Palace of the 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.

Discover Palace of the Parliament, a prime feature of Bucharest, in the vibrant Bucharest. Palace of the Parliament is situated at Strada Izvor 2-4, București, Romania, just a short distance from The Church of the "Stavropoleos" Monastery and Grădina Cișmigiu, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Palace of the Parliament, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Bucharest, a city in Romania rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Bucharest travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

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 the 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 the city center. From there, you can easily reach Palace of the Parliament by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Bucharest, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Palace of the Parliament, which is located 1 mile (1.6 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Strada Izvor 2-4, București, Romania.

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

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Bucharest, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Palace of the Parliament.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic palace in Romania.

Upon arriving at Henri Coandă International Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Bucharest.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Bucharest.

Choosing the right accommodation near Palace of the Parliament from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Bucharest can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Palace of the Parliament, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Palace of the Parliament, Bucharest boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to park, the top attractions in Bucharest offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Bucharest is King Mihai I Park, located at Bucharest, Romania. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Youth Park is worth seeing when you're in Bucharest. It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Sector 4, București, Romania.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Grădina Cișmigiu completes any trip to Bucharest. This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta, București 030167, Romania, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Bucharest below to discover even more incredible places to explore.