to 4 Euros – which is fall-on-the-floor shocking. Our first night in Bucharest was spent in the Bicicleta Bar, on the top floor of a corner building overlooking a gorgeous dome, and above a strip club.
Biciceletta was decked out in anything bicycle related. From the stools made entirely of bike parts to the many wall decorations – the place had an awesome set up, great tunes and nice vibe!
When we asked for a menu we were told there wasn’t one. Their concept? You tell the bartenders the kind of cocktails you like, or the kind of flavour (for instance, fruity). From there they will make you something completely off the cuff!
My cocktail = Deeeelicious!
Communism
Seeing Bucharest now is quite bizarre. On the one hand the buildings are magnificent, then across the street is the ugliest building you’ve ever laid your eyes on. The place is starkly different from moment to moment.
The most magnificent building was the Palace. It was built during Ceaușescu’s reign as the communist leader and now stands as the 2nd biggest government building in world, next to the Pentagon.
Frustratingly, only 50% of the building is used because Romania does not have enough uses or jobs to take up more space.
Positively, Ceaușescu was killed for being a very bad boy before he ever got to set foot inside the monstrosity. Suck on that one.
A few must visits on your wanderings include:
Old Court Princely Church
This church is special to Romanians in that, if you are single, you can come here to pray for a mate/lover/partner, and your wish will come true – probably because other single souls are also inside the same venue in search of love, too!
Stavropoleos Church
This tiny church is stunning inside and out – one of my favourite churches ever! The inside is extremely well carved and painted. Next door to it is the monastery which is still in use.
When Ceaușescu was tearing important and meaningful Romanian structures down for his mega Communist roads and buildings, Romanians would bring their important relics here for safe-keeping!
Statue of Vlad The Impaler
This man was brilliant and brilliantly devilish. Based on the stories of what he did – you have got to respect him!! Impaling hundreds of men to the point where they would survive for up to 48 hours on the poles is terrifying. Thankfully Vlad (Dracula) is no longer with us.
Manucs Inn
Built in 1808, it was here that the peace talks were had and subsequent treaty was signed to end the Russo-Turkish War!
Unirii Park Fountains
The vast communist built fountains in Unirii park aren’t even filled with water. Or, they weren’t filled when we visited!
The cool thing to see is the paving at the bottom of the fountain, but also shows how the over-the-top building work done during Ceaușescu’s reign was foolish, as the amount of water needed to make this a beautiful fountain must cost too much for the city to keep it running permanently these days!
Caru Cu Bere
Not only do you sit in the oldest tavern in all of Bucharest, while eating the most traditional Romanian feast, but there is also an ongoing LIVE performance of Romanian instruments and singing, making the most enjoyable atmosphere!
Bucharest: A Diamond In The Rough
There are so many things to experience in Bucharest, from the cocktails and yummy food, to the grand beautiful buildings and interesting culture. Bucharest isn’t just a place full of history but is vibrant and honestly, what better time to check it out than 2 years post-Communism?
Australian expat, married to a Dutch guy, living in Amsterdam. Previously lived in London for 3 years, too! Lover of travel, coffee, brunch, beaches, fresh flowers, and family. Now a new mum, navigating life with a baby!
