IF YOU love Paris, but hate the crowds there – then there is a great alternative that is known for having similar architecture.
Bucharest in Romania has been named as one of the emerging regions and overlooked places to visit in 2026 by AFAR.
AFAR said: “In 2026, we want to lessen the burden on overtouristed destinations and expand visitation to more varied spots across the world.
“We chose these places because they allow for this kind of responsible travel, yes, but also because they will inspire you to start planning your next great adventure right now.”
Dubbed the ‘little Paris of the East’, Bucharest is known for its mix of architectural styles and historic Lipscani district, where the Old Town can be found.
The nickname comes from the city’s elegant French-style architecture, wide boulevards and lively cultural scene.
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Notable architecture includes Bucharest’s very own Arcul de Triumf, which is a replica of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
The landmark commemorates Romania’s independence and WWI victories.
Though today it is made of granite, it was originally built in wood back in 1878.
Another key building is The Universul Palace, which once housed the ‘Universul’ newspaper.
Founded by the Italian journalist Cazzavillan in 1884, the newspaper ran until 1953.
The seven-storey building is now used for a mixture of purposes, including offices, a creative hub, a café and a cocktail bar.
Then there’s the Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard, which used to be the World War II German headquarters.
The building originally opened in 1873 as the Grand Hotel du Boulevard before then housing the headquarters for the German military in Romania during World War II from 1941 to 1944.
The building was then later used during the Communist era and eventually reopened under the Corinthia brand.
Inside, there are 30 suites, a grand ballroom, a spa, brasseries and a lounge bar.
In the Old Town, in the Lipscani district, visitors can explore several cobbled lanes and historic sites including the Stavropoleos Monastery – an 18th century Orthodox monastery – and the Old Court.
For book lovers, head to Carturesti Carusel – a bookshop spread across several floors with an Art Nouveau interior featuring white columns and spiral staircases.
On the top floor there is even a cosy café called Carusel Cafe, which boasts pretty views of the city.
Also in the Old Town is Villacrosse Passage, which is horseshoe-shaped and has a yellow glass roof.
Bucharest is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with top pubs littered across the Old Town’s streets.
When it comes to eating, AFAR explained: “The past few years have also seen more variety in Bucharest’s food scene as Romanian classics are newly interpreted: At Arzu, in the old Jewish Quarter, diners can try stuffed bell peppers with a glass of Romanian mustoasă de măderat white wine.”
One top spot in the city is JW Steakhouse, which is rated the best spot in the city on Tripadvisor.
The restaurant serves high quality cuts of meat, including Black Angus beef.
One recent visitor said: “I had a remarkable dining experience at JW Steakhouse in Bucharest.
“The service, food. and atmosphere were top-tier.”
When it comes to choosing somewhere to stay in the city there is also plenty of choice.
For example, you could opt to stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest Old Town from £112 per night.
The hotel is set in a building that features a mix of modern and classical European architecture and features a fitness centre as well.
Return flights to Bucharest from London cost £31 in January, or £38 from Bristol Airport or £44 from Birmingham.
For more inspiration on where to travel to in 2026, these are the top 10 holiday destinations set to be big next year from European beach cities to African capitals.
Plus, the holiday destinations our travel team predicts will be HUGE in 2026 – thanks to cheap hotels, flights and pints.
