travel from bucharest airport to city centre

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

Irina Marica

Like this article? Share it with your friends!

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.

[email protected]

(Opening photo: Cateyeperspective/Dreamstime.com )

Recommended stories

Romania Insider Free Newsletters

Editor's picks, latest press releases, from our partners.

Last updated: 8 June 2023

Guide to bucharest airport, taxis & public transport.

Are you visiting Bucharest soon? Looking for info about Otopeni Airport shuttle bus, taxi and private transfers? Want to know how to get from Bucharest airport to the city centre and Old Town area?

Stop looking somewhere else - you’ll find everything you need in this complete practical guide on Bucharest airport, how to get to the city center and public transport in Bucharest and how to use it to visit tourist sights. We're locals who live here and will give you practical info and real advice from the ground.

You may also want to check our tourist guide on what to do in Bucharest with 50+ ideas on places to visit, things to do, where to go out and tour ideas.

Table of contents

1. Is Bucharest safe to visit?

2. what expect when visiting bucharest, 3. official tourism in bucharest - don’t count on it, 4. from bucharest otopeni airport to the city center, 5. car rentals. private transfer from bucharest airport to other cities, 6. using public transport to visit bucharest, 7. bucharest gara de nord train station, 7. bucharest taxis: costs, tips, safety and apps.

• 8. Bucharest metro & public transport

Romania’s capital may not have the best reputation. Or any reputation at all, really!

It’s still an undiscovered and lesser-known travel destination in Europe that can seem rough on the edges for first-time visitors who don't know anything about Romania, come with misconceptions about our country or heard about tourist scams and safety issues.

I’ll be honest - the city can be a challenge for some travellers. But if you're not quick to judge a book only by its cover - then you'll see that Bucharest is in fact a very safe city and we wrote an article on Bucharest safety to tell you more. We also wrote one with general Romania safety advice in case you're planning to visit the country as well.

Untold Stories of Bucharest: Prostitution, Holocaust and Communist Terror

Start from: Piata Romana (Romana Square)

So if you’re an informed traveller, generally cautious and not looking for trouble - you'll be ok. Besides the usual tourist scams (stay away from anyone ‘offering’ their services or asking for help in an unusual way), pick pockets in crowded areas and rude taxi drivers, there’s nothing in particular seasoned travellers should be worried about.

Romania's capital has changed a lot over in the last 10-15 years and is now a beautiful city of contrasts with a vibe of its own:

• Oriental influences
• Balkan feeling
• Western culture and lifestyle
• ‘old world’ French-aristocracy feeling
• mixed with communist landscapes and
• an undeniable lust-for-life Latin blood.

It was once known as Little Paris of the East because it was heavily influenced by French culture and architecture during the 19-20th centuries.

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

Start from: University Square

Unfortunately, when the Romanian communist regime came to power in 1948 any signs of wealth, aristocracy and opposition were eliminated and the city’s layout and social composition were profoundly transformed.

The massive Palace of Parliament or House of People dictator Nicolae Ceausescu called it, is Bucharest’s most famous landmark and controversial building.

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

Start from: Bucharest

Museum of Communism: A Time-Capsule of Ordinary Lives

A post shared by Discover Bucharest [București] (@discoverbucharest) on Dec 9, 2017 at 12:16am PST

July-August can get pretty hot (34+ Celsius) and heatwaves are frequent, but everyone in the city got used to it and AC is pretty common. Winters are generally frosty (around 0 degrees) and the amount of snow varies from none to a lot, but in December the city is beautifully decorated for Christmas and there’s mulled wine everywhere!

Local authorities in Bucharest are doing a very poor job at promoting the city, developing tourist infrastructure and making visitors feel welcomed.

This is the biggest reason why our capital is not very well-known as a travel destination and why I recommend you continue reading this article and our extensive guide on things to do in Bucharest .

There are 2 tourist information centres:

• in the underground passage at Piata Universitatii
• in the main Bucharest Train Station (Gara de Nord)

But last time I checked (June 2023) both were either closed or had irregular opening hours... Street maps with public sights are few and the only ones I know of is in front of the Romanian Atheneum. So the best way to explore Bucharest's major sights and learn about the city's history is to go on a guided walking tour - unless you prefer to wander on your own with your eyes in a guidebook!

Essential Walking Tour of Bucharest: Old Town & Revolution Square

There used to be a Bucharest tourist bus doing hop-on hop-off routes on major boulevards and landmarks but due to Covid in 2020 the service has been suspended and there is no news on whether it will come back again.

And there is no official Bucharest tourist card with tickets and discounts to major attractions like in other tourist capitals.

Luckily, English in Bucharest is very common among young people who speak fluently and are very friendly. In restaurants, cafes, bars and tourist areas such as Old Town you won’t have any problems and even menus are in English.

Other languages frequently spoken are French, German, Italian and Spanish, as the Romanian language is part of the Latin family. So if you need help or directions, you’re better off asking a young person rather than the middle-aged lady working in the subway ticket office.

Bucharest Street Food Tour: Farmers' Markets & Hidden Streets

There is no official Bucharest tourism website either and a lot of websites or blogs have info that is either outdated or confusing especially after the Covid pandemic when a lot of things changed. So be careful where you get your info from -- luckily you have a Romanian Friend to help!

Communist Walking Tour: History, Megalomania & Hidden Sights

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

Travel guides from foreign publications (LonelyPlanet, RoughGuides etc) and TripAdvisor rankings are useful if you want to see the typical tourist attractions and places where all the tourists go - but none of the locals or alternative things to do. The popular Caru’ cu Bere restaurant is a good example of this and practically lives off of tourists!

The busiest airport in Romania is Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport and is located North of the capital of Romania in the small town of Otopeni - that’s why the short name for the airport is Bucharest Otopeni. The airport's official website is helpful and in the airport you'll find lots of signs to guide you around.

Our guide on how to visit Romania for the first time will be useful if you're looking for more info about visa, currency and other tips for planning your trip.

• Local tip: exchange houses in the airport offer very bad rates compared with what you can get in the Romanian capital or any other city. Change 20 Euro for taxi fare or use an ATM from a local bank (avoid Euronet!) to get some Romanian Lei.

Bucharest Otopeni Airport is about 20 km away from Bucharest city centre (Piata Universitatii or Piata Unirii). Depending on the time of day you travel, traffic and means of transport you'll need about 25-50 min to make the journey. For costs, see below.

The arrivals and departures terminals are located in separate buildings connected by a 10-min walk tunnel. So if you arrive in Bucharest but want to visit Transylvania , Maramures or a different part of the country then you should get on an internal flight. Check our guide on public transport in Romania for more info.

• Local tip: food and drinks are outrageously expensive in Otopeni Airport departures terminal (2-3x higher prices). Pick up a sandwich in the city before heading out

There are 3 ways to get from Bucharest Airport to the city center:

• taxi or private transfer (moderately fast and convenient, 12-25 Euro)
• shuttle bus (public transport, cheap but slow, 2 Euro)
• express train to North Train Station (fast, cheap, not very convenient, 2 Euro)

• 1. Bucharest airport shuttle

STB (Bucharest’s public transport company) operates the only airport shuttle bus from Otopeni Airport to Bucharest city center (final stop in Piata Unirii) number 783 - check route here .

The route comes fairly close to major Bucharest hotels, metro lines station and the Old Town area.

The Bucharest airport shuttle bus leaves from the ground floor of Bucharest airport (international arrivals area is at 1st floor) as you exit the terminal building on the right every 15-20 min on a regular daily schedule (Mon-Fri 6:00-23:00) and every 20-30 min on weekends and holidays.

A two-way ticket is cheap (8,5 Lei ~ 2€) and here's how you can buy them:

• from the automatic red ticket machine located exactly where the bus leaves
• using your bank card for a contactless payment on the ticket machine inside the bus (easiest)
• by SMS - check instructions here

Drivers don’t sell tickets and there's no way to get them online.

The bus operates on the same express route from Bucharest city centre to Bucharest airport departures terminal.

• Local tip: as busses can get stuck in long queues of traffic especially in the afternoon rush hours (15:00 - 18:00) when going towards the airport, I wouldn’t recommend taking the airport bus if you’re on a tight schedule or not incredibly budget-conscious.

There are no other airport shuttles or express buses taking you to the city and the ones you may see are either doing a private transfer or will take you to other cities (read more in the section below section).

