Though Bucharest sadly lost much of its historic district through a combination of earthquakes, World War II and the Ceausescu dictatorship, what remains is delightful. Guests on the Essential Free Tour of Bucharest will be taken on a stroll around the historical center to see the main highlights of the city, superb squares and romantic cobbled streets. We recommend paying special attention to Lipscani Street, the most charming street in Bucharest, which also serves as the backbone for the old town. You’ll soon realize that the names of the streets reflect the trades that used to congregate here. Nowadays, this area is full of quaint artisan shops, typical restaurants, and architectural gems. One such gem is the superb Stavropoleos Monastery, known for its impressive choir and the largest collection of Byzantine music books in the world!