The Palace of Parliament rises from Dealul Arsenalului at the western end of Bulevardul Unirii, a Communist-era colossus that still houses Romania’s Chamber of Deputies and Senate. Nicolae Ceaușescu ordered it built from 1984, and architect Anca Petrescu’s design swallowed a large swath of historic Bucharest. Visitors come for the sheer scale of one of the world’s largest administrative buildings and for interiors few other governments could afford (source: [Visit Romania](https://www.visitromania.net/en/bucharest/bucharest-things-to-do/palace-of-parliament/)).
Guided tours pass through cavernous ceremonial halls finished almost entirely in Romanian materials: Transylvanian marble, carved oak, heavy brocade curtains, and crystal chandeliers that weigh several tonnes. Highlights usually include the Union Hall and the central balcony, which frames a long view down the boulevard Ceaușescu modeled on the Champs-Élysées. The National Museum of Contemporary Art occupies the east wing and is ticketed separately. Expect marble staircases and plenty of walking (source: [Bucharest Tickets](https://www.bucharest-tickets.com/palace-of-parliament/plan-your-visit/)).
Visitor Highlights & Practical Info
Entry runs only through guided tours, so book ahead, especially in summer and on weekends. Bring a passport or national ID and allow time for airport-style security at the visitor entrance on Strada Izvor. Parliamentary sessions and official events can close routes at short notice, so confirm your slot the day before. Morning tours on weekdays tend to feel calmer. Photography rules vary by tour (source: [Love Bucharest](https://lovebucharest.com/palace-of-parliament-bucharest-tour-tickets/)). Izvor metro station sits a short walk away, and the Old Town is about 15 minutes on foot.
