Bucharest’s oldest green space, the Cișmigiu Gardens was opened in 1847 and feels filled with secrets. Settle down on the carpets of lawn for a summer picnic, or take a row-boat on the lake. The true gem of this park is the flower-lined hidden paths that wind their way to the ruins of an old monastery. Among the 30,000 trees planted in the park, don’t miss the 300-year-old platanus tree with branches almost as tall as a nine-storey building. It is said that below it’s roots there's hidden treasure. In winter the park is just as busy, when the lake is used for skating. The landmark Monte Carlo restaurant stands on a central island. Elegant pre-communist buildings line nearby Regina Maria boulevard. The 19th-century Gambrinus Brewery serves local beer and traditional food, and surrounding streets have snack bars, pubs and stylish, low-key nightclubs.