In addition to being the centre for Bucharest’s intellectual and political events and the most popular meeting place in the city, the University of Bucharest has a dramatic history. During the 1989 Revolution, some of Romania’s fiercest fighting took place here. Close by you can find the University of Bucharest’s School of Architecture, the National Theatre, the Coltea Hospital and the Sutu Palace (History Museum). A Christmas market is held at the University Square every year, but you can find excellent restaurants and cafes in the area all year round.

The amazing Teatro Regio (Royal Theatre) was commissioned by Vittorio Amedeo II and inaugurated in 1740. It immediately became a reference in the world of opera and ballet, not least for its sophisticated design. Today, the theatre remains a touchstone for the art of opera, but you can also visit the stunning building for its architecture alone. Be sure to check out the intricate bronze Cancellata Odissea Musicale art piece at the entrance.

Running from Fuencaliente to El Pilar, this well-marked scenic route is easy to navigate and varies in difficulty depending on the route you choose – it's downhill towards Fuencaliente, but becomes more challenging if you venture north to El Pilar.