911爆料网

University Square (Piata Universitatii) is one of the city鈥檚 most vibrant and historically significant public spaces. Located at the heart of downtown Bucharest, this bustling square serves as both a major transportation hub鈥攚here two metro lines meet鈥攁nd a central gathering spot. For tourists, it鈥檚 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鈥檚 a lovely spot to relax and watch the flow of city life鈥攚hether 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 caf茅s 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鈥檚 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鈥檚 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鈥檙e 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.

Nestled just off University Square in the heart of Bucharest鈥檚 historic center, the Saint Nicholas Russian Church (Biserica Sfantul Nicolae 鈥� Rusa) is a striking gem of early 20th-century Russian Orthodox architecture. Built between 1905 and 1909 at the behest of Russian Ambassador Mikhail Nikolaevich Giers and funded by Tsar Nicholas II, this church was originally intended for the Russian diplomatic community and expatriates living in Romania at the time.

The church is a rare example of Russian Revival style in Romania, featuring seven gilded onion domes perched atop pink-and-yellow brick fa莽ades. The domes, eye-catching with their traditional motifs and crowned by golden Orthodox crosses, were designed in the Neo-Russian style, tinged with the Art Nouveau spirit that was prevalent in Europe at the turn of the century. Entering through an elaborately carved stone portal, you step into a serene sanctuary that dazzles with ornate iconography and rich d茅cor.

Inside, the iconostasis is a masterpiece in its own right鈥攈and-carved in Moscow and coated in gold leaf, modeled after the one in the Archangel Cathedral of the Kremlin. Russian painter Vasiliev originally adorned the interior walls with vivid oil frescoes, later restored by Anatolie Cudinov in the mid-20th century. The result is an immersive visual journey, blending Byzantine influences of Mount Athos with the vibrant palette of Russian ecclesiastical art.

Today, the church serves a dual purpose. Since 1992, it has functioned as the University of Bucharest鈥檚 chapel, earning the affectionate name of the 鈥淪tudents鈥� Church.鈥� Open to anyone seeking reflection, culture, or spirituality, it blends religious services with musical and artistic events, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere for both locals and tourists. Whether you鈥檙e drawn by its architectural grandeur or its peaceful interior, the Russian Church offers a luminous insight into Bucharest鈥檚 multicultural heritage and spiritual life.

The Museum of the National Bank of Romania offers a captivating dive into the nation鈥檚 financial and architectural heritage. Housed within the historic New BNR Palace, the building dates back to the World War II era (1937鈥�1944) and was designed in the elegant classical style with rationalist influences by architects Ion Davidescu, Radu Dudescu, and N. Cretoiu. Inside, visitors are greeted by grand marble halls, monumental granite staircases, and imposing Corinthian columns鈥攖estament to the Neoclassical charm that marks Bucharest鈥檚 cityscape.

The museum鈥檚 rich numismatic collection spans over two and a half millennia, featuring rare artifacts such as the oldest coin minted in Romanian territory, the smallest-ever Romanian paper money, and an impressive assembly of gold coins, bars, and medals. Highlights include the chance to touch a 13鈥慿ilo gold bar and examine original minting tools and dies鈥攁n immersive experience for those fascinated by the evolution of money.

Tours are free but must be booked in advance, with guided visits provided by knowledgeable staff鈥攗sually lasting around an hour and rich in anecdotes linking Romania鈥檚 monetary history to its broader cultural narrative. The museum operates on weekdays only, and spaces fill up quickly, so booking early is recommended.

Whether you鈥檙e a history buff, a fan of monumental architecture, or simply curious about Romania鈥檚 economic story, the Museum of the National Bank offers a thoughtfully curated, free-of-charge educational experience in a beautifully preserved setting. It鈥檚 a perfect complement to a stroll through Bucharest鈥檚 historic center, just steps away from the Lipscani pedestrian district.

Nestled in the heart of historic Lipscani district, the Macca鈥慥illacrosse Passage is a captivating 19th鈥慶entury gem offering a unique blend of elegance, architectural innovation, and bohemian flair. Constructed in 1891 by architect Felix Xenopol, this graceful arcade spans between Victory Avenue (Calea Victoriei) and Lipscani Street. What sets it apart is its distinctive fork鈥憇haped design, created after a hotel in the center resisted acquisition, resulting in two glass鈥慶overed wings that elegantly arch around the building.

