Enjoy a Classical Concert at the Romanian Athenaeum, Bucharest
Picture yourself as a wealthy, European aristocrat in the late 1800s. It’s the middle of a long, dark winter and evening is approaching. You dawn your finest robes and jewels and summon a carriage to take you to dinner followed by the much anticipated live music at the brand new Romanian Athenaeum, Bucharest.
Classical concerts at the Athenaeum have not changed a great deal over the years. The music, the glamour and the spectacle is still much the same as it was 100 years ago.
We book tickets for a Classical Concert at the Romanian Athenaeum, Bucharest, to see what it’s all about. If you are thinking about booking tickets to a concert at the Romanian Athenaeum, you’re in the right place! We provide inspiration and useful information for your visit. Read on to find out all you need to know about how to enjoy a classical concert at the Romanian Athenaeum
What is the Romanian Athenaeum?
Since opening in 1888, the Romanian Athenaeum has been a landmark of the country’s capital city, Bucharest. This small, but perfectly formed, concert hall sits right in the heart of the city and is home to the local George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra. The building was saved from almost certain collapse when renovations began in 1992.
The circular design of the hall makes for astounding acoustics leading many of the worlds top orchestras to perform here. The interior décor displays frescos depicting Romanian history from the Roman Empire right up until the 20th century.
Where is it and How to Get There
The Romanian Athenaeum sits in the very heart of Bucharest, Romania at 1-3 Benjamin Franklin Street. It is close to Victoriei Avenue (Calea Victoriei) and Magheru Blvd.
To get there, you can take buses 335, 131, 381 and 783 or take a metro to either Piața Romană or Piața Universității. If you are staying in the centre of Bucharest, you can also walk, or jump in a cab.
How to Book Romanian Athenaeum Tickets
There are two ways to book tickets for a classical concert at the Romanian Athenaeum. We booked our seats online as part of the GEORGE ENESCU festival of music. This happens in Bucharest every year, usually in September. Tickets booked online will need to be printed out and brought to the event. Alternatively, tickets can be bought at the kiosk during specific hours. It’s best to call ahead as these hours seem to vary.
We originally went directly to the athenaeum to buy tickets but the desk was closed. We were incorrectly told to go to the Sala Palatului where we were told that this happens a lot. You cannot buy tickets for the Romanian Athenaeum at the Sala Palatului.
Where are the Best Seats in the Romanian Athenaeum?
Because of the Athenaeum’s round design, the acoustics are great in any seat. The seats are almost all on one level with a slightly elevated position for the back and side rows. There are no balconies or tiers. We sat in a slightly elevated booth at the back and had a spectacular view of the orchestra and of the entire hall.
Our tickets cost around €40. There were also €20 tickets previously available but they had already sold out.
What to Wear to a Classical Concert at the Romanian Athenaeum
This was our biggest and most difficult decision of the weekend! However, getting dressed up to go to the Athenaeum is part of the fun. Whether you want to go all out or keep it casual, it’s up to you.
Smart casual is the norm but you will also see men in suits and ladies in cocktail dresses as well as the occasional tourist in jeans. The dress code is fairly flexible so wear what you are comfortable in. Just try to avoid heavy fragrances and large bags and make sure you remove any hats that might block the view of the person sitting behind you.
Having attended classical concerts in other European cities we decided to dress somewhere in the middle. Our performance was in the early evening so it was less formal. Simple and elegant usually does the trick and it is considered respectful to the musicians.
What to Bring to a Classical Concert at the Athenaeum
Honestly, very little. We needed our printed tickets to show at the door. Other than that, the usual purse, phone and keys was enough for us all evening.
There are a few restaurants nearby where we headed after the concert for dinner and drinks. However, it was still warm enough in September to walk around the city without a coat.
Classical Concert Etiquette
Do not let this put you off attending a classical concert at the Romanian Athenaeum! There are just a few unwritten rules that most people would naturally abide by anyway. Others are less obvious but easy to follow.
Firstly, no smoking inside, that’s an easy one. Secondly, make sure you arrive early. This will give you time to get settled in to your seat before the performance starts.
It’s best not to use your phone during the performance as it can be very distracting to others.
Finally, hold your applause until conductor bows. There may be a break in the music but don’t show your appreciation until he or she turns to the audience and bows.
Easy, right! These guidelines are there to make sure everyone enjoys the evening and the musicians receive the respect they deserve for their years of dedication.
Our Experience at the Romanian Athenaeum
We had the privilege of listening to the Radio Romania Chamber Orchestra in the Romanian Athenaeum. The whole orchestra was exceptional but cellist, ALISA WEILERSTEIN, was something else! She added so much drama and emotion to an already powerful piece of music.
The small, intimate concert hall provided great acoustics and the surroundings were truly captivating. We listened to nearly two hours of captivating music and enjoyed every second. A night of classical music at the Romanian Athenaeum is really a fantastic way to spend an evening in Bucharest.
Photo Locations in the Romanian Athenaeum
Whilst it is frowned upon to take photos during the performance, there are many great photo spots around the Athenaeum. After the concert, we stayed for a few minutes in the hall to capture a few snaps.
We also took some time to take a selfie on the elaborate, spiral stars, balcony and around the beautiful foyer. The park outside also makes a beautiful backdrop for some evening shots.
How To Enjoy a Classical Concert at the Romanian Athenaeum, Bucharest
Visiting the Romanian Athenaeum to see a classical concert is a must for music fans in Bucharest. If you like history, it is really easy to imagine you are entering another time when you visit the ornate concert hall. We thoroughly enjoyed our evening and it is definitely the best way to experience this beautiful concert hall.
Where to Next?
Want to learn a bit more about busting Bucharest? There is a lot to see in Romania’s capital city. Find out some Surprising things to do in Bucharest
Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. As a result, we would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.
Have you visited Romania or any other Balkan countries? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!
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How To Enjoy a Classical Concert at the Romanian Athenaeum, Bucharest
I love the interior of that theatre! It looks like the perfect place to listen to a classical concert in. I’ll remember this for when I travel to Bucharest.
A special occasion!