Bucharest

The capital of Romania, Bucharest has a reputation for the high life, first earning its title as the “Paris of the East” in the decades before WWII when its impressive art nouveau palaces and architecture were reminiscent of Paris. You can still see glimpses of old “Paris” and its former elegance throughout the city, particularly around the Cișmigiu Gardens in the centre of the city – a picturesque park built on a romantic lake – and on the broad tree-lined avenues of villas like Şoseaua Kiseleff, leading up to a replica of the Arc de Triomphe.

Bucharest’s iconic landmark is the gigantic Palace of Parliament – the world’s biggest parliamentary building (and one of the largest buildings of any kind). Building started in 1984 and still continues today, and the 330,000sq-metre building has over 3,000 rooms. Entry is by guided tour only, so make sure you book in advance. The city also has its finger on the pulse when it comes to art, and some of the best new galleries include the Zorzini Gallery, the H'art Gallery, and the Galateca gallery, which hosts cutting-edge art events as well as exhibitions.

Bucharest also has a reputation for its vibrant and energetic nightlife scene, often drawing in the stag groups for hedonistic weekends. Whether you’re there for the arts and culture or the party scene, you can enjoy the outdoor cafés, bars and restaurants that have sprung up in recent years, which come to life on hot summer nights.