Originally a luxurious shopping arcade and Bucharest鈥檚 first Stock Exchange, the Passage hosted the city's primary financial hub before it relocated, earning it the unofficial title of the first 鈥渓uxury mall鈥� in Bucharest. During the Communist era (1950鈥�1990), it was renamed the 鈥淛ewelry Passage鈥� (Pasajul Bijuteria), and though that title fell out of favour, traces of its glittering past still linger in the ornate fa莽ades and boutique atmosphere.

Today, Macca鈥慥illacrosse has been revitalized as a lively cultural and social hub. Sheltered under a luminous yellow glass canopy, the arcade is lined with convivial caf茅s, cozy bistros, stylish wine bars, and themed spots like 鈥淭he Valley of the Kings,鈥� an Arabic鈥慐gyptian bar highlighting the city鈥檚 modern-day cosmopolitan tastes. Wander through daylight or evening ambiance, and you can still sense the passage鈥檚 storied elegance mingled with current urban energy.

For tourists seeking a memorable stop between sightseeing in the Old Town and along Calea Victoriei, the Passage offers a perfect blend of historical character and contemporary charm. Whether savouring a coffee, admiring intricate architecture, or strolling through shaded arcade corridors, you鈥檒l be stepping into a living time capsule that captures Bucharest鈥檚 eclectic spirit.

The National Museum of Romanian History resides in the grand former Postal Services Palace鈥攁n architectural gem built between 1894 and 1899 in an eclectic style by Alexandru Savulescu. Established between 1970 and officially opened in 1972, the museum spans over 8,000 square meters with approximately 60 exhibition rooms, making it Romania鈥檚 preeminent institution of history and archaeology. As you approach the grand entrance鈥攍ined with Doric columns and crowned by a high central dome鈥攜ou can鈥檛 help but sense the cultural importance awaiting within.

Inside, the museum weaves a rich narrative of Romania鈥檚 journey from prehistoric communities through Dacian tribes, Roman conquest, medieval principalities, and the modern nation-state. The permanent exhibition 鈥淗istorical Treasure鈥� showcases over 3,000 precious objects鈥攇old, silver, regal jewelry, and coins鈥攎any of which were repatriated from abroad. Key highlights include the Dacian gold bracelets, treasures from Pietroasele, and the Romanian Crown Jewels, including royal crowns that reflect both craftsmanship and royal heritage.

One of the museum鈥檚 most visually striking installations is the life鈥憇ize plaster copy of Trajan鈥檚 Column, complete with intricate relief work depicting the Dacian Wars. Housed within a dedicated lapidarium, this faithful reproduction offers a captivating, close鈥憆ange view of this Roman monument. Other notable exhibits include royal artifacts, medieval armaments, numismatic collections, philatelic archives from the postal palace days, and documents from pivotal figures in Romanian history.

For visitors, the museum offers a compelling and educational experience. It is open Wednesday to Sunday, and features rotating temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, and family鈥慺riendly programming. As Romania鈥檚 top historical museum, the National Museum of Romanian History offers travelers an immersive journey through the nation鈥檚 cultural legacy鈥攚hether it鈥檚 ancient jewelry, medieval relics, royal regalia, or Roman grandeur, it鈥檚 all here, waiting to be discovered.

The Beer Wagon (Caru鈥� cu Bere) is one of Bucharest鈥檚 most iconic and beloved destinations鈥攁 living testament to Romanian hospitality and craftsmanship. Originally opened as a brewery in 1879 by Transylvanian entrepreneurs Ion Cabasan and his nephews from Cata, it evolved into the grand restaurant we know today in 1899 under Nicolae Mircea鈥檚 vision. Designed by Austrian architect Siegfrid Kofczinsky in Neo鈥慓othic style, its vaulted ceilings, stained glass, ornate woodwork, mosaics, and frescoes make it a stunning example of German Romanticism in the heart of the Lipscani (Old Town) district.

This historic monument draws more than 2,500 guests daily, offering a vibrant blend of Romanian culinary tradition and convivial atmosphere. Inside, guests can savour the legendary homemade beer, made using the Mircea family鈥檚 century-old recipe, alongside hearty Romanian favourites, such as mititei, the grilled minced meat rolls first served here in 1902. Whether you're sipping a cold pint or feasting under the glow of artful stained glass, the Beer Wagon transports you back to Bucharest鈥檚 golden age.

A visit is about more than food and drink鈥攊t鈥檚 a lively cultural experience. Expect live music (traditional folk and popular tunes), boisterous tables, and a convivial mix of locals and tourists filling the two-storey hall. It鈥檚 an ideal spot for a hearty lunch, festive dinner, or late-evening gathering. Located on Stavropoleos Street, it anchors the historic district and complements a stroll through Lipscani鈥檚 charming lanes.

