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How Much it Cost to Travel to Bucharest: Detailed Prices

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

What is the average price of a hotel 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, how much does it cost to visit top attractions in bucharest, what’s the average price of food and drink in bucharest.

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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What are the costs of transportation in bucharest, 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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Is Bucharest Expensive?

• Is Bucharest expensive?

How expensive is Bucharest?

• How expensive is a weekend trip to Bucharest?
• How expensive is a one week trip to Bucharest?

Is it expensive to backpack in Bucharest?

Are hotels expensive in bucharest.

• How expensive are activities in Bucharest?

Is food expensive in Bucharest?

Is transportation expensive in bucharest, is bucharest expensive to visit.

Bucharest is a moderately priced destination with an average daily cost of $140. Compared to the rest of Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, it is a moderately priced place to visit. It's ranked in the top 50% of cities in Europe for its travel costs, comparable to places like Innsbruck and Naples.

The average cost of traveling to Bucharest can vary widely based on many factors, but our calculations based on previous travlers show that the average daily cost is $140 (U.S. Dollars). Your travel style, accommodation preferences, dining choices, and trip duration can alter your individual budget, as you can find a wide array of accommodation, food, and entertainment options available for your visit. Sticking to mid-range hotels, affordable restaurants, and public transit when available can keep your costs close to this calculated average. See more travel costs for Bucharest here .

How expensive is a weekend trip (three days) to Bucharest?

Based on our calculations from previous travelers, a weekend trip to Bucharest will cost around $420 per person. This amount includes sightseeing activities, hotels, restaurants, local transportation, and other travel expenses. For two people, a weekend trip would cost $841.

How expensive is a one week (7-day) trip to Bucharest?

On average, a one week trip to Bucharest costs about $981 per person. This is based on the previous expenses of actual travelers, and includes accommodation, food, activities, local transportation, and more. For two people, a one week trip costs $1,961.

Bucharest is a popular backpacker destination with more than 20 hostels. Dorm beds in hostels cost, on average, $15 per night. (See hostel prices in Bucharest here .) You'll find quite a range in prices here, too. The most expensive beds are priced around $39 and the cheapest around $5 per night.

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

• $20 for a dorm bed at T5 Social more details
• $19 for a dorm bed at BEDSY more details
• $15 for a dorm bed at Nest Boutique Hostel more details

Considering our analysis of hotel prices in Bucharest , it becomes apparent that they are fairly even and moderately priced in comparison to hotels in other cities. On average, you can expect to spend around $48 per night for a hotel room. The city is home to approximately 10 five-star hotels, presenting an average rate of $95 per night. For a balanced choice catering to both comfort and cost-effectiveness, three-star hotels provide an average rate of $49 per night, while two-star hotels offer an even more budget-friendly alternative at $31 per night.

My Hotel Apartments

Crystal palace hotel bucharest, how expensive are sightseeing activities in bucharest.

Activities and things to do in Bucharest can vary in price depending on the type of activity, length, and location. Below are a number of popular activities to give you an idea of what to expect when visiting. Generally, previous travelers have spent $15 per day on sightseeing activities and things to do when visiting, which is more than the country's average of $9.

• Bran Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov City - Private Tour from Bucharest Viator $ 245
• Bran Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov City - Private Tour from Bucharest : $245
• Highlights of Bucharest 4h private Tour: $121
• 4x4 Nature Tour in Land of Dracula - 1 day: $204
• Dracula Castle, Peles Castle & Brasov-Private Tour from Bucharest: $166
• Bicycle Sightseeing in Bucharest: $39
• Tuk Tuk Bucharest Romantic Tour - miniBAR included: $132
• Dracula Castle Private Tour with Brasov City and Peles Castle: $166
• 8h Dracula's Castle Private Tour from Bucharest - Fast Tour: $286

Food in Bucharest can vary in price depending on the restaurant and food options available. Generally, other travelers have spent $59 on food per person per day, which is more than the country's average of $28. To save money, eat at less expensive restaurants, try street food, or cook your own meals when possible.

• Bucharest: Dinner inside the Museum of Communism & private tour Viator $ 55
• Bucharest: Dinner inside the Museum of Communism & private tour: $55
• Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $88
• Discover Bucharest: Private Highlights and Traditional Food Tour: $110
• Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $61
• Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $88
• Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $143

The prices of local transportation in Bucharest can vary by the type of transit used. Other travelers have spent an average of $27 on local transportation per person per day, which is more than the country's average of $22. To save money, take public transit whenever possible, as it will almost always be cheaper than a taxi or private driver.

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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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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The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Bucharest Itinerary

Last Updated on December 11, 2023

by Emily Marty

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

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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City of Bucharest - capital of Romania, Visitor Information

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Bucharest Fast Facts

Location: Southern Romania Elevation: 190 - 295 ft (55 - 90 m) Area: 88 sq.miles (228 sq.km); Metropolitan area: 590 sq.miles (1,530 sq.km) Inhabited since: 500 BC First documented: 1459 AD Capital city since: 1659 Population: 2.4 million

Known for its wide, tree-lined boulevards, glorious Belle Époque buildings and a reputation for the high life (which in the early 1900s earned its nickname of "Little Paris"), Bucharest, Romania's largest city and capital, is today a bustling metropolis. Legend has it that the city of Bucharest was founded by a shepherd named Bucur, whose name literarily means "joy." His flute playing reportedly dazzled the people and his hearty wine from nearby vineyards endeared him to the local traders, who gave his name to the place.

Bucharest Sights and Landmarks

Arcul de Triumf Address: Piata Arcul de Triumf

Built in 1922 to honor the Romanian soldiers who fought WWI, Bucharest's Arch of Triumph also symbolizes Romania's latin heritage and its strong ties with France. The monument was redecorated in 1936 with base-reliefs carved in marble brought from Rușchița - Transylvania. The sculptures were created by leading Romanian artists - including Ion Jalea, Constantin Medrea and Constantin Baraschi - and ten Italian sculptors. Every weekend, June through October, visitors can climb to the top of the 90 feet-high structure, via an interior staircase, for a panoramic view of the city.

Stroll along Calea Victoriei starting at Piata Victoriei and go on till its end at Piata Natiunilor Unite. Stunning buildings line Calea Victoriei, including the Cantacuzino Palace, the former Headquarters of the Romanian Communist Party, the Military Club, the Palace of the Savings Bank and the National History Museum.

Cantacuzino Palace Palatul Cantacuzino Address: Calea Victoriei 141 Curently closed to visitors, ample preservation works in progress, The former residence of Grigore Cantacuzino (nicknamed Nababul - the Nabab) is one of the most beautiful structures that line Calea Victoriei. A member of Cantacuzino princely family, former mayor of Bucharest, minister and Prime Minister, Grigore Cantacuzino was considered, in late 1800s, to be one of the wealthiest Romanians. His desire to have the most elegant residence in all Bucharest became a reality in 1902. This beautiful Beaux Arts palace, designed by architect Ion Berindey, features superb wrought iron balconies, tall arched windows and a porte-cochere flanked by two lions. Today, the palace houses the George Enescu Museum , dedicated to one of Romania's greatest musicians.

Piata Revolutiei One of Bucharest's ares most often associated with the 1989 unrest that lead to the demise of Romania's Communist Regime is Piata Revolutiei. Revolution Square gained international notoriety when TV stations around the globe broadcasted Romania's Communist leader Nicolae Ceausescu's final moments in power, on December 21, 1989. From the balcony of the former Communist Party Headquarters, Nicolae Ceausescu stared in disbelief as the people gathered in the square, as his request, turned on him. He fled the angry crowd in his helicopter and his 34-years in power ended. Revolution square's importance stretches back long before the dramatic events of the 1989 Revolution. On the west side of the square stands the former Royal Palace, now home to the National Art Museum and the small, but beautiful, Kretzulescu Church. On the opposite side of the Royal Palace stands the stunning Romanian Athenaeum, an 1,000-seat music venue known for its excellent acoustics and huge frescoes that depict important moments in Romania's history.

Palatul Regal Address: Calea Victoriei 49 - 53 Completed in 1937, in neoclassical style, Bucharest Royal Palace was home to King Carol II and to his son, King Mihai I, until 1947, when the monarchy was abolished in Romania. It was inside this palace that King Mihai, then aged 18, led a coup that displaced the pro-Nazi government during the World War II and put Romania on the Allies' side. Today, the former Royal palace houses Romania's National Art Museum .

The Romanian Athenaeum Atheneul Roman Address: Strada Benjamin Franklin 1 Tel: (+4) 021 315.00.26 The Romanian Athenauem was designed by Albert Galleron, the French architect who also designed the National Bank of Romania. The construction of the Athenaeum was financed almost entirely with money donated by the general public. When the original patrons ran out of funds the project was rescued by a successful fundraising campaign with the slogan Dati un leu pentru Ateneu (Donate a coin for the Athenaeum). The Athenaeum was completed in 1888. Its high dome and Doric columns resemble an ancient temple. The lobby has a beautifully painted ceiling decorated in gold leaf, while curved balconies cascade in ringlets off a spiral staircase. A ring of pink marble columns is linked by flowing arches where elaborate brass lanterns hang like gems from a necklace. Inside the concert hall, voluptuous frescoes cover the ceiling and walls. Renowned worldwide for its outstanding acoustics, it is Bucharest's most prestigious concert hall and home of the Romanian Philharmonic Orchestra. The Romanian Athenaeum is open to visitors - visit planning info

Biserica Cretulescu Address: Calea Victoriei 47 Nestled amid the other historical buildings in Piata Revolutiei, this small red-brick Orthodox church was built in 1722 by the chancellor Iordache Kretzulescu and his wife, Safta (a daughter of prince Constantin Brancoveanu) in Brancovenesc architectural style. The interior frescoes were executed around 1860 by painter Gheorghe Tattarescu.

Sala Mare a Palatului Address: Strada Ion Câmpineanu 28 Located next to the Royal Palace, the concave-roof structure was built in 1960 to accommodate the 3,000 Communist party members who every five years attended the communist party congress. It was on this stage that Nicolae Ceausescu would deliver his vision of a multilaterally developed socialist society. Today, the massive auditorium plays host to various conferences and events, including some of the George Enescu International Festival concerts.

Cercul Militar National (or Casa Armatei) Address: Strada Constantin Mile 1 Tel: (+4) 021 313.86.80 This neoclassical masterpiece, designed by Romanian architect Dimitrie Maimaroiu, was built in 1912 to serve the social, cultural and educational needs of the Romanian army. Banquets and official events are still hosted in the ballrooms, while the upstairs area is reserved for the army's library, as well as offices and classrooms for officer instruction. The main part of the building is off-limits to civilians, but the sumptuous restaurant and summer terrace is open to the public.

Palatul CEC / Palatul Casei de Economii si Consemnatiuni Address: Calea Victoriei 13 Boasting one of the most impressive neoclassical facades in the city, this structure, designed by French architect Paul Gottereanu, was completed at the end of the 19th century.

The square-shaped palace, home of the first Romanian Savings Bank, has a large central glass dome, flanked by four smaller domes. The arch at the entrance, with its Corinthian columns, is a highlight of any architectural tour of the city.

Old Town Bucharest / Lipscani street Area Centrul Vechi / strada Lipscani At the beginning of 1400s, most merchants and craftsmen - Romanian, Austrian, Greek, Armenian and Jewish - established their stores and shops in this section of the city; a jumble of streets between Calea Victoriei, Blvd. Bratianu, Blvd. Regina Elisabeta and the Dambovita River. Soon, the area became known as Lipscani, named for the many German traders from Lipsca or Leiptzig. Other streets took on the names of various old craft communities and guilds, such as Blanari (furriers), Covaci (blacksmiths), Gabroveni (knife makers) and Cavafii Vechii (shoe-makers). The mix of nationalities and cultures is reflected in the mishmash of architectural styles, from baroque to neoclassical to art nouveau. Today, the area is home to art galleries, antique shops, coffeehouses, restaurants and night-clubs. While walking in the narrow cobblestone streets one can imagine the long-gone shopkeepers outside near their stores, inviting bypassers to buy their merchandise. Old Town Bucharest map

Old Princely Court Palatul si Biserica Curtea Veche Address: Strada Franceza 25 - 31 Currently closed for restoration works. Telephone: (+4) 021 314.03.75 The remains of the Old Princely Court (Curtea Veche) - commissioned in the 15th century by prince Vlad Tepes (or Vlad Draculea) - are located at southern edge of Bucharest Old Town. Historians believe that, Vlad the Impaler kept his prisoners in dungeons which beneath his Princely Court. The Old Court Museum was established in 1972 when an archaeological dig revealed the remains of the fortress, walls, arches, tombstones and a Corinthian column along with Dacian pottery and Roman coins and other evidence of Bucharest's earliest inhabitants. The oldest document attesting to the city's origin under the name of Bucuresti (Bucharest) was discovered here also; it was issued on September 20, 1459 and signed by Prince Vlad Tepes. Next to Bucharest Old Princely Court stands the Old Court Church (Biserica Curtea Veche) , dating from 1559 - considered the oldest in Bucharest. Some of the original 16th century frescoes have been preserved. For two centuries, the church served as coronation venue for Romanian princes.

Hanul lui Manuc Address: Strada Franceza 62 - 64 Tel: (+4) 021 313.14.11 Built in 1804 at the request of wealthy Armenian trader Emanuel Marzaian (called by the Turks "Manuc Bey"), the inn hosted the preliminary talks concerning the Peace Treaty that put an end to the Russian -Turkish War (1806-1812). A favorite meeting place for tradesmen, Manuc's Inn has preserved to this day its character and flavor. A restaurant, wine cellar and a pastry shop are now welcoming guests from all over the world.

The Beer Wagon Restaurant Carul cu Bere Address: Strada Stavropoleos 3 - 5 Tel: (+4) 021 313.75.60 The Beer Wagon restaurant/ beer house became, soon after the opening in 1879, one of the most popular meeting places for Bucharest's literati who would gather to discuss matters of their time. Its neo-gothic architectural style is reflected both in the façades and the interior decorations: columns, arches, chandeliers, a wooden staircase, furniture and murals on the walls and ceiling.

Banca Nationala a Romaniei Address: Strada Lipscani 25 The National Bank of Romania (BNR) stands on the site of, well-known at its time, inn ( Hanul Serban Voda ), open in 1678. Two fires gutted the building and in 1883 the land was leveled and work to build a home for Romania's National Bank begun. The new structure, designed by French architects Cassien Bernard and Albert Galleron, was completed in 1885. The neoclassical French-style structure boasts a facade with Corinthian columns and an enormous central hall.

Piata Universitatii Buzzing with crowds and traffic from early morning until late at night, this area is one of the most popular meeting places in Bucharest. The square features remarkable architecture: Bucharest School of Architecture, the National Theatre, the neoclassical Coltea Hospital and its lovely church (1702 - 1794) and Sutu Palace, now home to the Bucharest History & Art Museum . In the middle of the circle, on a little 'island', 10 stone crosses pay respect to those killed during the 1989 revolution. Below the circle there is an underground passage, with small shops, that offer pedestrians access to the one side of the circle and to University Circle ( Piata Universitatii ) subway station.

Universitatea Bucuresti Address: Blvd. Regina Elizabeta / University Circle Bucharest is Romania's largest and foremost centre of higher education. The University of Bucharest was founded in 1864 by prince Alexandru Ioan Cuza, ruler of the newly united principalities of Walachia and Moldova. The home of the university is a neoclassical building (completed in 1859) located in the heart of Romania's capital city. In the small square next to the University building book merchants are offering anything from antique books to vinyl records, discontinued newspapers and illustrated broadsheets from another age.

Casa Presei Libere Address: Piata Presei Libere 1 A masive edifice standing in the northern part of Bucharest, since 1956, Casa Scanteii (as it is still universally known) was designed by architect Horia Maicu. The building is a smaller replica of the Lomonosov University in Moscow - Russia.   Between 1956 and 1989, the House of the Free Press housed almost all of Romania's capital printing presses and headquarters of print media companies. Today, Casa Presei Libere carries out much the same function but the southern wing is now the home of the Bucharest Stock Exchange.

Spitalul Coltea Address: Blvd. I.C. Bratianu 1 The oldest hospital in Bucharest, dating from 1704, Coltea was built on land belonging to Vacaresti family, who at the time owned many great properities in the capital. The original building was destroyed by an earthquake in 1802 and replaced by a neoclassical building still standing today. Next to the hospital stands a church, built in 1701, known for its its spectacular murals.

Palatul Sutu Address: Blvd. I. C. Bratianu 2 Famous for the grandiose balls held here in the early 1900s, Sutu Palace was built in Neo-Gothic style between 1832 and 1834. It was designed by architects Johann Veit and Konrad Schwinck at the request of commissioned by foreign affairs minister Costache Sutu. In 1862, the palace was redecorated by sculptor Karl Storck, who created three arcades and a monumental stairway; a huge Murano mirror was added in the hallway. Only the painted ceilings, the stucco, the parquet flooring and the tile stoves have been preserved. In 1959, Sutu Palace became home to Bucharest History & Art Museum

Bucharest Communist legacy

Romania's Parliament Palace Palatul Parlamentului Address: Strada Izvor 2 - 4 Tel: (+4) 021 311.36.11 Open to visitors: Mon. - Sun. Bucharest Palace of Parliament Hours and Admission

Built at the special request of Nicolae Ceausescu, leader of Romania's Communist Party, the colossal Parliament Palace - formerly known as "People's House" ( Casa Poporului ) - is the world's third-largest administrative building, after Surat Diamond Bourse (India) and U. S. Pentagon. It took 20,000 workers and 700 architects to build this masive structure that boasts 12 stories above ground, 1,100 rooms, a 350-ft.-long lobby and eight underground levels, including an enormous nuclear bunker.

When construction started on June 25, 1984, the building was intended it to be the headquarters of the country's Communist government. Today, it houses Romania's Parliament, Bucharest International Conference Centre and the Museum of Modern Art. Built, furnished and decorated exclusively with materials sourced and made in Romania, the building reflects the work of the country's best artisans. A guided tour takes visitors through a small section of dazzling rooms, huge halls and quarters used by the Senate (when not in session). The interior is a luxurious display of crystal chandeliers, mosaics, oak paneling, marble, gold leaf, stained-glass windows and floors covered in rich carpets. Curtains in some rooms of the Parliament Palace rise to a whopping 54 feet.

