Palace of Parliament travel guide

The Palace of Parliament, also known as the People's House, is a monumental structure situated in the heart of Bucharest. Commissioned by the Communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, construction began in 1984 and continued until the Romanian Revolution in 1989. Ceaușescu envisioned the building as a symbol of the power and grandeur of his regime.

Designed by architect Anca Petrescu, the Palace is the second-largest administrative building in the world, after the Pentagon. It spans over 3.7 million square feet and boasts more than 1,000 rooms. The construction involved the labor of around 700 architects and 20,000 workers.

Despite its grandeur, the building is also a poignant reminder of the lavish and authoritarian policies of Ceaușescu's rule, which diverted vast resources from the population. Today, it serves multiple purposes, housing Romania's Parliament, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and various conference rooms.

The Palace of Parliament remains a must-see attraction, offering guided tours that provide insight into its intricate architecture and tumultuous history.

The Palace of Parliament in Bucharest is renowned for its staggering size, being the second largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. It boasts over 3,000 rooms spread across 12 floors and covers approximately 330,000 square meters. An architectural marvel, it combines elements of neoclassical design with modernist influences, creating an imposing and majestic presence.

The interior is equally impressive, adorned with lavish decorations, including 1,409 chandeliers, 480 candelabras, and 5,500 tons of crystal. The extensive use of marble, with some 1,000,000 cubic meters sourced from Transylvania, adds to the opulence. One of the most distinctive features is the grandiose marble staircases, which are built to accommodate the dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu's stride.

Another unique aspect is the building's underground network, which includes a nuclear bunker designed to withstand an atomic blast. The palace also features enormous halls, some of which, like the Union Hall, can host up to 2,000 people. With its sheer grandeur and the intricacies of its design, the Palace of Parliament stands as a testament to both the ambition and excess of its era.

The Palace of Parliament in Bucharest is one of the heaviest buildings in the world, weighing approximately 4.1 million tonnes. It is also the second-largest administrative building globally, only surpassed by the Pentagon in the United States. The structure boasts over 3,000 rooms spread across 12 stories, with an additional eight underground levels. Remarkably, the lavish interior features 3,500 tonnes of crystal, 700,000 tonnes of steel and bronze, and 1 million square feet of marble. Another fascinating fact is that the building's heating and electrical costs reach up to $6 million annually. Despite its colossal size, only about 30% of the building is utilized today, with many rooms remaining empty or unfinished. Intriguingly, there are also secret tunnels and nuclear bunkers beneath the palace, designed for emergency use during the Cold War.

Located in the dynamic Sector 5, the popular Palace of Parliament is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Bucharest or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Romania.

Bucharest is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Bucharest offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Bucharest and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable King Mihai I Park, Youth Park, Grădina Cișmigiu, "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park, and Constitution Square.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Bucharest has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Bucharest, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Romania!

The best time to explore Palace of Parliament in Bucharest, Romania, is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for a comfortable tour both inside and outside of this iconic landmark. Spring brings blooming flowers and lush greenery around the palace grounds, enhancing the visual appeal and making it an ideal time for photography enthusiasts. In autumn, the crisp air and vibrant foliage add a unique charm to the surroundings, providing a picturesque backdrop for your visit.

Summer months (July and August) attract more tourists due to school holidays, which can lead to larger crowds and longer waiting times. However, if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, this could be a great time to experience the palace with fellow travelers. Winter months (November to March) are quieter, but the cold weather and shorter daylight hours can limit your outdoor activities.

For a unique experience, consider visiting during Romania's National Day on December 1st or during special cultural events like the Bucharest International Light Festival in mid-April. These events often include special tours or light displays that can enhance your visit. To avoid the crowds and make the most of your visit, aim to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Palace of Parliament is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Bucharest, Romania. If you're flying in, Henri Coandă International Airport is approximately 10 miles (16.1 km) away from Bucharest. From there, you can easily reach Palace of Parliament by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Bucharest, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Palace of Parliament, which is located 1 mile (1.6 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Palace of Parliament, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Strada Izvor 2-4, București, Romania, Romania.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Palace of Parliament!

With a rental car, discovering the popular Palace of Parliament and Romania's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Henri Coandă International Airport and the city of Bucharest, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Romania cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Bucharest and beyond.

Conveniently explore Palace of Parliament and plenty more captivating attractions in Bucharest by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Palace of Parliament and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Bucharest has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Palace of Parliament below.

Aside from Palace of Parliament, Bucharest is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Bucharest, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely King Mihai I Park, Youth Park, and Grădina Cișmigiu.

King Mihai I Park is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Bucharest, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 60,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of King Mihai I Park is Bucharest, Romania.

Another appreciated attraction in Bucharest is Youth Park. Like King Mihai I Park, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 37,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is Sector 4, București, Romania.

Grădina Cișmigiu is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Bucharest. This park and top attraction in Bucharest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta, București 030167, Romania.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Bucharest below.