Bucharest’s Old Town is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Romania’s capital, a place where the old meets the new and strangers become friends.
The Old Town’s restored buildings, the bookshops, theatres, small restaurants, and cafes add to its undeniable charm, making it one of the most vibrant and exciting parts of the city.
If you’re planning a trip to Bucharest, it’s a place you should definitely check out, especially because it‘s conveniently located near some of the best museums in Bucharest.
Make the most out of your time in Bucharest by visiting the Old Town and one (or more) of the following museums:
1. Palace of Parliament
Located in the central part of Bucharest (in Sector 5), the Palace of Parliament (also known as the People’s House) is the seat of the Parliament of Romania and the second-largest administrative building in the world.
Built-in 1985, this architectural giant measures no less than 330,000 m2 (~3,550,000 sq ft) and has a height of 84 meters (276 ft).
It is believed that as many as 100,000 people worked around the clock to complete the commissioned work, and thousands of them tragically lost their lives during the process.
By the impressive size of the palace, former Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu wanted to prove he was the greatest and wealthiest leader of the socialist bloc. Also, there were rumors claiming the dictator planned on building a metro line between the airport and the People’s Palace, so that he could make a secret escape in extreme cases.
You can read more about this iconic building in Romania in a previous article we wrote on the topic.
- March – October, daily between 09:00 a.m. – 17:00 p.m. (last tour at 16:30);
- November – February, daily between 10:00 a.m. – 16:00 p.m. (last tour at 15:30).
2. Romania’s Kitsch Museum
Kitsch, a term used to describe art, objects, or designs which are considered to be in poor taste due to excessive embellishments and sentimentality. However, these objects are often appreciated by many in a knowingly ironic or humorous manner.
If you’re one of them and want to learn more about Romania’s subculture, Romania’s Kitsch Museum is a great place to start. You’ll get to enjoy some outside-the-box fun looking at all kinds of unusual objects reminiscent of the past which look like nothing you’ve seen before.
Located in the heart of the city, the museum is only five minutes away from Bucharest’s Old Town, so you can just walk there after you’ve had your morning java at one of the cafes there.
Inside the gallery, you’ll find everything from tacky home decoration items and clothing to religious kitsch and art pieces – all authentic to the creative, humorous, and sometimes excessive nature of the Romanian people.
Opening Hours: Daily: 12 a.m. – 22 p.m.
3. National History Museum
Located just within a 10-minute walking distance from Bucharest’s Old Town, the National History Museum is an excellent place to learn more about Romania’s ties to Ancient Rome and more.
The museum houses a vast collection of maps and statues, as well as ancient jewelry from the time of the Geto-Dacians, so you can easily spend a pleasant afternoon here, admiring the exhibits.
Inside the museum, you’ll also be able to appreciate the beauty of the current Romanian Crown Jewels from up close, including the King’s historic steel crown.
The building itself, a magnificent Neo-Classical building constructed from 1894 to 1900, is an attraction you’ll be happy to have included in your travel itinerary.
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 9:00 a.m.– 17:00 p.m. (the Ticket Desk closes at 16:15).
Discover More Attractions near Bucharest’s Old Town
For more attractions and travel ideas which will help you enjoy the best Bucharest has to offer, be sure to check out the tour we offer around the city. Among them:
- Half-Day Bucharest Sightseeing Tour – 4 hours (includes the Village Museum)
Have questions? We’ve got answers! Here’s our contact information; use it wisely. We’re always happy to hear from you.