Arch of Triumph
Arcul de Triumf
A granite triumphal arch inspired by Paris, built to commemorate Romania's WWI victory and adorned with sculptures. Visitors can climb to its terrace on select occasions for panoramic city views.
Things to do
- Admire the sculpted facades — Circle the arch to see the bas-reliefs, coats of arms, and inscriptions honoring Romania's WWI heroes.
- Climb to the terrace — On select open days you can ascend the interior staircase to the top terrace for panoramic views over northern Bucharest.
- Stroll Kiseleff Boulevard — Walk the elegant tree-lined avenue that stretches from the arch toward Victoriei Square, lined with villas and embassies.
- Relax in Herastrau (King Michael I) Park — Just north of the arch, enjoy the lakeside paths, boat rentals, and green spaces of Bucharest's largest park.
- Visit the Dimitrie Gusti Village Museum — Explore an open-air museum of authentic Romanian peasant houses and churches on the shore of Herastrau Lake.
- See the December 1 military parade — On Romania's National Day, troops and dignitaries march beneath the arch in the country's biggest annual ceremony.
Food to try
- Mici — Grilled skinless minced-meat rolls seasoned with garlic and spices, a classic Bucharest street food often eaten with mustard and bread.
- Sarmale — Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced pork and rice, slow-cooked and typically served with polenta and sour cream.
- Papanasi — Fried doughnut-like cheese dumplings topped with sour cream and jam, a beloved Romanian dessert.
- Ciorba de burta — A sour tripe soup enriched with cream and garlic, a hearty Romanian comfort dish.
- Covrigi — Warm pretzels sprinkled with salt, poppy, or sesame seeds, sold from kiosks around the boulevards.
Local customs & good to know
- Terrace access is limited — The arch's terrace is usually open only on National Day and select holidays, so check ahead before planning a climb.
- Mind the traffic circle — The arch sits in the middle of a busy roundabout, so use the designated crossings rather than dashing across lanes.
- National Day is December 1 — Expect crowds, road closures, and a festive military parade around the arch on Romania's Great Union Day.
- Carry small cash — Street vendors for covrigi, mici, and park snacks often prefer cash, and small lei notes are handy.