Planing your visit to Bucharest Palace of Parliament:

Valid passport or national Identity Card is required to gain access to the Palace of Parliament.

Groups (10 or more visitors): reservations are mandatory. Please E-mail a tour reservation request containing the following information: - number of participants, - exact date & approximate time of arrival, - coach license plate, - guide (English or French language) - type of tour desired (standard, standard + terrace or standard + terrace + the underground).

Group tours need to be reconfirmed, on the day prior to the visit — please call (+4) 021 311.36.11

Palace of Parliament Visiting Rules and Regulations

Romania’s Parliament Palace, Bucharest Facts and Figures:

Location 1 mile southwest of Bucharest Old Town ( Centrul Vechi ), on the very place (once called Dealul Arsenalului – Armory Hill) on which, in 1935, king Carol II of Romania had planned to build Romania’s House of Representatives ( Camera Deputatilor ).

Public transportation Nearest bus station: Pod Izvor (Bus # 104, 123, 124, 136, 385), 7 minutes walk Nearest subway station: Izvor M1 (yellow) and M3 (red) , 0.4 miles north of/10 minutes walk / to Visitor Entrance.

Size: Height: 282 ft. (89 metres) Width: 788 ft. (240 metres) Length: 886 ft. (270 metres) Number of stories: 12 above ground and 8 underground Built-up area: 3.8 million sq. ft. (359,000 sq.m.) Foot print: 7,1 million sq. ft. (66.000 sq.m.) Volume: 90 million cu. ft. (2.55 million cu. metres) The Palace of the Romanian Parliament is the world's Heaviest Building!

Quantities of construction materials used to build the Palace: 35.3 million ft³ (1,000,000 m³) of marble 31.8 million ft³ (900,000 m³) of different essences of wood 2.2 million ft³ (200,000 m³) of glass 4.4 billion lbs. (2,000,000 tonnes) of sand 1.5 billion lbs. (700,000 metric tones) of steel and bronze 12.1 million lbs. (5,500 tonnes) of cement 2.2 million lbs. (1,000 de tonnes) of basalt stone 177 million ft³ (5,000,000 m³) of concrete

Materials used for finishes and decorations: 7.8 million lbs. (3,500 de tonnes) of crystal 2.4 million ft² (220,000 m²) of carpets 37,675 ft² (3,500 m²) of calf skin 2,800 chrystal chandeliers 1,409 ceiling light fixtures and mirrors

Other facts: 20.000 cars can be parked in the underground of the building, The underground has two anti-atomic shelters with 5 ft. thick walls and radioactive radiation protection, There are 1,100 rooms, 34 large function/ conference halls (fixed-seats or open-space), four restaurants, three libraries, two underground parking and one concert hall. All the materials used to build the palace have been produced or made in Romania, except: - a small quantity of exotic wood that cannot be found in Romania, - the doors of Nicolae Balcescu Conference Hall, a gift to Nicolae Ceausescu from Mobutu Sese Seko, at the time President of the Republic of Zaire (today Democratic Republic of Congo), - ventilation pumps with special filters, imported from Sweden.

National Cathedral Catedrala Mântuirii Neamului Address: Calea 13 Septembrie nr. 4 - 60 -- located next (southwest) to Romania's Parliament Building Telephone: (+4) 021 406.82.79 The National Cathedral (official name: Cathedral Church of Redemption) is the largest place or worship in Romania. Although innaugurated in 2018, interior decoration works, using marble, mosaics and stain glass, is still in progress. Cathedral will not be open to visitors before completion of decoration works which are scheduled to be completed at the end of 2025. Besides ample worship space, the Cathedral is home to the Museum of Christianity in Romania, two large function rooms and a bookshop.

Romania National Cathedral facts and figures: The National cathedral is 394 ft. high, 414 ft. long and 220 ft. wide (60% larger than a football field). Usable Square Footage: 172,340 sq. ft. Floor area: 121,054 sq. ft. First floor area: 44,845 sq. ft. Worship space capacity: 5,000 people standing or 1,000 seating 28 bronze doors and 392 staine glass windows # of elevators: 8 Several viewpoints to see the worship space are located 184 ft., above the main floor. The open-air observation deck (300 ft.) wraps around the main bell tower and provides 360-degree views of Bucharest The Cathedral is home to world's largest iconostasis (78 ft. wide and 56 ft. high), 45 Byzantine icons are depicted on 8,612 sq. ft. of colorful mosaics. The indoor mosaics in the entire cathedral cover over 269,100 sq. ft.; the largest in the world. Six bells call to worship; the largest (10 ft. high) weights 25 tons can be heard from 10 miles distance. The names of over 350,000 heroes who lost their lives for Romania, at various times, are engraved on the altar.

Centrul Civic Nicolae Ceausescu's building megalomania is perhaps best illustrated by with the construction of the Civic Centre, an area located at the south end of the Palace of Parliament along Bulevardul Unirii. The redevelopment of the area was supervised by Romania's Communist leader himself. More than three square miles ( eight square km. or 2,000 acres) of buildings in the old section of the city (including private residences, shops, two churches, a hospital and a noted Art Deco sports stadium) were leveled to make room for the construction of Stalinist apartment buildings topped with neoclassical follies.

Biserica Sfintii Apostoli Address: Str. Sfintii Apostoli 1 Tel: (+4) 021 336.07.84 One of the oldest churches in Bucharest (with parts dating back to the 16th century and a steeple built in 1715), the Apostles' Church is brimming with some rather strange portraits that are well worth seeing.

Catedrala Patriarhală Sfinții Împărați Constantin și Elena Address: Aleea Dealul Mitropoliei 2 Set atop one of the city's few hills, known as "Dealul Mitropoliei" , the Patriarchal Cathedral - the seat of the Romanian Orthodox Church - in has been the centerpiece of the Romanian Orthodox faith since the 17th century. The church was commissioned by Constantin Serban Basarab, voivode of the province of Walachia and completed 1658. Design of the structure was inspired by Curtea de Arges monastery. The Byzantine interior, containing the most dazzling of the city's iconostasis, as well as a couple of exquisitely carved side altars, bestows great beauty on the services presided over by the Romanian Patriarch. A huge crowd gathers here for the Easter midnight service. The outstanding bell-tower at the entrance was built in 1698 and restored in 1958. Next to the church, not open to the public, is the Patriarchal Palace (1708), residence of the Patriarhul Teoctist (Theoctistus), supreme leader of the Romanian Orthodox Church.

Biserica Stavropoleos Address: Str. Stavropoleos 4 Tel: (+4) 021 313.47.47 Stavropoleos Church was built in 1724 by the Greek monk Ioanikie Stratonikeas. Featuring a combination of Romanian and Byzantine architecture, it has a beautiful façade and a delicately carved columned entrance. Surrounded by a peaceful garden, it is an architectural jewel, with beautiful frescoes and wood-painted icons. The mass (in Romanian) is worth viewing if you can find room in this small and cozy church.

Catedrala Sfantul Iosif Address: Str. General H M Berthelot 19 Tel: (+4) 021 312.12.08 The red brick Roman Catholic, innaugurated in 1884) combines Gothic and Roman elements. Organ recitals are held every week.

Biserica Sfantul Nicolae Address: Str. Ion Ghica 9 Tel: (+4) 021 314.64.50 Built in 1909 by the Russian Tsar Nicholas II for 600,000 gold rubles, this Orthodox Church has a wooden, gold-gilded iconostasis allegedly modeled after the altar in the Archangelskiy Cathedral in Moscow.

Jewish Bucharest

Bucharest is home to one of the oldest and most important Jewish communities in Romania. Sephardic Jews arrived here in the 16th century. Around the beginning of the 17th century, during the Cossack uprising, the first Ashkenazi Jews came from Ukraine and Poland. A sacred brotherhood, a charity box and a prayer house were registered in 1715.

Some of the synagogues built during the 18th and 19th century also featured ritual baths (mikve). By 1832, 10 holy houses had been established. Their number would increase significantly before the end of the century, almost every one having its own Rabbi and cult performers.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the Jewish population in Bucharest numbered 40,000 people with 70 temples and synagogues. From this great number, only a few survived the brutality of history - fascism and communism - and two still serve the city's present Jewish community.

Muzeul de Istorie si Cultura a Evreilor din Romania "Dr. Nicolae Cajal" Address: Strada Mamulari 3 Tel: (+4) 021 315.08.37 Open: Mon. - Thu.: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sun. 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Closed: Fri., Sat., on Jewish holidays and on Romania national holidays. Admission Charge Housed in the magnificently preserved Great Synagogue (1850) in the city's historic Jewish neighborhood, Bucharest's Museum of the History and Culture of the Jewish Community presents the history of Romania's Jewish population. The displays include a collection of books written, published, illustrated or translated by Romanian Jews, paintings of and by Romanian Jews (many of the same artists' works are exhibited in the National Museum of Art) and memorabilia from Jewish theatres including the State Jewish Theatre. The museum also contains a large collection of Jewish ritual objects, collected by Rabbi Moses Rosen (1912-1994), the late Chief Rabbi of the Romanian Jewry.

Templul Coral Address: Strada Sfanta Vineri 9 Tel: (+4) 021 312.21.96 Resembling Vienna’s Leopoldstadt-Tempelgasse Great Synagogue, the Choral Temple in Bucharest was constructed in 1864 -- 1866, after plans by Enderle and Freiwald. It is the largest active synagogue in Bucharest, noted for its yellow and red arabesque-style bricks decorations, Moorish turrets, choir loft and organ. Other interesting features include the ladies’ galleries - two floors of seating for women. Choral Temple welcomes visitors, passport is required to access the building.

Sinagoga Yeshoah Tova Address: Strada Tache Ionescu 9 On a busy, narrow, street just off Magheru Bulevard (one of Bucharest's busiest) stands the only other functioning synagogue in the city, apart from the Choral Temple. Services take place at Sabbath hour on Fridays and Saturdays.

Bucharest Jewish Community Comunitatea Evreilor din Bucuresti Address: Strada Sfanta Vineri 9 Tel: (+4) 021 313.17.82

Bucharest Museums

Bucharest Art Collections Museum Muzeul Colectiilor de Arta

Founded in 1978, the Art Collections Museum, houses private collections donated over the course of time. Collections include European and Oriental art works. Address: Calea Victoriei 111 Tel: (+4) 021 212.96.41 Admission charge

Bucharest History & Art Museum Muzeul Municipiului Bucuresti Housed in the neoclassical Sutu Palace (1834), the museum features some 300,000 artifacts, from coins, books, maps, engravings, paintings, arms and furniture to old traditional costumes. Among the most valuable exhibits are the document attesting for the first time the name of the city of Bucharest, issued by Vlad Tepes in 1459, and a sword set in precious stones that belonged to Prince Constantin Brancoveanu (1688-1714). Address: Blvd. I.C.Bratianu 2 Tel: (+4) 021 315.68.58 Open: Wed. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission charge

Address: Sos. Kiseleff 3 A small, but fascinating, room is home to an interesting collection of communist-era bust sculptures (including that of Lenin), paintings and memorabilia.

Cotroceni Palace & Museum Muzeul National Cotroceni A former royal residence built between 1679 and 1681 by Prince and ruler Serban Cantacuzino, the palace was home to King Carol I, who made important changes in its architecture. At the end of the 19th century, Heir-to-the-Crown Ferdinand ordered the partial demolition of the palace, which was later reconstructed by French architect Paul Gottereau in neoclassical style. In 1977, Nicolae Ceausescu transformed it into an official guesthouse with the addition of a new wing. After 1990, the old wing of the palace became a museum. The Oriental Hall, the Norwegian Hall and the Queen's Chamber are almost unchanged from the original design and are worth visiting. A rich collection of medieval art can alsi be seen at Cotroceni Palace. The new wing serves as the offices of the President of Romania. Address: Bd. Geniului 1 Tel: (+4) 021 317.31.07 Open: Tuesday through Sunday (closed during national holidays) Admission charge (Guided tours are available in English) Note: Visits by appointment only; fore reservatrions please call (+4) 0725 518.381 or E-mail Cotroceni Palace.

George Enescu - Museum of Romanian Music Muzeul National George Enescu Housed in the spectacular Cantacuzino Palace, George Enescu museum displays documents and various objects that belonged to Romanian composer and violinist George Enescu (1881-1955). Among items exhibited there is a Bach music collection he received as a gift from Queen Elisabeta of Romania. A world-class violinist, Enescu studied at the Vienna Conservatory, where he met German composer Johannes Brahms and where he also gave his first concerts. In Paris, Enescu graduated from the French Conservatory in 1899. His best-known works, the Romanian Rhapsodies , earned him national and international fame. In 1936, his Oedipe tragic opera premiered in Paris and Enescu was awarded the French Legion of Honor award for the composition. A member of the Romanian Academy and corresponding member of the Institute of France, George Enescu was the teacher of renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin. Every two years, the Romanian Athenaeum celebrates the maestro by hosting the George Enescu International Festival . Address: Calea Victoriei 141 Tel: (+4) 021 318.14.50 Open: Tue. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission charge

Natural History Museum "Grigore Antipa" Muzeul National de Istorie Naturala Natural History Museum "Grigore Antipa" is the largest of its kind in Romania, home to rich collections of reptiles, fish, birds and mammals as well as more than 300,000 artifacts and specimens are on display, including a dinosaur fossil. A whole floor is dedicated to sea life and features examples of whales, dolphins and seals. The museum also contains an unique collection of butterflies. Address: Sos. Kiseleff 1 Tel: (+4) 021 312.88.26 Hours / Admission

Dr. Nicolae Minovici Museum of Folk Art Muzeul de Arta Populara Dr. Nicolae Minovici Museum museum is home to the unique collection of folk art of Dr. Minovici - founder of the Legal Medicine Association of Romania and publisher of the Romanian journal of Legal Medicine. Items on display include traditional garbs and carpets from Bucovina (NE Romania) and from Walachia (southern Romania), ceramic, glass-painted icons from Transylvania as well as early to mid-1900s works by Romanian artists Eustaţiu Stoenescu, Arthur Verona, Bednarik, Costin Petrescu. Address: Str. Dr. Minovici 1 Tel: (+4) 021 665.73.34 Admission charge

Ing. Dumitru Furnica Minovici Western Old Art Museum Muzeul de Arta Veche Apuseana The Gothic - Tudor mansion of ing. Dumitru Minovici, who made a fortune in the oil business in the 1930s, is now a small but interesting museum that features a collection renaissance art as well as Belgian tapestries, Dutch furniture, Swiss stained glass, a rich collection of rare books and Italian paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries. Address: Str. Dr. Minovici 3 Tel: (+4) 021 665.73.34 Admission charge

Museum of the Romanian Peasant Muzeul Taranului Roman Address: Sos. Kiseleff 3 Tel: (+4) 021 317.96.60 Open: Tue. - Sun.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission charge Opened in 1906, the museum features the richest folk art collection in Romania, with over 90,000 artifacts that trace the colorful and diverse cultural life of the Romanian people. The Pottery Collection includes some 18,000 items, representative of the most important pottery centres in the country. The oldest ceramic item found in the museum bears the inscription 1746. Equally impressive, the Costume Collection comprises almost 20,000 traditional folk costumes, some dating from the beginning of the 19th century, giving visitors insight into the styles and traditions of the Romanian peasants. The displays dip into all aspects of life in the Romanian countryside. Exhibits of agricultural tools, carpets, icons, furniture, photographs and films build up a complete picture of Romanian folk culture. In one of the galleries, you can see a wooden church and in another, a wooden peasant house. Four more wooden churches stand in the outdoor museum area. In 1996, the museum was named European Museum of the Year. Visitors can buy regional handcrafts and textiles in the museum's extensive gift shop.

National Art Museum Muzeul National de Arta Address: Calea Victoriei 49 - 53 Tel: (+4) 021 313.30.30 Open: Wed. – Sun.. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (May - September); Wed. - Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (October - April) Admission charge (English-speaking guides available) Romania's leading art museum was founded in 1948 to house the former Royal Collection, which included Romanian and European art dating from the 15th to the 20th century. Located in the neoclassical former Royal Palace, set amid a wealth of historic buildings such as the Romanian Athenaeum, Kretzulescu Church and the Hotel Athenee Palace, the museum currently exhibits over 100,000 works divided into two major sections. Its National Gallery features the works of major Romanian artists, including Grigorescu, Aman and Andreescu. There is also a roomful of early Brancusi sculpture, such as you won't find anywhere else, demonstrating how he left his master, Rodin, behind in a more advanced form of expression. The European Gallery, comprising some 15 rooms, displays little-known art gems of El Greco, Monet, Rembrandt, Renoir, Breughels (father and son) Cezanne and Rubens. If you only have time to visit one gallery, make it the Romanian one. It is the most complete collection of Romanian works of art in the country and quite possibly, the world.

National Geology Museum Muzeul National de Geologie Address: Sos. Kiseleff 2 Tel: (+4) 031 438.17.44 Open: Mon. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission charge Impressive collections of minerals and quartz formations are on display at Bucharest Geology Museum, including a well-presented geological structure of Romania's territory.

  National History Museum Muzeul National de Istorie al Romaniei Address: Calea Victoriei 12 Tel: (+4) 021 315.82.07 Open: Wed. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Housed in a 1900s neoclassical building that once served as the city's main post office, the museum offers a great introduction to the exciting history of Romania. Spread throughout 41 rooms, the exhibits recount the country's development from prehistoric times to the 20th century. The highlight is the National Treasury Hall where visitors can enjoy a dazzling display of some 3,000 gold items, including jewelry and valuable Neolithic artifacts. Among the displays are the 12 pieces of the 4th century Pietroasele Treasure Collection. First presented at the 1867 World's Fair in Paris, it was considered the most valuable treasure collection in the world (the tomb of Tutankamon had not yet been discovered). One year later, the collection was displayed at the Second Annual International Exhibition in London and in 1872, at the International Exhibition in Vienna.