• 2. taking the train from Otopeni Airport to Bucharest North Train Station

There is a direct train connecting Bucharest Otopeni Airport with Bucharest Gara de Nord (main train station) with no other stops along the way. The airport train station is located outside the terminal building on a suspended platform with a green cover. Once you get out of the airport from the arrivals hall you'll see it.

The train runs every 40 min from either these stations and you can check the schedule here . The ride takes 25 min and the ticket costs 8 Lei (less than 2 Euro).

Train tickets can be bought when on the platform or in Gara de Nord from an automatic ticket machine or online here . You can't buy your ticket when on the train or from the ticket inspector.

While the ride to the city is fast, Gara de Nord is relatively far from the city center or close to the Old Town area where most tourists choose to stay. But the train station has a metro station of its own and plenty of reliable taxi cabs waiting outside.

Most likely from there you'll have to take another means of transport or use public transportation. So if you're not in a rush and looking for affordable prices - this is a good option.

• 3. Taking a taxi from Bucharest Airport to Bucharest city center

Getting an airport taxi transfer from Otopeni Airport to Bucharest city center or any part of the city is quick, convenient and reasonably priced (50 - 80 Lei or 10 - 17 Euro). It's a good option especially if you're after a long flight!

A couple of years ago there were some problems with aggressive taxi drivers poaching unsuspecting tourists and charging more - but authorities have fixed this and it’s no longer the case.

But even today this may happen: when you exit the arrivals hall you'll see a line of taxi cabs waiting outside with 'friendly' drivers offering their services. While some may be honest, it's easy for unsuspecting tourists to fall into the trap of a pirate taxi driver. Even so, the most they can do is rip you off for an extra 10-15 Euro...

So for your peace of mind follow our advice below on how to get a reliable Bucharest airport taxi to the city center and you'll be ok!

First, look for these yellow touch screen terminals on both sides of the door you'll exit after the baggage claim area. These are in the international arrivals hall on the 1st floor.

Use them to order a reliable taxi with a fair price from the pre-authorised local providers. I recommend Meridian and Cristaxi. You will get a ticket with the details of your transfer to Bucharest which you need to hold on to and show to your driver.

Then, walk outside the terminal building and wait for your taxi to come from the ramp on the left side.

You'll get a taxi ride to Bucharest with a fair price but the disadvantage is that you can pay only with Romanian Lei in cash (exchange a small amount, or take out from a nearby ATM, or when in the city center). Some drivers accept Euro and will give you back RON in change. Second, a great alternative that avoids regular taxi drivers is to use the popular ride hailing apps Uber or Bolt.

• the booking process is easy, you can enter your destination address clearly and you can see the route on the way
• drivers are rated and you'll likely have a positive experience with them; most of time you'll get an English-speaking driver, unlike regular taxi drivers
• cars have a designated pick up point (on the right side of the parking platform, just as you exit the airport building on the 1st floor)
• you pay in the app via your debit or credit cards

This type of private transfer is usually at a fair price although during rush hours or when there's high demand, a fair surcharge may be applied. But even so, the most you could end up paying is around 80 lei (18 Euro).

• Local tip: as a local, I’ve always used Uber or Bolt to get to and from Bucharest airport to the city center because I've got more important things to worry about than a couple of Euros, and I value my peace of mind after flying!

Other tips for your safety:

• if anyone approaches you in the airport offering taxi services, refuse
• if a taxi driver wants to negotiate the fare, refuse
• before boarding taxi cabs make sure fare meter is working and the driver starts it; if they don't or they tell you it's not working - refuse the ride and get out
• if you can’t find a taxi you can walk 10 min to the Departures terminal (a long corridor on your left as you exit baggage claim) and get one of the taxis dropping passengers off there

All the major car rentals companies (Sixt, Avis, Hertz, etc) are present in country. You can find their offices on the ground floor of the arrivals terminal building. Expect the usual booking process and formalities. If you know your travel dates then sending a prior request for your rental car is best to avoid extra waiting time.

If you're on a business trip, traveling with a large group or need baby seats then requesting a private transfer to Bucharest city center is your best choice. We work with several companies and professional drivers and can handle any type of request - just send us a message with your details and we'll take it from there. If you want to travel from Bucharest airport directly to other popular destinations to visit in Romania such as the cities of Brasov or Constanta you can choose from a shuttle service with a minivan or minibus, or a private transfer.

To get from Bucharest Airport to Brasov there are 2 options:

• take the direct train to Gara de Nord and from there catch a train to Brasov
• use a shuttle company that runs straight from the airport (we typically work with these local providers: Kron and Direct Aeroport ).

For transfers to other destinations, or if you need a child seat - contact us and we'll help you out.

We also organise day tours or multi-day itineraries with pick-ups starting from Henri Coanda Airport and can customise them to fit your itinerary. FYI - Dracula Castle (Bran Castle) is 3h away and the only way to get there is with a private airport transfer. Once again - contact us and we'll help you out no matter your group size :)

Tours & Day Trips in Bucharest

Start first by checking our guide with things to do in Bucharest to learn about top attractions such as Calea Victoriei, the Romanian Atheneum, Revolution Square, Palace of Parliament, museums and the best place to have a typical Romanian meal!

The major attractions, landmarks and sights in Bucharest are located on a North - South line from Herestrau Park to Unirii Square, easily accessible using the blue metro line (M2).

Most tourists want to go to Old Town area (Centrul Vechi - Lipscani - Smardan street) where the best bars in Bucharest are - and that's easily accessible from Piata Unirii or Universitate metro stations.

Bucharest Nightlife Tour: Craft Beer & Hip Bars

The main train station in Bucharest is Gara de Nord (translated simply as North Train Station). This is where all national and international trains arrive and depart. If you come across other train stations such as Bucharest Baneasa or Basarab, just ignore them.

Gara de Nord is always bustling with activity will give you the usual 'train station' experience: confused travelers, rushed locals, bored station workers, and, of course, scammers and beggars trying to get something out of everyone!

Inside the train station there are many places to get food, sandwiches, drinks and there’s even a supermarket and exchange office.

If you’re looking for info about buying train tickets and navigating Romania by train, check our guide on public transport in Romania.

Taxis are waiting at the end of this corridor

From Gara de Nord to Bucharest city center. When arriving in the train station look for signs leading to the ‘authorised taxis’ station which is down the very long, wide and tall corridor as you arrive (pictured above). You will be approached by people offering ‘taxi’ services - refuse.

Outside the building if taxi drivers first ask where you’re going and then try to negotiate the fare, refuse. If you can’t find a decent taxi, use Uber or Bolt.

Getting to Gara de Nord. The North Train Station is located in the North-Western part of Bucharest. You can get there using the yellow metro line and get off at Gara de Nord station. For a cost of 4-6 Euros, a taxi or an Uber is a better and more convenient choice than taking the bus, and sometimes quicker than using the metro.

Taxis waiting in the Old Town area

The first piece of honest truth - Bucharest taxis should be treated with caution because their reputation is notoriously bad for many good reasons. But if you follow my advice below on how to order a taxi in Bucharest like a local you’ll see how easy and safe it can be to use them and avoid bad experiences.

The second honest truth is that taxis are a very cheap and convenient way of getting around the large city of Bucharest, especially since subway stations don’t cover some parts or major tourist sights. Most rides in the city will cost 15 - 30 Lei (3-6 Euro) and other public transport such as buses and trams are not worth the effort as we'll explain below. There are many official licensed taxi companies and their cars are yellow with the name of the company on the hood. Fares and rates are calculated per km: the lowest starts from 1,99 Lei, 2,39 Lei is standard while 4,9 Lei is for premium cars. I typically recommend these taxi companies in Bucharest: Meridian, Cristaxi or Speed Taxi.

Cost of rides should not be negotiated as fares are clearly written on both sides of the car and displayed on the meter (which should be visible) before and during the ride.

A taxi ride from Bucharest city center to Bucharest Otopeni Airport will cost about 55-75 Lei depending on which part of the city you're starting from and traffic conditions.

