bucharest cost of travel

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Bucharest Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Bucharest?

How much does a weekend trip to bucharest cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Bucharest cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Bucharest cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Bucharest

A trip to Bucharest for one person usually costs between $56 and $343 per day and $112 to $686 for two people. This is a wide range of costs, and the daily average per person from our data is $140 (lei642) per person. This average includes food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation expenses contributed from other travelers. Prices can vary based on travel style and activities. While the overall price for a trip to Bucharest is dependent on your personal travel style and the specific places you visit, if you book standard accommodation and travel with an average level of convenience, then your budget should be somewhere close to this average cost. Later in this article, you can find a breakdown of travel expenses by category, plus a general price range of accommodation and activity costs for your visit. Also, the prices for individual attractions and hotels may vary, but generally fall somewhat close to the price ranges described in this article.

If you're considering an independent trip to Bucharest, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $56 (lei257) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $140 (lei642) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $343 (lei1,577), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Bucharest from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Bucharest .

Travelers spend, on average, $419 per person on a three-day trip to Bucharest. This includes sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. You can stick close to this average price by staying at mid-range hotels and eating at mid-level restaurants, while also paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. If you wish to travel cheaper, it's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities. It's also common for many visitors to have a much higher travel budget, as many high-end hotels and restaurants can be found around town.

How much does a five day trip to Bucharest cost?

With five days in Bucharest, you can expect to spend about $698 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Bucharest cost?

Most visitors spend between $391 and $2,400 for a one week trip to Bucharest, with the average being $977 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Bucharest. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hostel Prices in Bucharest

With more than 20 hostels in Bucharest, the average price is $15 per night for a dorm bed. The cheapest hostel costs $5 and the most expensive is $39. Usually popular with younger travelers, hostels are a great way to save money while also being social. But not all hostels are the same, and we've analyzed the prices of both dorms and private rooms to find the average prices and best places to stay. You can see more details about the hostel prices in Bucharest here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Bucharest.

• $23 for a dorm bed at T5 Social in Bucharest more details
• $19 for a dorm bed at BEDSY in Bucharest more details
• $14 for a dorm bed at Popcorn in Bucharest more details

Hotel Prices in Bucharest

The average price for a hotel room in Bucharest is $48 per night. This average is based on our detailed analysis of available hotels in the area. If you want to save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by location and amenities. You can see more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Bucharest here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

My Hotel Apartments

Crystal palace hotel bucharest, should you do a tour in bucharest.

You'll find a wide range of guided tours in Bucharest and many visitors enjoy the convenience of having an expert guide leading them through the chosen activity. Tours range in price from $21 for the Palace of Parliament Bucharest 1 Hour Guided Tour to $480 for the Private Excursion to Sinaia, Brasov and Bran .

• Tuk Tuk Bucharest Tour - Unique Experience in town! Viator $ 49
• Tuk Tuk Bucharest Tour - Unique Experience in town!: $49
• Private Walking Tour: Essential Bucharest + Hidden Gems: $56
• Bran Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov City - Private Tour from Bucharest : $248
• Private Bucharest Beer and Culture Tour with a Local: $93
• 4x4 Nature Tour in Land of Dracula - 1 day: $201
• 8h Dracula's Castle Private Tour from Bucharest - Fast Tour: $279
• 4h Executive Private Tour Bucharest City - Fabulos Experience: $132
• Private Bucharest Communist Tour with the People's House and Ceausescu Residence: $201

More for Bucharest

If you're planning a trip to Bucharest, Romania, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Bucharest Prices & Travel Costs

Bucharest doesn’t exactly have the best reputation among travelers, but it’s an interesting destination at the very least. Some complain that the Soviet Era still feels alive and well, though progress is continually being made, so those wanting to see those influences should probably come soon.

Is Bucharest Expensive or Cheap?

Bucharest has been one of Europe’s cheapest capital cities for decades. It’s worth stopping for a day or two on your way to smaller cities and natural sites, and those tend to be even a bit cheaper.

Travel Costs to Bucharest

Accommodation costs in bucharest, bucharest hotel seasons.

Since Bucharest isn’t yet a major tourist city, the hotels tend to follow a pattern mostly for business people. The high season mostly runs from February through June and from September through November. The low season includes July and August, when many offices are closed, plus December and January, when the weather is terrible. Prices at hostels and cheaper hotels barely change through the year.

Bucharest Hotel Prices

Recommended hotels, bucharest hostels prices, recommended hostels, bucharest attractions prices, bucharest food and drink prices.

Food and drinks are also pleasantly cheap for most visitors, and the main attractions will barely make a dent in your budget, so you won’t be rushed to see everything in one or two days, at least.

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Bucharest transport prices, when to visit bucharest, temperature and rainfall, bucharest weather advice.

Bucharest’s climate holds few surprises. Summers are generally warm, but rarely scorching or humid, and rainfall during summer tends to be low as well. Winters can freeze, though standing snow is usually not a problem. Spring and autumn are quite pleasant in general, but windy days can make it feel colder than it really is.

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Travel Tips

What are the prices in bucharest a breakdown of the costs to visit the capital of romania.

The prices in Bucharest are quite affordable compared with many parts of the world, especially to other European capital cities. In this post and video I share with you many of the common costs for tourists to visit Bucharest, Romania. Enjoy.

I spent the better part of three months in Romania in 2019, so I have a pretty firm grasp on the prices in Bucharest.  I thought it would be helpful to share the costs to visit this up-and-coming European capital city if you have plans to visit.

ROMANIAN CURRENCY

The currency in Romania is called the Leu or Lei. The conversation to USD is roughly 4 to 1, in other words, 4 lei would equal $1 USD. [ Interesting side note, in 2005 Romania dropped 4 zeros from its currency ]. 

Now that we have the currency sorted, let’s talk about how much lodging costs in Bucharest.

PRICES IN BUCHAREST FOR LODGING

Depending on the hotel property, accommodation level, season and availability:

• Starting rates for a 5-star hotel would run 400-600 lei per night, or $100-150, which is quite affordable for a capital city in Europe.
• A 4-star hotel will run about 250 to 350 lei, or $60-90.
• Airbnb will run about 100-175 lei per night, or $25-$40. This is the price for an entire apartment. BTW, Airbnb’s are plentiful in Bucharest.

RESTAURANT PRICES IN BUCHAREST

I tend to dine at higher-end restaurants, so the prices below are are a bit expensive, you can eat for much less at many restaurants. The most expensive meal I ever had in Romania was at The Artist, a Michelin level restaurant. For two people, with a wine paring and tip, was $175. Maybe half what you would pay in many other cities.

• An entree at a fine-dining restaurant will run 50-80 Lei, or $12-$18.
• Dessert will be around $5-7.
• A moderately priced bottle of wine will be between 50 and 100 lei, or $12 to $25 a bottle.
• A glass of wine will run around $5-$8.
• Local Beer such as Silva Dark, will run about 12 to 16 Lei, or $3/4 dollars bottle. The size will vary from 330ml to 500ml
• Tips for good service should be 10%.
• Water is one area that is very expensive at a restaurant, I have paid as much as $10 for just a 750ml bottle.
• A gourmet pizza in a restaurant will run around $6 to $8, around 25-30 lei.
• Two gourmet pizza’s delivered is only about $12-$14 or 50/60 lei.
• Sushi delivered is around 100 lei or $24.

• A Flat white coffee at a shop is 10 Lei, or about $2.50. Starbucks is about $.75 cents more, but a bit less than you would pay in the States.
• Street Food is about $2.50 cents per 100 grams.
• Fresh squeezed OJ, 14-20lei.

GROCERIES IN BUCHAREST

The next category are some general items from a small market in the city center.

• A bottle of Romanian wine will run 20 to 100 lei, or $5 to $25 a bottle.
• Local Beer (Silva) can be found as little as 3-4 lei for a bottle of good beer ($.75-$1), but you can buy a massive 2.5 liter bottle of cheep beer for about the same price.
• A large local candy bar is about 2-3 lei depending on the brand, or .50-.75 cents.
• 1.5 liter of water 2-3 lei.
• Coke/Pepsi 3 lei in a glass bottle with real sugar.
•  Fresh squeezed orange juice only 8 lei for 500ml.
• Bottled raw juice 8-10lei for 330ml.

TRANSPORTATION IN BUCHAREST

The prices in Bucharest for transportation are quite affordable as you can see below:

• You can get 5 rides on the subway, tram or bus for 20 lei, about $1 each.
• You can take a train all the way to Brasov for about the same price, 20lei
• Ride sharing (at least 4 options) like Uber are really affordable…you can go half way across town, maybe a 30 minute ride and it would be maybe 10-15 lei, $4 average.
• Car Rental so you can do a Romania road trip – Price really varies depending on size/model and dates. Maybe $150/weekly plus applicable fees and insurance.

MISCELLANEOUS COSTS IN BUCHAREST

• Concert at a nice theater, maybe $18.
• Walking tours $20/$35 per hour for private tour.
• Bucharest food tours – $65 to $75.
• Men’s haircut at a salon or a barbershop will run 50-80lei ($12-16).
• SIM Card – You can get a SIM card from a leading provider like Vodafone for just $17. You will have nearly unlimited calls, text and data within Romania. Even better, you can use it throughout Europe, however your data will be capped at 8 gigs, still and remarkable price.
• Museums will run 8 to 12 lei, about $2-$4)
• Loft of artisan bread will be about 10 lei ($2.50)

I hope this post and video has provided you an idea of what it costs to visit Bucharest. If you have any questions at all, please leave a comment below.

Until next time, we’ll see ya on the road…

Mike Shubic

Tags: How much is it to visit Bucharest , prices in Bucharest , Visiting Bucharest , What are the prices in Bucharest , What does it cost to visit Bucharest

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Bucharest Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Overview of Romania’s Capital City

Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in Eastern Europe. With a rich cultural heritage, a diverse food scene, and a vibrant nightlife, Bucharest is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Bucharest, including the best places to visit, eat, and stay.

Bucharest is a city of contrasts, where old and new, East and West, blend together in a unique way. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 15th century, and it has been influenced by various cultures throughout the years. Bucharest is also known as “The Little Paris of the East” due to its stunning architecture, elegant boulevards, and vibrant cultural scene.

Understanding Bucharest: The Capital of Romania

As the bustling capital of Romania, Bucharest is more than just a travel destination; it’s the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country. If you’re curious about how Bucharest earned its status as the capital and what makes it such a significant city, we have an article that delves into the intricate details. From its historical significance to its role in modern Romania, get a comprehensive understanding of Bucharest as the capital .

When to Visit Bucharest

The best time to visit Bucharest is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and most of the festivals take place. However, the city is beautiful year-round, and there is always something to see and do. In the winter, the Christmas markets and the snow-covered streets create a magical atmosphere. For more detailed information on the best seasons, weather conditions, and local events, check out our guide on the optimal times for visiting Romania’s capital city .

How to Get to Bucharest

Bucharest has two airports, Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) and Aurel Vlaicu International Airport (BBU). Most international flights arrive at Henri Coanda International Airport, which is located 18 km north of the city center. There are direct flights to Bucharest from major cities in Europe and North America. For an exhaustive guide on navigating airport transfers, public transport, and other ways to get into the city center, consult our in-depth article here .

Getting Around Bucharest

Bucharest has a solid public transportation system, including buses, trams, trolleybuses, and the metro. The metro is quick and easy for getting around. Taxis are also common but make sure you pick a well-known company (the most popular between Romanians are Yango, Clever or BlackCab) or use a ride-sharing app like Bolt or Uber. Want to know more? Check out our full article on how to get around in Bucharest .

Top Things to Do in Bucharest

1. visit the palace of the parliament.

The Palace of the Parliament is one of the most impressive buildings in Bucharest and the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. The palace was built during the communist era and has more than 1,000 rooms, 4 underground levels, and a height of 84 meters. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and admire the grandiose halls, chandeliers, and artwork. Delve into the stories behind the world’s heaviest building.

2. Explore Old Town (Lipscani)

Old Town, also known as Lipscani, is the historic center of Bucharest, and it’s a maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively bars and restaurants. This is the perfect place to go for a stroll, people-watch, and soak up the atmosphere. For those interested in diving deeper into the hidden gems and popular spots of this area, check out our detailed list of things to do in Old Town .

3. Admire the Architecture of Bucharest

Bucharest is famous for its unique blend of architectural styles, including Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Socialist Realism. Some of the most beautiful buildings in the city are the Romanian Athenaeum, the CEC Palace, and the Stavropoleos Monastery. Explore our detailed list of architectural wonders in Bucharest .

4. Wander Through the Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of Bucharest, with over 10,000 species of plants, a lake, and several greenhouses. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some nature. For more tips and details, check out our complete rundown on the Bucharest Botanical Garden .

5. Discover the Village Museum

The Village Museum, also known as the Dimitrie Gusti Museum, is an open-air museum that showcases traditional Romanian village life. Visitors can walk through the village streets, see authentic houses, and learn about the history and customs of the Romanian people. For those who want to delve deeper into the cultural nuances and historical context of this living museum, don’t miss our specialized guide on the Dimitrie Gusti Museum .

6. Take a Stroll in Herastrau Park

Herastrau Park is the largest park in Bucharest, with over 180 hectares of green space, a lake, and several outdoor activities such as boat rentals, cycling, and picnicking. It’s a perfect place for a relaxing day out in nature.

7. Check Out the National Museum of Art of Romania

The National Museum of Art of Romania is home to one of the most impressive collections of Romanian art, from medieval times to the present day. The museum is housed in the former Royal Palace, which is also worth a visit for its stunning architecture.

8. Visit the Romanian Athenaeum

The Romanian Athenaeum is an iconic building in Bucharest, known for its beautiful concert hall and the impressive dome that dominates the city skyline. The Athenaeum hosts regular classical music concerts and is a must-visit for music lovers.

9. Spend a Day at Therme Bucharest

Therme Bucharest is the largest thermal spa complex in Europe, with indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, and a wide range of wellness treatments. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

After a full day of sightseeing, Therme Bucharest offers a perfect escape. It’s the largest thermal spa complex in Europe, featuring a myriad of pools, saunas, and wellness treatments. Whether you’re looking to relax or indulge in a spa day, this place has a range of options to suit every mood. For more details on what to expect, read our feature on this top-rated wellness center .

10. Uncover Bucharest’s Thrilling Escape Rooms

If you’re looking for a different kind of adventure in Bucharest, consider diving into the city’s escape room scene. These interactive experiences offer a unique blend of storytelling, puzzle-solving, and teamwork that’s sure to make for a memorable outing. Whether you’re a fan of horror themes, historical settings, or mind-bending mysteries, there’s an escape room in Bucharest to match your interests. For a curated list of the best escape rooms in the city, along with tips and reviews, explore our guide that dives into the thrills of Bucharest’s escape room adventures .

11. Delve into the Mystique of Macca-Vilacrosse Passage

Tucked away in the heart of Bucharest, the Macca-Vilacrosse Passage is a hidden gem that offers a slice of the city’s historical charm. This glass-covered arcade is lined with cozy cafes, unique boutiques, and offers an atmosphere that transports you back in time. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to enjoy a coffee or you’re interested in capturing some stunning photographs, the passage is well worth a visit. For a detailed exploration of its history and allure, check out our feature on this iconic Bucharest landmark .

12. Experience Open Streets Bucharest

Open Streets Bucharest is an initiative that transforms certain streets into pedestrian-friendly zones, promoting sustainable living and community engagement. The event occurs periodically and offers a range of activities from cycling and walking to art installations and live performances. It’s a unique way to experience the city’s culture and public spaces, as you see Bucharest from a different perspective—literally on the ground. For those interested in urban planning, sustainability, or just having a good time outdoors, this is an event you won’t want to miss. For a complete guide to participating in or experiencing this initiative, check out our comprehensive article on Open Streets Bucharest .

13. Explore the Carturesti Carusel Bookstore

Another must-visit spot in Bucharest is the Carturesti Carusel Bookstore, a six-level architectural gem filled with thousands of books, an art gallery, and a bistro. This bookstore is not just a place to pick up a new read; it’s a cultural experience in itself, capturing the artistic spirit of the city. For a deeper dive into what makes this bookstore a unique destination, explore our detailed guide on the Carturesti Carusel Bookstore .

14. Marvel at Downtown Bucharest Fountains

Bucharest’s downtown area comes alive with stunning fountains, especially in the evening. These aren’t just any fountains; they’re a light and water show that turns the city center into a magical place. It’s a must-see spectacle that adds a special touch to Bucharest’s lively atmosphere.

15. Be Captivated by the Romanian Athenaeum

The Romanian Athenaeum is more than just a beautiful building; it’s a hub for classical music and cultural events. The majestic dome and elegant columns are just the beginning. Step inside to experience a world of artistic excellence that captures the very essence of Bucharest’s love for the arts.

16. Journey Through the National Museum of Art of Romania

This museum is a treasure trove of Romanian and European art. Located in the former Royal Palace, it gives you a peek into the country’s rich artistic heritage. From ancient to modern art, this museum has something for everyone and offers an enriching experience.

17. Step Back in Time at Ceaușescu House

The Ceaușescu House allows you to delve into the life of Romania’s controversial former leader. The well-preserved interiors offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle led by Nicolae Ceaușescu. It’s a piece of living history that offers both intrigue and understanding of Romania’s past.

18. Experience the Everyday at the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant

Discover the traditions and daily lives of Romanian peasants. This museum offers a down-to-earth look at Romania’s rural culture through exhibits of clothing, tools, and even entire houses. It’s a fascinating journey into the heart of Romania’s roots.

19. Uncover the Past at the National Museum of History of Romania

This museum is your go-to place for everything related to Romania’s history. From ancient artifacts to modern-day memorabilia, it’s a one-stop-shop to understand the shaping of a nation. Don’t miss the replica of Trajan’s Column, which tells a story all on its own.

20. Dive into Science at the Grigore Antipa National Museum

If you’re a fan of natural history, this museum is for you. From dinosaur fossils to exhibits on human evolution, it’s a place where science comes alive. It’s an educational adventure that both kids and adults will love.

21. Discover Bucharest’s Story at the Museum of the Municipality of Bucharest

Learn about Bucharest from its earliest days to the modern era. This city museum offers a chronological look into how Bucharest became the bustling capital it is today, making it essential for anyone interested in the city’s backstory.