For tourists seeking an authentic taste of Bucharest鈥檚 soul, the Beer Wagon offers an immersive journey, combining striking architectural beauty, rich history, and traditional Romanian hospitality. Be sure to reserve ahead, as its popularity is well deserved and the atmosphere is irresistible.

Stavropoleos Convent (Manastirea Stavropoleos) is a hidden treasure tucked away on a quiet lane in Bucharest鈥檚 bustling Old Town. Founded in 1724 by Greek archimandrite Ioanichie Stratonikeas under Prince Nicolae Mavrocordatos, the convent鈥攚ith its cobblestone courtyard and peaceful atmosphere鈥攐ffers a serene contrast to the energetic caf茅s and shops just steps away. The name Stavropoleos is derived from the Greek 鈥淪tauropolis,鈥� meaning 鈥淐ity of the Cross,鈥� a poetic reminder of the convent's spiritual focus.

Architecturally, the church and remaining convent buildings showcase the exquisite Brancovenesc style鈥攁n iconic synthesis of Byzantine, Ottoman, Italian Renaissance, and local influences. You鈥檒l notice its intricately carved stone portico, trilobate arches, floral motifs, and framed religious medallions adorning the facade. Inside, the intimate space is rich with stunning frescoes, gilded icons, and an atmosphere heavy with incense and devotion. Its survival through earthquakes, secularization, and the Ceau葯escu era makes visiting feel like stepping back into early 18th-century Bucharest.

Beyond its visual beauty, Stavropoleos is a living center for Orthodox spirituality and cultural heritage. The convent is active with nuns and priests who continue its mission through a renowned Byzantine choir, a library housing over 8,000 theological works and historical manuscripts, and diligent restoration of ancient books, icons, and liturgical garments. Its courtyard also displays fragments rescued from demolished churches, turning this urban nook into a small but poignant museum of Romanian religious art.

For travelers, a visit to Stavropoleos offers much more than architecture鈥攊t brings a spiritual and cultural immersion. Entry is free, and the convent welcomes visitors daily from morning to evening. A guided tour or simply lingering inside to absorb the hymns, scents, and sacred ambiance makes this a highlight of any stroll through Bucharest鈥檚 Old Town.

Smardan Street (Strada Smardan) is a charming pedestrian artery winding through the heart of Bucharest鈥檚 historic Lipscani district. Originally documented in 1672 as the 鈥淕erman Street鈥� or 鈥淕erman Alley,鈥� it was later dubbed 鈥淪mardan鈥� in 1878 to honor the Romanian victory at the Battle of Smardan during the War of Independence. Stretching roughly 370 meters from north to south, the street curves gracefully between restored neoclassical buildings, reflecting the city鈥檚 transformation from old-world market lanes to a vibrant urban promenade.

In the 19th century, Smardan became a bustling hub of commerce and hospitality. Notably, a now-iconic event occurred at the former Hotel Concordia, where, in January 1859, Wallachian deputies elected Alexandru Ioan Cuza as Prince鈥攁 pivotal moment leading to the unification of the Romanian Principalities. A commemorative plaque once marked the site, though it has been briefly obscured by renovation work. The street was also part of Bucharest鈥檚 tram network until the 1960s, a surprising relic of the past given how narrow the thoroughfare is.

Today, Smardan buzzes with energy, lined with caf茅s, bars, restaurants, and boutique shops. Its elegant street lamps, reminiscent of Bucharest鈥檚 鈥淟ittle Paris鈥� era, cast a warm glow over cobblestones, creating the perfect setting for an evening stroll or an alfresco meal. Whether you鈥檙e savoring Romanian specialties or enjoying a cocktail under historic fa莽ades, the atmosphere here is lively yet steeped in the weight of history.

Visitors shouldn鈥檛 miss exploring the side streets branching off Smardan, which lead to hidden gems such as the Macca-Vilacrosse and Vilacrosse passages, and landmarks like the nearby Stavropoleos Monastery and Manuc鈥檚 Inn. Smardan Street is more than a link between destinations鈥攊t鈥檚 a living bridge between Bucharest鈥檚 storied past and its bustling present, inviting you to take your time, sip, savor, and soak in every detail.