Tipping taxi drivers is common, as is rounding up or leaving a tip of 10% or 3-5 Lei. To put things into perspective, remember that 1 Euro = 5 Lei. And now my most important piece of advice: everyone in Bucharest uses smartphone apps to order taxis online, and so should you. They’re easy to use, are tracked based on location and drivers have individual profiles and reviews from clients. Few problems, if any, have been reported, so they should be your go-to choice. Here are the most popular taxi apps I recommend:

• Uber works in Bucharest since 2015 and runs legally in the country. It’s cheap and reliable, with great drivers and clean cars. But because service is so great, it’s very popular and there's usually a fare surcharge because of high demand.
• Bolt is the runner-up and is the European version of Uber with almost identical features and functionalities. It’s trying to aggressively acquire market share by having even cheaper fares than Uber so it's a great value and the most widespread

Most of these apps also work in Brasov , Timisoara or Cluj-Napoca but in all other cities in Romania taxi drivers are decent, polite and safe so no need to worry.

During weekends and especially in the evening when Bucharest nightlife goes full on or on rainy days, taxis will be in very high demand so be patient and try several ways to find one.

I don't recommend getting a taxi from Bucharest to other cities such as Brasov, Constanta, Mamaia or Sinaia. You can get better prices and comfort in a train, bus or even a private tour.

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

Other safety tips when using regular taxis in Bucharest:

• make sure the driver turns on the meter when starting the ride and get out if he doesn’t or says it’s not working
• have small notes (1-5-10 Lei) on you to pay the fare as one of the most often used tricks is drivers saying they don’t have change
• avoid if possible picking up taxis waiting in the Old Town/Lipscani area or North Train Station - they're the ones trying to scam tourists by overcharging; try ordering instead
• try to be, as much as possible, informed about your route or at least have Google Maps ready when using a standard taxi.

8. Bucharest metro & public transport

Using the metro lines of Bucharest (metrou) is easy, reliable and fairly cheap. It’s by far the best way to get around Bucharest during rush hours or for long distances (e.g from Old Town to Herestrau Park). Of course, this makes the metro very crowded in the morning and evening when people are commuting to-from work.

There are 4 lines (M1-4) but the ones important for tourists are M1 (yellow) and M2 (blue). Getting on the right metro should be easy as there is only one train running on each line in a single direction. If in doubt, ask locals. All metro stations are underground, have accessibility options and are marked with a blue M on a white square.

The city centre is served only by 4 stops and there are some areas of Bucharest with tourist sights not covered at all by the subway. The metro stations close to the main tourist sights are Piata Unirii, Piata Universitatii, Piata Romana and Piata Victoriei (the 4 I mentioned), Izvor and Aviatorilor. Check the full map here . Distances between stations can be quite long (10-20 min walk).

Service is between 5:00-23:00 and trains run every 3-5 minutes during rush hours and 5-10 minutes during off-peak hours and weekends.

Tickets are paper-printed and you need to validate them when entering the station, otherwise you can’t get in. A ticket with 2 rides costs 6 Lei (1,5 Euro) but your best choice is to get the 10 ride ticket for 25 Lei (5 Euro). 24 hours or 72 hours tickets are also available for 2 or 4 Euro which is great if you're on a city break.

You can also use your contactless bank card to pay for a 2,5 Lei ride on the spot without having to pass by the ticket office. Extremely cheap compared to anything else in Europe! The public transport network in Bucharest is made out of hundreds of buses, trolleys and trams, all operated by STB. For tourists they are very confusing and hard to use, because there are no clear maps, guides, apps or English-speaking people or drivers working for STB and able to give precise guidance to non-locals.

Buses and trolleys don’t always have a dedicated lane so they get stuck in traffic. Drivers sometimes illegally use tram lines so trams get stuck in traffic too. And overground traffic in Bucharest is already heavy and crowded. So despite being very cheap to use, the hassle of getting on the right one, waiting ages for them to show up and getting stuck in traffic is not worth it. Except for regular commuters, most locals don’t use them so my best advice is to stick to metro and taxis.

I hope this guide will help you plan your trip to Bucharest and further on in Romania! Check our website for other useful info and inspiration on Romania tourist attractions .

Your Romanian Friend

Check our tours

• By category

Local insights from Romania

4 times a year we prepare a newsletter with local stories, places and our special insights about Romanian culture and local life that will inspire you to visit our country and have an authentic local experience. Would you like to get it?

#romanianfriend

• Travel tips
• About & Contact
• Your free support

How to get from Bucharest Airport (Henri Coanda OTP) to the city center

In Bucharest, there are 2 airports. At the moment in use is only one, called Henri Coanda International Airport , but we know it also as Otopeni Bucharest Airport (the name of the neighborhood it is in). That’s why the airport code is OTP. The second airport is called Baneasa International Airport and has been closed since 2012, but it has been recently renovated and it is said it’s going to open in 2022 (I will update the info here when that happens).

So when you are at Henri Coanda Bucharest Airport and to get to Bucharest center you have 3 public transport options:

Option 1: train.

The cheapest & fastest way. The train station is just in front of Arrivals. The train goes to Bucharest North Train Station , every 40 minutes, nonstop. A ride takes only 25 minutes. To check the timetable go on CFRcalatori website and type and select at Departure: Aeroport Henri Coanda and at Arrival: Bucuresti Nord (as shown in the image below).

You can pay the ticket (5 lei – that’s 1 euro) by card in a machine on the station, but also there is one in the trains. You can pay cash (LEI) to the train controller, who is going to come after the train leaves.

It would be best to exchange in the airport 10 euro/dollars to LEI, just to have cash with you until you get to the center, where exchange rates are much much better, Don’t waste your money in the airport exchange.

From North Train Station (in Romanian is Gara de Nord) – the location on maps here – you need to find your way to your accommodation. Use Google Maps to guide you , it’s doing a good job to show you all the public transport ways and accurate locations. Or take an Uber or a Bolt ride. Don’t take the taxies you find in front of the station as they will overcharge you.

Option 2: Bus

You will find a bus stop in front of Arrivals and also in front of Departures. The ticket costs 3 LEI, with a 90 min availability after validation in the bus. This means you can hop on another bus or trolley or tram, in case you need to. Just validate the ticket every time you get on a new transport. You can buy it at the desk (small kiosk next to the bus stop). It’s called Metropolitan ticket and it’s only for above-ground means of transport. You can get a Metropolitan and Subway ticket for 5 lei, with variability of 120 min.

Bus line 783

Bus number 783 comes every 40 minutes, with a non stop schedule. It takes you to the city center, stopping at Piata Victoriei, Piata Romana, Piata Universitatii, Piata Unirii. You can see the bus route here .

* You might see online, in some old articles about bus lines 780 and 784, from the airport to Bucharest. These lines have been canceled.

Option 3: Taxi

By taxi I actually mean UBER and Bolt . You can also use FreeNow . Don’t take the taxis waiting outside of the airport as they might overcharge you. Price by UBER, as an example, to the city center can be between 60 and 100 lei. It depends on your exact destination, but especially on the time of the day. Rush hours can affect this price and the duration. It can take 30 to 50 minutes. In the Arrivals hall, you will also find a machine to call for a taxi, which is a safe way to do so in case you don’t have internet on your phone. When you order you can select the taxi company (you see the prices per km) and if you want to pay cash or card. You will get a paper ticket with the time until the taxi comes and the car number. Wait for it just outside, in front of Arrivals.

Related Posts

The ONLY Hostels to stay in Bucharest- Clean, Safe & Fun (2022 update)

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

Sightseeing Bucharest by walking

Leave a reply cancel.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Bucharest (OTP), Romania 🇷🇴

How to get from bucharest airport (otp) ✈️ to the city center.

This guide compares all available airport transfers at Bucharest-Otopeni Airport (OTP) according to classic travel factors. This includes travel time, cost per person (pp), a short route description and links to book or buy tickets.

Transfer comparison

Overview of all transfer options from Bucharest-Otopeni Airport to the City Center

Notices: • The optimal transfer depends on the number of travelers, budget and available time. • There may be waiting times at the taxi rank if there are high volume of passengers. In this case, a pre-booked transfer (e.g. via Welcome Pickups) is the more faster and comfortable option.

Bucharest Travel Tips (AD)

     Cheap flights to Bucharest

    Best hotels in Bucharest

    Tours and attractions in Bucharest

    High-quality suitcases & trolleys

Infos here, tickets on-site ↗

Travel time:, description:.

Official local taxis

Book a Private Transfer ↗

Order an Uber ride ↗

Route from bucharest-otopeni airport (otp) to central bucharest.

