Overview
You will discover the amazing story of the rise to power of the Romanian communist party and the unparalleled cult of personality of dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. You will learn how Ceausescu’s craving for applause and recognition led to his overturn in the most violent anti-communist revolution of 1989.
On a tour full of contrasts you will see a communist district built for the elites and one designed for regular working-class families, and learn about day-to-day life during communism, the economy, the propaganda, the relationship with religion.
You will explore the New Civic Center and the exterior of the Palace of Parliament and learn about the achievements of Romanian architects, but also the sacrifices for the local community as the old architecture changed so much during the 1980s.
You will also have an honest conversation about the present-day socio-political movements in Romania and its future as a member of the European Union.
You will finish the walk near the old town.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Public transportation tickets for one ride on the metro
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Go to "The Coffee Shop Campineanu", on the street Ion Campineanu. Look for your guide in front of the entrance
End point
You end the tour near Parliament and old town.
What to expect
-
Piaka Revolukiei
30 min
You will stand in the place where Nicolae Ceausescu held his last speech in 1989 and hear the story of the most violent uprising in Eastern Europe at the end of communism.
-
15 min
You will travel by metro to explore a typical working-class neighbourhood and see how the 1970s grey communist blocks are getting reinvented thanks to colorful street art.
-
15 min
You will walk down the quiet paths of the memorial cemetery dedicated to the Romanians killed in the revolution of 1989 and learn some of their personal stories
-
15 min
You will get to the highest point in Bucharest, on Filaret Hill, to discover the Monument of the Heroes for the Freedom of the People and of the Motherland.
-
Manastirea Antim
15 min
You go behind the communist blocks to find one of the oldest religious constructions in Bucharest. You will hear the story of the complicated relationship between state and religion during communism.
-
Palace of Parliament
15 min
You will explore the exteriors of the Palace of Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world, designed by Nicolae Ceausescu as the ultimate home-court advantage to humble world leaders.
-
15 min
You will discover the new Civic Center of Bucharest, the most ambitious project of the Nicolae Ceausescu, built with massive demolitions and sacrifice to local communities and old town architecture.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/Bucharest).
Additional Information
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Contrasts of Communism - Small Group Walking Tour in Bucharest
Can I cancel Contrasts of Communism - Small Group Walking Tour in Bucharest for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours 30 min.
Where does it start?
Go to "The Coffee Shop Campineanu", on the street Ion Campineanu. Look for your guide in front of the entrance
What's included?
- Public transportation tickets for one ride on the metro
Which places does it visit?
It visits Piaka Revolukiei, Manastirea Antim, Palace of Parliament.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English, Spanish.
What fitness level is needed?
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by My nice Romania