The Old Court (Curtea Veche) marks the birthplace of Bucharest as a city and was once the political nucleus of Wallachia. Established in the 15th century by Vlad Tepes鈥攂etter known as Vlad the Impaler鈥攖his was originally a princely residence and fortification, designed to protect the fledgling capital from invasions and political instability. Over time, it grew into a complex of royal buildings that included halls, churches, and administrative quarters. Though much of it now lies in ruins, the remnants offer a tangible link to the medieval roots of Romania鈥檚 capital.

The site became a centre of power for successive rulers, including Mircea Ciobanul and Constantin Brancoveanu, who each left their architectural and cultural marks on the court. A fire and multiple earthquakes in the 18th century led to its gradual abandonment, and the royal residence eventually shifted elsewhere. However, archaeological excavations beginning in the 20th century helped uncover the stone foundations, brick walls, and fragments of a time when this location served as the seat of the Wallachian princes.

Today, Curtea Veche stands as an open-air museum and historical site in the heart of Bucharest鈥檚 Old Town (Lipscani district), surrounded by cafes and cobbled streets. Visitors can explore parts of the preserved palace walls, the ruins of the old kitchens, and even the remains of Vlad Tepes鈥檚 cellar. The adjacent Old Court Church (Biserica Curtea Veche)鈥擝ucharest鈥檚 oldest church鈥攁dds to the medieval atmosphere, making this a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in the city's origins and royal heritage.

Nestled amid the vibrant atmosphere of Bucharest鈥檚 Old Town, Curtea Veche Church鈥攁lso known as the Church of Saint Anthony or Old Court Church鈥攊s the city鈥檚 oldest surviving religious building, dating back to the mid-16th century. Built by Mircea Ciobanul around 1545鈥�1554, it originally served as the princely chapel within Curtea Veche, the medieval residence of Wallachian voivodes, including Vlad the Impaler. Its walls have witnessed centuries of coronations and religious ceremonies, making it a keystone of Bucharest鈥檚 spiritual and political legacy.

The church is dedicated to the Annunciation and Saint Anthony the Great, reflecting both royal patronage and the strong local devotion to the saint. Mircea Ciobanul himself is entombed within its walls鈥攁 testament to its deep historical significance. Although repeatedly damaged by wars, fires, and earthquakes over the centuries鈥攊ncluding a notable restoration after the great fire of 1847鈥攖he church has been carefully restored to its near-original appearance through 20th-century efforts.

Architecturally, Curtea Veche Church is a striking example of the Brancovenesc style. Its red brick fa莽ade features horizontal banding that alternates with plaster, and original Moldavian buttresses support the structure, elements that were revolutionary in Wallachian ecclesiastical design. Inside, visitors can admire the Pantocrator dome, historic fresco fragments, a carved iconostasis, and the ornate portal added by Stefan Cantacuzino in 1715.

For travelers exploring Lipscani and the ruins of the Old Princely Court, this compact yet profound church offers a rich, contemplative experience. It remains an active place of worship, with weekly Tuesday services attracting large numbers of devotees to venerate Saint Anthony鈥檚 icon, a focal point of local religious life. A visit here isn鈥檛 just a step into the past, but also an immersion in the enduring faith and architectural artistry that shaped Bucharest鈥檚 spiritual heart.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Old Town, Manuc鈥檚 Inn (Hanul lui Manuc), built in 1806鈥�1808 by Armenian-Turkish merchant-diplomat Emanuel Marzaian鈥攌nown as Manuc Bey鈥攕tands as the city鈥檚 oldest operating hotel building. Originally conceived as a khan (inn) on the banks of the Dambovita River, it quickly grew into a major commercial and cultural hub. By the mid-19th century, the complex boasted 107 rooms, 15 wholesalers, 23 shops, two reception halls, pubs, taverns, and a charming courtyard encircled by balconied galleries.

Beyond lodging and trade, Manuc鈥檚 Inn played host to pivotal historical moments. In 1812, it was the venue for the preliminary negotiations and signing of the Treaty of Bucharest, ending the Russo鈥慣urkish War from 1806 to 1812. Later, in 1842, it briefly housed Bucharest's town hall, and around 1880 became the scene of the first Romanian operetta performances. Its grand ''Dacia Hall'' also rang with political debates before World War I, further cementing its role as a cultural and civic meeting place.

Though Manuc鈥檚 Inn has weathered fire, earthquakes, nationalization under communism, and numerous restorations, its original architectural essence鈥攎arked by its courtyards, wooden balconies, and elegant arches鈥攔emains wonderfully intact. Today, the Inn melds centuries-old charm with contemporary life: visitors can wander its leafy courtyard, savor traditional Romanian cuisine in its vaulted cellar restaurant, enjoy a coffee or glass of wine on a sunlit balcony, or browse artisan shops lining its street-facing side.

