Bucharest: A City of Surprises and Hidden Charms

#springwander Bucharest completely surprised me. I expected a gray, communist-era city, but instead, I found a place full of life, history, and amazing food. Walking down Calea Victoriei, I was struck by the mix of grand Belle Époque buildings and modern cafés buzzing with energy. One of my favorite moments was exploring the Old Town—stumbling upon hidden courtyards, sipping a strong Romanian coffee, and watching street musicians bring the city to life. A highlight was visiting the Palace of the Parliament. Standing beneath its massive marble halls, I felt overwhelmed by its sheer scale. Later, I escaped the city's rush in Herăstrău Park, where I rented a bike and rode along the peaceful lake, stopping at the Village Museum to see Romania’s rural heritage. And of course, I couldn’t leave without trying mititei at Caru' cu Bere—those grilled meat rolls with mustard were unforgettable! #Bucharest #Romania #Travel #HiddenGem #CityBreak #Foodie