Belle époque boulevards and a colossal palace
Bucharest was once called Little Paris for its elegant boulevards and belle époque mansions, and many survive beside communist-era blocks. The Palace of the Parliament, built under Ceaușescu, is one of the largest administrative buildings in the world and can be toured inside. The Old Town around Lipscani Street is packed with bars and restaurants, while the Romanian Athenaeum is a beautiful concert hall. Herăstrău Park and the Village Museum show a greener, calmer side.