Yahoo News 'Little Paris' just three hours from UK with epic landmarks and attractions for tourists
From the fascinating culture to enchanting historic landmarks, and let's not forget its reputation as "little Paris", Bucharest has long been a desired city break location. Located in Europe, this Romanian beauty charms with its attractive streets and welcoming atmosphere that draws in thousands of adventurous tourists annually.
Generations past granted Bucharest its affectionate name of "Little Paris" in homage to its distinct French-esque flair in both architecture and cultural aspects. This gorgeous city curates an exceptional blend of yesteryear and the modern era, drawing interest towards its diverse range of sightseeing spots, bustling bars, quaint cafes, and mouth-watering restaurants.
Don't be afraid should you note the connection between the city - once the dwelling place of the feared Vlad the Impaler - also the muse behind Bram Stoker's Dracula. The story is part of a rich tapestry of history best discovered within its limits, including sights from the Old Town to the Stavropoleos Monastery and the man-made marvel that is Lake Cismigiu.
Reaching this delightful escape means only a short three-hour flight from the UK. As per recent checks on Skyscanner, direct return fares sit in the region of £135 if leaving from London, while from Manchester you can expect roughly £220, reports the Express.
Must-see attractions in Bucharest
Echoing reports from Liverpool Echo, Bucharest never falls short of exciting opportunities and sightseeing options. One might start their visit in the city's famed Old Town, graced by mesmerising neoclassical and neo-baroque structures.
Between navigating your way through cobbled paths, you can take a breather at one of many floor terraces or indulge in a spot of cafe-hopping, shopping or church visits. On top of every visitor's list sits the 18th-century built Stavropoleos Monastery, featured on Tripadvisor as Bucharest's top-rated attraction - and it's not hard to see why.
Former visitor Tom J described the monastery on Tripadvisor as a "little gem" in Bucharest's Old Town, saying: "One of Bucharest's oldest, it is amazing just how peaceful and quiet it is given its location. We visited late in the afternoon and there were no other visitors at the time so it felt a lot more personal which was nice. It's not a large place by any means but instead a small stop on a busy day."
Bucharest boasts stunning religious monuments like the Romanian Athenaeum, dubbed the Romanian Temple of Arts, where visitors can delve into its history and enjoy the concert hall that dates back to 1888.
For a picture-perfect moment, the Downtown fountains at Unirii Square are a must-see attraction, captivating both day and night. The city also offers the tranquil artificial Lake Cismigiu in the historic Cismigiu Park, complete with a rose garden and French garden.
On the topic of Bucharest's affordability, Liam Thorp, political editor at Liverpool Echo, has previously commended the city for being budget-friendly.
He said: "Bucharest is the ideal city break on a budget. It is a fascinating place packed with interesting history, cultural intrigue and a cracking nightlife. The city, like the wider country of Romania, brings together a smorgasbord of influences from the Romans to the Austro-Hungarian empire.
"We spent our days visiting incredible landmarks like the vast Palace of Parliament, the Village Museum of traditional Romanian houses and the remarkable former private residence of Romanian leader Nicolae Ceausescu.
"The city's Botanical Gardens are a lovely place to spend a few hours, particularly if the weather is kind to you. By night, we spent most of our time in the bustling bars and restaurants of Bucharest's Old Town.
"The area is buzzing with cool places to eat and drink, connected by beautiful cobbled streets and surrounded by more striking architecture. One of the biggest plus points of this enchanting and curious city is its affordability.
"You can venture out for a few beers and a tasty Romanian meal without breaking the bank. With cheap flights and reasonable accommodation prices to boot, you should absolutely consider making Bucharest your next city break destination."
If you're looking for a city where you can enjoy an affordable meal, a bottle of wine, and a pint of beer, then Bucharest won't weigh heavy on your pocket, according to the cost-of-living comparison website Numbeo. The site reveals that a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will likely cost roughly £43.
Simultaneously, a bottle of local vino will set you back around £5 and a pint of local beer about £2.34. On the flip side, a pint of beer in the UK usually costs around £4.21 on average.