National Military Museum Muzeul Militar National "Regele Ferdinand I" Address: Str. Mircea Vulcanescu 125 - 127 Tel: (+4) 021 638.76.30 Open: Tue. - Sun. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission charge Founded in 1972, the museum illustrates the most important battles for independence and freedom in Romanian history. The museum features collections of Oriental and Occidental weapons, Romanian and foreign uniforms, military medals and awards, trophies, artillery, canons and airplanes as well as a library of historical military documents. The centerpiece is the 1989 Revolution exhibit, displaying mainly personal belongings donated by families of soldiers and civilians killed during the upheaval.

National Museum of Contemporary Art Muzeul National de Arta Contemporana Address: Calea 13 Septembrie 1, Intrarea E4 Tel: (+4) 021 411.10.40 Open: Wed. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission charge Bucharest's newest museum, the MNAC, as it is often called by museum-goers, displays works of Romania's contemporary artists as well as many temporary exhibits by international artists. The museum is housed in a wing of the Palace of Parliament, the space which would have served as Nicolae and Ileana Ceausescu's private apartment (where just the bathroom occupied 680 square feet, while the adjoining boudoir was three times that size).

National Museum of Old Maps & Books Muzeul National al Hartilor si Cartii Vechi Address: Str. Londra 39 Tel: (+4) 021 230.44.68 Open: Wed. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission charge A must visit museum for all visitors interested in old maps and books.

Residence of Romania’s former Communist leader   Nicolae Ceausescu Muzeul Palatul Primaverii For a quarter of a century (1965 - 1989) the “Spring Mansion” served as the private residence of Nicolae and Elena Ceauşescu and their three children, Nicu, Zoia, and Valentin. A variety of woods, both native (oak, sycamore, cherry, walnut) and exotic (mahogany, rosewood, African pear, Canadian cherry), have been used for building and decorations. The residence is home to an impressive collection of paintings by Romanian painters: Octav Băncilă, Camil Ressu, Rudolf Cumpăna, Dumitru Ghiață, George Baron Lowendal, handmade tapestries and mosaics designed by Romanian artists Olga Porumbaru and Florin Pârvulescu. Address: Bulevardul Primaverii 50 Telephone: (+4) 021 318.09.89 Open: Tue. - Sun.: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission charge All tours - group or individual - must be booked in advance.

Romanian Railways Museum - Bucharest Muzeul Cailor Ferate Romane The Railways Museum exibits include one of the largest train diorama in Europe, an 1869 Morse telegraph, railways memorabilia including pictures and Romanian Railways uniforms. Several passenger train wagons and engines are on display in the open-air section of the museum. Address: Calea Grivitei 193 B Tel: (+4) 021 222.75.20 Access: Nord Train Terminal ( Gara de Nord ), track # 14. Open: Wed. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission charge

"Frederic and Cecilia Storck" Art Museum Muzeul de Arta Frederic Storck si Cecilia Cutescu-Storck Address: Str. Vasile Alecsandri 16 Telephone: (+4) 0722 574 897 Open: Wed. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission charge "Storck" Art Museum pays tribute to sculptor Frederick Storck, founder of the Romanian school of architecture, and his wife, Cecelia Cutescu-Storck, an artist, arts professor and keen advocate of enhanced recognition for women in the arts. 150 paintings, 250 sculptures and a rich collection of antique coins, bronze medals and icons are exhibited in the elegant, former, residence of Storck family - a mansion, completed in 1913, designed by Frederic and Cecilia Storck, with help of architect Alexandru Clavel.

Bucharest Museum of Technology Muzeul Tehnic Address: Str. General Candiano Popescu 2 (Carol Park) (Carol Park) Tel: (+4) 021 336.93.90 Open: Wed. - Sun. 11 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Admission charge Bucharest Museum of Technology displays some 5,000 items covering a wide range of industrial models: turbines, compressors, steam engines, the cylinder from the first steam engine that was used in a Romanian factory, as well as antique cars and motorcycles.

Painter Theodor Pallady Museum Muzeul Theodor Pallady Address: Str. Spatarului 22 Tel: (+4) 021 211.49.79 Open: Wed. – Sun.. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (May - September) Wed. - Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m (October - April) Admission charge Housed in the beautifully restored Melik house, built around 1750 by the rich Armenian businessman Hagi Kevork Nazaretoglu, the museum features paintings and sketches by Romanian artist Theodor Pallady as well as numerous other art objects.

Village Museum Muzeul Satului Address: Soseaua Kiseleff 28 - 30 Tel: (+4) 021 317.91.03 Open: Mon. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Tue. - Sun. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Founded by royal decree in 1936, this fascinating outdoor museum, the largest in Europe, covers some 30 acres on the shores of Lake Herastrau in Herestrau Park. It features a collection of original 50 buildings representing the history and character of Romania's rural architecture. Steep-roofed peasant homes, thatched barns, log cabins, churches and watermills from   all regions of the country were carefully taken apart, shipped to the museum and rebuilt in order to recreate the village setting. Throughout the year, the Village Museum hosts special events where you will have a chance to witness folk artisans demonstrating traditional skills in weaving, pottery and other crafts. Folk arts and crafts are available at the museum gift shop.

"Krikor H. Zambaccian" Art Museum Muzeul de Arta Krikor Zambaccian Address: Str. Muzeul Zambaccian 21 A Telephone: (+4) 021 230.19.20 Open: Wed. - Sun.: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (May - September) Wed. - Sun.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. (October - April) Admission charge The museum exhibits the private art collection of art critic and collector Krikor Zambaccian (1889-1962). Works of Romanian painters: Ion Andreescu, Nicolae Grigorescu, Stefan Luchian, Theodor Pallady and Nicolae Tonitza, who have been inspired by the Impressionists, can be admired at the Zambacian Museum. Although Zambaccian was a big patron of the art of his home country, during his studies in Belgium and France (1907 - 1913) he purchased numerous European works from artists such as Cezanne, Renoir, Delacroix, Corot, Derain, Matisse, Pissaro, Bonnard, Utrillo and Picasso. The museum preserves the initial display as it was conceived by the art collector himself. There are also several beautiful small sculptures that complement the canvases.

Museum of Senses Muzeul Simturilor Address: Bulevardul Vasile Milea 4 - Cotroceni AFI Shopping Mall Telephone: (+4) 0757 070.073 Open: daily 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Romania’s equivalent of Ripley's Believe It or Not is a place for fun and entertainment and a bad weather ‘refuge’ for locals and visitors.

Performing Arts

Bucharest has numerous drama theatres and concert venues. Tickets can be purchased on-line or at the venue's box office.

National Opera & Ballet Opera Nationala Romana Address: Blvd. Mihail Kogalniceanu 70 - 72 Tel: (+4) 021 313.18.57 Box office hours: Mon. - Sun.: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. The city's artistic life stood up to its Parisian nickname in the 1930s and today, is as vibrant as ever. The Opera House, completed in 1953, is worth visiting, not only for its brilliant performances but also for the lavish interior design. The world-renowned Romanian Opera performs in Romanian as well as Italian and German. You will be able to enjoy the classic repertoire - Puccini, Verdi, Rossini, Mozart -, innovative staging, lavish costumes, seasoned performers and choreographers. The Romanian National Ballet also performs in this theatre. Performances are held Wednesday through Sunday evenings, except during July and August.

National Operetta Theatre Teatrul National de Opereta 'Ioan Dacian' Address: Bd. Nicoale Balcescu 2 Tel: (+4) 021 313.63.48 Comic plots, extravagant staging, lavish costumes, high caliber singers and orchestra are all part of the charm of the light, frothy performances at the Ion Dacian Operetta.

George Enescu Philharmonic at Romanian Athenaeum Filarmonica George Enescu Address: Str. Benjamin Franklin 1    Tel: (+4) 021 315.00.26 or 315.25.67 The Romanian Athenaeum is the main venue of the biennial classical music festival "George Enescu" Festivalul de Muzica Clasica "George Enescu" Famous artists and conductors have performed here throughout the years. Among them: Erich Kleiber, Sergiu Celibidache, Ionel Perlea, Herbert von Karajan, Dinu Lipatti, Arthur Rubinstein, Pablo Casals and Yehudi Menuhin.

National Radio Orchestra and National Chamber Orchestra Orchestra Națională Radio Address: Str. General Berthelot 60-64 (Sala Radio) Tel: (+4) 021 303.12.11 or (+4) 303.14.28 The National Radio Orchestra, one of the best in the country, offers classical chamber music performances at Studioul de concerte „Mihail Jora” (941-seats ), known for its excellent acoustics.

Theatre performances are popular in Romania; tickets for most shows, offered by Bucharest's 16 major theatres, sell-out within hours.   Most theatre productions are performed in Romanian. Hoever, performances in French, German or English are oftern offered by small theatres.   Theatre season begins in September and ends in July. Some small student and underground theatres do remain open during summer.

Bucharest National Theatre Teatrul National Bucuresti Address: Blvd Nicolae Balcescu 2 Tel: (+4) 021 314.71.71 Three auditoriums offer a broad selection of both classical and contemporary Romanian and intyernational playwrights. The theatre's Great Hall (Sala Mare) , hosts the grand productions, while the Amphitheatre (Sala Amfiteatru) shows smaller productions and TV shows, and the Studio Hall (Sala Atelier) gets a mix of lower-key shows and presentations.

State Jewish Theatre Teatrul Evreiesc de Stat Address: Str. Dr. Iuliu Barasch 15 Tel: (+4) 021 323.39.70 Bucharest Jewish Theatre offers performances in Yiddish, Hebrew and Romanian (translation into Yiddish and Hebrew available).

Bucharest Circus Circul Globus Bucuresti Address: Aleea Circului 1 Tel: (+4) 021 210.24.19 Built in 1960, the enormous, permanent big-top circus is the centerpiece of the small park called Circus Park. With seating for more than 3,500 spectators, Bucharest's circus continues to host excellent performances, put on by both local and touring circus companies.

Bucharest Parks & Gardens

Cismigiu Garden Gradina Cismigiu Address: Blvd. Regina Elisabeta (across from Bucharest City Hall) Designed in 1845 by the German landscape architect Carl Meyer, the garden opened to the public in 1860. The name, Cismigiu, comes from the Turkish cismea , meaning "public fountain." More than 30,000 trees and plants were brought from the Romanian mountains, while exotic plants were imported from the botanical gardens in Vienna. Cismigiu is Bucharest's oldest park and a great place to stroll and enjoy a break from the hectic city. Set amid green lush lawns and winding paths, the park offers a lake with rowboat rentals, a beer garden, a playground for children, a chess area for amateurs and plenty of park benches for relaxing and people-watching.

Gradina Botanica - „Dimitrie Brandza" Opened in 1891, this 45-acres garden features over 10,000 species of plants from Romania and around the world. The garden is also home to the Botanical Garden Museum, housed in a beautiful "Brancovenesc" - Style building. Visitors can peruse manuscripts, old botanical research devices and a collection of artifacts made of vegetal materials. The huge greenhouses (44,000 square-feet) are open to visitors: Tue, Thu and Fri.;   10 a.m. -- 3 p.m. Sat and Sun:   9 a.m. -- 1 p.m. Address: Sos. Cotroceni 32 (across from Cotroceni Palace) Tel: (+4) 021 410.91.39 Open-Air spaces Hours: March 16 -- October 15, daily 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. October 16 -- March 15, daily 9 a.m. -- 3:30 p.m. Admission charge

Carol I Park Parcul Carol I Carol I Park is one of the most beautiful in the city of Bucharest. Designed by French landscape architect Eduard Redont in 1900s, the park is a great place for walks down tree-lined paths. In summertime, the aphiteatre "Arenele Romane" is a stage for open-air concerts. A massive monument dedicated to the unknown Soldier offers good views of the central area of Bucharest and plenty of photo opportunities. Address: Piata Libertatii

Parcul Regele Mihai I (Herăstrău) Address: Sos. Kiseleff 32 Spreading on 465 acres, from Arch of Triumph to Baneasa Bridge, Herastrau surrounds a 185-acres lake. Bucharest's largest park is home to numerous attractions and offers numerous activities on or around the lake. For an overview of the park, take a boat ride around the lake or rent your own row-boat or water-bike. Herastrau park is also home to the Village Museum, a delightful display of traditional rural architecture. The area surrounding the park is known for the beautiful mansions and displaying different architectural styles from 19th century neoclassical to 20th century art nouveau and modern luxury villas.

Bucharest Fountains Show Simfonia Apei Bucharest is home to the longest row of synchronized fountains in the world. 45 water fountains stretch 0.9 miles along Bulevardul Unirii and feature 180,000 square feet of colorful original mosaics. A display of water, music, and light is offered on weekend evenings, mid-May until mid-October. Admission: free Best place to see the show: Parcul Unirii Show starts at 9 p.m. in May and August, at 9:30 p.m. in June and July and at 8 p.m. in September and October. 2024 shows start date: May 17.

Current Availability Status:  Not available Bucharest Hop On-Off Tours have not resumed for 2024 warm season. Bucharest Transport Authority has made no announcement, yet, on when tours will resume.

Hop-on, hop-off bus tours are operated daily - during the warm season - on a fleet of double-decker buses. Visitors can get an introduction to Bucharest's fascinating architectural mix and get familiar with the city's central neighborhoods and places of interest, in less than one hour.

Bucharest - Hop On/ Off Sightseeing Bus Tours Facts

Bucharest hop on/ off sightseeing tour operate during the warm season 2024 Dates of operation: June 1 - October 31 (weather permitting) Hours of operation: 10 a.m. - 9:45 p.m.

Last departure from Piata Presei Libere to Piata Unirii at 9 p.m. Last departure from Piata Unirii to Piata Presei Libere at 9:25 p.m. Frequency: every 20 minutes Total length of the route: 9.5 miles Number of stops: 14 (see/print map)

24-Hour Ticket (card) : Adults: 25 lei (about $5.50) Children (up to 7 years old): free Youth (7 to 14 years old): 10 lei (about $2.25)

Note: Tickets can be purchased on board and at most hotels and are valid for 24 hours from the time of validation.

Sights and major attractions along the route include: Village Museum (Muzeul Satului) , Arch of Triumph (Arcul de Triumf), Natural History Museum (Muzeul Antipa) , Geology Museum (Muzeul de Geologie), Museum of the Romanian Peasant (Muzeul Taranului Roman), Headquarters of the Romanian Government (Palatul Victoria), The Romanian Athenaeum (Ateneul Roman), National Museum of Art (Muzeul National de Arta), Church Cretulescu (Biserica Cretulescu), The Savings Bank (Palatul CEC), National History Museum (Muzeul National de Istorie), Parliament's Palace (Palatul Parlamentului), Romanian Patriarchy (Patriarhia Romana), Manuc's Inn (Hanul lui Manuc), Bucharest University (Universitatea), City of Bucharest Museum (Muzeul Municipiului Bucuresti), The National Theatre (Teatrul National), Academy of Economic Studies (Academia de Studii Economice)

This section is courtesy of Ms. Rosemary K. Rennon

The following walks are designed to guide you around the four main areas of Bucharest, pointing out several unique sights. Stray from the routes as you wish, as you're sure to find other interesting places along the way that are not mentioned here. Allow approximately three hours for each walk.

Walk # 1 North of City Centre

This beautiful walk takes you through the quiet area n orth of the city center. Begin at Piata Victoriei with the government's Victoria Palace (Palatul Victoria) on its east side. Cross the square and walk north along tree-lined Soseaua Kiseleff. On your left are the Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum and the Museum of the Romanian Peasant; a little farther up on the right is the National Geological Museum.

After passing through Kiseleff Park, stroll northward along the grand old mansions that line the shaded avenue all the way up to the Arch of Triumph (Arcul de Triumf) . There begins Herestrau Park with its lake, gardens and outdoor restaurants. You will also pass the entrance to the wonderful open-air Muzeul Satului (Village Museum); take time to stop in and admire the numerous traditional rural architectural styles.

Ending at the north end of the park, off Piata Presei Libere you'll find the RomExpo exhibit center and the World Trade Center Plaza at Pullman (former Sofitel) Hotel. There's a fancy shopping arcade inside and a very nice coffee shop in the hotel where you can get a bite to eat. Catch bus # 335 back to Piata Charles de Gaulle for the Aviatorilor subway station (Metrou) or bus #331 to Piata Romana.

Walk # 2 West – Central Bucharest

This walk follows the route of Bucharest's most famous historic avenue, Calea Victoriei , Beginning at Piata Victoriei , walk south along Calea Victoriei passing Casa Vernescu , the George Enescu Museum, housed in the beautiful Cantacuzino Palace, and the Art Collections Museum.

Two blocks south of Bulevardul Dacia , detour left onto Strada Piata Amzei where you'll come upon the colorful open-air produce market (Piata Amzei). Return to Calea Victoriei and turn left to resume the walk south, stopping in the shops along the way.

Upon reaching Piata Revolutiei you will find the Athenee Palace Hilton hotel, the Romanian Athenaeum (Atheneul Roman) concert house (ask for an inside tour), the National Art Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace, the beautiful University Library, the former Communist Party Central Committee building, and finally, the Kretulescu Church built in 1725.

Continuing south on Calea Victoriei , you'll pass more shops and hotels; note the Odeon Theater, sitting back from the street on the left. On the right you'll come to The Military Club which has an outdoor café and an art gallery.

Turn west (right) at the corner onto Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta and follow it to Cismigiu Garden, the last stop on this walk. Stroll around the lake or just relax watching the rowboats. The boathouse café offers snacks and refreshments.

Walk # 3 East – Central Bucharest

This walk takes you along Bucharest's busiest commercial and shopping area. The boulevard changes names five times, but here you will cover the length of only three of its five sections: General Magheru , Nicolae Balcescu and I.C. Bratianu.

Starting from Piata Romana , you might first walk east on Bulevardul Dacia for a look at some of the embassy mansions; then return to Piata Romana.

Next, head south on Bulevardul General Magheru . The street is filled with clothing stores, sidewalk vendors, pastry shops, cinemas, stationary stores (papeterie), and crystal shops.

