Bucharest

Known for its wide, tree-lined boulevards, glorious Belle Epoque buildings and a reputation for the high life (which in the 1900s earned its nickname of “Little Paris”), Bucharest , Romania 's largest city and capital, is today a bustling metropolis.

Romanian legend has it that the city of Bucharest was founded on the banks of the Dambovita River by a shepherd named Bucar, whose name literally means “joy”. His flute playing reportedly dazzled the people and his hearty wine from nearby vineyards endeared him to the local traders, who gave his name to the place. In the 15th century, the princely court of Vlad Tepes (thought to have been the inspiration for Bram Stoker's “Dracula”) was established here.

In 1862, Bucharest became the capital of Romania .

Remodeled in the late 19th Century by French and French-trained architects, the city features large neoclassical buildings, fashionable parks, and even its very own Arc de Triomphe on the elegant Soseaua Kiseleff, an avenue longer than the famed Champs-Elysees and home to the city's mansion district.

Please click here to be taken to the Romania tourist board to find out more about Bucharest.