For tourists, a visit to Manuc鈥檚 Inn is an invitation to travel back in time鈥攖o imagine caravans resting under the courtyards, diplomats negotiating peace, and citizens gathering for culture and commerce. Located just steps from the Old Court ruins (Curtea Veche) and a stone鈥檚 throw from Union Square (Piata Unirii), it remains an essential stop on any walking tour of Lipscani鈥檚 atmospheric streets.

Located in the heart of Bucharest鈥檚 charming Old Town, The Linden Tree Inn (Hanul cu Tei) is a fascinating 19th鈥慶entury merchant inn that perfectly embodies the atmosphere of old Wallachia. Built in 1833 by notable traders Anastasie Hagi Gheorghe Polizu and Stefan Popovici, the inn originally served as a commercial complex with 28 individual shops above vaulted cellars, though today only the plant namesake linden trees remain. Its dual entrances from Blanari and Lipscani streets are adorned with wrought鈥慽ron gates, bearing the founders鈥� initials 鈥淎.P.鈥� and 鈥淪.P.,鈥� which still grace the facade as a tribute to its origins.

Stepping through one of these gates, visitors enter a quiet, cobblestone courtyard flanked by art galleries, antique boutiques, cozy caf茅s, and a cellar鈥憇tyle bar. In summer months, the space fills with life, as outdoor terraces spill into the alley and local art merges with lively conversation. The upper-floor windows, glazed in traditional Wallachian style, add to the inn鈥檚 nostalgic charm and architectural significance.

More than just a visual relic, The Linden Tree Inn has embraced modern cultural trends. Visitors can browse through vintage furniture, tapestries, antique gramophones, or contemporary works by local artists. With a glass鈥憆oofed rectangular courtyard, its interior echoes the conviviality of the 1830s, yet hosts today鈥檚 crowd鈥憄leasing combo of art, design, food, and drink. For anyone exploring Lipscani鈥檚 winding streets, The Linden Tree Inn offers a peaceful yet vibrant pause amid urban buzz鈥攁 serene crossroads of heritage and creativity.

Open daily from morning until evening, it鈥檚 a must鈥憊isit for art lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone keen to experience Bucharest鈥檚 hidden gems.

Lipscani Street is the beating heart of Bucharest鈥檚 Old Town, a vibrant pedestrian artery that beautifully intertwines medieval charm with bustling modern life. Stretching for nearly a kilometre, Lipscani has been central to the city鈥檚 identity since its first mention in 1589, originally known as Broad Lane (Ulita Mare). Its name derives from 鈥渓ipscan,鈥� the Romanian word for merchants from Leipzig鈥斺�淟ipsca鈥濃�攚ho traded here, making it a lively hub where fine European goods arrived in Wallachia.

The street thrived especially during the reign of Princes Constantin Brancoveanu and Serban Cantacuzino in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, becoming home to guilds and several hanuri (merchant inns) such as The Linden Tree Inn (Hanul cu Tei), which still stands today with its original vaulted cellars and fa莽ade. Nearby, the impressive National Bank of Romania occupies the former Serban Voda Inn site, its grand eclectic fa莽ade a testament to the late 19th-century architectural ambitions. These buildings reveal layers of Baroque, Neo鈥慍lassical, and Brancovenesc styles鈥攁n architectural narrative of a street that evolved from trade epicentre to cultural landmark.

Throughout the 20th century, Lipscani suffered neglect鈥攆rom wartime damage to Communist-era dereliction鈥攂ut escaped major demolition and began a dramatic revival in the early 2000s. Today, it pulses with life: caf茅s, atmospheric bars, boutique shops, and cultural gems occupy restored spaces. Highlights include the iconic Caru鈥� cu Bere (est. 1899), a Gothic鈥慠evival gem, and Carturesti Carusel, a stunning early-20th-century bookstore in a former Phanariot bank building. Close by, visiting the Old Princely Court ruins and Stavropoleos Church offers a dip into medieval Bucharest.

For visitors, Lipscani is an immersive time-travel journey. By day, historic fa莽ades and narrow cobbles beckon. By night, it transforms into the lifeblood of Bucharest鈥檚 culinary and nightlife scene. Whether you're exploring its rich architecture, dashing from a coffee house to a craft beer bar, or simply soaking in the spirited atmosphere, Lipscani is where the city鈥檚 past and present meet鈥攁nd it鈥檚 a must-do introduction to the soul of Bucharest.