On the east side of the Bulevardul Balcescu section you will find the Libraria Noi bookstore which has a good selection of American picture books and English novels. There are several art galleries along here, including two in the National Theater which is next to the high-rise Grand Hotel Bucharest. Behind the hotel are the American Consulate and the American Library. Reaching Piata Universitatii , on the west side of the street you will see Bucharest University and the sidewalk book and flower vendors; sit a moment at the fountain in the adjoining plaza and watch the activity. The underground subway ( Metrou ) concourse has shops, newsstands and several fast food eateries, including a pastry shop and pizzeria. This underground passage is the easiest place to cross the boulevards, rather than deal with street traffic. South of Piata Universitatii the street name changes to Bulevardul I.C. Bratianu . On your right is the Bucharest History & Art Museum, housed in the neoclassical Sutu Palace, built in 1835.

Farther down, across the boulevard will be Sfantul Gheorghe cel Nou Church, built in 1701. The eastern end of Strada Lipscani meets the boulevard on the west side.

Continuing south, you will end this walk at Piata Unirii where you will find department stores, a large grassy square with park benches to rest on and its enormous complex of fountains. Piata Unirii's two subway ( Metrou ) lines link with all other subway stops.

Walk # 4 South Bucharest

This route weaves through a tangle of colorful side streets in Bucharest's old historic district. Be extra alert here, as you will do some backtracking. Begin at the crossroads of Calea Victoriei and Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta . Walk south on Calea Victoriei , along the east side of the street. Duck into Pasajul Villa Cross (also called Pasajul Bijuteria ), a golden skylit arcade of boutiques. Follow its U-shape back to Calea Victoriei and walk south a block, to the beginning of Strada Lipscani.

Stroll Strada Lipscani to see the vendors and shops, then return to Calea Victoriei.

Heading south again on Calea Victoriei , next turn left onto Strada Stavropoleos to arrive at Caru cu Bere restaurant. If you can't stop in for a beer or snack, at least peek inside to see its magnificent interior. Farther down the street is the tiny Biserica Stavropoleos (church), built in 1724. Here you can either cut south via Strada Postei to Strada Iuliu Maniu , or return to Calea Victoriei and go south, past the National History Museum to reach Strada Iuliu Maniu . Following Strada Iuliu Maniu east, you will come to the remains of the Curtea Veche (Old Princely Court) of the real Prince Dracula and his Princely Church, the oldest in Bucharest.

Just across the road is the former caravansary Hanul lui Manuc , now a restaurant and inn (currently closed for renovations). Go inside the courtyard for a look at its timbered design, or stop there for some food and drink.

From this point, take the narrow side street south to exit the neighborhood at the Dambovita River.

Across the river you will see the 120-year-old Palace of Justice. Cross the boulevard to reach the broad, green Piata Unirii . Here you can rest while watching the fountains and the people.

From the south end you can see Nicolae Ceausescu's huge "House of the People", now Parliament Palace. When rested, head west along Bulevardul Unirii toward the Parliament Palace; this area is the Civic Center. When you reach the building, turn right, and walk north, back to the river.

Cross the Dambovita again at the Izvor Bridge. Walk in a block to Bulevardul Regina Elizabeta , then turn right and you'll wind up across the street from Cismigiu Garden.

To end this walk continue east on Bulevardul Elisabeta to Calea Victoriei ; or go a little farther toward Piata Universitatii and its subway ( Metrou ) station.

Bucharest free things to do

Attractions Near Bucharest

Therme Bucharest - thermal water baths Complexul Therme - Bucuresti Location: village Balotesti Address:   Calea Bucureşti 1K (15 miles north of Bucharest city-centre, 3 miles north of Bucharest International Airport)

How to reach Therme Bucharest : Therme is located a short drive north of Bucharest city-centre and is easily accessible with public transportation:

Bus to Therme: Bus #100, from city-centre to Baneasa Airport, Otopeni townhall or Henri Coanda International Airport connect with Bus #442 to Therme (Bus # 100 stops: Piata Unirii -- Universitate -- Piata Romana -- Piata Victoriei -- Piata Presei -- Aeroport Baneasa -- Primaria Otopeni -- Aeroport Henri Coanda ) Stops in bold are shared by bus (lines) #100 and #442. Travel time: approx. 45-minutes, normal traffic conditions. Bucharest public transportation schedules .

Train and connecting Bus to Therme: Train from Bucharest Main Train Terminal Gara de Nord to Henri Coanda International Airport connect with Bus #442 to Therme

Thermen Bucharest features Romania’s most extensive sauna complex, Europe’s biggest urban beach and the largest greenhouse in Romania - over 800,000 plants, more than 1,500 palm trees, countless orchids and many other unique species including a Tree of Life (Ficus Religiosa).

Therme Bucharest sections : ~ Galaxy, amenities for children & family fun, (16 waterslides, indoor and outdoor pools and a beach for children; saunas, whirlpool baths, hydromassage beds, infrared armchairs and a swim-up bar for parents). ~ Palm, (adult-only) aimed for relaxation (beach, three mineral pools, sauna rain forest, "Humboldt" fusion restaurant, lounge); ~ Elysium, focus on spa and wellbeing treatments (treatment rooms, saunas, steam rooms, pools, lounge, Mango Tree restaurant).

Mogosoaia Palace & Brancovenesc Museum Palatul Mogosoaia & Muzeul Brancovenesc Where: 9 miles NW of Bucharest Address: Str. Valea Parcului 1 Access: Public transportation From Bucharest train terminal: subway M4 to Parc Bazilescu then metro-area bus 460 to Mogosoaia, From downtown Bucharest: bus # 331 to Damaroaia then metro-area bus 460 to Mogosoaia, car, taxi Tel: (+4) 0786 705.985 Hours: Tue. - Sun.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. (May 1 - October 31) Tue. - Sun.: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (November 1 - April 30) Admission charge Located in the village of the same name on the shore of Mogosoaia Lake, this palace reflects the Brancovenesc architectural style, featuring traditional Romanian staircase balconies, arcades and columns. Built by the Walachian prince Constantin Brancoveanu between 1698 and 1702 as a summer residence, the palace features a beautiful Venetian-style loggia on the facade facing the lake and a balcony with intricate Brancovenesc-style carvings overlooking the main courtyard. Today, the palace houses the Brancovenesc Museum with exhibits of valuable paintings, wood and stone sculptures, gold and silver embroideries, rare books and precious manuscripts. Inside the complex, there is also a church built in 1688 and decorated by a team of Greek artists. The original interior murals have been well-preserved, including a painting showing Constantin Brancoveanu with his wife, Maria, and their four sons and seven daughters, all wearing royal dress.

Manastirea Snagov Where: 25 miles north of Bucharest Access: car or bus Snagov Monastery more info In 1458 - more than one hundred years after Snagov church was built prince Vlad Tepes (Vlad the Impaler / Dracula) added thick defending walls and a dungeon. A plaque on the floor inside the church marks the grave with the presumed remains of the world-known count. The monastery is located on an island on lake Snagov, and can be accessed on a pedestrian bridge.

Day Trips from Bucharest

Bucharest is a good starting point to explore southern Transylvania, Dealu Mare wine region, the Black Sea coast or the city of Ruse in Bulgaria. Away from the buzz of the city, you will find a different side of Romania - life in the countryside moves more slowly, the air is crisp and hospitality natural.

Day trip to Peles and Bran castles and Brasov Duration: 11 hours Distance traveled: 265 miles Itinerary: Bucharest — Sinaia — Bran — Brașov — Bucharest Highlights: Peleș Castle - Sinaia, Bran (Dracula's) Castle - Bran, Brașov Old Town More information and reservations

Here are some Bucharest day-trips ideas:

Where: Town of Sinaia, 87 miles north of Bucharest Access: car, bus, train Peles Castle info

Where: Village of Bran, 120 miles north of Bucharest Access: car, train or bus to Predeal or to Brasov Taxi from Predeal to Bran Bus or taxi from Brasov to Bran Dracula Castle info

Where: northwest of Bucharest Distance: Bucharest - Targoviste: 52 miles, Targoviste - Gaesti - Curtea de Arges - Poenari: 89 miles Poenari - Bucharest: 112 miles. Access: car In Targoviste, tour the 14th century Princely Court (Curtea Domneasca) residence of voivode Vlad the Impaler - Draculea and the Watchtower (Turnul Chindiei) . Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. From Targoviste, continue to town of Curtea de Arges. In Curtea de Arges, visit the 14th-century Princely Court and the 800 years old Princely Church. Curtea de Arges was founded in the late 1200s by Prince Radu Negru (Negru Voda). From 1369 until 1431, Curtea de Arges was the capital of Wallachia (southern Romania). A stunning architectural gem of the town is the 16th century, Byzantine style, with Moorish arabesques, Curtea de Arges Monastery (Manastirea Curtea de Arges) . All Romania's kings and queens rest in the monastery.

Fifteen miles north of Curtea de Arges lay the ruins of Poenari Fortress, the authentic stronghold of voivode Vlad Tepes (Vlad the Impaler) or Vlad Dracul . The walls and towers of the fortress, located near village Arefu, still stand. Access to fortress, perched on a cliff - high above the surrounding area, requires climbing of a 1,462-step stairway.

Where: 120 miles northwest of Bucharest Access: car, bus Fifty miles west of Curtea de Arges stands Hurezi Monastery , the largest monastic settlement in Walachia, founded in 1690 by Prince Constantine Brancoveanu. A masterpiece of Brancovenesc architectural style and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hurezi is renowned for the richness of its sculptural detail, the treatment of its religious compositions and its painted decorative works.   Monastery Hurezi is home to precious collections of frescoes and icons dating from the end of the 17th century and the beginning of the 18th century. The nearby village of Horezu is one of the biggest pottery centres in Romania. More than a century ago, local nuns taught the villagers how to make hand-paint their pottery and, ever since, people have come from far and wide to see and purchase on Horezu ceramic.

Town of Targu Jiu Where: 190 miles west of Bucharest Access: car, bus, train A visit to Targu Jiu is must for all art lovers, especially those interested in modern sculpture. This former market town is closely associated with Constantin Brancusi, considered by many to be the father of modern sculpture. While most of his works are on display in prestigious museums throughout the world, his trilogy of public sculptures: The Table of Silence (Masa Tacerii) , The Gate of the Kiss (Poarta Sarutului) and The Endless Column (Coloana Infinitului) can be admired at the Constantin Brancusi sculptural complex in downtown Targu Jiu. Nearby in Hobita , the birthplace of Constantin Brancusi, you can visit the house in which the sculptor spent his childhood; it now houses a small museum dedicated to the master. The house preserves the original architecture and accessories (the bed, the cellar and the well). The village is also home to the national sculpture camp "Brancusiana". Targu Jiu more info

City of Ruse in Bulgaria Where: 48 miles south of Bucharest Access: car, bus, train Ruse (Russe) is located on the right bank of Danube river, a natural border between Romania and Bulgaria. The city features fine examples of 19 th and 20 th -century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture. Ruse-Giurgiu Friendship Bridge connects Ruse with town of Giurgiu in Romania. Ruse landmarks of note include: "Sava Ognianov" theatre, "Aleksandrovska" street, The "Old High School of Music", Holy Trinity Cathedral, Andrea Turio Mansion, Russe Historical Museum. Ruse (Bulgaria) more info

Bucharest is one of the few cities in east-central Europe offering gambling opportunities.   Guests can play blackjack, poker, craps, roulette, baccarat and other games of chance and listen to live music. Bucharest casinos, open 24-hours, include:

Palace Casino Casa Vernescu Address: Calea Victoriei 133 Tel: (+4) 021 311.97.44 PalaceCasino.eu

Grand Casino J.W. Marriott Grand Hotel Address: Calea 13 Septembrie 90 Tel: (+4) 021 403.08.01 GrandCasinoBucharest.ro

Platinum Casino Address: Calea Victoriei 63 - 81 Tel: (+4) 031 710.22.34 ThePlatinumCasino.ro

CITY ESSENTIALS

Bucharest transportation.

Bucharest's public, above-ground, transport network includes: 102 bus lines ( autobuz ),   22 tram lines ( tramvai ),   14 trolleybus lines ( troilebuz )   and   six subway ( metrou ). Buses, trams and trolley buses operate - with slight variations - between 4:30 a.m. and 11:50 p.m. The subway operates - from 5 a.m. until 11 p.m. 24 bus lines ( Linii de Noapte ) serve the needs of locals and visitors that need public transport during the nighttime.

Bucharest public transport fare can be paid on-board with a contactless debit or credit card. or with a public transport card that can be purchased at kiosks located next to most bus/ tram stops: ~ (Non-reloadable, transmissible) Prepaid cards ( Card Multiplu ) are issued for free and can be used for two to 30 trips or for day, 3-days and 7-days pass. ~ (Reloadable, transmissible) Prepaid cards ( Card Activ ) cost 3.7 lei and can be reloaded at any STB kiosk on on-line . ~ Reloadable, non-transmissible Activ cards are issued for free (4.7 lei fee for reissuing).

Bucharest Public Transport Tourist Card (" Card Călătorie Turist ") is available to visitors and residents. This 'combo ticket' offers unlimited rides for: ~ train from Bucharest International Airport to Gara de Nord Train Terminal ~ all urban, above-ground, transport: bus, tram and trolleybus ~ Bucharest Metro (subway) Cost of Bucharest Public Transport Tourist Card: 20 lei (approx. $4.45) / 24-hours card   and 40 lei (approx. $8.70) / 72-hours card.

Tickets/cards must validated upon boarding. Travelers may be asked to show the validated ticket/card during the trip. Passengers that cannot show a validated ticket must pay a surcharge ( Suprataxa ).

Bucharest Public Transport ( STB ) Routes Map   ( Harta Traseelor ) Bucharest Public Transportation Schedules   ( Program de Circulatie ) Bucharest Public Transport Stops and Route Planner   ( Statii / Planificare Rute )

Feedback recently received from visitors to Bucharest indicates that their foreign-issued credit cards have not been accepted/ transactions denied/ to pay the fare, onboad of bus # 100 (city-centre to Bucharest Airport) and, that Bucharest Transport Authority (STB) controllers they have encountered where rather obtuse and aloof. Most ticket kiosks attendants do not speak English or other foreign language, visitors to Bucharest also stated.

Bucharest above-ground local transportation (bus / tram / trolley bus) fares:

Tickets are interchangeable for bus, tram and trolley bus, except tickets for Express bus routes.

Above-ground & Subway 'combo' fares: (bus / tram / trolley bus and subway) fares:

Express Buss 100 (formerly bus $783) operates 24 hours a day and connects Bucharest International Airport with Bucharest city-centre Two or 10-journey tickets, as well as monthly passes, are available for all express buses. There is direct train service from the city's main train terminal (Gara de Nord) to Bucharest international airport. Express buss 442 connects the northern part of the city ( Piata Presei / Exhibitions Centre RomExpo with Bucharest International Airport and Therme Bucharest - thermal baths/ aqua park.

Bucharest Subway (Metrou) operates from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

There are five subway lines (Metrou) in operation:   M1,   M2,   M3,   M4   and   M5. A new subway line  M6   that will connect Bucharest airport with the main train terminal is being constructed Subway stations are indicated with the letter "M" (blue, on a white board).

Bucharest Metro map print version . The final stop/ destination is indicated on the front of each train.   Each stop is announced as the train nears the station. Trains arrive every four to seven minutes during peak times and every 12-20 minutes off-peak times. The average distance between subway stops is about one mile.

Peculiar, natural history sight: countless fossils can be seen in Bucharest subway station. The floor of Politehnica subway station is paved with limestone slabs, from the Apuseni Mountains, in Transylvania. Many of these slabs feature fossilized prehistoric organisms called rudits , dating from the Upper Jurassic to Upper Cretaceous period, approximately 65 million years ago. Besides rudists, a group of organisms that lived in shallow marine environments, anyone who travels by metro to/from Politehnica station can also see fossilized snails and corals. Without intending, this unintentional paleontology museum is located near Romania's largest and oldest technical university in the country: Universitatea Politehnica - București.

Bus from Bucharest Airport to the city centre

Express Bus 100 (formerly 783) takes travelers from the airport to the city centre, with stops at Otopeni towhhall — Baneasa Airport — Piata Presei Libere — Piata Victoriei — Piata Romana — Piata 21 Decembrie and Piata Unirii . Route Bucharest city centre — Bucharest International Airport: Piaţa Unirii — Universitate — Piaţa Romană — Piaţa Victoriei — Piaţa Presei — Aeroport Băneasa — Otopeni townhall/ Primăria Otopeni — Airport (Departures) — Airport (Arrivals) . Bus 100 departs from the Arrivals terminal every 15 minutes during day-time (every 30 minutes from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.). The journey to Bucharest downtown takes approximately 40 minutes. Bus 442 that connects the northern part of Bucharest ( Piata Presei Libere ) with Therme thermal baths complex stops at Bucharest International Airport.

Note: Fares can be paid by (contactless) debit or credit card (MasterCard or Visa), just tap your card on the card reader or by Bucharest Public Transport Card ( "Activ Card" ). Public Transportat cards are available from at the 'STB' ticket booth located in the arrivals terminal or next to the bus stop. One 'Activ Card' costs 3.70 Lei (about $0.85). To ride the bus you will also need to add the cost of the trip(s) to your card (add 7 Lei for two trips from / to the airport or 3.50 Lei for one trip). Your Activ Card must be validated as you board the bus.

Taxi from Bucharest Airport to the city

Several Taxi companies operate in Bucharest, and their rates vary. Taxis can be called by using the touch screen taxi dispatch ( Dispecerat Automatizat Taxi ) located in the arrivals terminal, next to the Taxi Desk ( Taxi la Comanda ).   Bucharest has no taxis that offer flat-rate fare, from the airport to the downtown. However, all licensed taxis are metered.

Bucharest Taxis Rate / km: 2.59 lei to 4.50 lei ($0.60 -- $0.95). There is no extra-charge for luggage. The average fare from the airport to downton Bucharest is about 90 Lei (equivalent of $19.00). Accepting rides from drivers who might approach you inside or in front of the terminal is not good idea; the risk of being overcharged is significant. If you will run into a problem with any taxi in Bucharest – or if you are suspecting that you have encountered a dishonest driver - ask for a receipt and if possible write down the vehicle's license plate #. For information on how to file a Bucharest Taxi complaint please check RomaniaTourism Travel Advisory section.