Things to know about Bucharest:

1. bucharest is also called “little paris” 2. bucharest has the largest thermal bath in europe (“therme bucuresti”) 3. the huge palace of the parliament in bucharest is the most massive (4 million tons) and most expensive building in the world (us$ 4 billion).

• Bucharest Băneasa – Aurel Vlaicu International Airport
• National Company Bucharest Airports

• Technical information
• Traffic Evolution
• Press releases

• Airport and terminals map
• Information Desk
• Passengers with reduced mobility
• Travelling with pets
• Security regulations. Control
• Passport control
• Medical Assistance
• Baggage takeover
• Misplaced objects in the airport
• Lost & Found
• Passenger rights
• Bars & Restaurants
• Barber`s. Hairdresser`s
• Baggage security wrapping
• Baggage trolleys
• Post Office
• Plane Spotting
• Destinations map
• Useful telephone numbers
• Airport Operators Center

Public transport

The Express line  connects Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport with the city center.

Starting from Saturday, December 2 nd , 2023 , the 783 Express line  becomes the 100 Express line  with unchanged route and improved time schedule. This line runs day and night - by day the bus leaves every 15 minutes and at night, the bus leaves every 30 minutes – and provides a transport link much faster between the center of the Capital and Henri Coandă International Airport.

Airport stops In front of the Arrivals Terminal and Departures Terminal Price for a metropolitan trip of 90 minutes is 3 lei. Currently, there are several ways of paying for the bus: STB card, contactless credit card, text message „C” (valid for 90 minutes) or „AB” (valid for 24 hours) at 7458, metropolitan cards, Tourist Travel Cards.

Card desk, Automated Ticket Machine 

In front of the Arrivals Terminal

100 schedule

the general schedule page: http://www.stbsa.ro/eng/schedule

Social networks

Client information.

• Phone: 021 204 1000
• Email: [email protected]

For emergencies call the Unique European number 112. Free call in every telephone network.

© 2024 Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport All rights reserved

• Terms and conditions
• Confidentiality Policy

How to get from Bucharest airport to city center

If you travel to Bucharest city by plane, you will probably land in Henri Coanda International Airport also known as Otopeni Airport OTP.

Getting from Bucharest airport to city center hotel or residence can be achieved by different means of transportation. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Express Bus line 780 and 783

Otopeni airport is connected to Bucharest city center by tow Express bus line 780 & 783. The airport bus station is in front of arrival terminal. In order to get there you must be at the ground floor of the terminal.

Also the tickets can be purchased from the kiosk located next to the bus station. A one-way ticket for the 783 bus to Unirii Square (final station in city center) or 780 bus to Central train station (Gara de Nord) costs 0.85€. Depending on traffic conditions the transfer can take between 1 and 1,5 hours and is available 24/7.

More information for Bucharest airport express line available at STBSA  

Getting from Otopeni airport to Bucharest city by taxi.

When you arrive in Bucharest airport you will notice that you can not go outside the terminal and pick-up a cab. First of all, after you exit the security area, on the left side of the arrivals hall, you need to find the taxi order machines. From the screen choose a taxi company and you will receive a ticket with de number of the taxi that is allocated for your ride. With your ticket you must go outside and wait for your taxi to arrive. There is a line of taxi cabs waiting for their clients in front of the terminal.

All taxi cabs in Bucharest are yellow and the fare is listed on the side of the vehicles.

How much is a taxi from Bucharest airport to city center hotel?

Taxi fare differs from company to company and is listed when you make the order. You will be charged per km (distance). Probably for a city center transfer you will pay between 15 to 25 EUR. Don’t forget to have Romanian LEI (RON) because you can’t pay in EUR.

Private transfers from Bucharest airport to city center

You can also pre-book your transfer from Otopeni airport to Bucharest city center. This means that you can choose the type of car that you need, sedan or minivan, and make the reservation days before your traveling date. Moreover, your driver will greet you inside arrival terminal.

Advantages of a private airport transfer:

• Fixed price for any address in Bucharest
• Flight tracking – not to worry for flight delays
• Card payment available online or directly to the driver
• Meet and greet service inside arrival terminal
• Child seat available free of charge
• Free cancelation

Prices and reservations for Bucharest airport transfers.

How to get from the airport to the center of Bucharest

Transportation options from bucharest airport, 4. other alternatives, travel recommendations and advice, 1. plan your route, 2. buy tickets in advance, 3. take into account the schedules, 4. use reliable sources, 1. what is the fastest transportation option, 2. what is the most economical transportation option.

Welcome to ForTravelLovers, your source of trusted travel information. In this article, we will provide you with all the transport options available to get from Bucharest airport to the city center quickly, cheaply and efficiently. In addition, we will give you travel recommendations and advice from reliable sources such as Viajablog, Sinmapa, Medio Penique and Hola Transylvania.

There are several transport options to get to the city center from Bucharest airport. Below, we present the most popular ones:

The bus is a cheap and convenient option to get to the city center from the airport. Line 783 will take you directly to the center of Bucharest, passing by landmarks such as University Square and Victory Square. The ticket can be purchased at the vending machines located in the airport terminal.

Another option is to take the train from the airport to Bucharest North train station. From there, you can take the subway or a taxi to get to the city center. The train is a fast and comfortable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Taxis are a convenient option if you prefer direct transportation from the airport to your city center destination. Make sure you use official taxis and ask the driver for a receipt. You can also use transportation apps like Uber or Bolt to request a ride.

In addition to the options mentioned above, there are other transportation alternatives such as private transfer services and car rentals. These options may be more expensive but offer greater convenience and flexibility.

To make your trip from Bucharest airport to the city center even more pleasant, here are some recommendations and tips:

Before you travel, research different transportation options and plan your route. This will help you save time and avoid setbacks.

If you decide to use the bus or train, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues and ensure a seat.

Check bus and train schedules to make sure they fit your itinerary. Some services may have limited hours during the evening.

Consult reliable sources such as Viajablog, Sinmapa, Medio Penique and Hola Transylvania for up-to-date travel recommendations and advice.

The fastest transportation option to get to the city center from Bucharest airport is a taxi. However, you must take traffic and possible delays into account.

The most economical transportation option is the bus. The ticket is affordable and will take you directly to the city center.

In short, getting from Bucharest airport to the city center is easy and convenient thanks to the different transport options available. Whether you choose the bus, train, taxi or other alternatives, be sure to plan your route and follow our recommendations for a smooth trip. We hope you find this information useful and that you have a great trip to Bucharest!

Until next time,

The ForTravelLovers team

Related Items

What to see brasov romania

Transylvania itinerary in 4 days: what to see, where to eat and where to sleep

In which neighborhood to stay in Cluj-Napoca?

Add a comment of how to get from the airport to the center of bucharest, content for you.

Try changing your search query or try one of the suggestions below!

Free and up-to-date :), transportation to and from bucharest henri coanda airport, what is the distance from bucharest henri coanda airport to the centre of bucharest.

The centre of Bucharest (Old Town / Lipscani) is 18 kilometres / 11.2 miles from the airport. You can cover the distance between the two places in 30 minutes.

From OTP Airport to Bucharest City centre by Taxi

City centre

Public transport

From the airport, Bucharest can be reached by bus and train . If you want to go to the centre of the city you can take bus 100, the main railway station of Bucharest Gara de Nord is accessible by train. Public transportation in Bucharest consists of buses, trolleybuses, trams operated by STB and metros operated by METROREX. A 120-minute ticket valid on all modes of transport costs 5.00 RON in combination with a Multiplu card or Activ card. If you are in possession of a credit card (Visa or Mastercard), it is possible to buy tickets on board the bus and train. At the metro stations in Bucharest you can also pay with your credit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Bus to Bucharest

You can reach the centre of Bucharest by bus 100, the bus stops are located in front of the Arrivals hall and Departures hall of the airport. The final stop of bus 100 is ‘Piata Unirii’ (metro M1, M2 and M3), a large square in the south of the city centre. The journey time is 45 minutes, on the route the bus also stops at Piata Victoriei, Piata Romana and Piata 21 Decembrie 1989 (Universitate). Approximately every 15 minutes a bus departs in the direction of the city and Bucharest Henri Coanda Airport. Bus 100 runs 24 hours a day, during the night the bus runs two times per hour. Bus 100 is the successor of bus 783, the number of the bus is different, the route is the same as before.