22. Laugh at the Romanian Kitsch Museum

This unique museum celebrates the quirky and amusing side of Romanian culture. From Dracula souvenirs to communist-era memorabilia, it’s a light-hearted way to explore the country’s less traditional heritage.

23. Be Mesmerized by iMapp Bucharest

iMapp Bucharest is one of the world’s largest video-mapping events and turns the city into a canvas of light and sound. Usually held in September, it’s a visual feast that shouldn’t be missed by anyone visiting during this time.

24. Immerse in Culture at Asia Fest Bucharest

Love Asian culture? Asia Fest Bucharest is a colorful and vibrant festival that celebrates the food, music, and traditions from the Far East. It’s a unique way to experience a different culture while staying in Bucharest.

25. Enjoy the Outdoors at Parcul Alexandru Ioan Cuza (Titan Park)

Also known as Titan Park, this green space offers locals and tourists a place to relax, jog, or even paddle-boat on the lake. It’s a little piece of nature in the urban jungle, making it a great spot for a leisurely day out.

26. Discover Luxury in Primăverii District

Primăverii is known for its luxury homes and high-end living. Take a stroll through this district to see some of Bucharest’s most beautiful residences and maybe even spot a celebrity or two. It’s a different side of Bucharest that’s worth exploring.

27. Witness the Grandeur of Arcul de Triumf

Inspired by Paris’s Arc de Triomphe, Bucharest’s own Arcul de Triumf is a symbol of Romanian national pride. It’s particularly impressive on December 1st, Romania’s National Day, when it becomes the focal point of military parades.

28. Relax at Cișmigiu Gardens

Cișmigiu Gardens offer a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. With its beautiful landscaping, small lake, and charming footbridges, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to unwind.

29. Reflect at Revolution Square

This square is more than just a meeting place; it’s a symbol of Romania’s fight for freedom. With its monuments and buildings that tell a story of revolution, it’s a place of historical significance that invites contemplation.

30. Find Solace in Snagov Monastery

Situated on an island in the northern part of Bucharest, Snagov Monastery is a serene place of worship that’s said to be the final resting place of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula. It’s a quiet escape with a dash of mystery.

31. Explore the Urban Wilderness of Văcărești Nature Park

Dubbed Bucharest’s “Delta,” this nature park is a haven for wildlife and a great spot for birdwatching. It’s a slice of wilderness right in the city, offering a unique natural escape for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle.

32. Savor the Flavors at Food Hood Bucuresti

Food Hood Bucuresti is a food lover’s paradise. It’s a food market where you can try all kinds of delicious treats . Whether you’re craving traditional Romanian dishes or international cuisine, you’ll find it here. It’s the perfect place to eat, socialize, and experience the culinary scene in Bucharest.

33. Uncover History at Sighet Memorial Exhibition

The Sighet Memorial Exhibition is not just a museum; it’s a lesson in Romania’s past. It stands as a haunting reminder of the political prisoners once held here. This place is a must-see for anyone interested in understanding Romania’s history and human rights journey.

34. Explore Piaţa Obor Market

Piata Obor is more than just a market; it’s a vibrant slice of local life. With fresh produce, handmade goods, and tasty street food, it offers a bit of everything. A trip here is a sensory feast and a window into how locals shop and eat.

35. Step Back in Time at Curtea Veche Museum

Curtea Veche Museum is where Bucharest’s history comes alive. It’s a fascinating place that tells the story of the city’s royal past. From ancient artifacts to historical documents, this museum offers a glimpse into the bygone eras of Bucharest.

36. Visit the Peaceful Bellu Cemetery

Bellu Cemetery is an unexpected but serene tourist spot. It’s not just a place of rest; it’s also a gallery of intricate tombstone art and sculptures. The calmness and the artistic atmosphere make it a unique experience.

37. Wander Through Pasajul Englez

Pasajul Englez is a hidden treasure in Bucharest. This quaint passage is filled with art galleries and cozy cafes. It’s a lovely spot to take a break from the city buzz, enjoy a coffee, and maybe find your new favorite painting or sculpture.

38. Catch a Sunset at Pura Vida Hostel

The Pura Vida Hostel offers more than just a place to sleep; its rooftop provides a stunning view of the city, especially at sunset. It’s a wonderful spot to unwind, sip a cocktail, and soak in the beauty of Bucharest as the sun goes down.

39. Experience Targul Vitan Market

Targul Vitan is a bustling flea market where you can find a variety of goods, from antiques to fresh food. It’s a great place to hunt for souvenirs and experience the energetic vibe of a local Romanian market.

40. Discover Memories Bazaar

Memories Bazaar is a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in Bucharest. With its eclectic mix of vintage items, handmade crafts, and unique trinkets, you’re sure to find something special to take home with you.

41. Admire Street Art in Strada Arthur Verona and Chimopar

The streets of Arthur Verona and Chimopar are open-air galleries showcasing Bucharest’s vibrant street art scene. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the murals, graffiti, and installations that add a pop of color and creativity to the city.

42. Take Flight at the Aviation Museum

The Aviation Museum is a haven for aviation enthusiasts. With a collection of aircraft, models, and memorabilia, it offers a comprehensive look at Romania’s aviation history.

43. Explore Royal Elegance at Cotroceni Palace Museum

Cotroceni Palace Museum is the epitome of royal grandeur. With its beautifully decorated rooms and historical exhibits, it provides a glimpse into the lives of Romania’s past rulers.

44. Learn at the Firefighters Museum

The Firefighters Museum is an enlightening experience for all ages. It offers an in-depth look at the history of firefighting in Romania, complete with antique equipment and educational exhibits.

45. Visit the Historic Curtea Veche Church

Curtea Veche Church is a place of peace and spirituality. This historic church is one of Bucharest’s oldest and offers a quiet sanctuary amid the hustle and bustle of the city.

46. Marvel at the Patriarchal Cathedral

The Patriarchal Cathedral is not just a place of worship; it’s a symbol of Romanian Orthodoxy. Its majestic architecture and spiritual ambiance make it a must-visit spot for both pilgrims and tourists alike.

47. Discover Bucharest After Dark

If you’re interested in experiencing Bucharest in a different light, don’t miss our detailed the best things to do in Bucharest at night . This isn’t your typical nightlife rundown; it’s a comprehensive look at unique activities, cultural landmarks, and serene spots you can enjoy after the sun sets. From haunted city exploration games to mesmerizing fountain shows, this guide offers a diverse range of nighttime activities that go beyond bars and clubs.

Where to Eat in Bucharest

Bucharest has a thriving food scene, with a mix of traditional Romanian cuisine and international options. Here are some of the best places to eat in the city:

1. Caru’ cu Bere

Type: Traditional Romanian Highlight: Historic setting with live music

Type: International Highlight: Fresh, seasonal ingredients

3. Energiea

Type: Bar and Small Plates Highlight: Lively atmosphere with a mix of cuisines

For a more detailed guide to the best dining spots, including our reviews and insider tips, check out our comprehensive list of top picks to eat in Bucharest .

Where to Stay in Bucharest

Bucharest has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

1. Grand Hotel Continental

The Grand Hotel Continental is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Bucharest. The hotel features beautifully decorated rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants.

2. Mercure Bucharest City Center

The Mercure Bucharest City Center is a modern hotel located in the city center, just a few steps away from the Old Town. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.

3. Hotel Christina

Hotel Christina is a stylish boutique hotel located in a quiet area of the city, just a short walk from the city center. The hotel features spacious and modern rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant.

What Are Some Must-See Attractions in Bucharest?

When visiting the capital city of romania , Bucharest, be sure to explore its must-see attractions. Take a stroll in Herastrau Park, visit the grand Palace of the Parliament, admire the beautiful architecture of the Romanian Athenaeum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Town. Experience the rich history and charm of this captivating city.

Experience the Vibrancy of Bucharest’s Nightlife

Bucharest comes alive after dark, offering a nightlife experience that’s as diverse as it is vibrant. From swanky rooftop bars with panoramic city views to underground clubs pulsating with electronic beats, the Romanian capital promises an unforgettable night out. Local haunts serve up traditional drinks and live music, while international venues offer a taste of global party culture. Whether you’re looking to dance until dawn or enjoy a laid-back evening, Bucharest has something for every nocturnal adventurer. For an insider’s look into the city’s after-hours scene, explore our guide packed with local secrets on how to make the most of Bucharest’s nightlife .

Bucharest is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many things to see and do. From exploring the historic Old Town to visiting the Palace of the Parliament, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or food, Bucharest has it all. Interestingly, the city is also becoming a hotspot for digital nomads , who find its mix of history, modern amenities, and connectivity appealing. So why not book your trip today and discover this fascinating city for yourself?

Practical Travel Tips for Bucharest

Navigating safety concerns in bucharest.

Bucharest is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, but like any major city, it has its own set of safety concerns to be aware of. From petty theft to local customs, it’s essential to be informed and prepared. For a deep dive into what to watch out for, along with the latest travel advisories, check out our in-depth guide on staying safe while exploring Romania’s capital city .

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you visit bucharest in romania.

Definitely! Bucharest, often dubbed the “Paris of the East,” is a must-see city. With its rich past, tasty food, and amazing buildings, you won’t be bored.

How Long Should Your Bucharest Trip Be?

You should plan for at least 3 to 4 days to see the main spots in Bucharest. This gives you time for must-see places like the gigantic Parliament Palace and the peaceful Herastrau Park. If you want to really soak in the local culture, you might want to stay even longer.

Is Bucharest a Safe Place to Go Right Now?

Generally, Bucharest is safe for tourists. But it’s a good idea to keep an eye on travel alerts, especially because of things like health concerns worldwide. For the latest safety tips, check our in-depth guide on how to be safe while enjoying your trip in Bucharest .

How Much Cash Do You Need for a 3-Day Bucharest Visit?

For a comfortable 3-day trip, aim to have around €150-€200. This includes a place to stay, meals, and some sightseeing. Your costs could be different depending on what you like to do.

Is Bucharest Wallet-Friendly or Costly?

Compared to other big European cities, Bucharest is easier on the wallet. You get more bang for your buck, making it a great choice if you don’t want to spend a lot.

What Should You Steer Clear of in Bucharest?

It’s best to watch out for pickpocketing in crowded spots and on public transit. Always use trusted taxis (Yango, Clever or BlackCab) or ride-sharing apps to make sure you’re not overcharged.

Is Bucharest’s Tap Water Okay to Drink?

Yes, you can drink the tap water in Bucharest. But if you have a sensitive stomach, it might be better to stick with bottled water.

Can You Flush Toilet Paper in Bucharest?

Yes, you can flush toilet paper in Bucharest. The city’s plumbing can handle it.

Is Using Uber in Bucharest Safe?

Uber is a safe and convenient way to get around Bucharest. It’s easy because you pay through the app and you know who your driver is ahead of time.

Can You Get Around Bucharest on Foot?

Yes, Bucharest is good for walking, especially in areas like the Old Town. But for longer distances, the city’s public transport is also a good option.

Which Bucharest Area is the Safest?

Safer, fancier areas in Bucharest include Dorobanti, Primaverii, and Herastrau. These neighborhoods are generally secure and well-guarded.

Is Nighttime Walking Safe in Bucharest?

Generally, it’s safe to walk around at night in well-lit, busy parts of Bucharest. But, like in any city, always stay alert.

Is Bucharest Safe for Women Tourists?

Bucharest is generally safe for women traveling alone. Just use common sense like you would in any other city.

Are There Poor Areas in Bucharest?

While Bucharest has areas that are less well-off, these are usually not places tourists go.

Why Do People Call Bucharest ‘Little Paris’?

The nickname “Little Paris” comes from a time when Bucharest was heavily influenced by French culture and architecture. It’s a nod to the city’s elegant style.

Does Bucharest Have a ‘Red Light District’?

Unlike some European cities, Bucharest doesn’t have a specific “Red Light District.” But, adult clubs and bars are found around the city.

Where Do Wealthy People Live in Bucharest?

Well-off folks often live in Dorobanti, Primaverii, and Herastrau. These areas have nice homes and fancy amenities.

Is Bucharest More Affluent Than Budapest?

Budapest generally has a higher income per person. But Bucharest is catching up, thanks to its growing economy.

Do You Need Cash in Bucharest?

While many places in Bucharest accept credit or debit cards, it’s a good idea to have some local currency, known as Romanian Lei, for smaller shops or tipping. ATMs are easily found if you need to withdraw cash.

How Much Does a Meal Cost in Bucharest?

The price for a meal in Bucharest can vary. A budget-friendly meal at a casual place might cost around €5-€10 per person. If you’re going to a nicer restaurant, expect to pay around €20-€30 per person, not including drinks.

Which Is Cheaper, Prague or Bucharest?

Generally, Bucharest is more budget-friendly than Prague. From meals to accommodations, you’ll often find lower prices in Bucharest.

Is Uber Affordable in Bucharest?

Yes, Uber is usually a cheaper option compared to traditional taxis. It’s a cost-effective and convenient way to get around the city.

Is Bolt Available in Bucharest?

Yes, Bolt is another ride-sharing app you can use in Bucharest. It’s also considered a safe and affordable way to travel around the city.

Is the Euro Accepted in Bucharest?

The official currency in Bucharest is the Romanian Lei, not the Euro. While some tourist-focused businesses might accept Euros, it’s best to use Lei to avoid poor exchange rates.

Do Taxis Accept Credit Cards in Bucharest?

Some taxis in Bucharest do accept credit cards, but many prefer cash. It’s a good idea to ask the driver before you start your trip. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt allow for cashless payments.

Cost of a Trip to Bucharest, RO & the Cheapest Time to Visit Bucharest

The average price of a 7-day trip to Bucharest is $1,063 for a solo traveler, $1,909 for a couple, and $3,579 for a family of 4 . Bucharest hotels range from $28 to $106 per night with an average of $64, while most vacation rentals will cost $80 to $300 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Henri Coanda Airport ( OTP ) are between $651 and $1,015 per person for economy flights and $2,043 to $3,185 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $24 to $58 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Bucharest, RO

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to OTP and stay in a Bucharest hotel:

• January 1st to April 1st
• September 3rd to December 9th (except the week of October 15th)

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Bucharest is usually mid January .

Average Bucharest Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Bucharest for a week is $734-$1,552 ($105-$222 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $24 to $58 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $362 to $822 for economy

Lodging : $34 to $54 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $39 to $47 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Bucharest for a week is $1,842-$3,166 ($263-$452 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $48 to $116 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $724 to $1,644 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Bucharest for a week is $2,492-$5,560 ($356-$794 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $96 to $232 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,448 to $3,288 for economy

Lodging : $68 to $108 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $62 to $71 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Bucharest

How cheap can you make a vacation to Bucharest? The cheapest trip to Bucharest is about $82 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 9% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $23.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Bucharest for a week is $573-$1,357 ($82-$194 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $13 to $25 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $23 to $28 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $20 to $60 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Bucharest for a week is $1,026-$2,354 ($147-$336 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $26 to $50 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Bucharest for a week is $1,992-$4,564 ($285-$652 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $52 to $100 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $46 to $56 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $30 to $96 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is easy to travel to Bucharest cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Bucharest Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Bucharest.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Bucharest for a week is $1,609-$6,563 ($230-$938 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $50 to $104 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $833 to $2,055 for first class

Lodging : $71 to $106 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $300 to $630 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Bucharest for a week is $2,792-$9,346 ($399-$1,335 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $100 to $208 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,666 to $4,110 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Bucharest for a week is $5,584-$17,180 ($798-$2,454 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $200 to $416 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $3,332 to $8,220 for first class

Lodging : $142 to $212 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $420 to $1,008 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Bucharest Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Bucharest is lower than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Bucharest due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Bucharest Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Bucharest hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Bucharest.

Flight Costs to Bucharest

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,015 average in mid December to a low of $651 in mid January. Median flight price is $841. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Bucharest our data includes 280 originating airports, and 150 airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Bucharest from an airport like Savoonga ( SVA ) in Savoonga, AK (the United States) for an average $6,835 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Stefan Cel Mare ( SCV ) in Suceava (Romania) at an average of just $72.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Wednesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Wednesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Bucharest, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $364, so you can easily save about 56% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Bucharest can easily cost $190 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $13 per person. Private tours can cost $381 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Bucharest Guides

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Bucharest travel guide

Bucharest tourism | bucharest guide, you're going to love bucharest.

Romania's capital is full of surprises. Parts of the city feel like they could have been lifted from 19th-century Paris (as you'd expect in the "Paris of the Balkans"), others remain rooted in the Communist era, while most of this pulsating city is focused squarely on the here and now.

Bucharest offers a rare collision of a fascinating past and an optimistic future. You can tour the picturesque churches of Lipscani, catch a cut-price feast of high culture at the Bucharest National Opera and wonder at the megalomania that went into the enormous Palace of the Parliament - but that's not the whole story.

Fun, relaxation, and sheer hedonism await as well. Few destinations in Eastern Europe have the verve and energy of Bucharest. From the wave of gourmet food sweeping the city to the underground energy of the city's nightclubs, Bucharest is full of life and that's why so many people fall in love with this inviting city.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Bucharest

1. historic attractions, from the sublime to the grotesque.

Bucharest has seen a lot of history. In the 19th century, it was a cultural hotspot, and the wealth of the era was channeled into the gorgeous Lipscani neighborhood. Then came war and Communism. Architectural highlights of the Ceausescu era are few, but the massive People's House (now the parliament) is an unmissable monument to the ambitions of dictatorship.

2. It's a Thriving Cultural Center

Recent years have seen Bucharest reclaiming its position as the Balkans' cultural hub. The National Opera House continues to lay on a superb schedule of ballet and operas, the National Theater has had a successful makeover, and lesser known venues like Green Hours 22 showcase the city's burgeoning jazz scene.

3. Superb Nightlife, Every Day of the Week

Bucharest has transitioned from Communism to hedonism. These days, you'll find DJs pumping out everything from avant garde electronica to raucous turbo-folk (not for the fainthearted) at favorite spots like Control Club and Club A, whatever night of the week you venture out.

4. A Collection of Wonderful Museums

Bucharest has one of the best collections of museums in Eastern Europe. Find out about the holocaust and Romania's past at the Jewish History Museum, head to the cavernous National Museum of Romanian History, see works by European masters at the National Museum of Art, and tour the President's residence at the stately Cotroceni Palace.