Transportation Bucharest Airport to Bucharest main train terminal ( Gara de Nord ):

Train: Henri Coanda Express Train to Bucharest main train terminal (Gara de Nord) The journey from the airport ( Aeroport Henri Coanda ) stop to Bucharest main train terminal Bucuresti Nord takes about 22 minutes. One-way ticket costs 5 Lei ($1.25) for Adults 3 Lei ($0.75) for Childrens (up to 10 y.o.). Tickets can be purchased at the CFR kiosk International Arrivals Terminal. Train Schedules and Reservations For departure please type Aeroport Henri Coandă . Visitors who prefer to travel by bus, from the airport to Bucharest Train Terminal ( Gara de Nord ) need to take bus 100 or bus 442 to Piata Presei then bus 105 to the train terminal.

Bucharest airport shuttle service :

Shuttle Direct www.ShuttleDirect.com

Shuttle Bucharest www.ShuttleBucharest.com

Public transportation between Baneasa airport and city centre: Bus #131 and #100 to downtown Bucharest Bus #205 to Piata Presei Libere then bus 105 to the main train terminal ( Gara de Nord ) Taxi - $12.00 (average fare to downtown)

Baneasa airport (5 miles N of Bucharest city-centre) is the world's fourth oldest, still in operation; its arrivals/ departures terminal is the first, in the world, to be built in the shape of an airplane propeller. First take-offs and landings Baneasa airfield has witnessed were those performed by aviation pioneers Louis Bleriot (1909) and Aurel Vlaicu (1910). Baneasa became an aerodrome in 1912 and an airport in 1919.

Reaching Bucharest by Plane

Bucharest "Henri Coanda" International Airport / Otopeni (OTP) Aeroportul International Henri Coanda Address: Calea Bucurestilor 224 Tel: (+4) 021 204.12.00 Distance from Bucharest airport to downtown: 18 km (11 miles).

Most international flights arrive at Henri Coanda ( Otopeni ) Airport. Airport facilities include ATM, currency exchange office, Self-Service Taxi Kioskk and cell phone rentals. All major car rental companies have offices located in the airport.

Bucharest Băneasa "Aurel Vlaicu" International Airport (BBU) Aeroportul Baneasa Address: Sos. Bucuresti-Ploiesti 40 Tel: (+4) 021 232.00.20 Baneasa Airport, located five miles north of Bucharest downtown, is mostly used for private planes and budget airlines.

Domestic Flights:

Romania's National Airline Tarom has scheduled domestic flights from/to Bucharest to/from Cluj-Napoca (CLJ), Iasi (IAS), Oradea (OMR), Satu Mare (SUJ), Sibiu (SBZ), Suceava (SCV), Timisoara (TSR). All Tarom domestic flights depart from/ arrive to/ Henri Coanda Airport.

Getting to Bucharest by car

Highway 1 connects Bucharest with the town of Bascov/ Pitesti (the beginning of TransFagarasan scenic road over the Carpathian mountains. A highway that connects Pitesti to Sibiu in scheduled to open in 2026. Highway 3 (A3) links Bucharest with Constanta and the Black Sea Coast.

Bucharest Parking

Mismanagement of parking spaces in some of city's districts ( sector ) is obvious.   There are very few parking garages and not many parking lots (attended or unattended) and insufficient street parking, especially in the city-centre.  Parking on side-walk or where parking is prohibited is, unfortunately, quite common in Bucharest. Most available public parking in Bucharest is street parking (parallel); rate / hour is 5 lei ($1.10) / hour.   Paid street parking sports are marked with blue strips.   Street parking fee must be paid immediately after parking spot was taken (sms, app or parking pay-machine, if available). Most parking spaces in residential areas are reserved for residents and delimited with white strips. A sign Parcare Resedinta is usually posted in the area.   If you will need to park your car, for a short time, on a spot reserved for a resident do leave your phone # on the dashboard. Bucharest Parking apps include Parkopedia, ParkingBucuresti.ro and AmParcat. Public transport, taxi or limo service are good alternative to driving a car in the city.

Bucuresti North - main train terminal Gara de Nord Address: Blvd. Garii de Nord 2 Tel: 021 95.21 Bucharest's main train terminal, Gara de Nord , is located 1.8 miles northwest of Bucharest city-centre.

The original Orient Express ran from Paris to Istanbul with several stops in Romania.

International trains to/from Bucharest There are daily or seasonal direct trains from/to Thessaloniki (greece), Budapest (Hungary), Istanbul (Turkey), Sofia (Bulgaria) and Vienna (Austria). To check international trains schedule to/ from Bucharest please visit: RomaniaTourism International Transportation section.

To check schedules and fares for domestic trains please check RomaniaTourism Domestic Transportation section.

SNCFR Train Ticket Offices:

Agentia de Voiaj SNCFR - Griviţa Address: Calea Griviţei, 139 Telephone: (+4) 021 313.26.42 Open: Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Agentia de Voiaj SNCFR - Unirii Address: Piata Naţiunilor Unite – Postal Office #5 Telephone: (+4) 0752 504.262 Open: Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Agentia de Voiaj SNCFR – Berceni Address: Bd. Obregia 25 B, - Posta Office # 82) Telephone: (+4) 021 460.03.30 Open: Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. -- 7 p.m. Sat.: 9 a.m. -- 1 p.m.

Agentia de Voiaj SNCFR – Titan Mall Address: Str. Liviu Rebreanu 6A Telephone: (+4) 021 460.03.30 Open: Mon. - Sat: 9 a.m. -- 9 p.m. Sun.: 9 a.m. -- 6 p.m.

Agentia de Voiaj SNCFR – Militari Address: Bd. Iuliu Maniu 88 - 92, Postal Office # 16) Telephone: (+4) 0725 504.263 Open: Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. -- 7 p.m. Sat.: 9 a.m. -- 1 p.m.

The SNCFR ticket offices offer train schedules information and ce tickets for future travel. Tickets for same-day travel can only be purchased at the train station.

International Bus Companies serving Bucharest:

Atlassib Tel: (+4) 021 222.47.35 Destinations: Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden Departures from: Soseaua Alexandriei 164

Autotrans Calatori Filaret Tel: (+4) 021 335.95.83 Destinations: Bulgaria Departures from: Piata Garii Filaret 1

DoubleT Tel: (+4) 021 313.36.42 Destinations: Austria, Germany, Switzerland Departures from: Calea Victoriei 2

Eurolines Touring Tel: (+4) 021 210.08.90 Destinations: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxemburg Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland Departures from: Str. Buzesti 44

Flix Bus Destinations: All major cities in Europe Departures from: Strada Valea Cascadelor 1,   Calea Griviței 193B,  Șoseaua Orhideelor 49,  Strada Doctor Constantin Istrati 1   and Bucharest International Airport.

Mr. Transport: Bucharest Transport Service Luxury sedans and 9 and 15-seat vans and guided tours (English and Italian-speaking licensed guides). More info and Reservations: (+4) 0770 605 969   or   E-mail

Bucharest Taxis can be summoned by telephone, on-line or hailed on the street. Initial fee and rate per km are posted on driver's and passenger's doors. Bucharest Taxi fares (average minimum): Initial Fee: 2.59 Lei ($0.55) - higher for luxury cars plus 2.59 Lei / km ($0.90 / mile) - higher for luxury cars. Wait time: 25.9 lei / hour ($5.70) While some taxi companies charge same rate (day or night) other apply a 'night surcharge' (10 p.m. -- 6 a.m.). Some taxi companies, especially those that are providing luxury cars or larger sedans, may charge up to five times the fares indicated above. Before boarding a taxi, please do check the fares posted on passenger door and confirm with the driver the approximate cost of the ride.

Accepting rides from drivers who might approach you at the airport, train station or in the street is not a good idea; the risk of being overcharged is significant. If you will run into a problem with any taxi in Bucharest – or if you are suspecting that you have met a dishonest driver - ask for a receipt and if possible try to write down the vehicle's license plate #. To file a Bucharest Taxi complaint please call: Bucharest Police Department - Transportation Bureau:   021 201 3242 and/or Bucharest City Hall:   021 9844 and/or Consumer Protection Authority:   021 9551.

Bucharest Car Rental

All major international and local car rental companies are represented in Romania's capital city. Contact us if you need a list of all car rental companies in Bucharest.

EuroCars Great car rental rates - Bucharest .

Bucharest Bicycle Rental

Bucharest bicycle rental centers include: Teo Bikes,   www.teo-bikes.ro Zebra Bike,   www.zebra-bike.ro Bate Saua,   www.facebook.com/BateSaua.Rentals IVelo, (22 self-service points in Bucharest)    www.ivelo.ro.

Bucharest Shopping

Since the early 1990s, brand names and high-end stores have opened shops in Romania. From high fashion boutiques to art galleries, shopping in Bucharest can fit any taste or budget. Stroll down Calea Victoriei or Blvd. Magheru to shop designer clothing or shoes or visit one of the many shopping malls, some located not far from Bucharest city centre and easily accessible by public transport.

Popular Romanian handicrafts include: embroidered clothing and linen, painted or beaded eggs, carpets, pottery, woodcarvings and icons. Wonderful hand-embroidered blouses and skirts (cotton, wool or flax fabric) or leather jackets, traditional rugs, tablecloths and lacework, icons painted on glass or on wood as well as many other gifts and souvenirs can be found at shop of the Romanian Peasant Museum, the Village Museum and at specialized shops called Artizanat .

Galeria 23 Address: Str. Lipscani 63 - 65 Tel: (+4) 0740.819.826

Galeria Galateca Address: Str. C. A. Rosetti 2-4 Tel: (+4) 0787 777.878

Galeria Win Address: Str. Ermil Pangratti 2A

Galeria Hanul Cu Tei Address: Str. Blanari 5-7 Tel: (+4) 021 313.01.81

Galeria Nemtoi Address: Calea Victoriei 126 Tel: (+4) 021 312.98.00

Galeria Noua Address: Str. Academiei 15 Tel: (+4) 021 322.81.59

Galeria Orizont Address: Blvd. Nicolae Balcescu 23 A Tel: (+4) 021 315.89.22

Galeria Simeza Address: Blvd. Magheru 20 Tel: (+4) 021 659.38.25

Galeria 2 / 3 Address: Str. Franceza 4 Tel: (+4) 0740 103.909

Mobius Address: Calea Dorobanti 202 Tel: (+4) 0726 152.156

Galateea Address: Calea Victoriei 132 Tel: (+4) 0745 355.941

Anaid Art Address: Str. Slobozia 34 Tel: (+4) 0744 496.175

Gaep Gallery Address: Str. Plantelor 50 Tel: (+4) 031 101.69.42

Galeria Nicodim Address: Str. Băiculeşti 29 Tel: (+4) 0 721 109.487

Bucharest has quite a few Shops that offer antique furniture, porcelain, decorative objects as well as rare books and maps. Most Bucharest Abtique shops are locates along Calea Victoriei and in the Old Town (Lipscani street area).

Thomas Antiques Str. Covaci 19 (Bucharest Old Town)

Amadeus Antiques Address: Str. Quinet 3 Tel: (+4) 021 315.10.83

Craii de Curtea Veche Address: Str. Covaci 14 Tel: (+4) 021 314.83.04

Da Vinci Address: Calea Victoriei 118 Tel: (+4) 021 210.40.94

Galeria de Arta Dorobanti Address: Str. Tudor Stefan 13 Tel: (+4) 021 231.49.53

Hanul cu Tei Address: Str. Lipscani 63 Tel: (+4) 021 315.56.63

Quasar Antiques Address: Calea Victoriei 63-81 Tel: (+4) 021 313.47.26

Libraria Carturesti Carusel Strada Lipscani 55 Tel: (+4) 0728 828.922 Website Books (quite a few in English), tea and coffe, CDs, DVDs and Vinyl Records.

Antic ExLibris Strada Doamnei 23 - 25 Tel: (+4) 021 315.30.59

Humanitas Cismigiu Bd. Regina Elisabeta 38 Tel: (+4) 021 311.40.01

Librarium - Books and Souvenirs Sun Plaza Mall Calea Vacaresti 391 Tel: (+4) 0754 096.244

Kyralina French Bookstore Strada Biserica Amzei 10 Tel: (+4) 021 367.28.67

Bucharest Music Stores

Romanian music/ music recordings as well as musical instruments can be found at:

Magazinul Muzica Address: Calea Victoriei 41- 43 Tel: (+4) 0733 108.275

Music Box Address: Calea Floreasca 242, Vila O Tel: (+4) 0722 626.888

Music Shop Address: Strada Ion Câmpineanu Tel: (+4) 0752 112.405

M C Music Address: Strada Ion Câmpineanu 5 Tel: (+4) 0722 633.308

Music Vinyl Address: Intrarea Camil Petrescu 1 Tel: (+4) 0720 507.080

Fresh Produce Markets

Fresh produce and farmer markets are called Piata . Bucharest Piata s include:

Piata Amzei Address: Str. Christian Tell 6 Tel: (+4) 021 211.67.26 Centrally located outdoor market surrounded by butcheries, cheese, flower and medicinal plant shops.

Piata Dorobantilor Address: Blvd. Radu Beller 3 - 5 Tel: (+4) 021 231.92.99 Upscale neighborhood market with a good selection of fresh produce and flowers

Piata 1 Mai Address: Blvd. Ion Mihalache 123 Tel: (+4) 021 317.14.63

Piata Obor Address: Campul Mosilor 5 Tel: (+4) 021 252.69.54 Bucharest's largest outdoor food market and "Bazaar". This is the place to find everything from fresh cheese and eggs, fruits and vegetables, to flowers and household items.

Hotels and other Accommodations in Bucharest

Bucharest offers plenty of hotels and other types of accommodations. Info on historic, distinctive hotels are available at RomaniaTourism Distinctive Hotels section.

Tourist Info

Bucharest Tourist Information Office Address: Piata Universitatii underpass ( Pasajul Universitatii ) Telephone: (+4) 021 305.55.00 extension 1003 E-mail

Bucharest is safe and hospitable ; violent crime is almost non-existent. As in any large city visitors are advised to take usual safety precautions. Do not draw unnecessary attention to your person, money or jewelry and be aware of pickpockets and scam artists. Never accept taxi/ car rides, tours or guide services from strangers who approach you on the street, no matter how presentable or fluent in English.

Bucharest Weather

Bucharest has a four-season climate. In the spring, the weather can quickly alternate between rain and sunshine. July and August are the hottest months. Autumns are usually long and not cold. Winters can be quite cold with moderate snowfall.

Post offices display a postal horn symbol and the word Posta .

Bucharest Main Post & Telephone Office Address: Str. Matei Millo 10 (off Calea Victoriei) Open: Mon. - Fri.: 7:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sat.: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Telephoning Bucharest from Abroad International Access Code +4 (country code) + 021 or 031 (area code) + seven-digit telephone number

Pharmacies & Hospitals

Pharmacies in Bucharest are well stocked and pharmacists are authorized to recommend medication for most (minor) ailments. There are several pharmacies (Farmacie) open 24 hours a day.

Bucharest Emergency Hospital "Floreasca" Spitalul de Urgenta Floreasca Address: Calea Floreasca 8 Tel: (+4) 021-599.23.00 or (+4) 021 317.01.71

Bucharest General emergency phone number : 112

Bucharest Archives Arhivele Nationale - Directia Municipiului Bucuresti Address: Calea Văcăreşti 470 Telephone: (+4) 021 332.07.71 Hours E-mail

Bucharest City Hall Primăria Capitalei Address: Bd. Regina Elisabeta 47 Telephone: (+4) 021 490.00.33 Website

Consumer Protection Agency Comisariatul pentru Protecţia Consumatorilor al Municipiului Bucureşti   (ANPC) Address: Sos. Vitan-Barzesti 11 B Telephone: (+4) 021 95.51 Website

Bucharest Festivals & Events

A compilation of Romania’s main events is available at RomaniaTourism Events section

Events that take place every year in Bucharest include:

• Easter Gifts - Arts & Crafts Fair (April)
• 'Next' International Film Festival (June)
• Bucucuresti International Film Festival (B-EST IFF)
• International Music Festival 'Jeunesses Musicales' (May)
• Bucharest International Jazz Festival (July)
• Bucharest International Music Festival 'EuropaFest' (May)
• Gay Pride Festival (June)
• Saga International Music Festival (June)
• Craftsmen's Fair at the Village Museum in Bucharest (May - July)
• B'ESTFEST top international dance, indie and world music acts (July)
• Bucharest Street Theatre Festival (July)
• International Festival of Radio Ensembles "RadiRo" (September)
• George Enescu Music Festival (September- biennial, every odd year)
• Autumn Fair at Bucharest's Village Museum (October)
• Romanian National Theatre Festival (October)
• St Nicholas Fair at Bucharest's Museum of The Romanian Peasant (December)
• Winter Gifts Arts & Crafts Fair - Museum of the Romanian Peasant (December)

Bucharest City Map -- Harta orasului Bucuresti Bucharest Subway Map -- Harta Metroului Bucuresti Bucharest Public Transportation map -- Harta Trasee Transport Public Bucuresti

• Cluj-Napoca
• Targu Mures

Finding Alexx

| Bucket list adventures around the globe

Europe , Romania · April 19, 2024

Ultimate Bucharest city break: 1, 2 or 3 days in Bucharest

Considering a Bucharest city break for your next Europe jaunt? Here’s all you need to know to plan the perfect 2 or 3 day Bucharest itinerary.

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Romania’s captivating capital city offers an enticing combo of Parisian-style boulevards, hearty traditional cuisine and historical significance at a fantastically affordable price point. It’s one of the best city breaks in Europe in terms of bang for your buck!

Whether it’s a quick weekend escape because you found cheap flights , or it’s just one stop on a bigger Balkans itinerary , two or three days in Bucharest is enough to see the main highlights, get a basic understanding of its tumultuous past chapters, dip a finger into the gastronomic scene, and go home with spending money leftover.

If you want to know how to make the absolute most of your time and money in the ‘Paris of the East’, I’ve got you! I visited Bucharest on my first solo round the world trip and have since returned twice more, so I know exactly how to craft the perfect itinerary for a weekend in Bucharest.

So whether you’re drawn here by the historical intrigue, hearty cuisine, enchanting Old Town or simply because you want an escape that won’t hurt your wallet, here’s how to plan the perfect Bucharest city break.