If you want to travel by public transport, you’ll need to buy a transport card. You can choose between a Multiplu card (free), Activ card Nominal (personal, free) and Activ card Non-nominal (non-personal, 3.70 RON). You can charge the blue and white Multiplu card once with at least 2 and a maximum of 30 rides. You can also opt for a ticket for 24 hours, 72 hours or 7 days. The green and white Activ card is mainly used for “pay-as-you-go”, you can top up with a maximum of 50 rides at a time. At the airport, Multiplu and Activ cards, are available from the ticket counters and ticket machines. For two or more persons you’ll need only one Multiplu card loaded with, for example, 2 or 10 rides.

A bus ride from Bucharest Henri Coanda Airport to the centre of the city costs 3.00 RON, valid for 90 minutes on all buses, trolleybuses and trams (STB) in Bucharest. You can also buy a ticket for 24 hours (8 RON), 72 hours (20 RON) or 7 days (30 RON). If you want to use the metro (STB + METROREX) in Bucharest as well you pay a little more for a ticket, a single journey will cost 5.00 RON. When boarding the bus you need to validate your ticket, don’t forget! If you are in possession of a credit card, Visa or Mastercard, you have the option to buy tickets on board the bus by contactless payment. Please consult website and timetable bus 100 for more information.

Top 5 sights in Bucharest

1. Palace of Parliament ( book a guided tour ) and Bulevardul Unirii 2. Old Town / Lipscani, hip and historic neighbourhood in the middle of the city. Book a walking tour 3. King Mihai I Park, Arcul de Triumf and Cișmigiu Park, for free! 4. Ateneul Român Concert Hall 5. National Museum of Art of Romania and National Museum of Natural History TIP: Plan a day tour to Transylvania from Bucharest and visit the legendary castles of Peleş and Bran (Dracula)!

Train to Bucharest

Since December 2020 it is possible to travel by train between Bucharest Henri Coanda Airport and the city. Every 40 minutes you have a travel option to and from the airport, 24 hours a day. The Bucharest Henri Coanda Airport railway station is located opposite the Arrivals hall of the airport. Travel time from the airport (Aeroport Henri Coanda) to the city’s main railway station (Bucuresti Nord / Gara de Nord) is 25 minutes, Patinoar PO and Parc Mogoșoaia are the only stops. One-way tickets cost just 8.50 RON, to be purchased online and at the stations from the ticket counters and ticket machines. If you are in possession of a credit card, Visa or Mastercard, you have the option to buy tickets on board the train by contactless payment. At Gara de Nord you can take a train to cities such as Galati, Constanta (2 hours 20 minutes), Craiova and Brasov (2 hours 40 minutes). From Gara de Nord, the centre of Bucharest can be reached by metro, a ticket costs 3.00 RON. Please consult website CFR Calatori for more information.

Discover and book tickets, activities and tours:

Bucharest: therme bucuresti entry ticket with bathrobe.

Discover Therme Bucuresti, the largest relaxation center in Europe, with this entry ticket. Relax in 10 different saunas, have fun on the water slides, and stay comfortable in a provided bathrobe.

Bucharest: Dracula's Castle, Peleș Castle & Brașov Day Trip

Discover some of the medieval castles of Transylvania on a full-day tour from Bucharest and visit the castle most associated with the legend of Count Dracula. Visit Peleș Castle and take a walking tour of Brașov.

Bucharest: Parliament Palace Skip-the-line Ticket

Explore the largest building in Europe on this comprehensive tour of Romania's Parliament. Discover the largest halls, unique interiors and opulent decorations in one of the most interesting buildings in Eastern Europe. Benefit from skip-the-line access.

Bucharest: Dracula's Castle, Peles Castle, & Brasov Old Town

Enjoy a visit to the most famous castles in Romania, including Peles Castle and Bran Castle, and free time in Brasov in the old town.

From Bucharest: Dracula Castle, Peles & Brasov Full-Day Trip

Be swept away by the magnificence of Transylvania and its magical places on this small group day trip from Bucharest. Enjoy a guided tour of Bran Castle (nicknamed Dracula's Castle), the medieval town of Brasov and Peles Castle.

Bucharest: Day Trip to Dracula Castle, Peles Castle & Brașov

Visit some of the most important castles in Romania on a 12-hour tour of Peles Castle, Bran Castle, and the city of Brasov from Bucharest. Tour the historical heart of Transylvania at Brasov, and learn the legend of the fabled Vlad the Impaler.

Tours and transport

Bucharest: weekend pub crawl.

Experience the most popular pub crawl in Bucharest for a unique nightlife experience. Meet new people, enjoy various events or DJ sets, party with locals in popular clubs, and enjoy tasty drinks.

Bucharest: Palace of Parliament Tickets and Guide

Go on a guided tour of the Palace of Parliament, a must-see when visiting Bucharest. Stroll through enormous hallways and rooms, see busts of Romanian kings, and visit Europe's biggest ballroom.

From Bucharest: Experience Bulgaria Small-Group Trip

This is a small group full-day tour from Bucharest to North Bulgaria. You will cross the border into Bulgaria over the Danube River, the second largest river in Europe.

★☆☆☆☆   29 reviews

Have you visited Bucharest Henri Coanda Airport lately? So far, 29 airport passengers have written an airport review about Bucharest Henri Coanda Airport. This airport has an average score of 1 out of 5. Provide other airport travellers with essential airport information and tell us about your airport experience.

Write a review

Get to Bucharest: Airport, Flights, Bus, Public Transport to the City Center

When traveling to Bucharest, Romania, there are various transportation options that can be used to conveniently reach the city center from the airport .

The main airport to arrive at is the Henri Coanda International Airport , also known as Otopeni Airport , located about 20 km north of the city center. Whether you prefer taking the bus , train , taxi , or utilizing ridesharing services , there is a suitable option for everyone.

Key Takeaways:

• The Henri Coanda International Airport , also known as Otopeni Airport , is the main airport serving Bucharest, Romania.
• The 783 bus is an express line that runs 24/7, connecting the airport to downtown Bucharest at Unirii Square .
• Train services are also available, with the train station conveniently located outside the Arrivals terminal building.
• Taxis can be pre-booked or found at the taxi machine outside the arrivals hall, while ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt are also accessible.
• Each transportation option has its own advantages in terms of cost , convenience , and travel time , allowing travelers to choose the option that best suits their needs.

Arriving at Henri Coanda International Airport (Otopeni Airport)

Henri Coanda International Airport , also known as Otopeni Airport , is the main airport in Bucharest where most travelers arrive. Located about 20 km north of the city center, it offers various transportation options to reach the heart of Bucharest.

One of the most convenient ways to get from the airport to downtown Bucharest is by taking the 783 bus . This express line operates 24/7 and connects Otopeni Airport to Unirii Square , a bustling hub in the city center. The bus departs from the ground floor outside the Arrivals terminal building, making it easily accessible for travelers. With affordable ticket prices, usually under €1, it’s a budget-friendly option to explore the city.

If you prefer a train journey, you can hop on a train from the airport to Bucharest’s Gara de Nord , the largest train station in the city. Trains run 24/7, ensuring you can reach your destination at any time. The train station is conveniently located outside the Arrivals terminal building, allowing for a seamless transition from the airport to the railway system. Online ticket purchase, ticket vending machines, and onboard ticket sales are available, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

For those seeking a more personalized transportation experience, taxis and ridesharing services like Uber or Bolt are readily available at the airport. Pre-booked taxis can be found at the taxi machine outside the arrivals hall, with fares ranging from €10-20 to the city center. It’s important to ensure that the taxi driver starts the meter at the beginning of the trip to avoid any surprises. Ridesharing apps can be used to request a ride from the airport, and drivers can be met outside the terminal, offering convenience and flexibility.

Public Transport Options: Bus and Train

If you prefer to use public transport , there are two main options to consider when traveling from Bucharest’s Henri Coanda International Airport (Otopeni Airport) to the city center: the 783 bus and the train. These options provide convenient and affordable transportation for visitors to explore the city.

The 783 Bus

The 783 bus is an express line that operates 24/7, connecting the airport with Unirii Square in downtown Bucharest. This bus is a popular choice for many travelers due to its accessibility and frequency. The bus departs from the ground floor outside the Arrivals terminal building, making it easy to locate upon arrival. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office or ticket machine, and they cost less than €1, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

If you prefer a more direct route, taking the train from the airport to Bucharest’s Gara de Nord is a convenient option. The train station is located outside the Arrivals terminal building, making it easily accessible for travelers. Trains run 24/7, ensuring that there is always an option available regardless of your arrival time. The journey from the airport to Gara de Nord takes approximately 20-25 minutes, allowing you to reach the city center efficiently. Tickets can be purchased online, from ticket vending machines, or from train staff onboard, providing flexibility for travelers.

