Bucharest is not exactly what many of you might have in mind – it’s even better. It is a city where the grace of the Belle Époque coexists with the blocks of the communist era, where modern cafes bring life to old neighborhoods, and where the city’s atmosphere makes a brief visit unforgettable. Often overshadowed by other European capitals, Bucharest will surprise visitors with its blend of history, culture, and modern dynamism.
If you are thinking about visiting Bucharest, Romania, and wondering how to spend 48 hours in the city, get ready for a journey with impressive architecture, excellent food, wide boulevards, and nightlife that will surprise you. In two days, you will experience a city where, in every corner, its historical past meets the present and the future.
Table of Contents
How to Spend Two Days in Bucharest Romania
Day 1: Exploring Bucharest’s History and Culture
Start the morning in the city center, in the Old Town (Lipscani). Lipscani is a vibrant area with old buildings featuring unique architecture, modern cafes, and bustling streets. Stroll through its narrow streets and discover hidden gems, such as the Monastery of Stavropoleos, a charming 18th-century church with intricately decorated frescoes and carved wooden details. It is an Orthodox church, part of which was destroyed in the past by earthquakes, but it managed to be preserved and maintained until today.
From your very first stroll through the city, you won’t be long before you come across perhaps the most impressive building in Bucharest, the enormous Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world. This gigantic edifice was constructed during Nicolae Ceaușescu’s regime and stands as a monument in Romania’s history. You have the option to take a guided tour of its luxurious halls to discover the country’s communist history, and you can admire it illuminated by taking a walk later in the evening. If you plan to visit the Palace of Parliament, make sure to book your tickets early, as entry requires a reservation.
After the tour, return to the Old Town for lunch at Caru’ cu Bere, one of Bucharest’s most famous restaurants. With traditional Romanian dishes such as sarmale (cabbage rolls with minced meat) and mici (grilled minced meat rolls), here you can enjoy a unique experience in a restaurant with distinctive interior decor and live performances. Take my advice and book a table a day before you go as the place is almost always full!
In the afternoon, take a break from touring the city’s monuments with a visit to Herastrau Park (now King Michael I Park). This impressive park features a lake straight out of a movie, perfect for walking or even boating (for the more romantic). Inside the park, you will find the “Dimitrie Gusti” National Village Museum, an outdoor space with traditional houses from various regions of Romania – a unique opportunity to experience the Romanian countryside.
In the evening, return to the city for a night out in the lively Lipscani district. Whether you prefer a quiet wine bar, a noisy pub, or an elegant cocktail lounge, Bucharest’s nightlife offers countless options for all tastes. If you want to take the author’s advice, visit Linea / Closer to the Moon, a modern rooftop bar in the heart of the Old Town, where you can enjoy great cocktails and delicious food with a breathtaking view of the city.
Day 2: Modern Bucharest and Local Experiences
On your second day in the capital of Romania, you can start with a walk on Calea Victoriei, the most elegant street in Bucharest. With historic buildings, luxury shops, and impressive cafes, this street is ideal for a leisurely morning stroll. If you have time, make a stop at the Romanian Athenaeum, the most famous concert hall in the city, which, besides its significance for the city’s history, is also an architectural gem for the whole country.
Your next stop for a dose of… modern culture should be Carturesti Carusel, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. This bookstore is not like any other you have visited, I assure you. It is located in a renovated 19th-century building and has a café where you can enjoy your coffee in a calm and cozy atmosphere while reading your book.
For lunch, head to the Obor Market, one of the largest and oldest markets in Bucharest. There you can try the traditional Romanian plăcintă (sweet or savory pie) or get a freshly grilled mici from the smiling vendors. Here, you will find the authentic taste of Bucharest and a vibrant local experience.
In the afternoon, visit the Cotroceni neighborhood, one of the most charming residential areas of the city. With impressive villas and trees on both sides of the neighborhood’s streets, this area gives you the feeling that you are momentarily outside the urban fabric and the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you have time, you can visit the Cotroceni Presidential Palace, the residence of the Romanian president, where you can take a tour of its luxurious interiors.
Before concluding your trip, in the evening you can relax at The Urbanist, a laid-back bar in the historic center of Bucharest. With a calm atmosphere, “only good vibes”, as the friendly staff say, and excellent cocktails, it is the ideal place to conclude your two-day trip to the capital of Romania without spending much.
Final Thoughts: Why Bucharest Should Be on Your Travel List
In summary, if you have two days in Bucharest at your disposal and are thinking about visiting, don’t think about it at all. Do it, and you will remember me. It is a city that will give you a taste of its rich past, which combined with its culture and the warm hospitality of its people, will make your trip unforgettable.
So, If you are ready for an unforgettable getaway, pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to discover the magic of Bucharest!
If you’re looking for a hotel to spend the night in Bucharest, find countless options for accomodation here!