A quick summary of the perfect Bucharest city break

✈️ Find  cheap flights on Skyscanner

🛌🏼 Stay at T5 Social  ($),  Rembrandt Hotel ($$), HOLT Old Town ($$$) or the Marmorosch ($$$$)

🚶🏼‍♀️ Do the  free walking tour to get your bearings

📸 See the National History Museum, Palace of Parliament, Stavropoleos Monastery, Macca-Vilacrosse Passage, Romanian Athenaeum, Cișmigiu Gardens and Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum

🧖🏼‍♀️ Soak your worries away at Therme Bucharest

🌄 Take a day trip to Transylvania’s castles , an incredible ethical bear sanctuary or the iconic Transfagarasan Highway

🍝 Eat at Caru’ cu bere or Restaurant Bucătărașul for traditional food, Maroon for fancy dishes, Haute Pepper for pasta, Herbs Organic Kitchen for vegetarian, Slow Restaurant for generous BBQ plates and Latin Pizza for cheap and cheerful takeaways

All you need to know to plan your Bucharest city break

Is bucharest worth visiting.

Bucharest is like Vegemite, you love it or you hate it.

Some people see it as unpolished and worth no more than an overnight stop en route to the storybook castles and enchanting old towns throughout Romania, and others are captivated by its energy, mesmerised by its diverse architecture and hooked by its history. I’m firmly in the second camp.

I think Bucharest is absolutely worth it for a city break, it’s an affordable way to get an authentic travel experience in a city that’s not designed for tourists. The Old Town is seriously impressive, the food and entertainment scene is thriving, and if you’re keen to delve into Romania’s history and culture, there are walking tours, museums and galleries galore.

Let’s not beat around the bush though, it’s by no means a polished city! It has the same grit as most ex-Soviet capitals, certain neighbourhoods are very run down, and not all locals are friendly and welcoming to tourists. There has always been major inequality within Romania and corruption is still rampant in politics, so Bucharest’s rough edges aren’t exactly unexpected.

TLDR: Bucharest is totally worth it if you’re open to a genuine, gritty Eastern European city break.

How to get to Bucharest

✈️ By plane: Bucharest can be reached from many European cities as well as some Middle East travel hubs, with low cost carriers like Wizz Air, Ryanair, Eurowings and FlyDubai often offering cheap flights. I use Skyscanner to find the cheapest dates to fly !

🚂 By train: If you’re travelling around Europe by train, there are a couple of long but simple train journeys that connect Bucharest with other major cities:

• Sleeper train between Bucharest and Budapest in Hungary (about 15h)
• Sleeper train between Bucharest and Vienna in Austria (about 18h)
• Day train between Bucharest and Sofia in Bulgaria (about 9.5h, direct in summer and one easy change at other times of the year)
• Sleeper train between Bucharest and Istanbul in Turkey (about 20h, direct from mid-June to mid-October, 2 easy changes other times)

🚌 By bus: While buses are the best way to get around most other countries in this part of Europe, the trains from Hungary, Austria, Bulgaria and Turkey into Bucharest are generally more comfortable than the bus options. But if the trains are too expensive for you (P.S. see if a Eurail Pass would save you money ) or you’re willing to compromise on comfort to save a few hours of travel, some popular bus routes to Bucharest are:

• Bucharest to Sofia (7h)
• Bucharest to Istanbul (11h)
• Bucharest to Belgrade (15h, change in Sofia)

You can find the best deals on bus tickets at  Omio , and if you’re keen for a bigger Balkan adventure you should check out my  no-fly Balkans two week itinerary .

📸  On a group tour:  Want to see more than just Bucharest without spending too much time planning? I recently embarked on an adventure with Travel Talk Tours that took me to Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Albania, Montenegro and North Macedonia. Phew! You can read my full  Amazing Balkans & Transylvania tour review  or  check out the tour details here .

How to get around Bucharest

The Old Town and nearby landmarks are very walkable, or hiring a bike for a day can speed up your trips and help you maximise your time.

Bucharest’s public transport system is an efficient and affordable way to get from A to B if it’s not walking/biking distance. You can get metro tickets at the station, and for trolleys/trams/buses you can get a card from an RATB kiosk and load it with however much you expect to spend.

Uber and Bolt are both available in Bucharest and are super cheap, avoid local taxis as they’re known for ripping off tourists.

How many days in Bucharest is best

I’d say three days in Bucharest gives you time to dig a bit into the history and culture, enjoy some fantastic food and venture out for a half day trip to Therme Bucharest without feeling rushed.

If you only have two days in Bucharest then you can still tick a lot of things off this list if you don’t mind a fast-paced weekend away, and if you’ve got 4+ days I’d recommend escaping Bucharest to experience the castles further afield.

When is the best time to visit Bucharest?

As always, this one really depends on your travel preferences.

☀️  Bucharest in Summer (June to August): 

Summer (particularly July and August) in Bucharest can be hot, hot, hot! The city isn’t too crowded because many locals go on holiday to escape the unbearable heat. Tourist spots like Transylvania and day trips near Bucharest will likely be busy.

❄️  Bucharest in Winter (December to February): 

December has festive charm but the temps can be bitterly cold. If you don’t mind the chill, January and February are some of the most affordable and quiet months to visit Bucharest.

🍂  Bucharest’s shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November):  

I’m a shoulder season traveller through and through, and the spring and autumn months are my top pick for the best time to visit Bucharest, particularly April/May and September/October.

How much to budget for a weekend in Bucharest

Accommodation:  Budget travellers can find hostel dorms little as €10-15 per night, there are simple private rooms from €25-30 a night and there are 4* hotels from €50-70 per night.

Food and drink:  €8-12 per day would cover cheap eats like bakery, supermarket and street food, and a sit-down restaurant meal ranges from €5-12 at most places (and they’re very generous with their portions!).

Activities:  Not much, there are free or cheap walking tours and affordable museums to fill your Bucharest itinerary. If you want to do a day trip out of the city or visit Therme Bucharest that will push your costs up.

Transport:  Again, not much. Buses/metro/trams are super cheap, bike rental is very affordable, and Uber is cheaper than most European cities.

Where to stay during Bucharest city break

Best area to stay in bucharest.

• Old Town: Historic, walkable, easy access to iconic landmarks and buzzing nightlife
• Piata Unirii : A tourist hub, lots of affordable hostels and chain hotels, good public transport connections and some great rooftop bars
• Piata Romana : Higher end hotels and restaurants but lots of traffic, cheap accomm might be noisy if it’s not well-insulated
• Floreasca : Trendy, modern neighbourhood with boutique hotels, innovative eateries and a beautiful park

Best Bucharest hostels

• Hostel Sport  (basic but clean backpacker hostel, 9.1/10 from 600+ reviews)
• Nest Boutique Hostel  (another simple hostel, 8.4/10 from 250+ reviews)
• T5 Social  (super social hostel with loads of events without being a party hostel, 9.1/10 from 160+ reviews)

Best Bucharest hotels

• Nobel Boutique  (tasteful boutique hotel near Piata Romana, 9.5/10 from 490+ reviews)
• Tempus  (comfortable and affordable small hotel near Piata Unirii, 9.5/10 from 30+ reviews)
• Rembrandt Hotel (cheap and cheerful hotel in the middle of Old Town, 8.6/10 from 1120+ reviews)
• Radisson Blu  (top-rated stylish chain hotel, 9.5/10 from 700+ reviews)
• The Marmorosch Bucharest  (absolutely lush 5* hotel, 9.1/10 from 5100+ reviews, worth a splurge!)

Best Bucharest apartments

• ⭐ HOLT Bucharest , they have a variety of apartments and studios around Bucharest, all with stunning interior design. The photos below are from my gorgeous HOLT studio in Old Town!
• NOVOS ApartHotel  (modern, well-equipped apartments, 9.7/10 from 50+ reviews)
• Elysium  (great value apartments near Piata Romana, 9.5/10 from 600+ reviews)

Things to do during a 1, 2 or 3 day Bucharest itinerary

Discover bucharest with a walking tour.

A must-do for any weekend in Bucharest! I love walking tours because they let you get your bearings without getting lost, give you an overview of the destination’s background, and the local guides often share extra tips like the best places to eat and drink.

There are a range of walking tours to choose from depending on your interests and preferences:

• This top-rated free walking tour , 2.5-3h wandering between the main city highlights
• This communism-focused 3h walking tour that goes into more depth in that specific chapter of Bucharest’s history
• This alternative Bucharest tour that gets you off the beaten path and shows you a different side of the city
• This perfectly-rated Sites & Bites walking food tour through the Old Town
• This Dark History tour for a look at the history of Bucharest’s underbelly

Caru’ cu bere

Caru’ cu bere is more than just a restaurant, it’s a Bucharest institution that’s been serving authentic Romanian fare since 1879 😱

It’s touristy, yes, but it’s genuinely worth it. The interior is exquisite with stained glass windows and a vaulted ceiling, the home-style food is hearty and delicious, and there’s live music and traditional entertainment daily.

Book in advance, especially on weekends.

Cărtureşti Carusel

Often mistaken as a public library, this Wes-Anderson-esque bookstore found fame in the early days of Instagram.

Across multiple storeys it holds thousands of titles spanning all genres, in both Romanian and English, as well as knick-knacks and souvenirs. The shop welcomes visitors just wanting to take photos too, just don’t disrupt customers.

I’d recommend going first thing in the morning to avoid the busy hours, it opens 10am every day of the week ( check their website for any changes to their opening hours).

• Therme Bucharest

Add some self-care into your Bucharest itinerary with a visit to one of Europe’s largest thermal spa complexes, Therme Bucharest .

Located on the outskirts of Bucharest (accessible by 40-50 min bus, 25-30 min taxi, or a shared transfer ), this giant wellness centre features three sections:

• Galaxy: A family-friendly section with waterslides, a wave pool, steam rooms, water playgrounds and indoor and outdoor pools
• The Palm: The home of Therme’s main attraction, a massive 33ºC pool surrounded by palm trees, with a pool bar, jacuzzi and a connecting outdoor pool with water massage cannons. There’s also a variety of saunas, steam rooms, mineral pools, hydromassage beds and more. Kids over 3 aren’t allowed.
• Elysium: The fanciest section, with themed saunas including a movie theatre one (!!!), an ultra-hot one and a Moroccan-themed one, comfy lounge beds, an invigorating shower room where you stand under thundering streams of water, steam infusions and more. No kids at all in this bit.

When you buy your ticket you can choose just Galaxy, Galaxy + the Palm, or all three sections (which I recommend).

Therme Bucharest is close to the airport and they have a dedicated luggage room, so if you’ve flown in on a long-haul flight you could come straight here for some chill time before hitting the city.

See the major landmarks

If you’re doing one of the tours I mentioned above you’ll probably see a bunch of the main landmarks, but if you prefer to go at your own pace, here’s a quick hit list of the top tourist sights to include in your Bucharest city break itinerary:

• National History Museum
• The grandiose Palace of Parliament , a symbol of Ceaușescu’s dictatorship and the seat of the Parliament of Romania (seeing it from the outside is sufficient, but if you’re a history/politics buff you can book a guided tour )
• Royal Palace of Bucharest and the National Museum of Art of Romania
• Cișmigiu Gardens
• Manuc’s Inn , the oldest operating hotel in Bucharest
• Stavropoleos Monastery, a small but exquisite monastery in the Old Town
• Piata Unirii, the most famous square in the city
• Macca-Vilacrosse Passage , a beautiful covered passageway
• Zlatari Church
• Arcul de Triumf, a symbol of unity
• The Romanian Athenaeum , stunning from the outside or you could book a ticket to an orchestra show for the full experience
• Ceauşescu Mansion, former residence of the last dictator of Romania
• The Memorial of Rebirth, a controversial monument supposedly honouring the victims of the Romanian revolution, sometimes referred to as ‘the potato on the stick’
• Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum , an open air display of more than 300 buildings showing you rural Romania through the ages

Dig into the culinary scene

I don’t think Bucharest stacks up on my list of the best foodie cities ( Sofia , Copenhagen , Bologna and Paris take the top spots), but there’s no doubt that you do get fantastic value for money no matter your food budget. Here’s are some of the places I love to eat and drink:

• Latin Pizza for cheap takeaways
• Twenty Eight for brunch
• Restaurant Bucătărașul for traditional food
• Slow Restaurant for succulent BBQ meats
• Maroon for fancy food
• Amethyst Sky Bar for rooftop cocktail
• Haute Pepper for truffle pasta yummmmmm
• Herbs Organic Kitchen for delicious Nepalese, good vegetarian options (which can sometimes be hard to find in Romania)

Explore beyond Bucharest

If you’ve got more than a weekend in Bucharest, you could add a day trip on to your itinerary. The most popular day trips are:

• The castles of Transylvania (4.8/5 from more than 3200 reviews, option to choose a bus tour or small group)
• Libearty Bear Sanctuary Zarnesti , a superb ethical sanctuary that looks after bears rescued from captivity
• A winery day trip
• The iconic Transfagarasan Highway (this one is on my bucket list!)

Suggested Bucharest city break itineraries

1 day in bucharest itinerary.

• Brunch at Twenty Eight
• Free walking tour from 10am-1pm
• Lunch at Caru’ cu bere
• Visit the National History Museum
• Dinner at Latin Pizza or a concert at the Athenaeum

2 days in Bucharest itinerary

Day 1 as above

• Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum

3 days in Bucharest itinerary

Days 1 and 2 as above

• Option 1: Day trip to the Transylvanian castles
• Option 2: Day trip to the bear sanctuary (usually includes Bran Castle too)

Bucharest city break FAQs

Is bucharest safe for tourists.

Bucharest is generally safe for tourists, with the usual precautions you’d take in any major city.

Is Bucharest safe for solo female travellers?

As a solo female traveller I’ve felt totally safe each time I visit Bucharest, it’s no more dangerous than other European capital cities. Avoid unlit areas at night, trust your instincts, and keep your wits about you when indulging in the famous plum brandy, it’s bruuuutal 🫠

Is one day in Bucharest enough?

One day is enough to see the absolute highlights of Bucharest as long as you don’t mind a bit of a whirlwind tour. You can see a lot with the free walking tour, wander through Old Town, enjoy a nice meal or two and maybe dash inside a museum.

If you want to experience the city at a slower pace then two to three days in Bucharest is ideal.

Is Bucharest expensive to visit?

Compared to most European capital cities, Bucharest is cheap and cheerful. Budget travellers could cover food and accommodation from as little as €20-25 per day!

It’s a bit more expensive than some other Balkan cities like Sarajevo, Skopje and Tirana, but much cheaper than Western Europe hubs like Amsterdam, Paris and Florence.

In general your money goes far here, so if you prefer the finer things in life (boutique hotels, private tours, fancy restaurants), you’ll spend a fraction of what you might pay in those pricier cities for the same quality.

Are there any free things to do in Bucharest?

There sure are. The free walking tour is a great start (although you’re expected to tip €5-15 if you enjoyed it, which you will!), stroll through Cișmigiu Gardens, search for street art, get lost in Old Town and some museums have free entry on certain days of the week/month.

I hope this Bucharest city break guide has given you some good ideas for your Bucharest itinerary.

Whether you’re just spending a day here as a mid-travel stopover, or have found cheap flights for a weekend in Bucharest, or are using it as a jumping off point for a bigger Balkans tour, I have no doubt that you’re going to love the charming Old Town, fascinating history and rich cuisine.

Happy travels!

MORE EUROPE CITY BREAKS AND SHORT ITINERARIES:

• 1, 2 or 3 days in Sofia itinerary
• 2 day Budapest itinerary
• 24 hours in Florence itinerary
• 2 day Milan itinerary
• 2 day Porto itinerary
• 5 day Switzerland itinerary
• 4 day Iceland itinerary
• 4 day Norway itinerary
• 2 day Marrakech itinerary  (I’m absolutely aware this isn’t in Europe, but it’s an easy place to reach from most European hubs!)

SOLO TRAVEL CITY GUIDES

• A guide to solo travel in Porto, Portugal
• A guide to solo travel in Amsterdam, the Netherlands
• A guide to solo travel in Marrakech, Morocco
• A guide to solo travel in Edinburgh, Scotland

MORE BALKAN TRAVEL INSPIRATION:

• A tour review of the Travel Talk Amazing Balkans tour
• A guide to sailing in Croatia
• Medsailors Croatia sailing tour review

MY GO-TO TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES Flights ✈️ I use Skyscanner to find the best flights for my trip and then I’ll always book direct with the airline to protect myself from having to deal with dodgy third parties if anything goes wrong. Trains 🚂 If I’m travelling through Europe, I try to travel by train wherever possible! For an extended trip (2+ weeks) I’ll calculate if a Eurail Pass is worth it , or I’ll book point-to-point tickets through RailEurope or the local train operator. Accommodation 🛎️ I book almost all of my accommodation through booking.com , they have a user-friendly website + app and many of their options are free cancellation, easily cancelled with a simple click of a button. Activities 🗽 I use GetYourGuide , Klook and Viator to look for activities in the places I visit, or I just Google ‘things to do in [city]’! P.S. If you book anything on Klook you can use the promocode FINDINGALEXXKLOOK to get 10% off Travel cards 💳 I’m a Wise gal through and through, they’ve been my chosen travel card for more than five years now. You can easily top up your card from your bank account or through Apple Pay, convert your money to local currency, and spend money with minimal fees and the best exchange rates around. Travel insurance 🩺 I use Cover-More NZ travel insurance for my own trips, I have a comprehensive policy and I’ve only had good experiences with them. Cover-More also has an Australian company , but if you’re from elsewhere then two popular insurance options for global travellers are SafetyWing (cheaper policy, lower coverage) and World Nomads (more expensive but significantly better coverage). Luggage 💼 I travel with Samsonite Cosmolite suitcases , one 75cm check in bag and a 55cm carry on bag, and I absolutely adore them and will never travel with anything else! They are SUPER lightweight (2.8kg and 1.9kg respectively) so I have much more space for my actual stuff. Camera gear 📸 I use a iPhone 15 Pro Max for phone photos/videos, and my camera kit includes a Lumix S9 (incredible lightweight full-frame camera, a game changer for travel creators!) with a 20-60mm lens, a Lumix G9 with an 8-18mm and 12-60mm lens, a DJI Mini 3 Pro drone and a GoPro Hero 10 . I do all my writing and editing on my ASUS Zenbook 14 , it’s lightweight but powerful enough for photo editing and intense blogging sessions.