5. A Thriving Gourmet Food and Drink Scene

Bucharest's energy and youthful vibe extends well and truly into its gastronomy. The best thing is that traditional restaurants like Zahana Zexe and tiny bistros like Beca's Kitchen offer world-class food at criminally low prices. And, even better, there's a vibrant craft beer community too, with breweries like Ground Zero Beer and Csiki Sor leading the way.

What to do in Bucharest

1. palace of the parliament: the people's house.

Bucharest's Palatul Parlamentului, or Palace of the Parliament, is truly one of the most stunning buildings in the world. It boasts a number of superlatives, including being both the second largest administrative building on the planet (behind the Pentagon) and the heaviest building of any kind. Construction began in 1984 under the Ceausescu regime but it is still not entirely finished today. Since the revolution in 1989 it has become widely known as the People's House, or Casa Poporului, and houses the Romanian parliament, three museums and an international conference center. There are frequent public tours of the building.

2. Biserica Stavropoleos: A Musical History

The Biserica Stavropoleos is a monastery and church in central Bucharest built in 1724 in the Brâncovenesc style. In addition to its impressive architecture, it is known for the Byzantine music played by its choir. It also has a fine library which holds more than 8,000 books including the largest collection of Byzantine music books in Romania. It also has an impressive collection of religious artifacts. Although it has suffered through the years from extensive earthquake damage, it has been sensitively restored and the chandeliers and paintings of the church's dome are particularly beautiful.

3. Ateneul Român: Enjoy a Concert

The Ateneul Român (Romanian Athenaeum) is the major concert hall in Bucharest and home to the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra. It was built in 1888 by the French architect Albert Galleron. The circular and domed building houses an ornate conference hall on the ground floor, with the equally sized auditorium upstairs. There you can see an impressive fresco by Costin Petrescu, which circles the entire auditorium. It depicts key moments from Romanian history from ancient Roman times until the creation of Greater Romania in 1918. The Athenaeum has become a symbol or Romanian culture and is a fabulous venue in which to enjoy a concert.

4. Curtea Veche: Ancient Architecture and History

The Curtea Veche, or in English the Old Princely Court, was built in 1459 by Vlad III Dracula (the infamous Vlad the Impaler!) as his palace. It is a highlight of the historic center of Bucharest and includes the Annunciation Church of Saint Anthony. Dating from 1559, it is the oldest religious building in the city. Today the palace is occupied by the Muzeul Municipiului Bucuresti, a museum with some fascinating exhibits on Romanian history. It's a great place to gain a better understanding of the country and to enjoy some of its most ancient architecture.

5. Piata Revolutiei: A Place of History and Education

The Piata Revolutiei (Revolution Square) is a must-see site for any visit to Bucharest. Known until the 1989 revolution as Piata Palatului (Palace Square), it is home to the National Museum of Art (the former Royal Palace) the Athenaeum, The University of Bucharest Library and the elegant Athenee Palace Hotel. The Square has witnessed much of Romania's turbulent history, including a famous speech by Nicolae Ceausescu at the height of his popularity in 1968, and the beginning of the revolution in 1989. Today it is an altogether more peaceful place and a wonderful place to stroll and visit some of the most important sites in the city.

Activities & attractions in Bucharest

Other activities

Where to Eat in Bucharest

Food is on the up in Bucharest, with a generation of talented chefs staffing a glittering array of bistros and gastro-bars. Some of the best of them specialize in authentic Romanian dishes, including Caru cu Bere (who brew their own beer) and Lente & Cafea. Others, like Energiea, place the emphasis on healthy ingredients, while some, like Vacamuuu, are a carnivore's delight. Prices are almost always very reasonable, even for gourmet food, at around RON40 for a meal.

When to visit Bucharest

Bucharest has a mild climate for most of the year, but bitterly cold winters. Temperatures start to rise rapidly from April, and late spring is the ideal time to go, with smaller crowds and plenty to see. September and October are also fine, but beware of encountering a few showers in October, as the seasons start to shift.

How to Get to Bucharest

Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) can be found around 12 miles north of Bucharest's center, and has excellent links to the downtown area. Bus number 783 runs every 20 minutes from the arrivals terminal and costs just RON7, and the Henri Coandă Express Train offers a slightly faster rail connection for RON8.1. Expect taxis to cost around RON30.

Bucharest has rail connections to the whole of Eastern and Western Europe, including cities like Belgrade, Berlin, and Vienna. All international trains arrive at the Gara de Nord, just northwest of the city center. The station is on the Bucharest subway system, and there are buses and trams to the major tourist areas as well.

If you are driving from the airport to downtown Bucharest, simply hook up with Highway 1, and follow it southbound towards the city center. If you are coming from Timisoara, take the A1, then change to the E81 just after Sibiu, and continue directly to Bucharest. The E81 also runs from the Black Sea port of Constanta to Bucharest.

If you are traveling within Romania, intercity buses are comfortable and cheap. Local buses within Romania tend to be operated by Atlassib, while Eurolines is the major international bus operator into Bucharest. Most international services stop at Rahova, on the southwestern outskirts. Take the light rail from Depoul Alexandria, which runs straight into the center.

Airports near Bucharest

Airlines serving bucharest, where to stay in bucharest.

Lipscani - Bucharest's old town, Lipscani, was mainly built in the city's heyday in the late 19th century, and it's a beautiful place to explore. Attractions include the elegant National Opera and the Museum of Romanian History, as well as innumerable wine bars, pubs, and nightclubs.

Popular Neighborhoods in Bucharest

Cismigiu - built around the sublime Cismigiu Gardens, this area is one of the most pleasant places to stay in Bucharest. Conveniently located and stuffed with charming hotels, Cismigiu is where locals go to chat, relax, play sport, and date. It's simply a lovely place to be.

Floreasca - prosperous, business-like, and classy, Floreasca has Bucharest's highest concentration of gourmet restaurants and is also home to the Promenada Mall - the city's shopping hotspot.

Where to stay in popular areas of Bucharest

Most booked hotels in bucharest, how to get around bucharest, public transportation.

Bucharest's four subway (metro) lines represent the easiest way to get around town (and offer some of the best coverage in the whole of Europe). Single fares cost RON5 and you can buy 10 journeys for just RON10, so it's also great value. There are also plenty of buses, trolleys, and trams. However, to ride them you'll need to get hold of a rechargeable Activ card, which can be purchased from RATB kiosks near major stations and bus stops.

Taxi fares in Bucharest vary, but reputable companies should never charge more than RON2.50 per mile. It's also advisable to book cabs with your concierge, as the quality of service varies depending on which company you choose.

Car rental is an excellent option in Bucharest, and there are city center branches of Sixt, Europcar, Budget, and Avis. With your own vehicle, you can get out to day-trip destinations like Targoviste or Snagov with ease, and rates should be low: expect to pay around RON50 per day with most companies.

Best car hire deals in Bucharest

2 adults, 2 Bags

5 adults, 3 Bags

The Cost of Living in Bucharest

Shopping streets.

Bucharest is an affordable city for luxury, second-hand, and everyday shopping, with no end of places to explore. The Promenada Mall in Floreasca is the place to head for designer chains (and has a fantastical postmodern design to complement its shopping options). Calea Victoriei in Lipscani is also a wonderful place to shop, lined with beautiful architecture, museums, boutiques, and prestigious restaurants.

Groceries and Other

If you need to stock up on basic groceries during a stay in Bucharest, the best places to go are supermarkets like Kaufland, Carrefour, and Profi. Expect prices to be low, at around RON15 for a gallon of milk and RON20 for a good bottle of wine.

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Bucharest Itinerary

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Nicknamed by many as ‘the Paris of the East,’ the Romanian capital of Bucharest is easily one of Eastern Europe’s most unique, beguiling cities to visit. If you’re currently going through the process of designing your own Bucharest itinerary, then you’re probably figuring out whether you want to spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Bucharest. 

Boasting lovely weather for much of the year, fascinating architecture, delicious food and drink, and exceptionally low prices (compared to most of Europe, anyway) Bucharest is a very underrated destination that seems almost guaranteed to pick up more traction as a European city break spot as time goes by.

But, with that being said, how long should you aim for your trip there to be? And, which sites and landmarks should you make sure to check out during your holiday? 

This article covers all of these questions and more in plenty of detail. So, if you want to ensure that your trip to Bucharest is the best it can be, then you’ll want to make sure to read on! 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Bucharest?

If you’re reading this article, it’s fairly likely that you’re wondering how many days to spend in Bucharest. The historic Romanian capital has plenty to check out, after all, but it’s not exactly massive. And, you’ll likely want to visit other destinations on your trip, too. So, what’s the best way to make it all work?

With 1 day in Bucharest, you’ll be able to check out some of the city’s most significant, popular landmarks and tourist sites. However, you’ll struggle to cover some of the lesser-known destinations and won’t have much of a chance to really get a feel for the place, especially outside of what might be considered tourist traps to some. 

If you choose to spend 2 days in Bucharest or a weekend in Bucharest instead, then you’ll have plenty of time to see the city’s highlights, as well as explore some of its lesser-known areas and really sink your teeth into the local cuisine.

With that being said, 3 days is preferable if you’re keen on exploring the local area surrounding the city, too; having an additional day opens you up to the opportunity of, say, taking a day trip to another city or historical site nearby. 

So, while it’s entirely possible to spend a single day in Bucharest and have a fantastic time doing so, we recommend that you aim for a slightly longer visit, with three days being ideal, if at all possible. 

Getting To & Around Bucharest 

Bucharest and its surrounding area are served by Henri Coanda International Airport – bus links between the airport and the city centre can take you into downtown Bucharest from the airport in as little as half an hour. You can also organise an airport transfer.

As far as travel within Bucharest itself goes, the local public transport and metro system is comprehensive, reasonably reliable, and quick. It’s also considerably more affordable than what you’d pay in the majority of Europe’s major cities, making it, on the whole, a fantastic way to get around. 

Downtown Bucharest is also reasonably walkable, so you’ll be able to get your bearings in the city without too much difficulty.

With that being said, many of the major landmarks and tourist sites are something of a trek from one another. So, unless you really enjoy exploring new places on foot, expect to need to work some other form of transport into however you plan on navigating the Romanian capital. 

If you’d prefer a little more flexibility in how and when you travel between sites on your Bucharest itinerary, then you might like to use taxis or rideshare apps like Uber or Bolt to get around.

Services like these are significantly cheaper than what you can expect to pay across most of Europe; however, it’s worth keeping the environmental impact of travelling by car versus, say, public transport in mind. 

Overland transit between Bucharest and Romania’s other major cities offers travellers an alternative to flying from place to place; it’s also possible to travel from Bucharest to a number of larger European cities by train.

Direct rail services exist, for instance, between Budapest and Bucharest; keep in mind, though, that you can expect a journey of around 16 hours, so it’s unlikely to be your best option if time is truly of the essence. 

1, 2, or 3 Days in Bucharest Itinerary 

The following itinerary offers suggestions for ways that you might want to spend each day of a three-day itinerary for Bucharest. Of course, you’re free to change or amend the itinerary as you see fit – the most important thing is that you enjoy your holiday! 

If you want to explore with a guide, consider taking this walking tour or going on this bike tour. There are also specialised tours such as this communism tour , this food tour and this alternative tour.

Day 1 – Bucharest’s Iconic Landmarks

The first day of your Bucharest itinerary will see you checking out the city’s best-known landmarks, sites, and cultural icons. If you only end up having 1 day in the city, then you won’t want to miss any of the stops on this list! 

Palace of Parliament 

The Romanian parliament is, rather uniquely, held in its very own palace. The Palace of Parliament is said to be the most expensive administrative building in the world (as well as the second heaviest).

It took 700 architects 13 years to finish the palace and it now stands as a massive monument to the Romanian political establishment; it also costs the government millions of Euros each year in electricity bills alone. 

You can simply admire the exterior of the palace if you so choose, but visitors do also have the option of touring its interior, which is well worth doing if you have an interest in politics or history in particular. You can book tickets here or organise a guided tour.

Whether you choose to go in or not, there’s no denying that visiting this iconic building is one of the best things to do in Bucharest.

Cismigiu Gardens

Cismigiu Gardens make up one of Bucharest’s most famous and historically significant parks, and you’ll definitely want to pay a visit if you ever end up visiting the Romanian capital.

Containing a number of eye-catching landmarks, including the Romanian Round and monuments to war heroes from different countries, Cismigiu Gardens is a lovely place for a relaxed stroll. 

The Romanian Athenaeum 

Romania has a great tradition of classical music, and the Romanian Athenaeum, located in central Bucharest, is perhaps one of Eastern Europe’s most impressive concert halls.

It’s absolutely gorgeous, too; grand without being ostentatious, the Athenaeum boasts an iconic dome and has frescoes depicting various scenes from Romanian history. The venue generally only officially opens for concerts, but it’s often possible to take a look inside at other times. 

Not far from here located on Calea Victoriei is the National Museum of Art, which is another great place to visit. Located in the former royal palace, this art museum is great for fine arts lovers.

The Triumphal Arch 

Dating back to the early 1920s (though it’s since been renovated on multiple occasions), the Triumphal Arch of Bucharest stands as a testimony to Romania’s successes throughout the First World War.

In addition to its impressive size, the arch features some truly beautiful inscriptions and carvings, so, if you’re able, it’s definitely worth trying to get a closer view of the structure. 

King Mihai I Park 

Bucharest is known for its parks, and King Mihai I Park is perhaps its most famous. It’s absolutely enormous, encompassing a whopping 187 hectares inside the city, and is home to various gardens, fountains, sculptures, and green spaces. This is also a fantastic place to go for a picnic in the warmer weather. 

National Village Museum 

The open-air National Village Museum, located in King Mihai I Park, aims to showcase traditional Romanian rural living by reconstructing various village environments there.

Originally conceptualised by the sociologist Dimitrie Gusti, the museum is a fascinating experience for history and culture enthusiasts. 

Day 2 – Old Town of Bucharest

The second day of this itinerary will take you to more of Bucharest’s most beloved landmarks, as well as the city’s quaint Old Town district. 

Macca-Villacrosse Passage 

This grand old arcade is an ideal spot for grabbing lunch or a coffee while ensuring that it’s as memorable as possible. Just don’t forget to look up – this building’s incredible ceiling is a huge part of its appeal! 

If you’re a book lover and want to experience another gorgeous building, the Carturesti Carusel bookstore is only a five-minute walk away and it is absolutely stunning.

National Museum of Romanian History 

If you’re a fan of history, then Romania’s national history museum, located in Bucharest’s Old Town district, is pretty much guaranteed to impress. Its collection covers the history of the country from all the way back in the prehistoric period to modern times, and it includes priceless Gothic artefacts and the Romanian Crown Jewels. 

The museum also happens to be located in the former headquarters of the Romanian Postal Services, which is honestly one of the most beautiful buildings in the entire city. It’s pretty much worth visiting for the architecture alone. 

Wander the Old Town 

Bucharest’s bustling Old Town is full of character and a great place to spend an afternoon wandering around and getting lost. With unique shops and boutiques, restaurants, clubs, medieval ruins, and Romania’s National History Museum, the Old Town has something to offer just about everyone. 

Alexandru Ioan Cusa Park 

Given how many incredible parks Bucharest features, it’s fair to say that Alexandru Ioan Cusa Park has some stiff competition to contend with. But we think it more than lives up to the job; this lush, expansive green space is absolutely tranquil throughout the year, providing a welcome refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life to anybody who chooses to visit. 

Day 3 – Bran Castle or Danube Delta Day Trip

We recommend that you head out for a day trip on your third and final day in the city; there’s an incredible amount to do and see in the surrounding countryside and smaller towns within reach of the capital. 

Bran Castle (‘Dracula’s Castle’)

If you’re a fan of horror movies, appreciate the history of film more generally, or just enjoy visiting cool castles, then you’ll almost definitely want to look into making a day trip to Bran Castle from Bucharest.

Bran Castle is located just a couple of hours’ drive from Bucharest outside the town of Brasov , and it is regarded by many as having been the home of Count Dracula from Bram Stoker’s Dracula. 

Whether or not Stoker was aware of the existence of Bran Castle or intended for it to be Dracula’s home remains to be seen, but regardless, it’s an incredibly impressive and historic structure that is well worth visiting in its own right. 

Found nestled away in Transylvania, Bran Castle has existed in some shape or form since the 1200s. It now operates as a museum, displaying the collection of Queen Marie, who was the wife of King Ferdinand I. And, at this stage, there isn’t any evidence that Bram Stoker meant for Bran Castle to be Dracula’s home. 

Regardless, it would fit the role perfectly. Bran Castle happens to be quite spooky, as well as fairly isolated. It also features a number of secret passageways, which further add to the intrigue and mystery surrounding the place. 

Many organised day trips to the castle such as this full-day tour will provide a guide, which is a fantastic option for learning as much of the history of Bran Castle as possible.

Even if you’re not a massive history fan, we would still recommend visiting Bran for its gorgeous views and architecture, as well as the curious atmosphere that permeates the place. Some day trips from Bucharest also include a stop at Castle Peles, which is equally interesting and certainly worth a visit, too.

Danube Delta 

Romania actually happens to be a real haven for biodiversity and ecology, and the Danube Delta, which can be found not far away from Bucharest, is one of the best-preserved river deltas in the whole of Europe.

As such, it makes for a fantastic day trip from the Romanian capital; it’s also possible to take river cruises along the Danube, which are excellent for really immersing yourself in the incredible wildlife that the area has to offer. 

Though this is located about four hours away from Bucharest, it can be worth taking the time to make your way out to this beautiful natural area.

A number of providers operate day trips such as this full-day tour to the Danube Delta from Bucharest that include cruise tickets and transport to and from the city, which can be a very convenient way to experience one of Romania’s most impressive and significant nature areas. There are also two-day tour options if you have more time.

Where to Stay in Bucharest

Euro Hotel Grivita – Mid-range visitors to Bucharest will love this cool hotel in the city centre. They have several nice rooms to choose from along with an excellent location for exploring the highlights of the city.

The Mansion Boutique Hotel – Those looking for a luxury option while in Bucharest will love this opulent hotel in the centre of the city. They boast a range of plush rooms to choose from along with an unbeatable location for exploring the Romanian capital.

Bucharest Old Town Apartments – If you’re after your own apartment when you visit Bucharest, then these flats are an excellent option. There are many full-furnished flats to choose from that come equipped with all you need during your stay.

