Flight Lyon - Bucharest

Making your way along Victory Avenue, one of Bucharest’s main axes, is a journey into the Romanian capital’s tumultuous history. High-end boutiques–a paradise for serial shoppers and bargain hunters–are interspersed with gems of architectural heritage, from orthodox churches to the National Library.

A symbol of the city's cultural vitality, this concert hall is reputed for its neoclassical façade, interior frescoes and optimal acoustics. Built in 1888 by the French architect André Galleron, it is a beloved jewel of the “Little Paris of the Balkans”. The building can be toured, but to truly be transported, there is nothing like an unforgettable evening of philharmonic music within its walls.

The Palace of the Parliament, a symbol of the excessiveness of the Ceausescu era, is one of the largest buildings in the world. The west wing of the “People’s House”, as it was once known, is home to a contemporary art museum, but perhaps its most impressive feature is its monumental 270-metre-long neoclassical façade on Union Boulevard (the longest boulevard in Europe).

Lined with pubs, concept stores and boutiques, this part of Old Bucharest is the city's trendiest area and nightlife hub. Day or night, Lipscani pulses with infectiously vibrant energy thanks to the many artists, designers and gallery owners who have made it their home.

Lying north of the historic centre, the elegant Herăstrău Park is the green heart of the city and a favourite haunt of joggers, families and lovebirds. This enormous playground with its 182-acre lake lends itself to activities of every kind, from boating, cycling and ice skating to visiting the Romanian village museum, relaxing at a lakeside tavern, and more.