So last Tuesday I finally got around to visiting what they call the biggest palace in the world. Honestly? I thought it was just hype until I actually stood in front of that giant stone monster. Here's exactly how I did it step by step.
Getting My Butt to Bucharest
First things first - had to fly into Romania. Woke up at 3am to catch my budget flight, nearly missed it because security lines were wild. Pro tip: book flights for Tuesday mornings, cheapest day I found. Landed, grabbed a sketchy taxi that charged me double because I looked like a lost tourist. Should've taken the subway instead.
That Ticket Counter Struggle
Thought I could just walk in? Nope. Palace of Parliament makes you jump through hoops:
- Passport required like you're crossing a border
- Two separate security checks with grumpy guards
- Mandatory guided tour only - can't wander alone
Waited 40 minutes shuffling in line while some German tourists argued about the ticket prices. Almost turned around right there.
Entering the Beast
When those giant bronze doors swung open? My jaw actually dropped. Marble everywhere - floor, walls, freaking ceilings. Our guide said they used so much they could've paved a highway to the moon. Felt like an ant in a jewelry box.
Rooms That Blew My Mind
We shuffled through 110 rooms but these stuck with me:
- The Human Rights Hall - Ceiling so high it gave me neck cramps. Crystal chandeliers bigger than my car.
- Ceausescu's Balcony - Where that dictator waved at crowds. Creepy but fascinating.
- The Staircase of Death (I named it that) - Super slippery marble steps, almost ate it twice.
Every corner had some insane detail - gold leaf, carved wood, creepy oil paintings watching you.
What Sucked Big Time
Not all sunshine though:
- Feet died after 3 hours walking
- Too many tour groups bumping elbows
- Guide rushed us past cool rooms
Seriously - wear walking shoes and maybe sneak some water because they don't let you drink inside.
Tips From My Bloody Blisters
If you're going:
- Book online 3 days ahead - saves ticket line headache
- Go 8am sharp - empty corridors = better photos
- Pee before entering - no bathrooms during tour!
Worth it? Hell yes. But man was I happy to sit down afterwards with a giant Romanian beer. Place makes Buckingham Palace look like a garden shed.