T5 Social – Those visiting Bucharest on a tight budget or solo will love this cool hostel. Located within easy reach of all the Romanian capital’s to attractions, they have both dorms and private rooms to choose from along with common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bucharest hotels!

Bucharest is perhaps one of the most historic and unique cities in Eastern Europe, making it a true joy to visit for those who decide to do so. We hope that this article helps you plan the perfect getaway to Romania’s charming capital city!

Are you planning to visit Bucharest? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Emily Marty

Emily is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, she is currently based in the UK. She enjoys exploring Northern & Western Europe and Southeast Asia and has a bit of a thing for islands in particular.

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Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? My Honest Opinion, Pros & Cons

There is plenty of mixed feelings when it comes to recommending Bucharest as a travel destination. Is Bucharest worth visiting? Is it one of those cities you should spend money and energy on?

Even though a fascinating European capital, Bucharest is not as nearly popular as Rome, Paris, or Barcelona. Even though in more recent times the countries and cities of central and eastern Europe have experienced a bigger tourist population, I think Bucharest sees fewer tourists than Prague, Budapest, or Krakov.

If you are wondering whether or not you should travel to Bucharest, if it’s a destination worth exploring, and if there is enough to do for a day or two, I am here to help you decide. This article is my very personal and honest opinion on whether Bucharest is worth visiting or not. This is why I wrote what I liked and what I didn’t like about my trip, and made a few easy comparisons between traveling to Bucharest and other cities like Budapest and Prague.

Table of Contents

Is Bucharest worth visiting? Pros and cons of traveling to the Romanian capital

What i liked about bucharest, the old town.

Our hotel was close to the old town so we could easily reach it on foot. Bucharest’s old town is very much walkable and pleasant to spend a few hours or even come back a few times to continue exploring its restaurants, cafes, and terraces with a view.

Plus, from the old town, you can easily walk to several landmarks, palaces, churches, government buildings, and museums in a charming motion between old and new, ancient and modern.

We loved wandering about narrow alleys lined up with small shops and quaint restaurants and opening up to larger, brighter squares framed by majestic buildings.

Isn’t this a cliché? In fact, I didn’t expect Romanian people, especially the residents of such a big city, to be so happy to help every time we were lost in the city and every time we would ask a question in a language that wasn’t their language.

Nobody ever looked annoyed if we addressed them in English or even in Italian, they would take their time to show us places on the map, explain how to move around and give us suggestions. This was even early morning when it was clearly rush hour and they were clearly heading to work.

We opt for the Peakture Hotel 4-star hotel because the price was very convenient, so the whole hotel was lovely, but what really stuck in my mind is the breakfast. It was incredibly abundant and diverse, with an impressive offer of sweet and savory options but also of foods that you won’t usually see in a breakfast hall.

Organized buffet style, there was a table for several types of freshly-baked bread, seeds, and cereals, one for fresh fruits and a separate one for vegetables. They offered a wide array of cold cuts, types of cheese for all tastes and preferences, jams, juices, and several beverages hot and cold.

In a nutshell, you could eat enough to skip lunch and go straight to dinner.

Sightseeing

From the local museums to the parks, we very much enjoyed exploring the cultural and historical side of Bucharest. Through palaces and buildings, it’s easy to feel the Soviet vibe of Bucharest’s recent past, and this is one of my favorite things to do when I travel to a new destination or even when I explore cities and countries I have already visited.

I loved relaxing in Bucharest parks and also visiting its one-of-a-kind cultural highlights such as the Museum of the Romanian Village where they reproduced typical buildings and traditional ways of living.

Being used to the eternal, huge crowds populating virtually all the main landmarks in Rome , it was extremely refreshing and enjoyable for me to explore such a large city with such a wealth of things to see and do without being surrounded by masses flocking from every corner.

It’s inexpensive

Apart from the quality of our hotel which was very much affordable, especially if compared to the same standards in other European capitals and cities, we found that Bucharest was very convenient in many aspects.

Things like eating out, using public transport, and sightseeing were affordable. Even though more expensive than other destinations in Romania, the two days we spent in Bucharest didn’t weigh on our bank accounts.

So if you are still wondering if is Bucharest worth visiting, pondering your budget is a good parameter to consider.

What I didn’t like about Bucharest

The traffic.

I know, coming from Rome, I have very little right to complain about traffic. Bucharest traffic is in no way comparable to the jam in Rome , but maybe because of this, when I travel, I always hope to find a more quiet reality.

Let’s not forget that Bucharest is the capital of Romania, and so it’s a big city. If you are looking for a slow-paced adventure, Romania has so much to offer. Regions like Transylvania and Maramures, and towns like Brasov , Sinaia , or Timisoara, will certainly provide a more relaxed experience.

Which is better to visit Budapest or Bucharest?

We absolutely loved our trip to Budapest and immediately thought we should plan another. But we also enjoyed Bucharest, so we can’t really recommend skipping one for the other.

What I probably regret is not spending enough time in Bucharest and not having the time to explore it as well as I did in Budapest. Both cities are young and vibrant, probably in Budapest I saw more pubs, the famous ruin pubs that are a proper institution, while Bucharest felt more classic and elegant to me.

Which is better Prague or Bucharest?

Prague is much bigger than Bucharest and has more places to visit and things to do. Bucharest has a small old town and all around a very modern sprawling city. The old town of Prague is what attracts most visitors because of its famous forest of tall spires and fascinating mix of architectural styles.

Even though I loved Bucharest, if you really need to choose between the two, I would say pick Prague, especially if a Gothic and mysterious vibe is what you are after. The medieval buildings, Gothic churches, and palaces built in the local Baroque style of Prague never fail to impress and make a trip memorable.

Let’s say that in Prague, you could easily stay a week and never run out of sights and activities, while in Bucharest, three to four days would be enough unless you want to dig deeper and go about discovering its hidden gems.

I'm Angela Corrias, an Italian journalist, photographer, and travel writer located in the heart of Italy's capital. Welcome to my website, your comprehensive source for your travels and expert guidance for crafting your dream travel experience.

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Why Visit Bucharest? The Ultimate Travel Guide

Bucharest is Romania’s capital and largest city. It is the most important industrial and economic centre of the country and also one of Europe’s most authentic capitals. During the few days, I spent in Bucharest I was completely blown away with its grandeur, Christmas spirit (I’d highly recommend visiting in winter) and cafe culture. Being relatively undiscovered by western tourism a few people have asked  why visit Bucharest?

Bucharest is, undoubtedly, an unforgettable experience for those who choose to visit it, whether they are city residents or tourists. It’s a place you can envision spending weeks exploring and living like a local.

The so-called ‘Little Paris of the East’ is more than a comparison. Bucharest is a fascinating city of contrasts, combining history with a relatively modern identity, glorious architecture with communist-era buildings, countless impressive parks with public squares, and amazingly open-minded locals. Bucharest has an exciting past, lively bars and restaurants, large parks and plenty of museums and is considered as one of Europe’s safest and most affordable destinations. Below are reasons why you should consider the Romanian capital when planning your upcoming city break.

Disclaimer:   Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information on my disclaimer  click here .

• 1 Why Visit Bucharest
• 2 What To See And Do In Bucharest
• 3.1 Heading Out Of Town?
• 4.1 Hostels
• 4.2 Budget Hotel/Apartment
• 5 Where To Eat In Bucharest
• 6 Bucharest Nightlife

Why Visit Bucharest

For most people, Bucharest is still ignored as a travel destination. But believe me, it is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe where you can enjoy, among others, interesting cuisine and intense nightlife. Even though  Romania is part of the European Union  since 2007, the country is yet to adopt Euro, a fact that keeps it a cheap destination for travelling.

The hand of the communist era is still evident in the city since the architecture of many buildings in the centre was influenced by that period. On the other hand, you can feel an urban and contemporary lifestyle arising in the city.  Bucharest is a heaven for foodies because the local culinary scene combines international trends with traditional ones which are inspired by both Eastern and Western culture.  The Bucharest nightlife is well distinguished for being spicy and wild. The city really offers great night clubs and bars playing good music and hosting beautiful people partying until dawn.

What To See And Do In Bucharest

The heart of Bucharest is now a combined charming area with cobblestone streets, popular restaurants and bars, cafes, shops, and restored buildings of great architectural and cultural importance. The old city is the reference point for fun – it is energetic, lively, and always crowded with locals and tourists.

The Palace of the Parliament is the most emblematic building in Bucharest – it is a must-visit place if you want to understand the history of Romania and its past. The Palace of the Parliament is one of the heaviest buildings and the second-largest administrative building in the world, after the Pentagon in the USA. 

Calea Victoriei is a historic avenue and one of the most prestigious landmarks in the centre. If you want to feel the vibes, to visit museums, shop luxury brands, and enjoy the buildings you can walk down the avenue. 

Bucharest center also has plenty of green sanctuaries, that are waiting for you to explore. Locals enjoy gathering at the parks to socialize, play, and relax. You can definitely spend a relaxing afternoon at Cișmigiu Gardens – an English-style garden.

Walking down the Old Town of Bucharest should definitely be on your ‘to-do-list during your visit. The Old Town is located in the heart of the city and offers the best sights. The tourist area around Lipscani, Smardan, and Selari Streets is filled with bars, cafes, and restaurants with a lot of activity during the daytime.

There are numerous hidden gems to discover in the Old Town while wandering in this area. Some of my favourite spots: Stavropoleus Church, the ruins of Curtea Veche, the seat of Wallachian rulers, and Piata Sfantul Anton. There’s also a statue of Vlad the Impaler believably the inspiration for Dracula to be found in the area!

Read –   My Complete Guide to Visiting Bucharest in Winter

How To Get Around Bucharest

The best way to reach and move around the city is by using Uber. Even though Bucharest has a metro and other conventional public transportation, the most convenient one for a tourist to move around the city is by using Uber.

They are reliable, transparent, and cheap, with friendly drivers… oh, and the most amazing fact is that you know the cost of the ride before you even book it! On the other hand, be aware that there are non-legitimate taxis in the city that may try to rip you off especially when you don’t speak the language.

On that note, be very wary of dodgy taxi drivers as taxi scams are common within this region of Europe. Some things to look out for include, the meter going up at a quicker rate than usual. Keep an eye on the drivers’ hands, they tend to have a button which increases the rate that they push when you’re not looking. Another common scam is when paying in cash the driver does a quick sleight of hand and shows you gave smaller note denominations. Always take note of the amount you hand over first and stick to your ground. Threaten to call the police if they create a fuss.

Heading Out Of Town?

The best way to explore the other regions of Romania is to catch a train. Trains are affordable, comfortable and generally run on time. I caught the train to  Brasov  and  Sibiu  and then out of the country to  Budapest .

Where To Stay In Bucharest

In Bucharest, you have a lot of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to local apartments. Any of these options are cheaper compared to similar services in other European capitals. Also, you can choose to stay in an  Airbnb  flat as I did.

The best place to stay in Bucharest in winter is close to the Old Town. From here you will be able to walk to most of the top things to do. If you would like something a bit quieter, move outwards from the Old Town a few streets and still be in a central location.

There are some great funky hostels in Bucharest which start at $7 USD for a dorm bed. Although not in the Old Town a friend stayed at  Podstel Bucharest  and loved it. They organise weekly events, group meals and are a great place for solo travellers. They have a cafe on-site and look really homey. Rated 9.1/10 on Booking.  Check current rates here .

If you would like to be in the heart of the Old Town try the  Sleep Inn Hostel . Although not rated the best for solo travellers, if you are travelling with someone this hostel could be your best bet. The hostel offers private and dorm rooms. Dorms start at $9 USD per night and get an 8.5/10 on Booking.  Check current rates here .

Budget Hotel/Apartment

There are some really cute Airbnb’s scattered near the city. I stayed at The River Studio which unfortunately isn’t available now. Another couple of places that look really cute and are nearby are the  Calea Victoriei Apartment  and  Old Town View flat.  They are located 1km west of the Old Town and at around $30 USD/night you have cooking appliances and beautiful city views. Only 2 blocks from Cigmigiu Gardens and nearby supermarkets. If you are travelling with someone these are nice alternatives to staying in a hostel.

Where To Eat In Bucharest

Caru’ cu Bere  restaurant is the symbol of Bucharest with 130 years of history. They serve real traditional Romanian food in the most amazing possible way. Once you step in you will see that the building is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic style, classified as a Historical and Architectural Monument. You can try a roasted pork knuckle with braised sour cabbage, polenta, horseradish, and chili pepper, and surely you will be very satisfied.  Reservation is a must since the restaurant is very popular among the city.

Bucharest Nightlife

Bucharest nightlife  is not-to-be-missed. It is much cheaper compared to other European party destinations. Most of the nightlife happens in the old town where many bars and pubs are full of locals and tourists. However, the clubbing scene in the city is insane offering chic, luxurious, and high-class options at a fair cost. Romanian people love to go out for dancing and drinking, therefore don’t be surprised to realize how sociable the locals are, especially in the clubs. 

The beer prices are very cheap and they surely can make you consider leaving any city for good. Even in touristy spots, two pints will cost you less than a fiver. You have to make sure to try ‘out tuică’ – a traditional spirit made from plums.

If you’re travelling solo and want to find some friends to party with for the night join the  Pub Crawl tour.  This tour includes free entry to 4 or 5 bars in the old town with a shot in each one.

My name is Erin, the lady behind Curiously Erin. After more than 10 years of travelling and working abroad, I wanted to create a platform where I could share my stories and travels. My goal is to help you live the life you desire and inspire you to travel more.

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• Travel Tips

Top Things You Must Know Before Traveling To Bucharest, Romania

Published: July 16, 2020

Modified: December 27, 2023

by David Jefferson

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Guide

Nicknamed ‘The Little Paris,’ Bucharest is home to some of the world’s heaviest buildings, stunning contemporary art, astonishing castles, and plenty of historical sites. This gem of a city in Eastern Europe has a lot to offer travelers who are hungry for a taste of cultural diversity and ready for an eye-opening adventure. While there is always good and not so appealing side of a city, here are some of the things you should be aware of.

The Official Currency is The Romanian Lei

©Photo by Adobe Stock

Despite being part of the European Nation, Bucharest does not use Euros as their currency. Instead, you need to exchange your money for some Romanian Lei (RON). These bills come in 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, and 500 notes, which are plastic and not paper. 

Take note, though, that most prices in Romania are calculated and displayed in Euros, but you can only pay in RON. Confusing? You’ll get the hang of it! Some shops also offer an in-house exchange rate, but you should double-check the current exchange rates before doing so.

For your convenience, you can always pay using your credit card almost anywhere in Romania’s big cities. Save your cash for the remote areas, just in case they don’t have a credit card option. Try wearing a money belt to make paying and storing money safe and hassle-free. 

Traveling to Bucharest is Affordable

Photo by Ștefan Jurcă from Flickr

Most budget travelers tend to cross out European countries on their travel list due to budget constraints. But little do you know that traveling to Bucharest is surprisingly affordable. As compared to many other countries in Europe, the living expenses here are less worrisome. In fact, a week’s travel budget in Bucharest is well comparable to more or less a week of your travel budget to some of the most upscale ASEAN cities like Tokyo or Singapore. 

Food and drinks are affordable, which will let you make the most out of your budget. Regular meals are only about $6, while meals for two in a mid-range restaurant are about $30. When it comes to accommodations, the prices for a night stay in a hostel or Airbnb is as low $25 and can go as high as $250 depending on your preference. Even the attractions and entertainment in Bucharest are much more affordable than its neighboring country! Most of the attractions in Bucharest cost around at most $10 for a single entry ticket. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy further discounts and score some good deals for most bookings you do online.

Bucharest is Actually One of The Safest City to Travel

Photo by Giuseppe Milo from Flickr

In general, Bucharest is a safe place to visit, even for solo and female travelers. Compared to other major cities in Europe, the crime rate is lower in Bucharest. Travelers who’ve been to Romania agree that the locals are friendly, hospitable, and very accommodating too. Even though English may not be their first language, most of the locals willing to make an effort to help you get adjusted in their city comfortably.

As safe as the country would be, we suggest travelers stay within the city center at night. Most of the areas in this city is well-guarded and the local police do patrol the alleyways to give you peace of mind. Though this city is safe, it’s still smart to keep an eye on your valuables.

Transportation is also safe in Bucharest, though there are some complaints about harassment or theft when riding trains or taxis. Even payment transactions are very much reliable on this side of Eastern Europe. You don’t have to worry so much about fraud or vendors tricking you.

Make Uber Your Best Friend

Photo by Francisco Anzola from Flickr

While it’s generally safe to ride taxis, buses, and trams around Bucharest, Uber is the better option. This is especially helpful for first-time visitors in the city. Booking Uber will make going around cheap, efficient, and convenient. Just like in other major cities in Europe, taxi drivers in Bucharest tend to overcharge. 

Aside from that, most Uber drivers can be your go-to source for any information you need in the city. It is said that Uber service in Bucharest is excellent, which is very helpful to tourists. With many things to do in Bucharest , efficient transportation will allow you to make the most of the experience. 

The Romanian Food is Mainly Meat-Based

Photo by Nicubunu from Wikimedia Commons

Coming to Bucharest is definitely a must for food lovers. The richness of traditional cuisine in this city is worth exploring and coming back for!

Romanian cuisine may not be fancy, but the mix of flavors and spices is enough to make them interesting. What makes their food delectable is how it’s a mix of dishes from neighboring countries such as Hungary, Germany, and Turkish. These dishes are then given a Bucharest twist with the added local herbs and spices. Bucharest servings are also big. Even starters are served in large portions, so choose your order wisely when you’re dining alone.

Food in Bucharest is also mainly meat. This means most of the dishes here can be a little heavy. Famous Bucharest dishes mostly include grilled mixed meat, stews, and goulash. However, there are also wide choices of delicious soups and salads. For vegetarian dishes, head to Satya, Rwdia, Super Falafel, Antropotea, or RawCoco. These are some of the best spots to get your salad, soup, and juice smoothie fix.

If you want to try the most popular, get you a hot plate of Sarmale, Romania’s national dish. Sarmale is ground meat wrapped in cabbage. You can find the best Sarmale in Bucharest at Casa Doina , Lacrimi și Sfinți , Hanu lui Manuc , Zexe Zahanaua Gastronomică Restaurant , or Caru’ cu Bere .

