When you think of Bucharest, your first mental image might not involve lush greenery and serene lakes. More likely, you’re picturing a concrete jungle dotted with a few stray trees that are doing their best to survive the urban sprawl. But here’s the thing: Bucharest is surprisingly leafy.
In fact, it’s a city that takes its parks seriously—so seriously, in fact, that you could spend an entire day hopping between them and still not see them all. And you should, because Bucharest’s parks are not just patches of grass—they’re full-blown experiences, each with its own quirks and personality. Here are five of the best.
1. Herăstrău Park (King Michael I Park): The Grand Dame of Bucharest’s Green Spaces
Herăstrău Park is the kind of place that makes you wonder if Bucharest is secretly trying to become the Venice of Eastern Europe. Sprawling across nearly 400 acres, it’s built around a massive lake that is so picturesque it looks like it was designed by someone who makes postcards for a living.
You can rent a little rowboat or, if you’re feeling particularly ambitious, a paddleboat, and spend an hour pretending to be in a romantic novel while you drift aimlessly across the water.
The park is also home to the Village Museum, an open-air collection of traditional Romanian houses that range from charmingly rustic to “I hope the roof doesn’t cave in.” It’s an excellent way to learn about rural life in Romania without actually having to leave the city—or deal with any livestock.
Herăstrău is best visited on a sunny day, ideally with an ice cream in hand, and if you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a street performer or two, proving that Bucharest has a sense of humor after all.
2. Cișmigiu Gardens: The Old-School Charmer
Cișmigiu Gardens is the oldest park in Bucharest, and it shows—in the best possible way. It’s like stepping into a sepia-toned photograph of the 19th century, with manicured flowerbeds, wrought-iron benches, and a lake that practically begs you to rent a little rowboat and pretend you’re in a black-and-white movie.
The park is smaller and more intimate than Herăstrău, which makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet afternoon of people-watching.
Cișmigiu has a certain elegance that’s hard to describe but impossible to miss. It’s the kind of place where you half expect to see someone in a top hat and tails reading poetry under a tree. In reality, you’re more likely to see teenagers taking selfies and elderly couples feeding the ducks, but the charm is still there.
And if you get peckish, there’s a lovely little café by the lake where you can sip a coffee and feel very sophisticated indeed.
3. Carol Park: History Meets Tranquility
Carol Park is proof that Bucharest knows how to do dramatic. This park is less about frolicking in the grass and more about soaking up history and grandeur. At its center is the Mausoleum, a towering structure that looks like it could double as the headquarters for a secret society.
It’s surrounded by wide, tree-lined avenues that practically demand you walk down them with purpose, even if your only purpose is to find the nearest ice cream stand.
The park also has a Roman-style open-air amphitheater – Arenele Romane -, which occasionally hosts concerts and events. If you’re lucky, you might catch a show, but even if you don’t, it’s worth visiting just to marvel at the architecture and wonder why your local park back home doesn’t have anything half as impressive.
Carol Park is quieter than some of the others, making it a great spot for a peaceful afternoon of reading, napping, or contemplating the meaning of life.
4. Tineretului Park: Fun for All Ages
If Herăstrău is the grand dame and Cișmigiu is the old charmer, Tineretului Park is the cool kid who knows how to have a good time. This park is a favorite among locals, especially families, thanks to its playgrounds, bike paths, and open spaces that are perfect for a game of frisbee or an impromptu picnic.
But the real highlight of Tineretului is Orășelul Copiilor, or “Children’s Town,” a mini amusement park that’s as delightfully chaotic as it sounds. There are rides, games, and enough sugary snacks to keep kids bouncing off the walls for hours.
If you’re traveling with little ones, this is the place to go. And if you’re not, it’s still worth a visit for the sheer joy of watching children run around like caffeinated squirrels while their parents try to keep up.
5. Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I.O.R. Park): The Local Favorite
Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park, often referred to simply as I.O.R. Park, is the kind of place that doesn’t try to impress you—it just quietly wins you over. Located in the eastern part of the city, it’s less touristy than some of the other parks, which means you’ll mostly be surrounded by locals going about their day.
There’s a lovely lake in the middle, complete with swans that glide around like they own the place, and plenty of shaded paths that are perfect for a leisurely walk or a morning jog (if you’re one of those people who jogs on vacation, which I will never understand).
One of the park’s highlights is the Church of St. Constantine and Elena, a charming little wooden church that looks like it was plucked straight out of a fairy tale. There’s also a small island in the middle of the lake that you can reach via a bridge, and it’s the perfect spot for a quiet moment of reflection—or a very scenic Instagram photo.
Practical Tips for Park-Hopping in Bucharest
- Getting Around: Most of these parks are easily accessible by public transport or a short taxi ride. Herăstrău and Cișmigiu are particularly central, while Tineretului and I.O.R. are a bit further out but well worth the trip.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal, when the flowers are in bloom and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. That said, autumn brings gorgeous foliage, and even winter has its charm, especially if there’s snow.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, a bottle of water, and a good book. And if you’re visiting Tineretului, bring your inner child—it’s the only way to fully appreciate the experience.
Bucharest’s parks are more than just green spaces—they’re little slices of the city’s soul. They’re where locals gather, where history lingers, and where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life. So grab a map, lace up your walking shoes, and prepare to discover a side of Bucharest that’s as beautiful as it is unexpected.
Photos: Canva Pro, Envatos
