10 Things to Do in the Palace of Parliament (Palatul Parlamentului) in Bucharest, Romania
One of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in Bucharest, Romania, the Palace of Parliament, or Palatul Parlamentului, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Constructed between 1984 and 1997, the palace is the world's second-largest administrative building, behind the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. It has been home to the Romanian Parliament since 1997 and is a popular tourist attraction in Romania. Here are 10 things to do in the Palace of Parliament.
1. Visit the Museum of the Palace
The Museum of the Palace is located on the ground floor of the building and is a great place to learn about the history of the palace and Romania. There are interactive displays, audio-visual presentations, and photographs that tell the story of the palace, as well as information about the history of Romania.
2. Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours of the palace are available and are a great way to learn more about the building and its history. The guided tours take visitors through the main halls and chambers of the building, as well as to some of the more interesting areas, such as the presidential suite and the Senate Hall.
3. Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art
Located in the palace, the National Museum of Contemporary Art (MNAC) is a great place to see some of the best contemporary art in Romania. The museum has a permanent collection of over 8,000 works of art, as well as temporary exhibitions and special events.
4. Explore the Palace Gardens
The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parks, which are great for exploring and taking in the scenery. The gardens feature sculptures, fountains, and a large lake, as well as a variety of plants and trees.
5. Visit the National Library of Romania
The National Library of Romania is located in the palace and is one of the largest libraries in the country. The library has a collection of over 3 million books, as well as rare manuscripts, maps, and photographs.
6. Attend a Concert
The palace hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year, ranging from classical music to rock and pop. The concerts are held in the main hall of the palace, which has a capacity of over 4,000 people.
7. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Herastrau
Lake Herastrau is located just outside the palace and is a great place to take a boat ride. The lake is home to a variety of fish and birds, as well as a wide range of plants and trees.
8. Visit the National Museum of History
The National Museum of History is located in the palace and is a great place to learn about the history of Romania. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the country's ancient history, as well as modern history.
9. Take a Stroll Through the Old Town
The Old Town of Bucharest is located just outside the palace and is a great place to explore. The area is filled with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
10. Enjoy a Meal at the Palace Restaurant
The Palace Restaurant is located on the top floor of the palace and is a great place to enjoy a meal. The restaurant serves traditional Romanian dishes, as well as international cuisine. The restaurant also has a great view of the city.