When considering these public transport options, it is important to plan your journey in advance and check the schedules for the bus and train to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether you choose the 783 bus or the train, both options offer a cost -effective and reliable way to reach Bucharest’s city center from the airport.

Taxi and Ridesharing Services

For those looking for a more convenient and direct transportation option, taxis and ridesharing services are readily available at the airport. Taxis can be pre-booked at the taxi machine outside the arrivals hall, offering a hassle-free way to reach the city center. Fares from Bucharest Airport to the city center usually range from €10-20, depending on the destination and traffic conditions. It is important to ensure that the taxi driver starts the meter at the beginning of the trip to avoid any misunderstandings.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt also operate in Bucharest, providing an alternative option for travelers. Using a ridesharing app, passengers can easily request a ride from the airport and be picked up by a driver outside the terminal. The advantage of ridesharing services is that they often offer upfront pricing, allowing passengers to know the fare before they even get in the car. This can provide peace of mind and help avoid any surprises.

When choosing between taxis and ridesharing services, it is essential to consider factors such as comfort, cost, and convenience . Taxis are typically readily available, and drivers are familiar with the city, making them a reliable choice. Ridesharing services, on the other hand, offer the convenience of booking and paying through an app, eliminating the need for cash transactions. Additionally, ridesharing services often have a wider pool of drivers available, reducing waiting times.

Comparison of Taxi and Ridesharing Services

Ultimately, the choice between taxis and ridesharing services depends on individual preferences and priorities. Both options provide a reliable way to travel from Bucharest Airport to the city center, ensuring that passengers can reach their destination comfortably and efficiently.

In conclusion, traveling from Bucharest Airport to the city center offers several convenient options , each with its own advantages depending on your preferences and travel needs.

The 783 bus is an express line that operates 24/7, providing a cost-effective and reliable transportation option. With frequent services throughout the day and night, the bus offers flexibility for travelers. Tickets can be easily purchased at the ticket office or ticket machine, making it a hassle-free choice.

For those who prefer a faster option, the train from the airport to Bucharest’s Gara de Nord is a great choice. With trains running 24/7 and a journey time of around 20-25 minutes, it offers convenience and efficiency. Tickets can be purchased online, from ticket vending machines, or even from train staff onboard.

If comfort and door-to-door service are your priorities, taxis and ridesharing services like Uber or Bolt are readily available. Taxis can be pre-booked at the airport’s taxi machine and fares to the city center are typically between €10-20. Ridesharing apps provide an additional option, allowing you to request a ride from the airport and meet the driver outside the terminal.

Overall, whether you prefer affordability and flexibility, speed and efficiency, or convenience and comfort, there is a transportation option for everyone when traveling from Bucharest Airport to the city center. Select the option that best suits your needs and enjoy a smooth journey to your destination.

For an in-depth exploration of Bucharest’s rich history, must-see landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene, be sure to read our thorough guide to getting the most out of your trip to Romania’s capital .

Q: How far is Bucharest’s main airport from the city center?

A: The Henri Coanda International Airport, also known as Otopeni Airport, is located about 20 km north of the city center.

Q: What public transportation options are available from the airport to the city center?

A: Travelers can choose from the bus, train, taxi, or ridesharing services to reach the city center from the airport.

Q: What is the 783 bus and where does it go?

A: The 783 bus is an express line that connects the Otopeni Airport to Unirii Square in downtown Bucharest. It operates 24/7 with varying frequencies throughout the day and night.

Q: How much does the 783 bus ticket cost?

A: Tickets for the 783 bus can be purchased at the ticket office or ticket machine and cost less than €1.

Q: Can I take a train from the airport to the city center?

A: Yes, you can take a train from the airport to Bucharest’s Gara de Nord, the largest train station in the city. The train station is located outside the Arrivals terminal building and trains run 24/7.

Q: Where can I buy train tickets?

A: Train tickets can be purchased online, from ticket vending machines, or from train staff onboard.

Q: Are taxis available at the airport?

A: Yes, taxis are available at the airport. They can be pre-booked at the taxi machine outside the arrivals hall.

Q: How much does a taxi ride to the city center usually cost?

A: Fares for taxis to the city center usually range from €10-20. It is important to ensure the taxi driver starts the meter at the beginning of the trip.

Q: Can I use ridesharing services like Uber or Bolt at the airport?

A: Yes, ridesharing services like Uber or Bolt can be used to request a ride from the airport. Drivers can be met outside the terminal.

Q: What are the advantages of each transportation option?

A: Each transportation option has its own advantages in terms of cost, convenience, and travel time . The bus and train offer affordable options, while taxis and ridesharing services provide more convenience and potentially faster travel times.

Central Guesthouse Bucharest

• Contact & Booking

How to get from Bucharest Airport to the city center?

Bucharest Airport is called  Henri Coandă International Airport and it is also know as Otopeni (OTP) as the town it is in.

PRO TIP 1: There is free WiFi at the terminal! PRO TIP 2: There is a cheap supermarket under the arrival hall.

UBER or BOLT apps

Why Uber and Bolt are better than taxis?

Here are a few reasons:

• These apps are usually cheaper than taxis in Bucharest. A ride to Central Guesthouse from the Airport will cost you about 35 or 40 ron (9 euro) depending on traffic
• Cars are newer and safer
• Drivers don`t smoke, curse, are well dressed and mannered
• You cannot be ripped off: you see your trip and in case of a dispute you can contact the app for a refund (be very careful with taxi drivers)
• If you are a first time user you can use my code for a 15 ron discount: For UBER go to payment tab and then add promo code : danielec95ue For BOLT, click promotions and insert: FA1GF
• Drivers usually speak good English
• No tips expected/requested and no need to change cash at the airport (always a very very bad rate)

It is very easy to use: install the app, sync your credit card, request a car, insert your destination: Central Guesthouse , Strada Balcesti 7

PRO TIP: You can open google maps, insert the destination and if you have both apps installed you can get a price quote by clicking the icon with the man with the hand raised (near the car, bus, walking icons).

Airport shuttle bus 783 

This is the cheapest option: Bus 783 is the airport shuttle bus that takes you to the city center Piata Uniri. When you exit the baggage hall and enter the arrivals hall you follow the signs and go downstairs where outside you will see the bus stop. This 783 express bus leaves for the city centre (stopping at Piata Victoriei, Piata Romana, Piata Universitate and Piata Unirii). Buses depart every 30 minutes during the day, and then every 40 minutes through the night. Purchase a Card from the little booth to the right hand side as you exit: there is an automatic ticket machine or a kiosk where you can interact with a human seller. A return journey is 9 lei for the Express bus (you can use your return at any later stage).

If you really want a Taxi experience:

One of the first warnings given to tourists in most countries is to be careful with taxis: scams, huge fares and generally the worst way to begin your trip is being ripped off.

Fighting dodgy taxi drivers is Bucharest’s top tourist-related problem. It leaves a bad first/last impression when tourists get victimized right out of the airport or train station. The police take infringements seriously, but you must do your part by ordering them, or at least getting the number of taxi, and company (take a photo), or licence plate. You can’t report a taxi rip-off unless you can pinpoint exactly who it was.

Avoid the independent taxis and smaller firms and head for the trusted established taxi companies. Always ask if they give receipts first. If no, go on to the next one, or if you must get in, record the name of the company and taxi number. That way, if something goes wrong you can report it. 

Reliable taxi firms are Meridian and Speed Taxi.

Ignore the hustlers

At the airport, ignore any taxi drivers who approach you as you leave arrivals. You can order a taxi using the multi-language easy-to-use touch screens in the arrivals hall to choose from a wide range of reputable Bucharest taxi companies, all with tariffs in plain sight. Once ordered the screen will tell you how long the taxi will be and its ID number and you wait outside.

Use technology to your advantage and plan ahead

Call or book online using Meridian or Speed Taxi. Most of Bucharest’s taxi companies now have apps using your phone’s GPS to get a taxi straight to you  Check out Star Taxi.

