Romania Road Trip – There’s More to See Than You Think
Bucharest
The journey in Romania begins in the capital, Bucharest. In earlier times, the city was also called the “Paris of the East.” Today, Bucharest is striving to reclaim that reputation. Start your city tour in the Calea Victoriei, the Victory Avenue. Here Bucharest shows its sophisticated side. The many boutiques invite you to go shopping and you can then relax from the shopping stress in the chic cafés. Right nearby, the Piaţa Amzei is worth a visit. At this market you can observe the bustling life. Regional as well as exotic fruits, eggs and meat are, nicely arranged, offered for sale by the traders.
Time for a little culture. Visit the Romanian Athenaeum, arguably the most magnificent building in the capital. It was built between 1885 and 1888 by architect Albert Galleron. But Bucharest also has its place in recent history. On the Piaţa Revolţiei you will find the Memorialul Renaşterii, a monument to the Romanian Revolution of 1989. Stroll through the streets and sit down at a café or restaurant, which is mostly populated by locals. People-watch and develop a sense of the Romanian way of life.
Brasov
Brasov is the next stop on your road trip. Especially the old town is beautifully restored and invites you to linger. Don’t be surprised if you keep bumping into elderly locals chatting in German. The former Kronstadt can look back on a long German-Hungarian past. Start your city walk on the town hall square. The magnificent town hall shines in bright yellow, many cafés set up their tables on the square in summer. It is framed by beautifully restored town houses.
Visit the Black Church, built from 1385. In 1689, it received your namesake blackness from a major fire. It is considered the largest Gothic cathedral in Southeastern Europe. After visiting the church, it is worth taking a stroll to the Weavers’ Bastion, which now houses the city museum.
Iaşi
We continue to Iaşi. The largest city in the northeast also offers a variety of sights. Visit the magnificent Palace of Culture, built between 1890 and 1926. You should also take a look at the Great Synagogue, the largest Jewish place of worship in Romania. Also recommended for a visit are the Golia Monastery Church, the Three Hierarchs Church and the Dosofstei House, one of the few 17th-century burgher houses.
For a long rest, we recommend Casa Pogar, a typical restaurant of the region. This is where the country’s poets met back in the 19th century. Order a hearty meal and a cold beer, sit back and plan the rest of your road trip Bulgaria.