Mamaliga is another staple dish in Bucharest. This traditional Romanian porridge goes with almost everything and can be found in pretty much every restaurant.

Some Of The Best Restaurants In Bucharest

Mahala : Labeled as one of Bucharest’s best restaurants, Mahala is worth stopping by for a meal. Aside from delicious meals, the interior is traditionally Romanian, but with a modern twist. 

Lente & Cafea : In addition to a very welcoming atmosphere, Lente & Cafea offers a fantastic fusion of chicken and fish. At night, the cafe hosts jazz gigs and events for your pleasure.

Caru’ cu Bere : This restaurant is among the classics. It is also one of the most photographed spots in town, thanks to its stunning interior — a combination of wood, gilt elements, and vaulted ceilings. The menu here offers an array of beer selection and traditional Romanian dishes.  

Vacamuuu : This restaurant has got to be the ultimate place for meat lovers. Vacamuuu is the most famous steakhouse in Bucharest because it offers a wide variety of mouth-watering steaks. Aside from that, this restaurant also has a marketplace where you can buy fresh produce and meats. 

It’s Home to Fairy Tale Castles

Photo by rafaelutza from Pixabay

Behind the mountains of Romania hides some of the most stunning castles in Europe . These impressive buildings reflect the myth, legend, history, and culture in Romania. Aside from that, castles are among the prominent national monuments in Bucharest. With more than 250 castles around the country, you don’t have to go far to see one. 

Interestingly enough, Bucharest is also home to many fortified churches. These structures are so gorgeous that they look more like castles than churches. 

Among the most impressive castles in Bucharest include Bran Castle, more popularly known as Dracula’s Castle. There’s also Peles Castle with its beautiful neo-Renaissance features. Nestled in the city outskirts is another beautiful castle, Cantacuzino Castle. Meanwhile, for some medieval beauty, Neamt Citadel is a fortress with stunning views. Don’t forget to bring your selfie stick to help you take the best-enchanted photos! 

It Offers Lush Spaces, Parks, And Gardens

Photo by Adobe Stock

After all the walking and exploring, it’s nice to relax in a place where there’s fresh air. Luckily, Bucharest is home to many beautiful parks. This is also a welcome contrast to the heavy traffic that the city usually experiences. Whether you want to take a stroll or enjoy a picnic, Bucharest offers plenty of lush spaces. 

Make sure to visit Gradina Cişmigiu. It is the oldest garden in the city, and it is also one of the most romantic spots. Other notable gardens are Bucharest Botanical Garden, Grădina Eden, Parcul Circului, and Parcul Herăstrău. These green spaces are excellent additions to your itinerary while in Bucharest.

It’s Best to Stay in The Old Town

Most of the frequent visitors to Bucharest highly recommend staying in the Old Town. This area is perfect for those who want to truly appreciate the Bucharest life. It is very quiet, relaxing, and free from the stress of city life. Aside from that, Old Town Bucharest is also packed with many interesting things to do and see. With old streets littered with bars, restaurants, affordable hotels, old churches, and impressive museums, Old Town makes for a perfect tourist destination. 

Aside from that, Old Town is also close to the major attractions in Bucharest. Staying in this part of the city will surely make going to tourist sites a lot easier.

Learn A Little About Bucharest History 

Photo by Dennis Jarvis from Flickr

Visiting a foreign city allows you to learn more about its culture. Relating to a country’s history is definitely easier if you do a little research. Romania was once a communist country until it freed itself in 1989. This part of their history is a big influence on the city and its people. 

Before setting foot in Bucharest, spend some time researching Bucharest history to relate more to the city’s main attractions. A little packed knowledge will also help you better understand the historical and cultural sites in Bucharest.

You Need A Pair Good Walking Shoes

Photo by Mario Sánchez Prada from Flickr

It’s a given that you need walking shoes when visiting a new country or city. However, exploring Bucharest requires comfortable shoes designed for walking because most of its streets are cobbled and rough. Some of the roads also have uneven holes. Walking in Bucharest without the proper footwear will hurt your feet quicker than when you’re walking in other European countries. Make sure to bring the best walking shoes to explore the impressive buildings and architecture in Bucharest fully.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Bucharest? 

If you like it cold, January is the coldest month in Bucharest. On average, the temperature during this month is at -2°C. It’s not the friendliest month for visiting. Winter months are from December to February, and it sometimes extends up to March. Wintertime isn’t always predictable, though. Sometimes you will experience mild winters with not a lot of snow. Other times, however, winter in Bucharest can be very cruel.

The hottest months in Bucharest are July and August . This may not be a pleasant time to visit as well, because even the nights are hot during these months. Take note that Bucharest experiences some of the hottest temperatures in Romania. The average warm temperature ranges from 30 °C to 35 °C or more. 

Meanwhile, April, May, and June are the best months to visit Bucharest. The temperature during these months is ideal for a stroll around the historic city.

What Are The Best Places To See In Bucharest?

Palace of the Parliament , which is the world’s heaviest and its second-largest administrative building, after the Pentagon

Stavropoleos Monastery , which is a Christian Orthodox nunnery famed for its choir

Museum of Collections , which showcases some of the finest art and decorative objects collections of Romania

Village Museum , which boasts a large collection of houses, windmills, and churches from all over the country 

Revolution Square , which is a must-visit spot to learn about Bucharest history 

Romanian Atheneum , which a famous concert hall and one of the major landmarks of Bucharest

Where to Stay in Bucharest?

©Photo from official Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel website

Many accommodations cater to tourists in various districts of Bucharest. We recommend staying in the following hotels in their respective areas:

In Old Town 

Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel , a neoclassical-inspired hotel with river or city views

The Mansion Boutique Hotel , a stylish accommodation located in a renovated historic building

Mil Pasos Penthouse Hostel , a hostel with clean facilities, good location, and excellent service

In Primaverii Neighborhood

Pensiunea Helvetia , a great place with comfortable and clean rooms in a good location 

In Tineretului Area

Casa Fiori , a hotel that features a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a shared lounge

Arbans Elegant Apartment, a spotlessly clean apartment with modern amenities

Other Interesting Things To Learn Before Visiting Bucharest

Romanians love to dress up: If you enjoy dressing up, then you’ve chosen the perfect destination! Romanians are well dressed. They enjoy decking themselves out in fine clothes and accessories. Pack a nice outfit when visiting Bucharest so you can blend in. If you’re planning to go to the theater or the opera, wear a suit or a dress. Dress up for dinners as well. 

Tipping is a norm: While it’s not obligatory, tipping in Bucharest is expected. Servers in Romania take their jobs seriously, and they know that tips are part of their income. A standard tip in Bucharest restaurants is 5-10% for table service. 

Don’t drink tap water: In other countries or cities, it is completely safe to drink straight from the tap. However, this isn’t the case in Bucharest or other parts of Romania. While it won’t kill you, and some still do drink from the tap, foreigners are recommended to buy bottled water. The main reason is that most of the old buildings and apartments have rusty and old water pipes which may contaminate drinking water. 

It has fast internet. Romania is one of the countries with the fastest and cheapest internet connection in the world. Wi-Fi is also available in most public spots, and cellular connectivity is very good all over the city. 

It is home to some of the most beautiful bookstores. Cărturești Carusel is perhaps the most beautiful and famous among the many in Bucharest. Boasting six levels, Cărturești Carusel has a bistro on the top floor, while the basement houses a multimedia space. Other must-visit bookstores include Humanitas Cișmigiu, Seneca AntiCafe, Kyralina, and Antic ExLibris.

Bucharest has a large transit network. In fact, it has the fourth-largest transit network in Europe! 

Time To Take A Trip To The Little Paris Of The East!

Mostly known for its elegant architecture, Bucharest, Romania has a lot more to offer. With its cuisine, churches, castles, and parks, a day may not be enough to enjoy Bucharest. Hopefully, this list will help you get to know this Romanian city more. These tips and recommendations should also help you prepare and plan well for your trip. While there’s so much more to know about Bucharest, some are best to be discovered once you get finally there. 

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Bucharest Public Transport – the complete Guide (with prices and photos)

All you need to know to safely and easily use of Bucharest public transport. Welcome to Bucharest , capital of Romania, the 6th largest city in the European Union . Also, fun fact: 8th city with the most congested traffic out of 404 biggest cities of the world ( source study: Tomtom 2021). And that’s not fun at all! I should know being born and raised in Bucharest. What’s actually fun is what you can do in Bucharest, which you find out in another article here .

Bucharest is becoming very popular with tourists who want to discover East Europe in a safe, affordable and fun city. And yes, it is all that. Bucharest is a mix of a modern city, where you can find everything you desire, with an old architecture style. You will find buildings dating back from the 1700s, in baroque, eclectic, byzantine styles, and also the famous plain-boring communist architecture. Care to explore?

But first things first:

Is Bucharest safe for a solo traveler?

I’m just going to say it: it definitely is! No matter if you are a girl or a guy. I wrote in detail about safety in Bucharest on another post you can check: Is Bucharest Safe?

From Bucharest airport (Henri Coanda) to the city center

I wrote a detailed article about the 3 ways to get from the airport to your accommodation in Bucharest. Check it out.

Bucharest Public Transport – the complete Guide:

🔹 bucharest subway.

When you see the blue M sign in the city you know there is a subway station. The subway in Bucharest is pretty easy to use and it is very cheap. The metro has only 5 lines, spread around most of the city. It gets you to almost all the important spots in the city. It’s very safe to use. There is 1 security guard on each subway train and at every entry. I totally recommend you the subway over the above-ground public transport. It’s quite clean, although not all stations are well maintained. Some can look so old, exactly as they were made in the 1980s. Maybe they wanted to keep Ceaușescu’s spirit alive, who knows?!

When you are making your way across Bucharest you can use Google maps to give you indications. It might help you if you save the metro map. You will find it in all the subways trains.

The subway starts working at 5 am and at 11 pm the last metros leave the starting stations. That means you might still get a subway around 11:15, if you are in one of the later stops.

PRO tip: How to know the right direction when you are in a station? Look for a map on the station, usually hanging from the ceiling, with the stations and an arrow for the direction it does in. OR look on the main map and read the name of the last station on each line. You will see a name on the screens above the station and on the trains. So the subway is going in that direction. Example: You are at Aviatorilor station (M2 blue line) and you want to go to Piata Unirii. So you take the train with Berceni written on it. The only exception is Republica (the name you will find on the screens as the direction) and not Pantelimon (which you see as being the last stop of the yellow line- and that’s because it’s a newer stop).

Subway tickets – pay with card or cash

In every station, you will find the orange machines where you can buy tickets with cash (in LEI and it gives you change) or card. You can select English or French, and choose to buy 2 or 10 trips, a weekly or a monthly pass. You will receive a paper card you then need to insert at the entrance gates, where a bright green arrow indicates you (see in the picture below).

The gates let you tap your debit VISA or Mastercard to pay for just 1 entrance. You can use your virtual wallet from your phone as well. It’s safe to do so and it’s the same price as buying it from the ticket desk (the orange machines sell 2 trips, the cash desk sells 1 trip).

Subway tickets PRICES

1 trip is 3 lei (0,60 euro); 10 trips are 25 lei; a weekly pass is 30 lei and a monthly pass 80 lei. If you are two or more people traveling you can get the 10 trips card, as you can use them even all at once, in the same station. With the weekly and monthly pass, there is a time lag between usages, so two people cannot use it to enter the same station. Students get 50% discount on the monthly pass, so 40 LEI. Or for some students and kids enrolled in a Romanian school it is free.

🔹 Bus, trolley, trams – the surface transport

Once more, I recommend you to use Google maps to find your routes from A to B. It will tell you what transport to take. To be sure you found the station look for the STB small metal board (see picture below) on a lamp post or a metal pillar.

The big advantage of the surface public transport is that it is very well spread out in Bucharest. It takes you everywhere.

The ticket price is the same as the subway’s , but as they are run by different companies the same ticket won’t work to subway and busses. Though, they made a separate join ticket which I will inform you about below.

The disadvantage is that in rush hours they get stuck in traffic. This means it’s hard to estimate when you will reach your destination. Plus disadvantage 2: some lines have a low frequency. So you might find yourself waiting in the station for 20 minutes and wondering where have you gone wrong in life to deserve this! Too dramatic? Picture the scenario in a windy -5 C winder or a hot summer with +40 C. And disadvantage 3: they are never too clean, plus the trams are so noisy and the old trolleys too shaky.

It’s clear I don’t advocate for the public surface transport. I’ve been avoiding them my whole life (I was raised in Bucharest) and although I see many improvements, I still don’t find them a great experience. But overall they are ok to use.

One more thing, before I tell you about the tickets, please be aware of your belongings. Pickpocketing is more common on these than in the subway. But nothing to be scared of.

Schedule + routes

Most of the transport means work from 4:30 – 5 am until 10:30-11 pm. But some buses and trams come once an hour during the night too. Just to make sure check the schedule here. Check the routes too , if you need.

Tickets – prices and where to get them

One ticket costs 3 LEI, but if you get 10 it’s 25 LEI. A monthly pass is 80 LEI (you need to show an ID when you buy it and when you are checked by a transport controller). Students get 50% discount on the monthly pass, so 40 LEI. Just have your student ID with you at all times.

They are called Metropolitan tickets and one ride has a duration of 90 minutes. This means you can change from a bus to a tram or another bus/trolley as many times as you need in the 90 min.

Option 1: You can buy them from a gray-ish kiosk with STB written on it. Usually with cash. But the problem is the surface transport doesn’t have a ticket booth in each station. All the more reason to praise the subway system. Here is a list of all the tickets kiosks in the city. You will need to buy from them a plastic rechargeable card, for 3.7 lei + you need to charge it with 2 tickets, so that’s another 6 lei.

Option 2: Download the app 24Pay, available on both Google Play and App Store. You add your card in your account and with one click you buy yourself a ticket every time you need it. Easy right? Price is the same, 3 LEI.

Option 3: Pay by card on the bus and tram. You need a contactless, Mastercard, Maestro or Visa card. Same 3 LEI price. But before you rush and jump in a bus, you need to know that NOT ALL of them have these machines… how to make sure the bus/ tram (never the trolley) has one? I really don’t know how to make it easy for you, as the only information STB website is providing is that they are on the Otokar and Mercedes Citaro hybrid busses and on tram 41.

Option 4: yes, we are full of options!! Send a SMS text to 7458 with the letter C in the body of the text. Just a C. Cost for 1 ticket of the same 90 minutes: 0,62 Euro + TVA. 

So… if you just need a ticket from time to time just get the App, ok?

Surface transports integrated with subway Tickets and Passes

From the STB kiosks you can even get a card that you can use on both upper transport and the subway. One such ticket costs 5 lei and it has an availability of 120 minutes. And 10 tickets are going to be 45 LEI.

🔹Taxi – Uber & Bolt

When it comes to taxis in Bucharest I don’t recommend you the local ones , the bright yellow taxi cars. You will find them lined up in front of main spots (like the train station or the city center). Avoid them because they might overcharge you. They either tell you a big price upfront to take you to your destination (which is illegal to not put the meter on) or going to take longer routes. Most of the times they will ask you to pay only cash.

Use Uber or Bolt. You can have both apps and see whichever has a better price. There are many drivers and prices are very good. For example 12 lei (2.5 euro) for a 10 minutes ride (North train station to city center). You will also find FreeNow App, but many users complain the app sometimes switches between cash and card payments. And that can be quite unfortunate if you end up at the destination with no cash to pay for your ride.

🔹 Rent an electric scooter

In the city you will find many electric scooters, literally everywhere. There are a few apps you can use to rent them, the most popular being: Lime, Splash, Bolt, Uber and Flow. All you need to do is install one or more of these apps, insert your card details and search for scooters nearby. You can reserve them until you reach them (make sure it’s the same code number) and unlock it by scanning the QR. Everything is very intuitive in all the apps. Local regulations: you need to use a helmet and use the bake lanes (when there are non you should use the road). You can park it anywhere on public domain, but please make sure it doesn’t block entrances or it’s inconvenient for pedestrians.

🔹 Rent a bicycle

I’Velo is a company that rents bikes in an automatic system. There are a lot of details to be aware of, but mostly you need to download their app and register with your ID (be over 16), a selfie and a phone number (where you can receive an SMS/text with a code). Your profile is approved by a real person, so only between the working hours (10 am – 10 pm). Before you use the bikes you need to pay a subscription of 2h (15Lei), 1 month (79Lei), 1 year. Check the website for more details.

You can see on the app a map of where to find the bikes (permanent spots with automatic racks). Scan the bike with the app to unlock it. Make sure to take a bike with a green light on (red means it has a malfunction). Enjoy the ride, take care of yourself and the bike and take it back to one of the racks.

🔹 Car Sharing

Ok, this is one of my favorites, I have to admit! If you are not already familiar with the car-sharing concept here it is: you drive yourself to the destination for the price of an uber ride. That’s right, you can drive around the city with cars you find parked all around Bucharest.

There are a few car-sharing companies in Bucharest, but the ones I prefer are two: Spark: they have only electric cars : like Renault Zoe 40 (with a cool interior design and very pleasant to drive it) and Skoda CITIGO eIV (it’s easy to drive, but it feels and it is a bit cheaper to rent than the Zoe one). They also advertise they have BMW i3 and Nissan Leaf 40 in their fleet, but they are not common to find when you need a car. CityLink: they have hybrid cars . Models available are Toyota Yaris (feels kind of cheap, if you ask me) and Toyota Corolla (a nice experience to drive it). If it’s your first time using this app use my invite code (ANDR4157) and your FIRST RIDE will be FREE (up to 35 LEI, which with a Toyota Yaris means about 50 minutes of driving- cool, right?).

Easy steps: You download the app and you make an account with your ID and driving license and card details . You find the cars available in your area in the app and see the prices per km or minute. You can reserve them for 15 min for free – the time you have to reach them. Once near the car you quickly check it for major damage . You can cancel the reservation if the car is damaged (never happened to me) or click “ unlock ” in the app and then report the damage with a photo. Once you unlocked it the clock starts ticking. Drive it to your destination and park it in the area that the app shows you as available (most of Bucharest). You can park it for free in public parking lots, but not in private ones.

