🌿 Bucharest Botanical Garden – A Green Oasis in the City

📍 Where Is It? The Botanical Garden of Bucharest (Grădina Botanică “Dimitrie Brândză”) is located in the Cotroceni neighborhood, just west of the city center and near the Presidential Palace. It’s one of the most peaceful and refreshing places to visit in Romania’s bustling capital. 🌱 A Brief History Founded in 1860 and moved to its current location in 1884, the garden was established by botanist Dimitrie Brândză, whose name it proudly bears. Today, it’s managed by the University of Bucharest and serves both as a public park and a center for botanical research. 🌼 What to See • Open-Air Gardens: Spread over 17 hectares, the garden features a wide variety of themed areas: • The Rose Garden – romantic and colorful in late spring and summer • The Japanese Garden – peaceful, with bridges, stones, and maples • The Alpine Garden – showcasing mountain flora in rocky settings • The Romanian Flora Section – native plants from all over the country • The Greenhouses: The tropical and subtropical greenhouses contain: • Exotic plants like orchids, palms, and banana trees • Cacti, succulents, and aquatic plants The greenhouses are especially pleasant to visit during the colder months. • The Botanical Museum: A small but fascinating collection of dried plants, seeds, and historic botanical illustrations. 🍃 Why Visit? • Escape the City: A quiet and uncrowded refuge from Bucharest's urban buzz • Photography: A paradise for nature and macro photography • Education: Ideal for families, students, and plant lovers • Seasonal Beauty: From spring blooms to autumn foliage and peaceful winter stillness 📅 When to Go • Spring (April–June): Flowers are in full bloom, perfect weather • Autumn (September–October): Gorgeous foliage and fewer crowds • Winter: Quieter, but the greenhouses offer a warm retreat • Summer: Lush and green, though it can get hot in the afternoon 🎟 Info & Tips • Entry Fee: Very affordable, with extra tickets needed for the greenhouses • Opening Hours: Usually open daily, except Mondays (check current schedule) • Accessibility: Mostly flat, with benches and wide paths • Bring Cash: For tickets and small purchases, as card payment isn’t always available ✨ Final Thoughts Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a couple seeking a romantic walk, or just someone looking to reconnect with nature, the Bucharest Botanical Garden is a hidden gem worth discovering. It’s a reminder that even in a capital city, nature can thrive quietly and beautifully.