Once upon a time, Bucharest was known as Little Paris. Around 1900, Romania was ruled by King Carol I. The Romanian aristocracy used French words and wore the latest Paris fashions. Bucharest earned its charming nickname then.
Today we stand in what was once the heart of that elegant era. The architecture mirrored Parisian designs. Boutiques were chic. Locals were educated, dynamic and elegant. Even now, traces of that impressive architecture remain.
The communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu brutally disfigured much of Bucharest. Yet, the city is being systematically rejuvenated. Grand buildings are being scrubbed and polished. Abandoned shopping galleries are becoming inviting again.
Bucharest’s Old Town is the heart of this transformation. Its narrow cobblestone streets and architecture evoke the 1900s. Over 200 bars, restaurants and nightclubs fill this area. People gather here every evening to celebrate life. You can experience the interwar architecture and Romanian joie de vivre at Caru’ cu Bere beer hall. Bucharest is famous for its nightlife.
Victory Avenue unveils the glamorous architecture of Little Paris. Here stand the Cantacuzino Palace and the National Museum of History. The Headquarters of the National Savings Bank CEC is also here.
Bucharest has always valued culture even during the communist era. Locals still love theatre, opera and musical performances. The Romanian Athenaeum inspires greatness with its simple architecture. It was built in 1888 with public donations. The French architect Albert Galleron designed it. He also designed the National Bank of Romania.
Even now, you can appreciate Bucharest’s green spaces. Herăstrău is the biggest park. It surrounds a beautiful lake and many gardens. Cișmigiu Park has an old charm. It has delighted locals since 1847. Wilhelm Mayer, who designed Vienna’s Imperial Gardens, designed this park.
Bucharest is a city of contrasts. The Palace of Parliament reminds us of darker times. It is a constant reminder of Ceaușescu’s ego. The locals had their food rationed. The dictator used these resources for his pet project.
Today, Bucharest is reinventing itself as a trendy cosmopolite capital. The city mixes its past with its future. It is a blend of Latin spirit, oriental influence and western vision. Bucharest is unique. It is visually memorable. We invite you to explore Little Paris and discover its charm.