
University Square, Bucharest
University Square (Piata Universitatii) is one of the city’s most vibrant and historically significant public spaces. Located at the heart of downtown Bucharest, this bustling square serves as both a major transportation hub—where two metro lines meet—and a central gathering spot. For tourists, it’s a perfect starting point to get a feel for the city's energy, architectural contrasts, and layered past. From here, you can explore surrounding landmarks on foot, including the National Theatre and the University of Bucharest.
Designed in a semi-circular shape, University Square is framed by wide, pedestrian-friendly boulevards and dotted with fountains and statues. It’s a lovely spot to relax and watch the flow of city life—whether locals heading to work, street artists performing, or vendors offering refreshments. By day, the square is bright and lively; by night, it becomes a glowing cultural crossroads, with nearby cafés and restaurants that spill onto the sidewalks, inviting you to linger over a coffee or a glass of wine.
Beyond its aesthetic charm, University Square is steeped in modern Romanian history. In the late 20th century, and again in 1990, it served as the epicenter for mass demonstrations that helped shape the course of Romania’s democratic transition. The space has since evolved into a place not only of daily urban life but also of civic memory, where plaques and public art commemorate important events and figures. Tourists interested in social history will appreciate the subtle reminders of Romania’s journey toward freedom.
For visitors, the convenience of transport, rich architectural backdrop, and palpable sense of history make University Square a must-see destination. Whether you’re here to map out your city itinerary or simply soak in the urban atmosphere, this square offers a perfect blend of convenience, culture, and storytelling.
Designed in a semi-circular shape, University Square is framed by wide, pedestrian-friendly boulevards and dotted with fountains and statues. It’s a lovely spot to relax and watch the flow of city life—whether locals heading to work, street artists performing, or vendors offering refreshments. By day, the square is bright and lively; by night, it becomes a glowing cultural crossroads, with nearby cafés and restaurants that spill onto the sidewalks, inviting you to linger over a coffee or a glass of wine.
Beyond its aesthetic charm, University Square is steeped in modern Romanian history. In the late 20th century, and again in 1990, it served as the epicenter for mass demonstrations that helped shape the course of Romania’s democratic transition. The space has since evolved into a place not only of daily urban life but also of civic memory, where plaques and public art commemorate important events and figures. Tourists interested in social history will appreciate the subtle reminders of Romania’s journey toward freedom.
For visitors, the convenience of transport, rich architectural backdrop, and palpable sense of history make University Square a must-see destination. Whether you’re here to map out your city itinerary or simply soak in the urban atmosphere, this square offers a perfect blend of convenience, culture, and storytelling.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Bucharest. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
University Square on Map
Sight Name: University Square
Sight Location: Bucharest, Romania (See walking tours in Bucharest)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Bucharest, Romania (See walking tours in Bucharest)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Bucharest, Romania
Create Your Own Walk in Bucharest
Creating your own self-guided walk in Bucharest is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Bucharest Introduction Walking Tour
Bucharest, the capital and cultural center of Romania, is one of the largest cities in Southeastern Europe.
The name București has an unverified origin. Tradition links it to the guy named Bucur, who (according to various legends) was either a prince, outlaw, fisherman, shepherd or a hunter. The Romanian word “bucurie” means joy (happiness), which in turn explains one of Bucharest's... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
The name București has an unverified origin. Tradition links it to the guy named Bucur, who (according to various legends) was either a prince, outlaw, fisherman, shepherd or a hunter. The Romanian word “bucurie” means joy (happiness), which in turn explains one of Bucharest's... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Old Town Walking Tour
The Historical Center of Bucharest, or the Old Town, as the locals habitually refer to it, is one of the most beloved and attractive areas in the Romanian capital. The neighborhood is really beautiful a place to visit, and you can walk into it pretty much from anywhere in central Bucharest. Ion Constantin Brătianu Boulevard crosses the historic heart of the city from Piata Universitate... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
16 Uniquely Romanian Things To Buy in Bucharest
Nicknamed "Little Paris", today's Bucharest is the capital of a vibrant European nation, known as Romania, with lots of history and great cultural heritage - spanning from centuries-old rural traditions to New Wave cinema. Keen on rustic stuff, Romanians carefully preserve their...