Related Posts

Should you visit Bucharest? First Impressions of a Solo Traveler [interview]

Where to stay in Bucharest | Awesome Hotels in Cool Areas

Winter in Bucharest – What to do- Daytime activities ideas

Damian galvin

Excellent job! I did the same thing around 4-7 years ago but it’s outdated now. I’d like to replace mine with yours and link back here if that’s ok with you, on blog.whitemountain.ro as we have a lot of foreigners using the blog for various relocation guides. Well done once again. Not a 5 min excercise

damian galvin

Shared on https://blog.whitemountain.ro with permission. Thank you for the hard work.

Kudos 👌A very complete guide. Maybe worth adding the availability of electric rental scootes as well.

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2024 FULL Bucharest Travel Guide: what to do, places to visit, day trips, going out & more!

Why visit Bucharest? Because Romania’s capital will surprise you with its rich history and multiple personalities: a Balkan vibe with Oriental influences, French-inspired beautiful buildings, megalomanic communist architecture, huge green spaces, and now a thriving Western-inspired city with Latin blood in its people.

Bucharest is an eclectic city - and that's the top reason why you should visit in 2024!

This made by locals guide updated in January 2024 will help you find out what to do in Bucharest, which places to visit, top tourist attractions, day trip ideas, where to go out, and practical info about public transport.

You'll find 50+ ideas for the very best things to do in Bucharest and unique tours and day trips we created so you have a great time on your holiday - so get ready!

Table of contents

Intro: Bucharest at a glance

Landmarks in bucharest, 1. take a walk on calea victoriei, 2. admire the george enescu museum, 3. visit the romanian athenaeum, a cultural landmark, 4. get royal at the national museum of art, 5. a first step into romanian history at the statue of king carol i, 6. take a look at bucharest’s weirdest statue, the rebirth memorial, 7. step into communist history at the former communist party headquarters, 8. admire the art deco architecture at the odeon theater, 9. visit one of the oldest buildings in bucharest, casa capsa, 10. take a look at the national military circle, 11. take a walk through the beautiful macca-vilacrosse passage, 12. admire cec palace, 13. learn about the dacians at the national museum of romanian history, landmarks in bucharest old town, 14. visit the old princely court ruins, 15. step into romanian traditions at hanu’ lui manuc, 16. discover the unique romanian architecture at stavropoleos church, 17. check out the impressive national bank of romania, 18. feel the atmosphere on lipscani street, 19. visit the beautiful carturesti carusel library, 20. visit one of the oldest restaurants in the country: caru’ cu bere, what to visit in bucharest: tourist attractions, museums, and more, 21. palace of the parliament: bucharest’s top tourist attraction, 22. step into ceausescu’s villa, 23. visit the national museum of contemporary art, 24. a museum for the whole family: grigore antipa natural history museum, 25. make a stop at the museum of art collections, 26. explore traditional romanian houses at bucharest village museum, 27. discover romanian rural culture at dimitrie gusti national village museum, 28. challenge your perception at the museum of senses, 29. visit the special museum of romanian records, 30. look at the stars at the astronomic observatory vasile urseanu, 31. discover the 1920s bucharest at the little paris museum, 32. be a scientist at the romanian science experiment museum, 33. step into a communist apartment.

• Things to do in Bucharest: sightseeing, history, culture & local life

34. Check out the Romanian Arch of Triumph

35. go for a walking tour around soseaua kisselef, aviatorilor, and calea dorobanti, 36. get lost in the cotroceni neighbourhood, 37. discover bucharest street art, gentrification, and local culture, 38. relax in cismigiu park, 39. admire the parliament building from izvor park, 40. go to the ww i memorial at carol park.

• 41. Take a walk in Bucharest's biggest park, Herastrau Park

42. Go to the vibrant Tineretului Park

43. natural diversity in the heart of bucharest: delta vacaresti.

• Day trips & tours from Bucharest

44. Go on a Transylvania tour from Bucharest

45. discover the impressive transfagarasan highway, 46. visit the romanian coast, 47. discover a unique place: the danube delta, 48. take on your hiking boots and discover the romanian mountains, 49. taste the romanian wine in the dealu mare region.

• 50. Connect with the locals at Obor Farmer's Market

Explore Bucharest by bike, starting in Piata Victoriei

Where to go out in bucharest: restaurants, coffee shops, and bars, bucharest nightlife the best in europe.

• Budget, transport & safety in Bucharest

Where to stay in Bucharest

Before we start, I want to be honest with you: Bucharest doesn't have a good reputation as a tourist destination, and here's why:

• like all of Romania, there's no official tourist identity or strategy so tourists don't have a good reason why they should visit in the first place, even for a short time!
• local authorities don't support, invest, or promote local tourism, so it's up to locals with limited resources and fragmented impact to do this
• most tourists rely on foreign travel bloggers, guides, and the typical TripAdvisor "best places to visit" when planning their visit, so they don't really discover what makes Bucharest interesting and worth visiting
• before 2015 there were some reports about foreign tourists getting scammed by Bucharest taxis and at the airport (no longer an issue) which created a bad reputation for the city; that's no longer the case, and we covered this in our safety section at the end of this guide

And that's why some people avoid visiting Bucharest altogether or plan to spend one day at most before going to Brasov and other parts of the country.

Which is a shame... Though it may seem rough around the edges, the capital city of Romania has something to offer to all types of travelers, especially those looking for an off-the-beaten path non-touristy experience.

So besides the typical tourist attractions and places to visit such as the Palace of Parliament and the Old Town area, in this guide, we'll tell you about many lesser-known things to do in Bucharest and how to have a great time visiting Romania's capital.

Because Bucharest is full of glaring, sometimes absurd contrasts and not your typical Western capital where everything is neat and clean, by the book. Some people don't enjoy these urban jungles. Others - like me - do! But, as they say, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder :)

• Local tip: Bucharest is not flooded with tourist hoards like other capitals in Eastern Europe. Prices are not too high either and there are no 'big bus' style tours (except for Dracula Castle day trips - the only thing heavily touristified in our country). So you can have an amazing holiday with great value for money!

Also - the Romanian capital has A LOT of cool places to go out with many hipster cafes, trendy bars, chic restaurants, fine-dining spots (for very good prices!), urban gardens and skybars.

And - most importantly - Romanian people are welcoming and eager to show you a good time! If this is your first time, check our guide on how to visit Romania with more practical info.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bucharest | București (@discoverbucharest)

Just like any other capital, Bucharest has a list of top places to visit and famous landmarks, which we will discuss in detail in the following sections. Thanks to its long and wide boulevards the best way to see Bucharest landmarks is to go on a long walk from the Northern Piata Victoriei (Victory Square) to the Southern Piata Unirii (Union Square) or Piata Parlamentului (Parliament Square) - or in reverse.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by My Bucharest (@my.bucharest)

Calea Victoriei (Victory Boulevard) is the main pedestrian artery that connects the major two poles of our city. With a length of 2,7 km and lots of photo stops, high end shops as well as local, vintage ones, coffee shops and snacks boutiques - this will be a 1-2h walk.

Dating from 1692, this boulevard has always been the beating heart of the city and lots of historical events took place here. It's where major Romanian figures, politicians and 'who's who' in our history lived.

That's why you'll see many of Bucharest most famous landmarks, tourist attractions and impressive Romanian buildings here -without having to check Google Maps every 10 min :)

• Local tip: during Summer weekends Calea Victoriei is closed for cars and turns into a huge pedestrian area. Locals love going on long walks, stopping for ice cream, coffee, or a drink. Lots of street events take place here too, so watch out!

If you start your walking tour of Victory Boulevard from the North (from the metro station), one of the first landmarks you'll come across is the George Enescu Museum. This is where our country's most famous classical compose, George Enescu, lived. His work blends classical music with traditional Romanian folk sounds, motifs and instruments. Check out one of his most famous works:

Every year in September the George Enescu International Music Festival takes places in his honour in Bucharest. Orchestras from all over the world concert in the city and classical music fans rejoice.

Romanian Athenaeum: more than a concert hall, a landmark of historical significance

The Romanian Athenaeum is Bucharest's most emblematic cultural landmark and concert hall. The building has a lot of significance for Romanian history and is spectacular on the inside, which is why you should visit .

While on Victory Avenue and just across the Romanian Athenaeum you'll see the former Royal Palace, which now hosts the National Museum of Art of Romania. Besides the art collections, the museum of the palace is worth visiting too.

Opposite the National Museum of Art, you'll notice the statue of King Carol I the first king of Romania and a significant figure in our history. The bronze statue weighs 13 tons and stands at a total height of 13 meters, with the actual statue measuring 7 meters and the plinth 6 meters.

Revolution Square known as Palace Square before the 1989 Romanian revolution

By now you probably noticed the weird-looking statue that looks like an impaled potato as locals call it. That's the Rebirth Memorial in Revolution Square where the 1989 anti-communist revolution took place.

The massive building behind the Rebirth Memorial was the Romanian Communist Party headquarters.

From its balcony dictator Nicolae Ceausescu made his last speech on 21 December when people started booing him - to his incredible disbelief captured on video. This is where the violent 1989 Romanian revolution started in Bucharest (it first started on 16 Dec in Timisioara).

Continuing down South on Calea Victoriei, you will see Odeon Theater on the left, a cosy contemporary art deco building fit for the modern, avant-garde plays it hosts.

On Calea Victoriei, you can also see one of the oldest historical buildings in Bucharest, Casa Capsa (Hotel Capsa), built in the mid-19th century. This is one of the most famous hotels in Bucharest and a walk through its lobby is worth it.

It's also said to have the best pastry shop in town - as you pass the building make a left on the side street and look for the sign.

Where Calea Victoriei crosses Elisabeth Boulevard leading down to Cismigiu Gardens, you'll come across the impressive Palace of the National Military Circle.

Built in 1911 in the French neoclassical style, this building is now recognized as both a historical and architectural monument, and there's a small military museum you can visit on its left side.

Further down on Calea Victoriei you'll come across the late 19th century Macca-Vilacrosse Passage which connects this thoroughfare with Bucharest Old Town.

Inside the passage you'll find lots of sisha cafes and restaurants - and don't forget to look up and see the glass ceiling.

CEC Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings in Bucharest, epitomizes the city's Little Paris identity with its impressive eclectic architecture.

Crowned by a glass and metal dome, the entrance showcases an arch supported by composite-style columns. Sadly, this one can't be visited, but you can still gaze at it from the street.

The impressive National Museum of Romanian History is one of the best places to learn about our ancestors, the Dacians, who settled these lands before they were conquered by the Romans. You'll also see 2,000-year-old gold bracelets made by them ***

Bucharest Old Town is a pedestrian area in the city centre between Piata Universitatii, Piata Unirii and Calea Victoriei. It's filled with old buildings (obviously!) some restored, others not so much, and cobblestone streets.

• Local tip: contrary to what most foreign travel bloggers and guides will tell you, this is not the place to discover the Little Paris side of Bucharest; keep reading to find out the best place for that!

Over 120 bars, coffee shops, and restaurants are here so this central location is known as the hotspot for Bucharest nightlife.

This is not a place for shopping and because of the constant noise and agitation it's not a great place to stay either. There are a few hotels in the area such as Hilton Garden Inn or Europa Royale - but they're very expensive and mostly filled with tourists who think they're staying in the city centre.

Curtea Veche or the Old Princely Court was built as a palace or residence in 1459. This was the seat of power for the ruling princes of Wallachia, including Vlad the Impaler, also known as Vlad Dracula, who built it and whose statue you'll find nearby.

The nearby Hanu’ lui Manuc (Manuc's Inn) is one of the oldest historic buildings in the city with its impressive courtyard and very good traditional Romanian restaurant.

It always functioned as an inn for locals, travelers and merchants passing the city and with business at the Old Court, and legends have it this is where most deals and political decisions were made.

Stavropoleus Church, the oldest church in the Old Town

Stavropoleos Church is built in the unique Romanian architectural style known as Brancovenesc or Wallachian Renaissance and is one of the historic sites of Bucharest.

It has special features like covered balconies with columns carved in flower designs, detailed door and window frames, and the use of columns inside. Go inside - just remember to be respectful!

The National Bank of Romania building is another architectural landmark worth spending a few minutes on. With its imposing Reinassance architecture dating from the end of the 19th century, the building is like a fortress.

Unfortunately, you can only admire it from the outside.

Lipscani Street is not an attraction per se - it's just the most popular street in the Old Town. It used to be filled with the finest merchant shops and artisan workshops from all over the country. During the communist regime they were all shut down as they were seen as luxury items, and then the buildings were abandoned and went derelict.

By 2010 this forgotten area was slowly renovated and bars and restaurants started opening here. Gradually it became the favoured going out spot for locals and at night it turns into a real party center.

The Carturesti Carusel library is on Lipscani Street, and is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the country and possibly in Europe.

The building was the headquarters of a bank but it's now a great place for book lovers.

Caru cu Bere restaurant is one of the oldest and most authentic in the country. Here, you can savor the tastiest Romanian traditional dishes and enjoy a beer crafted from a unique, original recipe dating back to 1879.

Bucharest extends far beyond the Old Center and Calea Victoriei, which, though popular among tourists, represent only a fraction of the city's complexity. To truly grasp the diverse facets of Bucharest, exploring other landmarks is essential.

When thinking about Bucharest, the massive Palace of the Parliament (with its many aliases: Ceausescu Palace, House of People, House of Parliament, Parliament Palace) probably comes to mind as one of the grand buildings of the Romanian capital city.

It’s the heaviest building in the world and the second-largest administrative building after the Pentagon in the US with a surface of 365.000 square meters! And probably the most famous landmark in Bucharest.

Why tour the Romanian Parliament building? Because you’ll get to see what communist megalomania and opulence can do - and the price people paid to satisfy a dictator’s whims at a time of food and basic supply shortages. A painful reminder for most Romanians...

The massive exterior may look uninspiring but the interior was lavishly decorated with premium materials of 100% Romanian origin: 1 million square meters of marble, a 3t carpet, and a 5t crystal chandelier among others.

As one of the top things to visit in Bucharest but also an administrative building - a parliamentary palace! - it’s important to plan your visit in advance.

• Local tip: visits to the Palace are led by an official tour guide who talks about the building without saying anything about Romania's communist past, Nicolae Ceausescu, or the 1989 Romanian revolution; so if you're interested in learning more about that you'll need to go on a private, communist-themed tour with a specialist local guide.

Complete Bucharest Communism Tour: Palace of Parliament & Ceausescu's Home

Start from: Bucharest

Ceausescu's Villa (where he lived) is another tourist attraction that you can visit. This is one of the best places to see the huge discrepancy between the dictator's luxurious lifestyle while the Romanian people were queuing for basic foods and necessities in the '80s...

• Bucharest museums: the classics & cool

As the capital of Romania, Bucharest has the standard collection of national museums - and they’re very good and a nice thing to do if you have a particular interest in their subject or the weather is not great for an outdoor free walking tour.

The National Museum of Contemporary Art is located in a new glass wing of the Palace of the Parliament. The museum presents four floors of exhibitions and events throughout the year. At the top, you'll find an observation point with panoramic views of Bucharest.

Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum has reconstructed dinosaur models that children will love, so that's a fun thing for families to do.

The Museum of Art Collections is on Calea Victoriei just before the Romanian Athenaeum concert hall and is among the best places for art connoisseurs to visit.

My favorite place to visit is the Bucharest Village Museum because of its unique character: an open-air museum where you can find over 60 real-size replicas of traditional Romanian village houses from 36 regions and parts of the country.

The Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum regularly hosts exhibitions and events to promote Romanian rural culture. It will give you a taste of what the famous Romanian countryside looks like especially if you're not spending a long time in our country on this occasion :) Bucharest also has of the most unconventional and interesting museums in Romania .

The Museum of Senses is a quirky and very cool experience with optical illusions. This is a great place for both kids and adults.

The Museum of Records hosts world-record collections of peculiar items. It lets you explore forgotten parts of human history and see how clever people were at different points in time.

The Astronomic Observatory Vasile Urseanu will thrill kids and passionate astronomers. Here, you can visit a permanent exhibition but also look at the stars and planets through a telescope.

The Little Paris Museum will help you understand why Bucharest was once called Little Paris, and get a glimpse of life in the capital in the 1920s.

The Romanian Science Experiment Museum is a wonderful destination for both kids and adults, where you need to press buttons, pull levers and make things work.

In Romania’s capital you’ll also find a communist apartment from the 1970s turned into a time-capsule museum. A typical Romanian worker family lived here and the apartment is preserved in its original state with objects, decorations, and food from past times. This is probably the best place to understand what life was like during the Romanian communist regime.

Museum of Communism: A Time-Capsule of Ordinary Lives

Things to do in Bucharest: sightseeing, history, culture & local life

We're done with classical tourist sightseeing - so let's see some of the lesser known, thematic things to do in Bucharest so you have a good time.

• Romanian history and Bucharest landmarks

The three historical provinces that make up Romania (Wallachia, Moldova, and Transylvania) each had their capital (Bucharest, Iasi, and Transylvania), political life, culture, and powerful families. But the Romanian dream was always to unite in one state.

This happened in 1859 when the first two united and in 1918 Transylvania joined. However, not all Romanians are happy about Bucharest being their capital or see it as representative of Romanian national identity and culture.

That's why knowing a bit of Romanian history will give you more context about the tourist landmarks and historic buildings in Bucharest.

Essential Walking Tour of Bucharest: Old Town & Revolution Square

• Bucharest Little Paris and Belle Époque architecture

In the early 1900s Bucharest earned its nickname of Little Paris thanks to French-inspired Belle Époque buildings, monuments, and beautiful architecture.

That's because most of the Romanian aristocracy, rich businessmen, and major cultural figures from the 18th-20th century were educated in France and inspired by the culture and life there.

This made Bucharest unique in Eastern Europe, unlike other European capitals in the region such as Sofia, Budapest, or Belgrade. The rich history of Bucharest and its architecture Belle Epoque architecture was significantly influenced by this.

So if you think Bucharest doesn't have nice places to visit you couldn't be more wrong! There are entire neighborhoods and streets where you'll find a unique blend of architectural styles made even more charming with time.

The "Little Paris" Bucharest: Architecture, Old Houses & Bourgeois Stories

Start from: University Square

Bucharest is very popular for its rich blend of historical (neo-classical), interbellum (Bauhaus and Art Deco), communist, and modern architecture mix. Many of the city's best hotels, companies, or best restaurants occupy some incredible buildings - monuments of architecture.