Written by:

Alexx is the human behind the keyboard and camera here at Finding Alexx. She’s a full-time solo traveller with a passion for finding bucket list experiences, unique stays that are worth writing home about, and those meals you’ll think about for the rest of your life. Having visited more than 60 countries (50 of them solo!), she shares super detailed itineraries and travel guides on the blog, as well as providing an authentic behind-the-scenes look at all her adventures (and misadventures) on Instagram.

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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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9 Best Things to Do in Bucharest: Itinerary + Tips

When we first set foot in Bucharest, we knew very little about the best things to do in Bucharest in one day, let alone on a longer trip!

While we had long wanted to visit Romania, specifics about the charms of its capital city got crowded out of our daydreams about the country, which were typically filled with beautiful mountains, quaint villages, and majestic castles.

When we got the opportunity to explore the best things to see in Bucharest for a few days in partnership with the Experience Bucharest team, we knew it would be the perfect opportunity to get a taste of Romania in preparation for what will hopefully be a longer return trip one day.

Three very busy days later, we were happy to announce that we had a fabulous time visiting Bucharest.

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We came not knowing what to expect but left thrilled to have had a chance to get to know Bucharest’s quirky personality, kind people, tasty food, and fascinating cultural sites.

Considering a trip to the capital of Romania soon and wondering what to put on your itinerary?

Here’s what to do in Bucharest!

Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Bucharest

How to visit bucharest in one day, explore romania beyond visiting bucharest, where we stayed in bucharest.

Take a walking tour of Bucharest.

Like most European cities, Bucharest is best introduced via a walking tour–there’s nothing like the feeling of getting integrated with a city by walking the streets yourself.

While “basic” walking tours with an overview of Bucharest and its history are available, there are enough themed walking tours available that just about anyone will find one that piques their interest.

From Hidden Bucharest to Alternative Bucharest , or even to niche topics such as a Roma Heritage Tour, just about any option will leave you with a great walk through Bucharest’s quirky streets and with new knowledge about the city.

Personally, we opted for a Communist Tour that explored Bucharest’s (very recent) Communist past.

A mong other sites, we viewed the “House of the People” from the outside as well as its corresponding avenue, which was built by dictator Nicolae Ceausescu to be larger and more grand than the Champs Elysses.

We also stopped at some of the few remaining Communist-era apartments that have not been redone since the fall of communism and visited a church that had literally been picked up and moved to clear space for the House of the People during construction.

Most interestingly of all, our guide was old enough to remember parts of his own childhood under communist rule and brought artifacts such as an example of the propaganda-style textbook that children studied until the fall of the dictatorship in 1989.

Shop Communist Walking Tours  of Bucharest!

Visit the People’s House of Romania.

Romania’s communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu had a vision: redesign the city of Bucharest, and create an entire series of buildings and streets that would show off to the world how successful the Socialist Republic of Romania was.

He failed in most respects, but left a somewhat strange legacy all the same: the People’s House of Romania (often called the “People’s House” for short, and now officially named the Palace of the Parliament) is the second-largest administrative building in the world–only the US Pentagon is larger.

Standing outside the building, the enormity of it presses in on you–it is a gigantic place, and the scale is even more impressive when you learn that the huge building in front of you is just a portion of it–a significant amount of the palace is underground, though the exact figure seems a little fuzzy.

The building is, for obvious reasons, quite controversial–Nicolae Ceausescu more or less starved the people of Romania to pay for it, and actually got the idea to make it from Kim Il-sung himself, one of the most infamous of all tyrannical dictators–but it remains one of Romania’s most popular tourist attractions and is currently home to both Romania’s parliament and an art museum.

We didn’t get a chance to go inside on this visit, but the photos of the elaborate interior make us want to find room for it on our itinerary next time.

Even with only one day in Bucharest, this unforgettable structure would be a must-see.

Book your visit to the Palace of the Parliament today!

Check out Bucharest’s Arc de Triomphe.

Once upon a time, we associated the phrase “Arc de Triomphe” with Paris… but that arch is far from the only one!

“Triumphal Arches” are actually quite common (though the French phrase is more popular to describe them).

So far, we’ve visited the ones in Paris , Vientiane , a few Roman ones scattered around Italy, and now, Bucharest!

Like in Paris, Bucharest’s Arc de Triomphe is set in the middle of a traffic circle and is very grand.

Typically, the arch is only open for visitors to climb it on one day each year, but we were lucky enough to get to climb to the top with media permission.

While it was a very cool experience to climb up the arch at night, don’t worry too much about it being closed–the view from the top was less impressive than the view of the beautiful arch itself, in our opinion.

Our favorite part about climbing the arch was actually the pretty interior staircase!

Pay a visit to the Romanian Kitsch Museum.

We love checking out strange, small, quirky, and offbeat museums on our travels… and the Romanian Kitsch Museum definitely fit the bill.

Home to a hodgepodge of eclectic paraphernalia, the Romanian Kitsch Museum has sections dedicated to Dracula, to the Orthodox Church, to the communist way of life in 20th century Romania, to Roma culture, and more.

In the paraphrased words of the owner Cristian, who gave us a tour of the museum himself, “When something sacred is turned hollow due to greed, corruption, or lack of respect, it becomes kitsch.”

Our visit to the Romanian Kitsch Museum felt in many ways like a fairly lighthearted take on serious aspects of Romanian history and culture, which Cristian said was his goal in creating the museum.

Some sad topics were covered but they were presented in such a way to make the visitor laugh and then stop to think, rather than moving directly into a serious social conversation.

It was bizarre, hilarious, endlessly entertaining, and–to be honest–we left still not 100% sure if we “got it”.

We did know this, though: we were glad that we added it to our list of things to do in Bucharest, and would definitely go back.

Indulge your inner bookworm at Carturesti Carusel.

There’s nothing like finding a beautiful, quirky, and/or interesting bookstore to make our day–and Carturesti Carusel (in English, “Carousel of Light”) definitely qualifies.

Located in the heart of Bucharest’s Old Town, Carturesti Carusel is housed in a restored 19th-century building, complete with bright spaces, spiral staircases, and more than 10,000 books.

It’s regularly busy, of course, but it’s definitely worth dropping in for a book, to check out the decor, or to simply enjoy a coffee at the cafe on the top floor of the bookstore.

For bibliophiles and architecture lovers alike, a visit here definitely belongs on any list of the best things to do in Romania .

Stroll around Bucharest’s Old Town.

“This is such a cute Old Town!” I exclaimed when walking to lunch with a group of other bloggers during our stay in Bucharest.

“It’s not very old, though,” replied one of the Romanian bloggers we were walking with. “They just finished it in 2011!”

Needless to say, I did a double-take.

But it’s true: while obviously many of the buildings date back hundreds of years, the area that is known today as Bucharest’s Old Town just received its beautiful cobblestone pathways in 2011, and its buildings are still being given updates and facelifts, one by one.

The area surrounding Lipscani Street has been given new life in the form of an entertainment district that reminds me of what I always imagined Berlin would feel like–charming, pretty, somewhat regal, but also a bit gritty and quirky.

Today, the area is flourishing: bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops full of Romanian souvenirs burst out in all directions, making it a great place to wander.

Taste Romanian food and wine.

Sausage. Barbeque. Pork anything. Cheese. Wine. Vegetables. More wine. More meat.

Romanians and Texans would get along quite well when it comes to cuisine!

Though the spices aren’t exactly the same and Texans are inclined to prefer beer to wine, we definitely noticed many similarities–which was good, because Jeremy was desperately craving Texas barbeque by the time we got to Romania.

We didn’t have a bad meal in Romania, but some spots that stuck out were Gastronomika, La Mama, Pescarus (still can’t forget their cheese-stuffed sausage), and Tasting Room Gastro Wine Bar.

Want to make the most of exploring Romanian wine? Book your Bucharest wine tour today!

Check out Bucharest’s art scene.

Bucharest is home to a surprisingly large art scene–from galleries to artist’s workshops to unusual outdoor spaces, there’s something for every taste

Most memorably during our time visiting Bucharest, we visited Combinatul, a repurposed industrial area that has been turned into an artist’s hub.

We can’ say that all of the art there was exactly our style, though some of it certainly was–but memorable was definitely the word for it!

Statues, films, paintings, carvings, large pieces, small ones–it was all there, and we loved having the opportunity to walk around and explore.

If you’re looking for something art-related that’s a bit more offbeat than a traditional gallery, definitely add Combinatul to your list when deciding what to do in Bucharest!

If you move fast and use all the Bucharest travel tips you can get your hands on, you just may be able to see most or all of these Bucharest attractions during a short 24 hour trip!

Many of these spots are located close together.

The Romanian Kitsch Museum and Carturesti Carusel are both located within Bucharest’s Old Town, for example, making transitions fairly easy to pull off with a bit of planning.

Trips to Romania are commonly started with one day in Bucharest, and I do think all of these interesting and fun things to do in Bucharest can be accomplished in a single (very busy and fast-moving) day–but don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to extend your trip.

Bucharest has tons to offer and is very inexpensive , and bumping your trip up to include 2 or even 3 days in Bucharest would still leave you with enough exciting and fun things to do in Bucharest that you could keep a packed-full sightseeing schedule if you wish.

If you’re coming to Romania to road trip its famous countryside, explore beautiful Romanian castles , or simply passing through the region and wondering what to do in Bucharest and whether it’s worth a stop, definitely make one!

Bucharest is eclectic, interesting, and full of unexpected attractions ranging from the historic Ceausescu House to seemingly endless numbers of charming cafes.

If we have one regret from our time in Bucharest, it’s that we didn’t have a chance to get outside of it!

Dracula’s Castle–aka Bran Castle–may be full of history instead of vampires, but we’d still love to see it, along with the absolutely stunning Peles Castle, the city of Brasov, and so much more.

If you’re short on time like us but still want to squeeze in one day of exploring the best places to visit in Romania beyond the capital, this exciting tour is one of the most popular in all of Romania for good reason!

Personally, the next time we visit Romania, the castles will be our first stop.

Book your day trip to Bran Castle, Peles Castle, and Brasov today!

Orhideea Residence and Spa — Our apartment at Orhideea Residence & Spa was clean, comfortable, had a great view, a kitchen–and it was giant !

Seriously–the living room felt like a football field.

Breakfast was tasty and served on the 11th floor, with views that stretched over Bucharest.

We would not hesitate to stay again if we head back to explore all of the fun things to do in Bucharest again!

The hotel isn’t within walking distance of Old Town but is a cheap and easy Uber ride away.

We definitely recommend sticking with Uber–the one day that we had to take a taxi because the Uber app went down, we were (predictably) overcharged by the driver.

Check rates and book your stay at Orhideea Residence and Spa!

Many thanks to the Experience Bucharest team for hosting us in full during our trip to Romania! All opinions are, as always, our own.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

23 thoughts on “9 Best Things to Do in Bucharest: Itinerary + Tips”

I’m a complete bookworm so I’d head straight to the place with 10,000 books! I’ve yet to visit Bucharest but I’d like to try next year. I never knew the Arc di Triomphe was also there. The parliament building is impressive, I’d like to take photos too.

Haha, you sound just like me! Always after the books. :-)

Bucharest is such a beautiful city and what more, it doesn’t take all of one’s time to explore the city. From the Arc dear Triomphe to the Carturesti Carusel, including the street arts, the city of Bucharest is worth every visit. And a winter tasting tour in Bucharest wouldn’t be a bad idea. Glad you mentioned the restaurants with the ‘off mark,’ I’d better watch out.

We definitely enjoyed the wine tasting we did! We did ours at the aptly named Tasting Room.

How cool! I don’t really know Bucharest, but I would definitely enjoy a day in the city seeing the sights. Looks like you had a great time photographing the city.

We definitely did–there’s tons to photograph in Bucharest!

I love the bookstore! This paired with Bucharest’s art scene would make for a perfect, relaxing day in the town! I’m also jotting down Old Town as a must-see when I’m in town. Great advice!

That does sound like an excellent relaxing day, right? :-) Maybe end with a tasty dinner and some Romanian wine!

Some of the best trips I’ve had were unplanned and without many expectations – seems like your experience in Bucharest was one of those! I had no idea the city was such a hub for art! I’d absolutely love to check out Combinatul and the Kitsch museum. Plus, that bookstore is totally dreamy.

I agree–lack of expectations can really make a city come to life! We had a great time, and I definitely recommend all of those. The Kitsch Museum was so much fun!

I have lived in Bucharest for about 7 years and got to experience it before and after it became tourist friendly. I am glad to see how it grew and it is not a great weekend destination. I have to admit, I haven’t heard of the Kitch Museum before. It must be new. :)

I think it is, Joanna! I can’t remember the exact date, but we spoke with the owner and I believe he opened it a few years ago. Definitely worth a stop if you get a chance to go back!

Love your pictures! Never heard of Bucharest before it looks like a photographers dream and very romantic. Love the book store… could spend a few hours in there.

Haha, you and me both on the bookstore! Bucharest was definitely a fun city to photograph.

I think the museum would be my number 1. It’ll be the fastest way to learn about their cultures. Satisfying my inner book worm would be for just a little time as exploring the attractive surroundings would be paramount to me.

The Kitsch Museum definitely was a very fun way to learn about the culture! The bookstore is a must, I agree. :-)

Such a pretty country dont know why I never tought about visiting Romania. I probably must put it on my bucket list. Thanks a lot for sharing it with hs

It’s definitely been a bit under the radar, but Romania is worthy of some attention! It has tons to offer. :-)

Lovely! Bucharest sounds like a cool city. Walking tour would be the best thing to do.

It definitely is a very cool place to explore!

There has been an unfortunate misspelling under your “walking tour” category. And as a Romanian, I don’t care much about that, but many might take it personally based on history haha

Oh my! Thanks so much for letting me know, Ingrid–sad to say that has probably been up for quite a while! Fixed now. :-)

I’m going next week 0ct 1 – 10th, hope it’s a good time to be outside

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10 tips to save money and travel cheap in Bucharest

BUCHAREST!!! “The Little Paris of East” – The capital city is a blend of history and hip-hop. Bucharest is one of the most affordable tourist destinations as compared to other Western European countries. 

The picturesque of the city will mesmerize you, and you will be happy to increase your stay more to know the culture and the people. To make the most of the trip to this hip city, here are some handful of tips to save money while exploring tourist attractions Bucharest.

1. Reaching Bucharest and Transportation in Bucharest

Travel expenses to reach any destination starts from reaching there. The most convenient and reasonably cheap way of getting to Bucharest is a low-cost flight. Wizz Air and Blue Air operate cheap flights to many cities in Romania. The tickets range from 40-100 Euros. 

Getting to the main city from the airport, Use Uber or Speed taxi, which is reasonably easy on the pocket. If not, you can use the airport bus, which will cost you 5 Lei.

Public Transportation in Bucharest is very affordable and travel-friendly. Buses and Trams tickets are as cheap as 2 RON. 

Lastly, if you love trains, here too, Romania’s train services are relatively cost-effective. Plus, they go around the city. The only drawback is that the trains here are a bit slow, so if you are in a rush, it is better to take a taxi. 

For checking out the wonders of Bucharest, you can rent a cycle or a scooter for an hour to explore slavishly and cut short the travel expenses considerably. Download the Lime app and add money to your account to look for a scooter near you.

2. Budget-Friendly Accommodation

Bucharest is the perfect place for affordable accommodation with a fusion of comfort and luxury. The city hosts some great and cheap hotels, hostels, and Airbnb. Low-cost hotels are scattered all over the city. 

A dorm room can cost about 13-15 Euros (50-60 RON), a private room costs 150 RON per night. Airbnb with shared rooms can cost about 50 RON per night. Camping is legal in the country, and the prices start at 25 RON per night for a basic plot.

Experience “no cost sleeping”  – Couchsurfing is one of the amazing money saving tips for Bucharest. Psst!, you can also couch surf in Prague, if you ever get a chance to visit there. 

3. Experience the Cheap (but, watery warm) Craft Beer 

Craft Beer Lovers!!! Invade Bucharest – The city is popping up with specialized bars and stores with a wide selection of cheap international and local craft beer. Majority bars and restaurants are located in Old Town, offering affordable beer, live music, and filled with tourists and Romanians.

Beer in a bar costs around 5-8 RON and a glass of wine 10-15 RON. The optimal deal is to buy local beer from excellent local breweries – Ursus, Ciuc, Silva that is always cheaper than the imported ones. 

Pro Tip: Buy your own groceries and craft beer from stores, which can cost you around 150 RON per week and live it like a  Romanian.

4. Romanian Currency and Exchange Houses

The local currency of Romania is RON or Lei. Euros, Dollars, UK Pounds and Swiss Francs are easily interchangeable currencies in the country.

Be cautious with exchange rates. Though it is safe and secure to exchange at banks – BCR(Erste), BRD(Societe General), but they charge higher exchange rates. 

Exchange Bureaus are ubiquitous in the city easily recognizable with yellow and white strike boards. Take care of the commission being charged in exchange houses, though.

Making card payments is safe in Romania and accepted almost everywhere. Cards issued by Visa, Mastercard are accepted, but not American Express. When traveling to the countryside, Cash is the king, don’t forget to exchange or withdraw before.

5. Economical Eating

It is quite interesting to know that Bucharest takes third place in the cheap travel category after Warsaw and Istanbul. One of the reasons is cheap food. 

Bucharest has many wondrous beer gardens and eateries that are pretty well hidden. Eating and drinking in the city won’t ruin your budget. A cheap delish plate here starts at 25 RON. For marked down restaurants and bars stay in the Old Town and explore the various passages.

While walking around the city, treat yourself with flavorous street food. Enjoy street Gyro, which will cost you 20 RON. Plus, to save on a few travel expenses, you can also buy food and ready-to-eat foods from the local thrift store.

6. Curious for Free Entertainment

Everyone loves a freebie; Bucharest will keep you beguile with free attractions. There are a lot of amazing museums in the city that welcome visitors for free. Museums allow free entry for students and who are less than 25 years of age.

The National Museum of Art of Romania, the Zambaccian Museum, Museum of Art Collections provide free entrance on the first Wednesday of every month.

