Herăstrău Park, also known as King Michael I Park, is one of the capital's largest and most beautiful parks, loved by tourists and Bucharest residents alike. Located in sector 1, this urban park is a true oasis of greenery and tranquility, the ideal place for relaxation, sport and recreation.

Herăstrău Park - park history

Two centuries ago, around 1806, Bucharest's elegant and well-to-do were strolling along the shores of Lake Herăstrău. 30 years later, in 1936, the Herăstrău Park was built, a place of relaxation around the lake, offering a fairytale setting for romantic daytime and evening strolls. 

King Michael I Park was built by removing the marshland around Lake Herăstrău, and the architect behind the project was Nicolae Caranfil. Between 1936 and 1939, architects Ernest Pinard, Friedrich Rebhuhn and Octav Doicescu joined forces to design the park. Few people know, however, that the name 'Herăstrău' actually comes from a gater, a mechanical saw, which was located on the lakeshore, right by the bridge. According to historical documents, the saw was located in the DN1 area, being a famous object in the 1600s, with even streets named after it (Ulița Fierăstrărăului).

Herăstrău Park - Attractions and Activities

Herăstrău Park covers approximately 200 hectares and offers a wide range of activities and attractions for all ages, making it an ideal place to spend your free time.

The park's biggest attraction is, of course, the lake. With an area of about 74 hectares, it is used for various recreational activities such as boating, kayaking and fishing. Along the banks, there are pontoons and places to rent boats and hydrobikes.

For those who have no interest in the water, there are skateboarding areas, a bike rental center or an adventure park with various trails.

A truly fascinating place is the Japanese Garden, which, if you visit it in spring when the trees are in bloom, feels like stepping into a true nature paradise. This picturesque section of the park, landscaped in the traditional Japanese style, offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere and is a popular spot for photography and meditation.

Also in the park you can visit the Michael Jackson Alley - inaugurated in 2009, dedicated to the legendary pop artist, the "Dimitrie Gusti" Village Museum - an open-air museum showcasing traditional houses and other structures from various regions of Romania, offering a glimpse into Romanian rural life, the Summer Theater - where various outdoor music, theater and dance performances take place and the Caryatids Alley - known for its statues and sculptures, which add a touch of elegance and art to the park's landscape.

Herăstrău Park - Sports and Recreation

Herăstrău Park is an ideal place for sports and recreational activities. Here you will find jogging and cycling tracks, tennis courts, children's playgrounds and numerous open spaces for picnics and team games. The park also has special outdoor fitness areas.

Herăstrău Park - Events and Festivals

The park frequently hosts various events and festivals such as craft fairs, music festivals, sports events and flower shows. These events attract large numbers of visitors and contribute to the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere of the park.

Herăstrău Park is a jewel of Bucharest, offering a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With picturesque landscapes, multiple recreational facilities and a variety of attractions, the park is an ideal place for relaxation, sports and spending leisure time in the middle of nature. Whether you are a local or a tourist, a visit to Herăstrău Park is an experience not to be missed.