The Arch of Triumph (Arcul de Triumf) is a WW I memorial monument, though smaller than the French version, is proof of this cultural affinity. If you are in Romania on December 1st or November 24th, you can watch the military parade here.

Cotroceni neighbourhood, one of the most beautiful in Bucharest

Just go for a walking tour aka get lost in the area between Soseaua Kisselef, Aviatorilor Boulevard, and Calea Dorobanti to understand the Bucharest’s beautiful blend of cultures. Also around Gradina Icoanei Park. Unfortunately these are not tourist attractions per se so without a local tour guide to take you deep into the neighbourhoods and show you around, it will be hard for you to find these spots on your own.

The Cotroceni neighbourhood is known for its superb eclectic architecture, the botanical garden, and beautiful buildings.

Visit a typical communist apartment in Bucharest turned time-capsule museum

• Communist Bucharest: forced transformation

Bucharest bourgeois identity was literally demolished and transformed during the Romanian communist regime which ruled from 1944-1989 (Romania was not part of the USSR!).

But besides the ideological agenda, dictator Nicolae Ceausescu who came to power in 1965 and ruled for 25 years (making him one of the most famous Romanians ) had bigger ambitions...

Driven by megalomanic dreams, a personality cult, and absurd realities, Ceausescu brutally changed Romanian society and turned Bucharest into an experiment for his idealistic communist vision. So:

• an entire neighbourhood was demolished to make way for the Palace of Parliament
• wide boulevards such as Unirii, Magheru, and Aviatorilor were built (and there's a specific reason for that!)
• churches were literally moved or 'hidden' by apartment buildings
• entire worker neighbourhoods were built from scratch to house factory workers relocated here from the rest of the country

And much more. Bucharest was painfully transformed with significant consequences not just for its architecture, but also for its culture and local life.

Untold Stories of Bucharest: Prostitution, Holocaust and Communist Terror

Start from: Piata Romana (Romana Square)

All over the city there are signs of this transformation. One of our specialist communist tour guides will show them to you on a walking tour, including pictures from old times, and tell you more about life back then.

Communist Walking Tour: History, Megalomania & Hidden Sights

Start from: Revolution Square next to the Rebirth Memorial (The patatoe)

After the Little Paris years, the communist transformation and the Western re-vitalisation - many parts of Bucharest started showing glaring contrasts. A vibrant and exotic street art showed up to cover the uglier parts of the city, especially in the local neighbourhoods where foreign tourists don't venture and locals rarely go.

Bucharest Street Art & Architecture Tour

This is the reason why one of the best things to do in Bucharest is to go off-the-beaten path and explore local life beyond the top attractions and tourist hotspots.

the famous Bucharest 3D iMapp competition There are also lots of events going on - check online or ask a local when you're here. Various exhibitions, sports competitions, street food or art fairs happen throughout the year, usually in front of the Romanian Athenaeum, in Piata Universitatii, or on Calea Victoriei.

• Relax in Bucharest’s many green spaces

If you’re getting tired of so much urban exploring, many beautiful parks in Bucharest will help you disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The most beautiful park in the center of Bucharest is Cismigiu Park on Regina Elisabeta Boulevard. It's sometimes called Cismigiu Gardens because it has many areas with different interests, sights, and cultural significance - so this is a perfect place to take a break from your walking tour of the city!

*Izvor Park*, a relatively small park, is another great place to relax and admire the massive Parliament Building. Here, you can enjoy a short walk in a relaxed setting.

Carol Park has another WW I memorial on a hill with great views. Here, many locals gather to engage in sports activities on the stairs leading to the memorial.

41. Take a walk in Bucharest's biggest park, Herastrau Park

King Michael I park (formerly Herăstrău Park) is the largest park in the city and also the largest park located inside a city in Europe. Spanning 187 hectares, the park has various sections. One favorite spot is the Japanese Garden, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and Japanese acacia trees with hanging branches.

Tineretului Park is another popular park in Bucharest with a pretty big lake, perfect for a jog, or bike ride, and the right place for renting a boat.

The newest addition to this list of green spaces in Romania's capital is Delta Vacaresti. In the South Eastern part of the city a large area was cleared by the communist regime for a major project - later abandoned!

Over time, Mother Nature reclaimed this area and turned it into a wonderful natural biosphere: a huge park more like a wetland where many species of plants, birds, and small animals now live!

In 2016, Vacaresti Natural Park was granted protected status by law. This is a unique open-air museum of natural diversity in the heart of a European capital and a great place to visit (best time is from April - October) if you want to combine urban sightseeing with nature.

Vacaresti Natural Park: the Newest Urban Delta

• Pro tip: most young people speak good English, are friendly and helpful, especially in the city hotspots, so you don't have to worry about getting lost in translation

Day trips & tours from Bucharest

Bucharest is a great place to tick off some of the best things to do in Romania . With our network of specialist tour guides we can organise any kind of trip for you - so contact us we're happy to help!

Contrary to what most people think - going on a day trip to visit Peles Castle, Brasov and Bran Castle (the most popular day trip in Bucharest) does NOT mean you visited Transylvania. The region is huge with a history and culture that can't be experienced in one day. Read our blog on how to visit Transylvania for more.

That's why we created a unique 3-day best of Transylvania tour that will give you an authentic experience of this popular tourist region of Romania.

The famous Transfagarasan Highway can also be seen from Bucharest and the best time for that is July - October when the road is open for driving.

Road trip to Poenari Castle & Transfagarasan Highway

Another popular day trip is to the Romanian Black Sea and the city of *Constanta*. So, if you love spending time on the beach, Constanta is a must while in Romania.

The Black Sea Calling: Day Trip to Constanta & Mamaia Beach

If you want to visit a unique place, the UNESCO Danube Delta reserve is what you are looking for. To visit the Danube Delta, you need to get to Tulcea (4h away from Bucharest, possibly only by car). From there you'll enter the Delta through a boat ride, so you need a minimum of 2-3 days to see its beauty, birds, and fauna.

2-Day Danube Delta & Birdwatching Tour from Bucharest

You can also go hiking in the Romanian Mountains known for their wilderness and impressive heights of over 2,500m altitude. Bucegi Mountains are one of the most popular national parks in Romania . The Romanian Sphinx and Babele are major natural attractions tourists want to see when in Bucharest.

1 or 2 Day Hiking Trip in Bucegi Mountains: Sphinx, Babele, Omu Peak

Start from: Bucharest OR Brasov

But there are a lot more options for hiking day trips from Bucharest - check our guide on the best hikes in Romania .

Just 1,5h away from Bucharest, in the Dealu Mare region, you can find some of the country's best wineries. This is one of the best places to discover the long history and high quality of Romanian wines (#7th producer in the world!) with superb views too!

The Wine Tradition of Romania: Premium Wine Tasting in Dealu Mare

Check our full list of unique tours and hand-picked day trips in Bucharest so you have the best time in our country:

Tours & Day Trips in Bucharest

50. Connect with the locals at Obor Farmer's Market

If you're interested in traditional Romanian food and want a true cultural shock, head over to Obor farmer's market the largest and oldest in Romania where small farmers and everyone else sell their stuff. Or go on our tour with a local guide who will show you the best way to experience this:

Bucharest Street Food Tour: Farmers' Markets & Hidden Streets

Because of the wide boulevards and long distances in Romania's largest city, renting a bike is a great way to explore Bucharest. Calea Victoriei has a dedicated bike lane so traveling by bike makes everything easier and you get to see much more, especially in the beautiful Northern part of the city (Kisselef and Aviatorilor Boulevard, Herestrau Park, Arch of Triumph).

You can rent a bike on your own from a public docking station (check here ), or go on a guided tour by bike with one of our guides who will take care of everything so you can focus on enjoying the experience AND learn about Bucharest.

Panoramic Bike Tour of Bucharest

Start from: Bucharest - Hard Rock Cafe

After all these Bucharest attractions and tourist places you’ve visited, you’re probably hungry, looking for the best restaurants in Bucharest, a good coffee shop, or a nice place to go out in the evening. Best places to eat in Bucharest

Romania’s capital is a great - and affordable - place for a food-tasting getaway: lots of variety and international-inspired cuisine, cool places to eat with an inspiring design and fancy menus with a modern twist, fresh locally-sourced ingredients and great customer service. And there are lots of choices for all budget types.

It's hard for me to describe in words just how much Romanian people love to go out (part of our Latin blood!) and why Bucharest has a very diverse and high-quality offering. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

• Romanian traditional food: Zexe, Jaristea, La Mahala, Beca’s Kitchen, Maize (Romanian up-scale), La Copac, Lacrimi si Sfinti, City Grill, Vatra Neamului, Hanu’ lui Manuc, Caru cu Bere
• Italian (the nation’s favorite): Trattoria Don Vito, Grano, Il Peccato, Trattoria Fresca, SARA Restaurant
• British & Irish pub: The Harp, Trafalgar
• Lebanese (as there’s a minority living here): Piccolo Mondo, Zaitoone, Four Seasons, Al Mandaloun
• burger places (always cool): Burger van Bistro, Switch.eat, Vivo fusion bar
• steak houses: Osho, Prime Steaks & Seafood, VacaMuuu
• cool & urban places to eat (modern European): Energiea, Biutiful, Uanderful, Simbio, Lente, Alt Shift
• international fine dining: Joseph, Casa Doina, Stejarii Pool Club, Casa di David, Le Bistrot Francais, L’Atelier
• street food (shaorma - a must!): Calif, Divan, Dristor
• Local tip: vegetarians or vegans should not despair – there are plenty of delicious dishes thanks to Orthodox lent (fasting) periods; read our article on traditional Romanian food to find out more.

• Romanian beers and wine in Bucharest

First, you should know that Romanians enjoy drinking - a lot! In Southern Romania, most people prefer drinking beer (unlike in Transylvania). Local brands you should try Silva, Ciuc, or Ursus.

Craft beers have been on the rise recently with young looking for new tastes: Nenea Iancu, Zaganu, Hophead, Ground Zero, or Gambrinus. So beer bars have popped up and quickly became favorite places to go out for locals:

Bucharest Nightlife Tour: Craft Beer & Hip Bars

As for having a surprisingly good glass of Romanian wine in a nice setting - it’s one of the best things you can do in Bucharest! Try Corcova Rose at Entourage, Liliac White Young Fresh at Energiea, or Lacerta Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz at Corks Cozy Bar to get a sense of Romanian wines being damn fine! Domeniul Coroanei Segarcea or Prince Stirbey are also very good choices if you see them on the menu. Do not skip dessert and coffee shops in Bucharest

Since 2010, the specialty coffee culture BOOM-ed in Bucharest. So now you have lots of hispter, cosy, or inspiring coffee shops serving single or blended origin, on-the-spot roasted DELICIOUS coffee!

The most popular, old, and famous coffee shop is Origo, but you should also try Coftale, Beans&Dots, Steam, Orygyns, Two Minutes, Garage Cafe, T-Zero, On-Off, or The Coffee Factory. What’s a cortado or V60? Go and find out - and be sure to check our list with the best coffee shops in Bucharest to find out more. Fans of sweets and desserts should definitely consider papanasi (a traditional dish) at Stadio, éclairs at French Revolution, or profiteroles at Chocolat Boutique Ateneu – all of them are local businesses. Or just stop at any street pastry shop and ask for an apple pie (placinta cu mar) or cheese pie (placinta cu branza).

There are several reasons why the Bucharest nightlife is so good and famous - our article will tell you more and also the best bars and places to go out. Or maybe there's a Romanian music festival happening when you're visiting?

Suffice it to say that you should prepare for a long night out and dress well (shirts & skirts) if you want to blend in with the locals. Put on your friendly and relaxed face – don’t give yourself away after the long day you’ve visiting Bucharest! Sip on a few cocktails

Go for an Aperol Spritz on the rooftop at Deschis Gastrobar or any cocktail you can literally think of at Newton Cocktail Bar or Fix Me a drink. For a warm summer evening, I recommend a cider in the garden at Control – a hip cool place to be or a beer at Eden Garden – a let’s-chill-in-the-forest, unpretentious yet vibrant place.

But the trending place right now among Bucharest locals is Expirat, with beautiful green spaces and terraces, cool music, and that great & young Bucharest vibe I was talking about – that’s my last insight for you! The Old Town is a must-experience part of Bucharest nightlife

Some colorful shots at Shoteria are highly recommended before starting the mandatory restaurant - pub – terrace – club crawling in Lipscani Old City Center (Lipscani Centrul Vechi) – a historical area which hosts a great variety of bars, pubs and clubs. I should tell you that in recent years the Old Town of Bucharest has become quite touristy, with too many places, people and tourists in a frenzy looking for alcohol-induced fun.

While I don’t personally like it and some locals avoid it, it’s a must-see part of the vibrant Bucharest nightlife and you won't find anything similar in other European capitals. Looking for a fancy night out in Bucharest?

If you want an even more fancy night out, girls should consider wearing high heels and guys should go for a dress shirt at minimum. The places to go out in Bucharest for proper, high-end clubbing are located in the northern part of the city, in Floreasca or Herestrau area, and are a great choice for a night out warm nights. Consider Biutiful, Fratelli or Funky Lounge (the last two are located in Herestrau Park). Nuba, Tuya, Kayo, and Hiro are fine-dining restaurants turning into clubs as the night starts.

Budget, transport & safety in Bucharest

Check our article on Bucharest public transport with all the info you need about Bucharest Otopeni Airport, public transport in the city, taxis and official tourism infrastructure.

We also prepared a guide on what you need to know about safety in Bucharest because there are a lot of misconceptions about this beautiful city. But with a little information and awareness, you'll have a great time here.

You don’t need to spend much to have a good time in Bucharest

Coming from London, Paris, Milano, or Munich, you’ll be shocked to see how affordable your Bucharest travel budget needs to be! Imagine paying between 6-15 EUR for a main course, appetizer/dessert, and a drink, 2-3 EUR for a coffee, or 4-5 EUR for a fantastic cocktail or a glass of wine in most places. Attraction tickets to museums and other places to visit in Bucharest are usually between 3-5 euros. A reasonable budget per day for visiting the city should start at 30 Euro. Take the metro or a taxi, buses are unreliable

The most efficient public transport is the subway which is quite affordable and convenient: a bit over 1 Euro for 2 rides, 5 Euro for 10. Taxis are also inexpensive with around 2,5 Lei/km (0,5 Euro) but ridesharing apps such as Uber and Bolt are the most popular choice for getting around in our capital. I don’t recommend using buses or trains in Bucharest: besides them being unfriendly for a foreigner, their irregular schedule combined with hectic traffic make them unreliable even for locals!

You've got lots of options on Airbnb or booking.com - check to see what fits your preferences and budget.

The general rule of where to stay in Bucharest is close to a metro station because it's the best, quickest, and easiest way to navigate Bucharest.

For hotels, there will be plenty around Union Square, Cismigiu Gardens, Piata Romana, Piata Victoriei, and Revolution Square. But even if you stay further away you can navigate the city using a taxi and metro.

You'll find all the main international hotel chains (Mariott, Ramada, Hilton, etc), including a selection of boutique, charming hotels in beautiful buildings from the Little Paris era.

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Practical Bucharest: How to get from the airport to the city

Irina Marica

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If you're flying to bucharest, you'll land at the henri coanda international airport, more commonly known as the otopeni airport. you then have to travel about 20 km to reach the city centre and, unless you have a friend to pick you up or you prefer to rent a car, you can choose between several transport options: the bus, the train, or the taxi and ridesharing services.  .

The Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) is actually located in the town of Otopeni, about 20 km north of Bucharest, which is why it is most commonly known as the Otopeni Airport. It is the largest and the busiest airport in Romania, with about 45 airlines operating routes to destinations around the world. Its official website is here .

Depending on the means of transport and the time of travel, it can take you up to one hour to reach the city. The car (taxi or ridesharing) can be the fastest and most convenient means of transport, but the train or the bus can be the better option if you're on a shorter budget. 

• How to get from Otopeni Airport to the city centre by bus

783 is the express line linking the Otopeni Airport to Unirii Square in downtown Bucharest. It is operated by STB - the company managing the overground public transport in the capital city.

The 783 bus operates 24 hours, seven days a week, with varying frequencies during the day and night. It leaves from the ground floor outside the Arrivals terminal building, where you will also find both a ticket office and a ticket machine. A one-way ticket is quite cheap - less than EUR 1 - and you have to validate the travel card inside the bus. Drivers don't sell tickets.

However, although the bus is the cheapest option, it is definitely not the fastest. 783 has 18 stops, and it usually takes about 40 minutes to get from the airport to the last stop - Unirii Square. It can take even longer if you're travelling during rush hours (like workday mornings and late afternoons). Plus, keep in mind that the buses are not equipped with dedicated luggage storage.

Overall, taking the bus is a good option. However, if you're not on a short budget and you're in a hurry, we would recommend other ways of travel.

A map of the 783 route is available here . 

• How to take the train from the airport to Bucharest's Gara de Nord

The direct train linking the airport to Gara de Nord, Bucharest's largest train station, is one of the fastest and cheapest options of transport. However, Gara de Nord is located in the north part of the city, so to go to a more central location (like the Old Town), you need to switch to subway, bus or trolleybus. You can also take a taxi or rideshare with Uber or Bolt, but that will definitely increase the cost.

To take the train at the Henri Coanda Airport, you need to go out of the Arrivals terminal building. There's a Train sign showing where the station is located, and getting there is quite easy - you have to cross the street and walk to the station. It's not far so don't worry if you're carrying bigger luggage. 

The trains run 24 hours a day, every 40 minutes, and a one-way trip takes about 20-25 minutes. 

Most trains belong to state company CFR Calatori, but private operator Transferoviar Calatori also operates direct trains on the Henri Coanda Airport-Gara de Nord route. For CFR trains, you can check the schedule here .

A one-way ticket costs RON 4 (less than EUR 1), and you can buy them online, from ticket vending machines, or, in some cases, from the train staff after boarding the train.

We previously wrote more about this option of transport here - All aboard! A short guide to Bucharest's new train connection to the airport . 

Important: C ombined tickets for Bucharest’s airport train service, subway and overground public transport are also available as of February 17. More details are available here . 

