A journey through Bucharest's grand architecture
Many years ago, Romania’s capital earned a reputation as the Paris of the East. While the comparison still holds, modern Bucharest is far more than a reflection of another city's grandeur. As you will discover at Corinthia Bucharest, the city unfolds as a captivating mosaic where Belle Époque elegance, communist-era brutalism and contemporary design create a dynamic urban landscape. Historic buildings now thrive as creative hubs. Ornate palaces and grand mansions stand alongside striking remnants of a complex past. Every corner tells a story. Let’s take a closer look at Bucharest’s architectural wonders to inspire your visit.
Learn about Romanian cultural heritage in beautifully restored landmark buildings
Bucharest stands out for its efforts to regenerate historic landmarks as sites of pleasure and learning. These sites are a great starting point, introducing Romania's past, present and future. For instance, the Cărturești Carusel Library and bookshop blends elegance and intellect. Housed in a meticulously restored 19th-century building, the library dazzles with sweeping staircases, cascading light and shelves brimming with literary treasures.
Equally captivating are Cotroceni National Museum tours. This former royal palace invites visitors to wander its opulent halls and lush gardens. At the same time, the interior has also been transformed into a cultural museum, showcasing art and historical themes. The result is a museum celebrating Romanian culture (not just preserved relics). Of course, there are some superb exhibits - not least the Beaux-Arts collection of 19th-century Romanian paintings. But the real attraction is the 300-year-old palace and the stories it holds.
If you have time, a visit to Palatul Suţu is also advisable. Built by Conrad Schwink and Johann Veit in the 1830s, this palace houses the Bucharest Municipal Museum, providing an unrivalled window into the city's past. Alternatively, visitors can wander the halls and imagine the palace's heyday. Famous for hosting the first ball of the season, the Palatul Suţu welcomed aristocrats from across Europe in a setting that matched their status and wealth.
Discover hidden gems and reinvented spaces
Moving away from the grand scale of Cotroceni, let's uncover some lesser-known architectural marvels in central Bucharest. One of our favourites is Hanul Gabroveni. Once a thriving inn, this 18th-century property has been lovingly brought back to life as a cultural centre. Its cobblestone courtyard and slender columns evoke images of busy merchants and the hum of street life, but nowadays the inn feels like an oasis from the busy world. It's a charming place to catch art exhibitions and musical performances.
Palatul Universul is just as appealing. An understated Belle Époque masterpiece built in the late 19th century, this "palace" was once home to the Universul newspaper. However, it was restored in the 1990s as Bucharest restored landmarks, making good use of its architectural heritage. Nowadays, the palace is a buzzing cultural hub for creative industries. Venture inside, where you'll find a cocktail bar and mini-cinema or linger outside to enjoy the unique facade.
Visit historical homes and hear their powerful tales
Not all of the top landmarks in Bucharest are Belle Epoque masterworks or regal palaces. As in all cities, most historical buildings in Bucharest are modest homes.
The Melik House is a great example. Built in the 18th century but extensively remodelled in the 19th century, the house is one of the oldest merchants' residents in the city. It immediately impresses thanks to its neoclassical façade and intricate detailing. If the home itself was the only attraction, we would recommend a visit. However, Melik House is also a showcase for the painter Theodore Pallady. Known for his sensuous nudes and experimental works, Pallady is often seen as Romania's Matisse. You can decide for yourself, but the combination of fine art and sublime architecture makes Melik House essential.
Explore the troubled legacy of Communist-era architecture
Finally, we need to devote some time to iconic Bucharest architecture of a different kind: artifacts from the Communist era, when free expression took a back seat and representations of power dominated construction.
The most famous sight from this period is indisputably the Palace of Parliament Romania. Also known as the People's House, this palace sprawls over 365,000 m² - making it the second largest administrative building on the planet. A labyrinth of marble, gold and crystal, boasting over 1,100 rooms, the palace is full of impressive chandeliers and wooden panelling. The scale of the building is breathtaking. Most of it will never be used and the palace was only 60% finished when Communism ended. Today, it demands to be seen.
Another icon of Communism is Ceaușescu’s house. Home to the ruling family from 1965-89, this mansion in Bucharest's outskirts screams excess. From the furnishings designed by Robert Woll to handmade tapestries and ornate mosaics, every room of the house is a decorative experience.
Discover the city's great palaces, homes and museums in comfort with Corinthia Bucharest. We will advise about tickets and transportation, and ensure you see every attraction at an enjoyable pace.
