King Michael I Park, Bucharest (must see)

King Michael I Park, formerly known as Herastrau Park, is a sprawling green oasis situated along the northern banks of Lake Herastrau, right in the heart of Bucharest. Covering approximately 187 hectares, it’s one of the city’s largest and most beloved parks. Named in honor of King Michael I of Romania in 2017, the park beautifully blends natural landscapes with cultural landmarks, creating an inviting environment for both passive and active relaxation. Whether you're in the mood for a stroll by the lake, a scenic bike ride, or a peaceful picnic under centuries-old trees, this park offers it all.

At the water’s edge, a pedestrian promenade provides picturesque views of the lake and the impressive Romanian Village Museum (Muzeul Satului), an open-air museum showcasing authentic traditional village life. Here, you can wander among wooden churches, peasant houses, and windmills transported from regions across Romania-an immersive journey into the country’s rural heritage. Boat rental kiosks sit nearby, offering paddleboats, rowboats, and even small electric launches to explore the lake’s tranquil waters at your own pace.

The park’s facilities are well-thought-out and tourist-friendly. Pathways wind through beautifully manicured lawns, playgrounds, cafés, and seasonal beer gardens. During warmer months, outdoor terraces and cultural kiosks enliven the scene with live music, art exhibitions, and family events. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate dedicated jogging lanes, bicycle rental stations, and even skateboarding areas, while cyclists can follow expansive trails circling the lake and penetrating deeper into the Reiuli Herastrau forest.

For travelers seeking to combine nature, history, and local flavor, King Michael I Park offers a seamless blend. It’s a cultural landmark, a leisure destination, and, thanks to its sprawling green canopy, a refreshing escape from urban bustle. Whether you’re visiting solo, with family, or on a date, the park's blend of Romanian tradition and modern recreation ensures a memorable experience at the heart of Bucharest.