• Taking a taxi or Uber/Bolt from Otopeni Airport to Bucharest

If you're in a hurry or prefer a more comfortable way of travel, taking a taxi or an Uber or Bolt can be the better option.   Plus, if you're travelling in a group, you can split the cost. 

Prices and travel times depend on traffic and your final destination. However, a trip from the airport to Bucharest should cost between RON 40 and RON 80 (EUR 10-20).

Licensed taxis await customers just outside the exit of the airport. However, some locals still tend to avoid these taxis, especially if the drivers try to negotiate the cost of the trip. The good news is that, in recent years, there have been significantly fewer reports of taxi drivers waiting to rip off tourists. Still, if people approach you at the airport offering taxi services, refuse. Also, make sure your taxi driver starts the meter at the start of the trip.

You can also use the touch screen terminals located inside the airport (in the hall of the Arrivals terminal building) to order a taxi. After getting the printed ticket with taxi details, go outside and wait for the car to arrive. 

If you prefer ridesharing apps like Uber or Bolt, you can also use them to request a ride. According to data on Uber's website, you can even book a ride up to 30 days before your flight. Customers can meet their drivers outside the terminal's first-floor parking lot, but this can be subject to change, so look at your app after requesting a ride to double-check the pickup point.

Another app locals use is Free Now. This one integrates both taxi and ridesharing services.

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(Opening photo: Cateyeperspective/Dreamstime.com )

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The Best Time to Visit Bucharest 2024: the Ultimate Guide

Bucharest is a lovely place to visit and there is really no wrong time of year to visit Bucharest. you will find that when you visit Romania , there are delightful things to do and see no matter what the season or the weather. You could be coming to the city to enjoy music festivals , or maybe you were hoping to partake in winter sports. You might also have wanted to check out some medieval towns at Christmas time or to catch Christmas markets in the main part of the city. From film festivals to sunny weather and delicious food and drink, there are many attractions that bring people to Bucharest during every season of the year.

The first thing that you need to do when you visit Bucharest, is to make sure that you take care of your luggage correctly. You will have a much better time in this city when you visit if you take the time to place your luggage in secure storage in Bucharest . No matter what season you have come to this city, from early summer to early autumn, you will have a much better time navigating the city without heavy luggage in tow.

Once you have stored your luggage, you will be ready to make the most of your time when you visit Bucharest!

Summer in Bucharest: June - August

The summer is a very enjoyable time to visit Bucharest. The weather is really nice and you will experience highs around 86 degrees F (30 C) each day! This makes for some really enjoyable days walking through the city and seeing the sights and the festive and fun atmosphere will feel almost like a holiday all the time. You will find this season to be the most fun if you love dancing all night at clubs, going to local eateries and bars and meeting new people, or walking through the city and seeing the street markets and street performances that seem to crop up all over around every corner.

This is a great time to visit Bucharest to see music festivals as well and you will find that the average temperature is really pleasant despite the heat. While the humid continental climate can lead to some sticky days in the summer, you will still find that this is the best time to visit if you love sunny weather and if you are planning to enjoy the beach. Most of the locals spend the week in the city and then head to the beach on the weekend. You can join them and head to the Black Sea for a lovely day on the beach, or you might want to head to the cooler heights of the mountains for your weekends during your trip to visit Romania.

The cost of your travel during this time of year can be quite high, so plan to have a large budget for your hotel and your food and drink. You will also want to be sure that you pick a hotel with air conditioning since it can be humid and quite hot on some days during the peak of the summer weather. Make sure to visit old town in the earlier part of the day during the hottest time of the year so that you don't wilt as you are walking around!

Many people plan to avoid the hottest part of the day and stay indoors or go to the hotel or take a nap. This is one of the parts of the world that can be quite warm and humid in the summer months, and if you are not the kind of person who enjoys the heat, this might not be a good season for your visit. You will need to remember that this is a city of extreme temperatures, and you will get snow and ice in winter as well as lots of warmth in the summer.

Fall in Bucharest: September - November

Many people consider this to be the most romantic time of year in this city. The temperatures are balmy but pleasant with highs of 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 C). Bucharest has been dubbed the Little Paris, and this impression is the clearest at this season. The picturesque sunsets are lovely at this time of year and if you want to have a casual and fun trip, this is the best time to visit.

The nightlife is still quite lively during this time of year, but costs are better overall and you will not have to be as concerned about having air conditioning in your hotel or your accommodations. You can easily spend time at the beach during this season as well, but the mountains might be a bit too cool to be enjoyable. This season offers you the right blend of cooler weather and busy and fun events to partake of. You will still be able to count on running into street performances and live music as you wander the city and you will also get to buy items from local markets.

This is a slightly more affordable season when it comes to accommodations, but you will need to be prepared for food and drink and experiences to still cost the same amount as they do in summer. You will find that museums and some of the other locations that you might want to visit will probably be more accessible and enjoyable at this time, however, since there will be fewer people trying to hide from the heat indoors.

Many people aim to visit in the fall due to all the local events that are going on as well as the ability to sit and sip a glass of wine and enjoy the sunset in the still-balmy air. You will get the right blend of warmth, culture, and social times when you come to the city during this season and the overall cost will be fairly affordable. This is also the right season for people who are just not up to really hot days and want to be able to walk around the city during the day without feeling the need to hide from the weather indoors.

Winter in Bucharest: December - February

This is the coldest part of the year in the city and you can expect snow, rain, and everything in between. The lows can be around 28 degrees Fahrenheit (-2 C) and the highs are usually only about 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 C). This means that you will need to have lots of warm clothes and practical shoes on hand and that you will not want to go to the beach during this trip to visit Romania. This is arguably one of the most romantic times to visit Bucharest, however, as most people think of this city with a blanket of snow and are excited to visit Christmas markets and enjoy the festivities of the holidays when they arrive in Bucharest at this time of year.

Visiting Bucharest in the winter is more affordable and you will find that food and drink and even museum visits and other perks of your trip will be more affordable. The downside can be issues with snow and ice that limit the flexibility of travel and can even shut down public transit during your stay. You will want to have a flexible travel schedule at this time of year and be prepared for your time to visit Romania to be more about relaxing in front of a warm fire with a drink than getting to see every museum or place of interest on your list.

December 1st is Romania's National Day and it is celebrated with mulled wine and city events that are really enjoyable to attend. You will also be able to get holiday treats at street food vendors during this season and you can enjoy access to all kinds of winter shopping and winter drinks during this time of year. Despite the cold, Bucharest is always very welcoming, and you will still feel right at home and like you are wanted in the city in the cold months of the year. There is something really wonderful as well about cozying up to the fire and sipping your wine and feeling the holiday spirit all around you.

Spring in Bucharest: March - May

Locals will tell you this is when the city is at its very best. Highs are only around 53 degrees Fahrenheit (12 C) but the lows are not nearly as chilly as in the winter. The snow will have melted as well, and you will be able to navigate the city with ease since public transit will be back up and running without issues to do with the weather. Romanians go on holiday on May 1st, so if you show up in the city in early May, it will be a ghost town. This is the one month of the year that you should probably avoid travel to this city due to the lack of open businesses and services while everyone is on holiday.

The early spring is a great time to enjoy outdoor adventures like walking in city parks, and you will love that you don't have to compete with lots of tourists to see museums and other places of interest. Hotel costs will also be fairly reasonable at this time, in part due to the cooler weather and the lack of events and festivals in the city during this time of the year. You might also find that historical sites are more affordable during this season which can help you budget if this is one of the main attractions that has brought you to the city.

While it might be a more quiet time to see this city and you might not get to enjoy the beach due to the cool temperatures, you will still have lots of fun getting to wander the city and shop and eat. You will also appreciate that the city is less crowded during this season as the summer can be quite busy and chaotic in Bucharest. The spring offers the right blend of cost control and good weather, and this can be a great choice for those who are looking for a budget-friendly trip that does not force them to deal with snow and ice.

When is the best time to visit Bucharest for you?

The answer to this question can vary depending on your budget and your goals. If you want to go to the beach and enjoy hot weather and lots of sunshine, you need to visit during the summer. If you are looking for a more affordable trip and you love the holiday season, you will want to visit Romania during the winter months. The spring will offer you the best blend of value and experiences during your stay and you will have a great experience in the fall as well if you love good weather and want to get to enjoy music festivals and outdoor events.

There are so many reasons that you might want to come to Bucharest and you can enjoy almost everything that the city has to offer at any season. If cost matters to you, you might want to avoid busy season and festival weeks, but you will find that much of the year is not that expensive for you to travel in comfort in this part of the world. Bucharest is rich with history and celebrates some local holidays that are very enjoyable to be in town for. You will have your pick of delicious things to eat, amazing museums and buildings to tour, and more.

Always remember that the first thing you need to do when you get to Bucharest is put your luggage in secure storage. It can be tough to deal with heavy bags when it is hot or cold, and you really don't want to have to bring your bags to the beach or on tours of the city. Once your bags are safely stored, you will be prepared to have the peace of mind that you need to make the most of your vacation in this part of the world!

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Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? An Honest Opinion

Before I visited Romania, I romanticised the hell out of it. Images of Gothic Castles enveloped in mist and bloodthirsty vampires are all part of the lore surrounding Romania, and I couldn’t wait to visit this historical land and unveil its mysteries for myself. However, as I travelled through Eastern Europe and discussed my plans to visit Bucharest with the people I met, they reacted negatively, telling me that Bucharest wasn’t worth visiting, and had nothing to offer. I wasn’t about to change my travel plans – I love rooting for the underdog – but I certainly went in with low expectations, not expecting much from the Romanian capital.

When I arrived in Bucharest, I was greeted with old buildings, tree-lined boulevards, a great food scene, and all the cheap beer I could drink, as well as hundreds of coffee shops, a lively nightlife, and a complete absence of the suffocating crowds you usually find in capital cities. It wasn’t quite love at first sight, but it was certainly a good start! As time went on (I spent about a week in Bucharest), I failed to see why it attracts so much hate.

Sure, there are some dilapidated buildings here and there, and there aren’t a tonne of things to see and do, but that doesn’t make Bucharest a bad city. Bucharest has a really cool vibe, and while it may not be as picturesque as some other European capital cities, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have a lot to offer. Is Bucharest worth visiting? I think it is, and in this post, I’m going to share some reasons why.

Table of Contents

Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? My Honest Opinion

Little paris.

In the past, Bucharest was actually known as ‘Little Paris,’ due to its majestic architecture and the lavish lifestyle enjoyed by its residents. However, in 1965, Nicolae Ceausescu took power and embarked on a radical urban transformation, demolishing much of the old town to create his vision of a modern city. The result was a neoclassical, Soviet-style city centre with boulevards meant to rival the Champs-Elysees.

The most striking feature of this transformation is the Palace of the Parliament, which is still the largest civilian building globally. Ceausescu’s oppressive rule met a grim end in 1989, as he and his wife Elena were executed. Before their fall, a bloody revolution engulfed the city, leading to widespread destruction. The chaos in the country continued, and Bucharest slowly decayed. Thankfully, recent investments have revitalised Bucharest, and while it may no longer rival Paris, it certainly isn’t the dilapidated place it once was.

Why visit Bucharest?

So, what is Bucharest like? Is Bucharest nice? It might surprise you to know that Bucharest’s Old Town, also known as Lipscani , is small but charming, with a really vibrant atmosphere. It is a place where you can wander through narrow alleys, discover hidden courtyards, and marvel at some of the grandest architecture in the city.

Something that I really liked about Bucharest’s Old Town is the abundance of restaurants, bars, and cafes, full of people talking, laughing, drinking coffee and eating al fresco . There are also some absolutely gorgeous buildings here. One example is the 1724 Stavropoleos Monastery with a mix of Romanian, Oriental, Byzantine, and late Italian Renaissance influences and 18th-century frescoes. There’s also Cărturești , one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops (you can find it at 55 Strada Lipscani), as well as Caru’ cu Bere , which is hands down the most stunning restaurant in Bucharest. 

Another great thing about Bucharest Old Town? It’s small size means that it’s incredibly walkable, and all of the main landmarks are very close together. You may also consider booking a Bucharest walking tour in order to learn more about the city.

Bucharest’s architecture

Another thing I loved about Bucharest was its architecture, or should I say, its architectural juxtapositions. You see, while Bucharest is certainly home to many grand buildings in the neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and native Brâncovenesc style, it also bears the scars of the brutal Soviet regime, with socialist realism and later modernist styles making their presence known in the city.

Bucharest is a city where you’ll find centuries old churches tucked between Soviet apartment blocks and 19th century neoclassical town houses, where the ornate and the brutalist coexist, and where the only consistency is the inconsistent. Overall, Bucharest’s architectural diversity is a testament to its resilience and adaptability throughout the years, making it a fascinating destination if you’re interested in history, architecture, or both!

Green spaces

I was fully expecting Bucharest to be a concrete jungle, but when I arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the number of green spaces in the city centre! Cișmigiu Gardens, Bucharest’s oldest and largest park, provides a welcome respite from chaotic city life, and I spent a wonderful afternoon here with a few cans of fruity cider and some people I met in my hostel! Established in 1860, Cișmigiu Gardens is a popular place for a leisurely stroll, a relaxing dog walk, or a fun hangout with friends. In the centre of the park is a large lake where you can rent a boat during the summer or do some ice skating in winter!

Great café scene

Most of Eastern Europe and the Balkans have a great coffee culture , and Bucharest is no different. Bucharest boasts a vibrant café culture where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a coffee and pastry as they watch the world go by. Cafes here range from the cosy and vintage-inspired to minimalist and modern. Many cafes in Bucharest offer outdoor seating, making the streets come alive, and whether you’re a remote worker or simply someone who loves drinking coffee, you can’t fail to be won over by the coffee shops in Bucharest.

Lack of crowds

If you’re someone who is used to visiting very touristy cities, you’ll be amazed by how local Bucharest feels, and how thin the crowds are. Naturally, you’re sure to see other tourists (especially as Bucharest is garnering a bit of a reputation as a cheap party destination), but they aren’t in such vast numbers, and you won’t have to queue for hours to get into a museum or church like you would elsewhere. For me, Bucharest still feels pretty undiscovered, which is a great reason to add it to your list!

Bucharest is affordable

One of the biggest draws of Bucharest for most people is that it is a very affordable destination, especially when compared to many Western European cities. You can easily find affordable accommodation and places to eat in Bucharest, and getting around the city isn’t an issue either, with public transport being very budget-friendly ( Uber is also very cheap here). Most importantly? A pint of beer will only set you back about 2 EUR.

Bucharest nightlife

Bucharest’s nightlife is quickly becoming known as some of the best in Europe, with some even likening it to a ‘Little Berlin.’ The Old Town in particular comes alive at night, with a seemingly infinite number of pubs, bars, and nightclubs blasting music until the early hours. Perhaps the best thing about Bucharest’s nightlife is its diversity, so whether you want to buy 10 Jägerbombs and party like you’re in a German beer hall, watch live music in a cosy pub, or dance the night away in a club with crystal chandeliers and scantily-clad dancers, you’ll find it in Bucharest. If you’re brave enough, why not join a pub crawl for a real taste of Bucharest’s best nightlife spots?

Day trips from Bucharest

Another great thing about Bucharest is that you can take some really cool day trips from here. From the Romanian seaside town of Constanța to the medieval town of Brasov , and not forgetting the magnificent Peleș Castle and Bran Castle , you’ll be spoilt for choice. This day trip to Dracula’s Castle and a bear sanctuary is a great choice!

Bucharest is safe

Is Bucharest a dangerous city? Absolutely not! Anecdotally, people say that they feel as though Bucharest is ‘sketchy’ or unsafe, although the people that say this never report anything bad actually happening to them – it’s always just a feeling that Bucharest is unsafe.

I’m here to tell you that Bucharest is one of the safest capital cities in Europe , and you’re far more likely to fall victim to a crime in cities like Barcelona or Paris than you are in Bucharest. In my opinion, when people talk about feeling unsafe in Bucharest, what they mean is that they saw a few homeless people begging for money. It is true that there is a major wealth disparity in Bucharest, but that does not make Bucharest a dangerous place to be, and violent crime here is incredibly rare.

Who should visit Bucharest?

A big part of the reason why people don’t like Bucharest is that they go there expecting it to be something other than what it is. If you’re a culture vulture who loves historical landmarks and museums, you may feel underwhelmed by the somewhat limited offerings in Bucharest. If you’re a couple looking for a romantic European getaway, the grittiness of Bucharest may not be what you’re looking for.

However, there are definitely certain types of traveller who will love Bucharest: – Foodies . Bucharest is a real foodie city, with tonnes of world class cuisine at rock bottom prices. The culinary scene in Bucharest is thriving, and if you love discovering new restaurants, you’ll love it here. – Architecture nerds . As I mentioned before, the architectural styles in Bucharest really tell a story, and if you’re interested in Soviet history, architecture, and all things related, you’ll find Bucharest a really interesting place to be. – Fans of hidden gems . Bucharest certainly attracts its fair share of tourists, but in far fewer numbers than most other European capitals. As a result, Bucharest feels very authentic, and you’re sure to get a genuine Romanian experience here.

– Party animals . Bucharest’s nightlife reminds me of Belgrade , and not only does the party never end, but it’s also a super affordable place to drink. If you want a boozy weekend, Bucharest won’t let you down. – Budget travellers . If you want a cultural European city break without the hefty price tag, Bucharest is a great option. Flights from the UK are always very affordable, as is accommodation and the general cost of living once you’re there.

How many days in Bucharest is enough?

Bucharest is a large city, but there aren’t tonnes of things to do here. You can see most of Bucharest’s major attractions in a day, but I always recommend staying for a bit longer to get a better feel for the place. In my opinion, 3 days in Bucharest is enough see the major landmarks, take a day trip to a castle or other city, and have a more relaxed day exploring the city parks and coffee shops.

Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? | Final Thoughts

Is Bucharest a good place to visit? Travel is what you make it, and I think that if you manage your expectations, Bucharest is a solid choice for a city break in Europe. It isn’t Paris, and you shouldn’t expect it to be, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t an interesting place to visit. Is Bucharest my favourite place in Romania? No.

That title would go to Brasov or Sighisoara , but if you find cheap return flights to Bucharest and are wondering if it’s worth your time, I’d still say that the answer is yes . That’s all I’ve got for you today, but as always, if you have any questions then don’t hesitate to ask in the comments section below and I will get back to you! Until next time, XOXO

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