Communist Era Bucharest Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a 3 hour, information rich, private tour of Bucharest centre concentrating on the recent history of this great city, including the Palace of Parliament, Unirii Square and fountains, the former Communist Party headquarters, and Revolution Square, where the famous revolution of Christmas 1989 began.
Hear my own story, of life under under Nicolae Ceausescu, how I was sworn in allegiance to the great leader and his tyrannical wife, as one of Romania's 'Pioneers', taught to load and fire an AK-74 assault rifle, (while at high school), and lived only a few miles from the heart of the uprising in Revolution Square...
Available options
Days of Communism Tour PM
Enjoy a 3 hour tour of Bucharest centre focusing on the recent Communist era and the famous uprising of 1989 that became Revolution! Free hotel Meeting.
Days of Communism Tour AM
Enjoy a 3 hour tour of Bucharest centre focusing on the recent Communist era and the famous uprising of 1989 that became Revolution! Free hotel Meeting.
What's included
Local guide
Professional guide
Private tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off (centrally located)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The heart of Bucharest, built as part of the Communist planned modernisation programme, now regenerated to become a modern, bustling centre of the city, featuring the spectacular, newly restored, Unirii fountains.
2
The former Boulevard of Socialist Victory, the Champs-Élysées of Bucharest, featuring 17 artesian fountains decorated to represent the 4 seasons of the year.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Nicolae Ceaușescu's massive parliament building, Casa Poporului, built to be the house of people, looms over the centre of Bucharest. Hear the interesting history of the heaviest building in the world!
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Take a walk along part of Victoria Avenue, lined with beautiful shops and learn what it was like in the Communist era.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
The CEC Bank, bank of the people during the Communist years.
6
See the grandeur of Romania's National bank and hear about its interesting history.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
University Square, see the oldest and largest University in Bucharest and hear about the Intercontinental Hotel Bucharest, completed and opened in 1971.
8
Pass by and learn the history of the National Theatre of Bucharest, an iconic building with many changes to its design in its short history!!
9
Stop 9
See the area where the famous revolution of 1989 started and the memorials that commemorate the life changing events.
Including the balcony where Nicolae Ceaușescu made his final speech, the former headquarters of the Communist party, the Monument of National Rebirth, King Carol the first's equestrian statue and the University library, and more.
Excellent photo opportunities.
10
See and hear about the important statue of 3 time prime minister Iuliu Maniu and his struggle in the early years of Communism
11
The 25 meter high Memorial that commemorates the struggles and victims of the Romanian Revolution of Christmas 1989.
12
Stop 12
Pass by
Built for the people of Bucharest by the people of Bucharest, over 100 years ago. Beautiful gardens and a stunning historical building. Excellent photo opportunities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
19 reviews
5★
16
4★
1
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
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1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Meeting point
Outside Main Archway entrance, Manucs in , 62 Strada Franceza, Old Centre.
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time
About Bucharest
Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a vibrant city known for its blend of historic architecture and modern development. With a rich cultural scene, lively nightlife, and significant historical landmarks, it offers a unique experience for travelers.
Top Attractions
Palace of the Parliament
One of the largest administrative buildings in the world, a symbol of communist architecture and power.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
€7-10
Old Town (Lipscani)
The historic center of Bucharest, filled with charming streets, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife.
Historical/Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore
Village Museum (Muzeul Satului)
An open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life with authentic houses and buildings.
Cultural
2-3 hours
€3-5
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sarmale
Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices, usually served with polenta and sour cream
Main Course
Contains meat and gluten
Mămăligă
Polenta made from cornmeal, often served with cheese, sour cream, or meat dishes
Side Dish
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Ciorbă
A sour soup made with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or fish, often served with a boiled egg and sour cream
Soup
Can be vegetarian or with meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Carpathian Mountains
Skiing in Poiana Brașov
Spa treatments
Strolling through Herăstrău Park
Visiting museums and art galleries
Attending classical concerts at the Romanian Athenaeum
Boating on Lake Herăstrău
Skiing
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest time of the year with the most outdoor activities and festivals. However, it can be crowded with tourists.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Romanian
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Romanian Leu (RON)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 (EEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
Bucharest is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious at night and avoid poorly lit streets.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers or requests
Getting there
By air
- Henri Coandă International Airport • 16.7 km (10.4 miles) from city center
- Aurel Vlaicu International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By train
Gara de Nord, Băneasa
By bus
Autogara Nord, Autogara Sud
Getting around
Public transport
Clean, efficient, and affordable. The metro system is the fastest way to get around Bucharest.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Lipscani)
Dorobanți
Cotroceni
Day trips
Peleș Castle
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
A stunning neo-Renaissance castle nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family.
Bran Castle
160 km (100 miles) • Full day
A medieval fortress often associated with Dracula, offering a glimpse into Romania's rich history and folklore.
Sinaia
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
A beautiful mountain town known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Bucharest International Film Festival (BIFF) • April
George Enescu Festival • September
Bucharest Pride • June
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Romanian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover hidden gems and local culture
- Use public transport or walk to get a sense of the city's rhythm and avoid traffic
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
