Our tour of Bucharest's monuments begins with the most impressive buildings that are symbols of the power and ambition of Romania's rulers.

The first point on our tour is the Palace of Parliament, also known as the People's Palace. It's a gigantic structure that is the second largest administrative building in the world, right after the Pentagon. Built at the behest of Communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, the palace is a testament to the regime's megalomania. Visiting the building is an extraordinary experience - the vastness of the halls, the abundance of marble and crystal chandeliers make a stunning impression. It is advisable to book tickets in advance, as the tour is guided only. The ticket price is about 60 RON (as of 2023), and the visit lasts about an hour.

The next stop is the Romanian Athenaeum, a gem of neoclassical architecture and one of the country's most important cultural centers. The building impresses not only from the outside, but especially inside, where you can admire impressive frescoes depicting the most important moments in Romanian history. The Athenaeum is home to the Philharmonic Orchestra, so if you have the opportunity, it's worth planning a visit combined with a concert. An entrance ticket costs about 15 RON, but the price can vary depending on the season.

Don't miss the Arc de Triomphe, a reminder of Romania's victory in World War I. Although inspired by the Parisian original, Bucharest's arch has its own unique character. It is worth knowing that the interior of the arch is open to the public only on weekends, from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. The observation deck at the top offers a panoramic view of the northern part of the city.

When comparing the three buildings, it is worth noting their diversity. The Palace of Parliament impresses with its grandeur and splendor, but can be overwhelming in its scale. The Athenaeum offers a more intimate, but extremely culturally rich experience. The Arc de Triomphe, on the other hand, though smaller, is an important national symbol and offers a unique perspective on the city. Each of these monuments represents a different period in Romanian history and together they form a fascinating mosaic of the country's history.

In the heart of Bucharest are sites that will take you back to the glory days of the Romanian monarchy and allow you to delve deeper into the country's history.

The Royal Palace, now home to Romania's National Art Museum, is a majestic building steeped in history. Originally built in 1812, the palace underwent numerous reconstructions to reach its current shape in 1937. Visiting its interiors, one can admire not only the royal apartments, but also an impressive collection of Romanian and European art. An entrance ticket costs about 20 RON (as of 2023), and a visit can take several hours, depending on your interests.

Near the Royal Palace is the National Museum of Romanian History, which is a treasure trove of knowledge about the country's history from prehistoric times to the present. Of particular interest is the exhibition of national treasures, including a replica of Trajan's Column. The ticket price is about 20 RON. The museum offers a comprehensive look at Romanian history, but some visitors point out the need to modernize the exhibition.

The next point on our itinerary is the Kretzulescu Palace, a gem of early 20th century Neo-Romanian architecture. Although it now houses the UNESCO headquarters and is not fully open to the public, its facade and surroundings are well worth seeing. It is an excellent example of a style that was meant to be a synthesis of traditional Romanian architecture with modern trends.

When comparing these buildings, it is worth noting their various functions and accessibility. The Royal Palace offers the richest experience in terms of artistic and historical exposure, but can be crowded in high season. The National Museum of Romanian History is a great place for those interested in learning more about the country, although some may find it a bit dated. Kretzulescu Palace, despite its limited access, is a treasured landmark on the city's architectural map.

Also close to these buildings is the Kretzulescu Church, a charming example of 18th century religious architecture. Although smaller than the previously mentioned monuments, the Orthodox Church impresses with its beautiful frescoes and tranquil atmosphere, providing the perfect place to take a break while visiting. Admission to the church is free.

Each of these sites offers a different perspective on Romanian history and culture. From royal splendor to a scholarly approach to history to spiritual heritage, these sites create a multifaceted picture of Romanian identity.

At the end of our historical tour of Bucharest, we'll visit the places that most capture the character of the old city and allow you to feel its authentic atmosphere.

We will start with the Stock Exchange Palace, also known as the Palace of the Chamber of Commerce. This impressive early 20th century building is an excellent example of eclectic architecture with neoclassical influences. Although it now serves commercial functions, its facade and interiors still impress with their rich detailing. Admission to the building is limited, but even viewing it from the outside provides a great experience. It's a highly recommended place for architecture lovers.

We will end our tour at one of the most charming places in old Bucharest - Stavropoleos Monastery. This small Orthodox church from 1724 is a true gem of Brincan architecture, a style characteristic of Wallachia in the 18th century. Despite its small size, Stavropoleos impresses with its rich ornamentation, beautiful frescoes and peaceful courtyard atmosphere. Admission is free, and a visit here is a great opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a while and soak in the atmosphere of spirituality.

Comparing the two buildings, we see two different sides of old Bucharest. The Stock Exchange Palace represents the secular, business side of the city from the early 20th century, impressing with its grandeur and elegance. The Stavropoleos Monastery, on the other hand, takes us back to a more distant past, offering an intimate, spiritual experience. Both sites are relatively close to each other, making it easy to visit.

It is worth noting the contrast between these monuments and the previously discussed monumental buildings. While the Palace of Parliament or the Royal Palace impress with their grandeur, the Stock Exchange Palace and Monaster Stavropoleos captivate with their subtlety and attention to detail. It is these smaller buildings that often leave the most lasting memories, allowing one to feel the authentic spirit of the city.

To sum up our journey through Bucharest's 9 fascinating sights, it is worth noting how diverse the city's cultural heritage is. From monumental palaces to intimate temples, each of these buildings tells a different story, making up a fascinating mosaic of Romania's history. By visiting these sites, one not only learns about history, but also better understands the country's identity and culture.

When planning a trip, be sure to check the current opening hours and ticket prices, as they are subject to change. Whether you have one day or a whole week to spare, these 9 sights represent the essence of historic Bucharest and are a must-see on any visit to the Romanian capital.