THE ADDRESS Magazine No.20 | Page 379

17th century palazzo has been lovingly restored. Many works of art and furnishings are original and the 17 suites are individuallythemed. Food is a casual affair in Trattoria A.D.1530 or a more elegant occasion in de Mondion restaurant, overlooking panoramic island views. 15. Bucharest Distinctive architecture, age-old café culture and the surrounding beauty of the Carpathian Mountains make Bucharest an appealing city break. The celebrated capital of Romania wallows in architectural marvels, the Patriarchal Church, the Palace of Parliament and the Arch of Triumph. But Bucharest is best enjoyed from the seat of an al fresco café, watching life go by. Easter is the biggest festival in the Romanian calendar and ties is perfectly with a spring visit to one of the most budget-friendly cities in Europe. Take advantage with excellent shopping opportunities. Stroll Calea Victoriei, Bucharest’s upmarket thoroughfare dotted by listed buildings, including The National Museum of Art in the grounds of the old Royal Palace. Nearby, the Roman Athenaeum is one of the most attractive buildings in the city. To understand the history and structure of Bucharest and Romania, visit the Palace of the Parliament, built to be the second largest building in the world at a budget-draining £3.8million annual maintenance. Drink and eat with locals at any of the bustling spots in town, where even solo travellers won’t find themselves on their own for lo