Read carefully

One single tariff will be displayed on the driver and passenger door of all taxis. A lot of taxis will try to disguise how much they charge per kilometer. Whether this is by blocking the door, or not displaying clearly how much by adding other numbers such as Tariff 1. Generally be sure not to pay more than 1.99 lei per kilometer.

Areas to avoid

Be extra vigilant in areas such as Gara de Nord, Baneasa Airport, Bucuresti Mall, Piata Universitatii, Piata Unirii and the Old Town/Lipscani area. Avoid scary taxi drivers, especially at night. If you don’t think you can take this guy in a fight, then don’t take his taxi. Yes, this may seem discriminatory, but when you’re taking taxis off the street at night, the odds are high you will get in some kind of argument.

No description.Please update your profile.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Book a Room!

All rooms have WIFI internet. For your convenience it is without password. Air-conditioning, TVs, mosquito nets, towels, hair drier, private bathroom, double bed, towels

All common areas are under video surveillance

CREDIT CARDS

Most credit cards are welcome

IN THE AREA

Central Guesthouse is in walking distance to most attractions in the city. We will be pleased to suggest you the very best.

@ 2017 Bucharest Central Rooms-Developed By @lex - Your Online Consultant

• Single ticket purchase
• Return ticket purchase
• Bus delays in Croatia
• Luggage safety
• Luggage storage at bus stations in Croatia
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• Airports in Indonesia
• Airports in Japan
• Airports in Laos
• Airports in Malaysia
• Airports in Philippines
• Airports in Thailand
• Airports in Vietnam
• Airports in Australia
• Airports in New Zealand
• Airports in Albania
• Airports in Austria
• Airports in Belgium
• Airports in BiH
• Airports in Bulgaria
• Airports in Croatia
• Airports in Czechia
• Airports in Denmark
• Airports in Finland
• Paris Airports
• Airports in Germany
• Airports in Greece
• Airports in Hungary
• Airports in Ireland
• Milan Airports
• Rome Airports
• Airports in Montenegro
• Airports in Netherlands
• Airports in North Macedonia
• Airports in Norway
• Warsaw Airports
• Airports in Portugal
• Airports in Romania
• Moscow Airports
• Airports in Serbia
• Airports in Slovakia
• Airports in Slovenia
• Airports in Spain
• Stockholm Airports
• Airports in Switzerland
• Airports in Turkey
• London Airports
• Airports in Ukraine
• Airports in Canada
• Airports in Mexico
• Airports in the USA
• Airports in Argentina
• Airports in Bolivia
• Rio de Janeiro Airports
• São Paulo Airports
• Airports in Chile
• Airports in Ecuador
• Airports in Paraguay
• Airports in Peru
• Airports in Uruguay
• Airports in Venezuela
• Best Airports in the World

Bucharest Airport Bus

• Airport buses
• January 27, 2017
• Travelling Romania

IATA code: OTP ICAO code: LROP Passengers : ~ 13 million

Bucharest Airport (OTP) , commonly known as Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport is the busiest international airport in Romania. It is located in Otopeni, a little more than 16 kilometers from Bucharest.

In the last ten years, the number of passengers that the airport welcomes annually has almost tripled.

The most popular flight routes from Bucharest Airport are to London , Rome, Paris and Vienna.

If you’re flying to Romania then check out our guide with detailed and relevant information about the airport in Bucarest and available transportation options.

Table of Contents

How to get from Bucharest Airport to Bucharest

Airport shuttle.

Bucharest is connected with Henri Coandă International Airport with a regular direct shuttle bus.

Bus departs from the bus stop in front of the terminal and runs to Terminal Memento Bus (closest to Bucuresti Nord train station).

In the table below you can find the timetable of shuttle bus departures and buy your ticket online.

You can also reach Bucharest city centre by t wo bus lines operated by local bus service RATB :

• Express line 780 which connects Bucharest Airport with the Gara de Nord (main railway station) – runs from 05:35 to 23:10 (Mon to Fri) → timetable
• Express line 783 connects the airport with the Union Square ( Piața Unirii) in Bucharest – runs from 0:30 to 23:45 (Mon to Fri) → timetable
• The price of a single bus fare is 3.5 lei (0.80 eur)

Bucharest Airport is also connected by direct railway link with the main railway station by CFR service which provides Henri Coandă Express trains .

• The train station is 10 mins from the airport but there is a shuttle bus which will take you to the departure point
• The pick-up point is located at the Arrivals Terminal
• The first train departs at 5:25 and the last one at 20:50, and it takes 60 minutes to get to the station
• The price of a one-way ticket is 7.7 lei (1.7 eur) . Children of age 5-10 pay half of the price, and children under 5 travel for free.

Taxi services

Bucharest taxi drivers are known for always trying to rip off the tourists, so be careful .

Romanian law has even prohibited taxi access in public parking, so make sure you get yourself one of official airport taxis which wait outside the Arrivals Terminal.

The price is usually 1,39lei/km to 3.5lei/km. Also watch out for the taximeter and negotiate the price before you enter the vehicle .

In case you need a direct ride to your accommodation and you don’t have that much time to waste on public transportation, then go for door-to-door transfer , especially if you have a lot of suitcases. The driver will wait for you in the Arrivals area with your name sign. Don’t worry if your plane is late, the company monitors your flight arrival.

Renting a car at Bucharest Airport

Services like Avis, Budget and Europcar offer car rental directly at the airport. Their offices are located in the passageway between the Departures Terminal and the Arrivals Terminal. Or you can simply book your car online.

Renting a bus

Consider booking a bus in advance in case you are coming with a larger group of people. After doing so, the bus rental companies will inform you of the pick-up point.

How to get from Bucarest Airport to other cities

The airport also has many direct bus lines to other Romanian cities, such as Brasov or Cluj-Napoca.

Here are some of the most popular routes you can find on getbybus.com

Airlines at the airport

Currently, 28 airlines handle domestic and international flights to and from Henri Coandă airport.

The most frequent airlines are the low-cost ones, such as Ryanair, Wizzair and the Romanian carrier Blue Air.

The airport is a hub for:

Amenities and Services

Various services are available at the terminal for passengers who are on a layover or waiting for a flight.

We’ve listed them below:

• ATMs (located at the Arrivals area; between Arrivals and Departure terminals and at the luggage packing area)
• Currency exchange
• Pharmacy (non-stop)
• Post Office
• Restaurants & Bars

Accommodation near Bucharest Airport

Are you looking for a place nearby to stay overnight? Check out our map of available accommodation units near the airport.

Staying overnight in Bucharest (Airport) (RO) Check for accommodation within walking distance

Bucharest Airport FAQs

That won’t be a problem since the local bus lines run throughout the day, particularly line 783 which operates from 0:30 to 23:30, approx. every 30-40 mins.

You can try to find accommodation in several nearby hotels: Angelo by Vienna House Bucharest (4*) – 3.3. km from the airport offers free Wi-Fi; restaurant, bar, spa Hotel Otopeni (3*) – 2.7 kilometres from the airport; free Wi-Fi, free transfer to and from the airport Rin Airport Hotel (3*) – 3.9 km from the airport, free Wi-Fi connection, parking

Sure thing. Take the local bus or train which will take you directly from the airport to the main square/main train station. From there, you can basically go to any part of the city on foot or by any mean of public transport. Even though there are no luggage storage services at the airport, you can leave your luggage at the facility located near the station of bus line 783 in the city centre.

You should first go to the city centre and from there choose one of the popular routes from Bucharest, like Bucharest – Varna (BG) ,   Bucharest – Bratislava (SK) . Or you can check other routes by yourself on getbybus.com.

Yes, the ATMs are located at Departures Terminal (Unicredit, Raiffaisen, Bancpost, etc.) and you can exchange your money at one of the banks located at the passage between Arrivals and Departure Terminal. Don’t forget – the official currency in Romania is lei, and not euro , so make sure you exchange some before your flight.

Related Posts

  6Comments

Hello… If I buy train tickets from Brasov to P.O. Aeroport H through the CFR calatori website, will I need to buy another bus ticket in P.O. Aeroport H to take me to the airport (through the mini bus)?

Dear Stacey,

You will have to buy the bus ticket separately. You can see how to reach Henri Coanda Airport from the train station on the following link –> https://goo.gl/utTYky

Best regards! Melani, GBB Team

Let me know how can I get to airport from the center of Bucharest by BUS.

