Things to Do in Unirii Square

Unirii Square is one of Europe's largest public spaces. This massive area stretches between Romania's Palace of Parliament and fountains that draw crowds of locals and tourists throughout the year. You can't miss the scale. Entire neighborhoods were demolished in the 1980s to create this grand urban project, erasing centuries of Bucharest's residential history in the process. Today it's something different. Families gather around the fountains in summer while the underground shopping center buzzes with contemporary Romanian life—the contrast between imposing architecture and everyday human activity makes this one of Bucharest's more interesting places.

The area around Unirii Square has developed a solid dining scene mixing traditional Romanian restaurants with international options. You'll find excellent local dishes like mici and papanași at family-run places tucked into the surrounding streets. Good value here. The Unirea Shopping Center's food court offers both Romanian specialties and familiar international chains for quick meals. The nearby Old Town provides more upscale dining options, though prices tend to be higher there. Look for restaurants where you hear Romanian being spoken at most tables—that usually indicates local approval and reasonable prices.

Late spring through early fall offers the most pleasant weather for exploring Unirii Square. The fountain shows run during these warmer months when the square's open design catches whatever breeze is available. Summer gets quite hot. The underground shopping areas provide air-conditioned relief when you need it, while winter visits have their own appeal as the square takes on a more dramatic character. You'll experience the city as locals do during colder months, though some outdoor attractions have reduced hours and the fountains shut down from November through March.