Taxi service what I didn’t like because as a tip the driver took 10 extra Lei and I could not be on time my luggage and he demanded 20 Lei for coming back and giving luggage. It seems, it was his interest.

Dear Majnoon,

You can find the bus from Bucharest to Bucharest Airport on the following link: https://getbybus.com/en/bus-bucharest-to-bucharest-airport

Best regards Melani GBB Team

I need to get from bucharest to brasov where I’m staying. A direct transfer looks a little pricey but I’m a solo female traveller and a bit worried about using public transport alone late in the day. What would you suggest?

You can find find direct bus line from Bucharest to Brasov on our website. The bus departs from MementoBus Terminal ( Șoseaua Orhideelor 49 , București ). Here’s the link to buy the ticket: https://getbybus.com/en/bus-bucharest-to-brasov

Best regards, Melani GBB Team

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How To Get From Bucharest Airport to City Center Best Way

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on Published: January 7, 2024  - Last updated: January 31, 2024

Categories Airport to City Center Transfers , Airports , Romania

Last updated on January 31st, 2024 at 02:38 am

How To Get From Bucharest Airport to City Center Best Way – You can go by bus, train, taxi and private transfer.

Table of Contents

What Is The Distance From Bucharest Airport to City Center?

The distance from Henri Coandă Bucharest International Airport to city center is 20 kilometers. Click here to book online a Bucharest activities and Day Tour

The travel time by taxi from Bucharest airport to downtown is around 20-30 minutes. The taxi fare from Bucharest airport to Bucharest city center is around  €15-20 . Read here how to get from Bucharest Airport to Brasov

What Is The Best Way From Bucharest Airport to City Center?

The best way from Bucharest airport to downtown is by train for €2 . The travel time by train from Bucharest airport to Bucharest Main Train Station is around 20 minutes.

What Is The Cheapest Way From Bucharest Airport to City Center?

The cheapest way from Bucharest Airport to the city center is by public bus for less than  €1 and it will take around 1 hour.

You can get a shared transfer up to 3 people for €20 and you can book online that can be cheaper than a taxi.

Read here how to get from Timisoara Airport to city center and Cluj Airport to city center

Read here Bucharest Airport sim card and best  Romania sim card

WHERE TO STAY IN BUCHAREST

You can sleep in a dorm room or a room for  €15 , while you can stay in a budget hotel for as low as  €40 . There are so many to choose from depending on what type and how luxurious you want your stay to be starting from  €80. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

Two of our favorite travel insurance:  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of  Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review  and the comparison  Heymondo vs Genki

How To Get From Bucharest Airport To Downtown

By bus 783 from bucharest airport to city center (cheapest way).

The cheapest way from Bucharest Airport to the city center is by public bus. Bus Number 783 is available 24/7 running every 15 minutes. You have to buy the ticket in the machine at the airport or at kiosks (bus stops) and you can’t buy it inside the bus. Check here Bus Number 783 Route !

The bus fare from Bucharest Airport to city center is €0.85 for a one-way ticket and the travel time is around 40-50 minutes. The final destination of Bus Number 783 is Unirii Square .

Bus Route: Henri Coanda Airport – Otopeni Town – ICSITMUA – Meteorological Institute – Baneasa Airport – Piata Presei Libere – Arcul de Triumf – Piata Victoriei – Piata Romana – Piata Universitatii – Piata Unirii.

Bus Number 780 From Bucharest Airport to Bucharest North Train Station

Bus Number 780 is running every 30 minutes from Bucharest airport to Bucharest North.

The bus fare from Bucharest airport to Bucharest North Train Station (Gara de Nord) . You can get Bus Number 780 on the ground floor outside the airport.

Bus Route: Henri Coanda Airport – Primaria Otopeni – Baneasa airport – Piata Presei – Clabucet – North Train Station (Gara de Nord) – Basarab Metro Station.

TRAIN FROM BUCHAREST AIRPORT TO GARE DE NORD (BEST WAY)

Since 2020 there is a new train going from Bucharest airport to Gare de Nord. The best way from Bucharest airport to city center ( Gare de Nord ) is by train. The train is leaving from Bucharest airport to downtown every 20-40 minutes and runs 24 hours. Check train schedule and route !

The train travel time by train from Bucharest airport to city center is around 20 minutes. The train fare from Bucharest airport to Gare de Nord is €2 per person.

You will have to take a shuttle bus or the metro from outside the airport to reach the Airport train station and later you can go within walking distance from Gare de Nord to city center, taxi or by bus depending on your final destination.

SHARED TRANSFER FROM BUCHAREST AIRPORT TO BUCHAREST CITY CENTER

You can get a shared transfer from Bucharest airport to city center up to 3 people for €20 and you can book online . The shared transfer travel time will take around 20-30 minutes from Bucharest airport to your hotel.

METRO MAP BUCHAREST

Taxi from bucharest airport to bucharest city center.

The travel time by taxi from Bucharest airport to city center is around 20-30 minutes and the taxi fare is around  €15-20 . The prices and travel time aren’t fixed and it will depend on traffic and your final destination.

BEST WAY FROM BUCHAREST AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER

The best way from Bucharest airport to city center is by bus and train for €1-2 if you are on a budget and the travel time will be around 1 hour. It will depend on what bus stop or train stop is closer to your accommodation place.

The main problem with the train from Bucharest airport to city center if your accommodation isn’t in that area. You will have to take a taxi or a bus to get to your hotel. And you will have to take a shuttle bus from the airport 5 minutes to reach Bucharest Airport Train Station.

The best way from Bucharest airport to city center if you prefer more comfort a shared transfer up to 3 people for €20 and you can book online or a taxi.

Feel free to use our links for discounts. By using our links, you will help us continue with the website maintenance and will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys. 

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

Romanian Food: Best 56 Romanian Dishes And Traditional Food In Romania To Try - Gamintraveler

Friday 27th of August 2021

[…] Read here the best Romania sim card for tourist and how to get from Bucharest airport to city center. […]

Best Romania Sim Card For Tourist And How To Buy A Prepaid Sim Card in Romania - Gamintraveler

Saturday 14th of August 2021

[…] It’s hard to travel without Internet because you’ll need your GPS to track your location for using apps. Besides, reading guides from blogs prepare you beforehand. Also your own SIM is important for communicating with locals and meeting other travelers. Read here how to get from Bucharest airport to city center. […]

Saturday 31st of July 2021

There is direct train between City Gare De Nord and OTP airport. It’s the most convenient and cost efficient way to go between city and airport. It cost less than $2 per person. It’s only a short walk between station and airport terminals. Don’t go taxi from airport as they are not truthful.

Ruben Arribas

Thanks Ninan! I will be updating soon the information. Do you know the exact price, schedule and travel time?

Bucharest Airport Trains

Bucharest Airport is the major starting point of people who wants to visit Bucharest and the rest of Romania as it is connected to wide range of transportation like the train. The best Bucharest Airport trains are Henri Coanda Express trains that can offer connection from the airport to Bucharest North Railway Station. You can go to the train station from the airport with the help of scheduled shuttle buses. The schedule of these buses is synchronized with the train schedule. If you are not in a hurry, then it is best to experience riding a train in Romania.

You can find these buses in front of International Arrivals and departures Terminal. You can get a ticket valid for the bus and train and it will cost you around 6 RON or 1.50 Euro per ticket. There is a timetable for your reference. This is a direct Bucharest Airport trains to main railway station of Gara de Nord that runs from the airport station for about 900 m. There is an airport expansion that will connect the train station within the airport.

As a first time tourist, you need to become aware that not all trains and stations in Romania are in good condition. Some of them are dirty and very slow. If you want to reach your next destination on time, then this is not the kind of transportation for you. If you need to follow strict itinerary, then you will experience delay if you will ride the train. This is an overpriced service that is inefficient. A train ride from Transylvania going to Bucharest can offer amazing experience. Conductors never close doors to allow passengers to stand close to the entryway to see wonderful sceneries.

Bucharest Airport trains main station Gara de Nord is located at northwest of the city center. You will also find a metro station below the main station that can take you to different places you want to go. You can get ticket from the airport and it is better to buy one right after you arrive to avoid being late for your schedule. Bucharest Airport trains are considered cheaper than car rental services, but if you want convenience and peace of mind you will definitely opt for a rent a car service instead of sacrificing your vacation experience by riding a public train. This is an important note to remember especially if you will travel with your kids.