Explore the street art of Bucharest and head to Lipscani Street to admire the street art pieces, and you never know you might find hidden gems in one of the shops. The city has beautiful parks and gardens to relax along with quaint lakes. Titan Park, Vacaresti Park, Izvor Park, Herastrau Park offers free access to football, basketball, tennis courts, and skate trails.

7. Top low-cost attractions to see in Bucharest

The Palace of Parliament is not a thing to miss, though it is free to gaze from outside. For the interiors, the ticket costs 40 RON. Visit Peles Castle and head inside to look at the art and antique collection, which includes 4000 arms and armors. Tour of the castle costs around 30-40 RON.

Tour the salt mine that has been converted into a subterranean museum. See how it was used throughout the middle ages and how laborious the process was. Tickets for adults are 40 RON, and for seniors and children, it is 20 RON.

More importantly, try to find lodging in the Old Town region of Bucharest. Bucharest does not have a multitude of attractions, they are limited. Plus, most of the Bucharest tourist attractions are located in this area, so you can reach there on foot easily and you can save on travel expenses. 

8. Enjoy with Free Guided Tours

Have a hunch of local life; Take a free walking tour and dive into the history of Romania and its leaders. The tour also leads to the other side of the city that you haven’t seen before. The guide will also provide you with inside information about where to stay and eat. If you enjoyed the tour, leave a tip at the end.

9. Book from Family Run Businesses

Try to find family-owned businesses for booking city tours, hotels, or any other sort of travel-related bookings. The reason being that family-owned businesses are better acquainted with the local destinations. They offer competitive pricing compared to the corporate chains and may also throw in some extra perks with the deal. 

10. Off the Beaten Track 

There are many sightseeing tours from Bucharest to some famous attractions – Brasov, Transylvania (famous for its Dracula adventures). You can find great deals at any airport under 400 RON. Bucharest to Cluj can be done under 200 RON.

Buses connect the main cities throughout the country. The journey from Bucharest to Cluj will cost around 75 RON, Bucharest to Brasov will cost 50 RON. 

Bucharest is a Hidden Paradise

Those who visit here are heard saying that “Bucharest is not about aesthetics, but it is the appeal of the local culture and the aura of the city that attracts us.” The hipster feel and low travel expenses of Bucharest are similar to what you may find in Berlin. 

Even there are not too many things to do in Bucharest, but you will be able to enjoy your stay here because of the good people and amazing culture which shows easily around every corner of the city. Plus, follow our tips for budget-friendly travel Bucharest to get the most out of your trip.

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Prices in Bucharest

Generally speaking, Bucharest is not an expensive city, therefore it's a great option if you're on a tight budget. Having said that, there are more luxurious options if you don't mind spending a little more.

Examples of Prices

Below, we've put together a list of the prices of some typical expenses when in Bucharest.

Food & Drink

• Coffee : 5 RON ( US$ 1.10)
• Beer : 8 RON ( US$ 1.80)

Dinner for two in a good restaurant : around 250 RON ( US$ 54.90)

• One-way metro ticket : 2.50 RON ( US$ 0.50)
• 24-hour metro pass : 8 RON ( US$ 1.80)
• Taxi from the airport to the city center : between 40 RON ( US$ 8.80) and 100 RON ( US$ 21.90) (approximately).

Tourist Attractions

• Palace of the Parliament : 40 RON ( US$ 8.80)
• Bran Castle : 45 RON ( US$ 9.90)
• National Museum of Art : 24 RON

Accommodation

Double room in a central hotel : from € 60 ( US$ 65.50) a night.

Maps & Merlot

3 Days in Bucharest, Romania: Plan the Perfect Itinerary

I’ve been to a lot of European countries, and I’ve loved them all, but there’s something pretty magical about Bucharest…or perhaps it’s the cheap (but delicious) wine talking?

I’ll be honest…I only ended up in Bucharest because getting a flight from Amman, Jordan to Tampa, Florida was downright impossible. However, a flight from Amman to Bucharest and Bucharest to Tampa was much easier.

From Dracula’s Castle to wine tasting to exploring downtown, our 3 days in Bucharest, Romania turned out to be pretty amazing.  We did a combination of day trips and exploring the city, so I feel like we got the best of both worlds.

Ready to discover it for yourself? Here’s my ultimate guide to 3 days in Bucharest, Romania (plus day trips!)

This post may contain affiliate links.

3 Days in Bucharest: An Overview

There are so many options for how to spend your 3 days in Bucharest, but after some serious thinking and mapping it all out, here is what I would recommend.

Day 1: Explore Old Town Bucharest Day 2: Wine Tasting in the countryside Day 3: Dracula’s Castle, Rasnov Citadel, and Brasov

Day 1 is spent in and around the city of Bucharest to give you a true flavor of life in the capital. I detail out my top recommendations in the Day 1 section below.

Day 2 is my personal favorite when exploring a new country – wine tasting! Not only do you get to taste some delicious wines, but it is a great chance to see the countryside.

Day 3 is dedicated to the iconic Dracula’s Castle. Come on now, you didn’t think I would let you leave Romania without seeing it!

Map of Locations

Here is a full map of all locations mentioned in the post, which are color coded by category. You can zoom in on the map to get better detail and plan your own route through Romania.

Day 1: Around the City

Exploring bucharest.

So good news/ bad news for this day (for me). The day started with a 3:30 AM flight from Amman to Bucharest. The good news? One, I had just spent an epic week in Jordan . Two, I arrived by 6:40 AM and had a full day ahead of me. The bad news? It was only 6:40 in the morning and I had been awake for hours!

Consider starting your day off with a Sightseeing Tour to get an idea of all the city has to offer. If you’d prefer to use your own pedal power, check out this Bucharest Bike Tour .

Recommended Tour : Bucharest Sightseeing Tour

Bucharest also offers pretty unique tours tailored to the history of the city. Depending on your interests, join a Communism Tour or a Jewish Heritage Tour to get a different perspective on the city.

A few of my favorite spots from Old Town Bucharest: Carturesti Carusel, Pasajul Victoria, and Caru Cu Bere. Carturesti Carusel is the most photogenic bookstore (perhaps tied with Lello Bookstore in Porto, Portugal. ) Stay tuned for a full list of the top sights and Instagrammable locations in the future. Honestly, the Old Town is relatively compact, so you can pretty easily see the main highlights with a day of exploring.

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Evening Activities

To round out the first day of your 3 days in Bucharest, Romania, take yourself out to dinner in Old Town. One of the must-try foods in Romania is sarmale. To be honest, I didn’t google it before trying it, but was pleasantly surprised. FYI- they’re cabbage rolls stuffed with meat.

After dinner, head to a rooftop bar. There are plenty to choose from in Old Town Bucharest!

Last but not least (yes, we’re still on day 1), Bucharest has a lively party scene. If you’re still awake and up for it, join a Pub Crawl for the night!

Read More on Pub Crawls & Beer Tours:

• How to Get Fat, Drunk, and Happy in Bruges
• Prague’s 7 Best Kept Secrets (Hint: one secret is a Pub Crawl)

Day 2: Wine Tasting

After all that walking in your first of 3 days in Bucharest, you’ve definitely earned some wine! At least, I figured I had, might as well treat yourself.

With that mentality, I went ahead and hopped on a Wine Tour with Mr. Tripp , and it was an excellent decision.

Our first stop was Budureasca, where we first toured their wine cellar and then headed up to the tasting room to sip on some delicious Romanian wine. Bonus: there was plenty of cheese to snack on too!

Next up was Ferma Dacilor, a Dacian Farm, where we lunched from a menu I couldn’t read. Unless you’re fluent in Romanian, you’ll be in the same boat. Fortunately, our very friendly guide pointed me in the right direction and I ended up with a nice bowl of stew…very welcome in the chilly weather!

Our last stop for the day was Lacerta, where we tasted I don’t even know how many wines. Yes, it was a lot, and yes, everyone was happily tipsy by the afternoon. However, I can assure you that the wines were delightful—we got to try whites, reds, and even a rosé.

And that wraps up your second day of your 3 days in Bucharest, Romania! Relax on the way back to the city, and then rest up for your next day.

Read More on Wine Tours:

Portugal : Douro Valley Wine Tasting from Porto, Portugal California : Napa Valley 101: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Canada : Top 10 Nova Scotia Activities  (you guessed it – one is wine tasting) Chile : Your Supreme Itinerary: 4 Days in Santiago, Chile

Day 3: Dracula’s Castle (and other things)

You can’t go to Romania without visiting Dracula’s Castle, so that’s exactly what I did on my last day in Bucharest. Try a 2 castles in 1 day tour, which takes you to two castles (duh!) plus the adorable town of Brasov.

Lace up some comfy walking shoes—your first adventure of the day is Rasnov Citadel, a fortress perched atop a hill. The Citadel was built in the 13 th century as defense against invaders for the villages of Transylvania. It’s remarkably well-preserved, and was fortunately pretty quiet when we were there.

Recommended Tour : 2 Castles in 1 Day Tour

However, if you’re there when it’s spring, bring layers! Rasnov Citadel was significantly colder than Bucharest, and I about froze off my nose.

But it was so worth it for these views! Not only do you get to learn a ton about Rasnov Citadel and Romania history, but you get picture-perfect mountains.

Next up, head to the adorable town of Brasov and take advantage of a long lunch, which again was a  nice big bowl of stew. It was also at this time that I discovered “ Vin Fiert, ” which is basically the most amazing mulled wine concoction ever. In any case, between the stew and fire wine, I defrosted enough to adventure through the town a bit before our last stop.

And drum roll…it’s time for Dracula’s Castle aka Bran Castle. Bran Castle has a good bit of history (learn about Vlad the Impaler!), but it was much smaller than I imagined. I enjoyed exploring the inside, but it does get crowded, so my favorite experiences were outside.

We visited on a cloudy day, which only added to the spookiness. The only thing missing was a bit of Halloween music in the background!

As you can tell, I’m a huge lover of day trips…but with only 3 days, you quickly run out of time. With more time, I’d recommend this day trip to Bulgaria , this trip to the Black Sea , or an adventure down Transfagarasan Road . I don’t know if you’ve seen the pictures, but if you haven’t, do yourself a favor and go ahead…I fell in love with the pictures alone!

Where to Stay in Bucharest, Romania

All right, travelers, I have a good range of options for you depending on your mood. I’ll bounce from quaint bed & breakfasts to hotels to hostels, so I’m giving you the choice here.

For a nice hotel, you’re going to want to book the Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel . The hotel has an awesome location in the Old Town of Bucharest AND a breakfast buffet…what more can a girl ask for?

In the mid-range hotel category, we have Ave Hotel Victoriei , which you can find near the main train station. The other plus is that these are organized more like apartments, so you get a fully equipped kitchen.

Last but definitely not least is the Podstel Bucharest , your best hostel option in Bucharest. Podstel has a great location and is walking distance to the main attractions. Plus, the hostel hosts plenty of social events and truly has an awesome atmosphere. What other hostel provides you with slippers at the entrance?!

Cheap Flights to Bucharest

Fortunately, Bucharest seemed to have plenty of flight options in and out, though both of mine were at ungodly hours (before 7 AM). If you’re looking for affordable flights, check out eDreams  – the site will scan 450+ airlines to find you the best deal!.

One last thing—you can take public transport to your hotel, but if it’s super early and you can’t see straight yet, consider booking an Airport Transfer in advance. And there you have it, everything you need to know to plan the perfect 3 days in Bucharest, Romania.

Now tell me, have you been to Bucharest? What are some of your favorite things to do with 3 days in Bucharest?

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Thank you for writing this! Many people don’t even know about Romania. Bucuresti is where I grew up, and I revisited there after 17 years after graduating college. If you ever visit again I highly recommend Casa Poporului- it’s got seven levels underground and is one of the biggest government buildings in the world. And there’s a huge park in Bucuresti called Herastrau and inside it is a huge museum called Museul de Sat with cute little old town cottages that give you a sense of Romania’s village life if you don’t have time to visit the country side. Bucuresti has its own Arc de Triunf too that resembles the one in Paris. If you have time to visit out side of Bucuresti if you’re up for some real nature, hiking in Romania feels like you’re breathing pure oxygen- Babele in Bucegi Mountains is a high and transfagarasan is a very famous winding road with lots of good food at the top. Castelul De Lut is also a charming little cottage that looks like it’s out of a fairy tale. There are also many other beautiful castles in Romania especially Corvinilor? Sarmale are definitely a must try they’re really good especially with Mamaliga! You should also try carnati and Romania’s favorite chocolate -Poiana. Thanks again for this post !

Wow, you are a wealth of knowledge on Bucharest, which I suppose makes sense since you grew up there! I googled your suggestions, and have definitely added them to my list next time I find myself in Romania. I’d love to have some more time to visit the countryside- I only got a brief taste, and it was not enough. I cannot wait to try the foods you suggested…I tried sarmale (and loved it), but didn’t get to any of the other suggestions on your list. I’m a chocoholic and VERY interested in that one 🙂 Thank you again for all of your wonderful info, I really appreciate it!!

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Top Things You Must Know Before Traveling To Bucharest, Romania

Published: July 16, 2020

Modified: December 27, 2023

by David Jefferson

• Plan Your Trip
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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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The Cost of Living in Bucharest: A Guide to Expats, Tourists, Digital Nomads

Bucharest , the vibrant capital of Romania, is beckoning expats with its rich history, stunning architecture, and affordable cost of living. If you’re considering making Bucharest your new home, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the city’s cost of living. In this ultimate guide, we’ll go deeper into the various factors contributing to the cost of living in Bucharest, from housing and transportation to groceries and entertainment.

We also invite everyone living in the city to share their experience. Their opinions on the cost of living in Bucharest will be published at the end of the article in the dedicated section for expats and digital nomads.

Get ready to navigate the intricacies of living expenses in Bucharest and make informed decisions for your relocation. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a tourist or a professional seeking new opportunities, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to budget wisely and comfortably settle into the Bucharest lifestyle.

What is the average cost of living in Bucharest?

If you are considering relocating to Bucharest, it is essential to clearly understand the average cost of living in the city. Bucharest is Romania’s capital and largest city, and while it offers a high quality of life, it is also known as one of the most affordable European capitals. This article will explore the average cost of living in Bucharest, covering essential expenses such as housing, transportation, utilities, food, and entertainment.

Yes, Bucharest is more affordable and safer than many other European cities, but you have to consider all the aspects before moving in.

Housing in Bucharest

The cost of housing in Bucharest can vary depending on the property’s location, size, and condition. On average, you can expect to pay around $400 to $700 monthly for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. If you are willing to live in the outskirts, the prices can drop to $300 to $500 per month, or even lower.

The cost of purchasing a property in Bucharest is relatively affordable compared to other European cities, with an average square meter price of around $1,700 to $2,200. Yet, when we write this post, the market expects a drop as of November 2023. This is for those who want to wait a bit and purchase their dream house in Bucharest .

Apart from that, expats and digital nomads should understand that for their peace of mind and to abide by the law, the rental contracts should be registered by the owner of the property to the local fiscal administration – ANAF.

We will provide more details on Bucharest housing below. Yet, if you are only looking to stay at one of the selected hotels in Bucharest during your stay here, this is subject to another article.

Transportation in Bucharest

Bucharest has a well-developed public transportation system that is both efficient and affordable. A monthly pass for unlimited travel on the metro, buses, and trams will cost you RON 140, around $30. If you prefer to use taxis, the average fare for a 5-kilometer ride is approximately $4. Car ownership in Bucharest comes with additional fuel, insurance, and parking fees.

Public transport is better, and the new buses and trams show that Bucharest is trying to fight traffic jams and pollution by introducing friendlier and more civilized means of transportation.

Utilities in Bucharest

The cost of utilities in Bucharest, including electricity, heating, water, and garbage, is relatively affordable. On average, you can expect to pay around $100 to $150 monthly for these expenses in a one-bedroom apartment. However, it is essential to note that these costs can vary depending on your usage and the size of your apartment.

Also, if you plan on using the internet extensively, you have to know that Bucharest has one of the fastest broadband connections in the world , according to the Ookla Speedtest Index.

Food in Bucharest

Regarding groceries and dining out, Bucharest offers a range of options to suit every budget. The cost of groceries is generally affordable, with a monthly grocery bill for a single person averaging around $150 to $250. If you prefer to eat out, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around $5 to $10, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can range from $20 to $40.

Entertainment in Bucharest

Bucharest has a vibrant entertainment scene with plenty of entertaining options. There are plenty of concerts in Bucharest , and all the other events attract many visitors, including international tourists.

The cost of entertainment in Bucharest can vary depending on your preferences. A movie ticket costs around $6 to $8, while a fitness club membership can range from $25 to $50 monthly. If you enjoy going out for a drink, a beer at a local pub will cost you around $2 to $3, while a cocktail at a trendy bar can range from $5 to $10.

Remember that these are average costs and can vary depending on your lifestyle and preferences. However, overall, Bucharest is relatively affordable in terms of entertainment and lifestyle compared to other European cities.

What is the cost of basic groceries in Bucharest?

As an expat considering relocation to Bucharest, one crucial aspect to factor into your budget is the cost of basic groceries. Understanding the price range for essential food items will help you plan your finances and give you a realistic idea of the cost of living in the city.

We will try to provide you with a comprehensive guide to navigating the bustling markets and supermarkets of the Romanian capital.

Supermarkets: A One-Stop Solution for basic groceries in Bucharest

Most expats residing in Bucharest prefer to shop in supermarkets, which offer a wide range of products and the convenience of one-stop shopping. Popular supermarkets in Bucharest include Carrefour, Mega Image, Lidl and Kaufland.

Here’s an overview of the cost of basic groceries you can expect to find in these establishments:

– Milk (1 liter): $0.75 – $1.10

– Bread (500g loaf): $0.70 – $0.80

– Rice (1kg): $1.2 – $1.5

– Eggs (12): $2 – $3

– Chicken Breasts (1kg): $6 – $9

– Beef (1kg): $9.00 – $15.00

– Potatoes (1kg): $0.9 – $1.3

– Tomatoes (1kg): $1.5 – $1.7

– Apples (1kg): $1 – $1.9

– Bananas (1kg): $1.3 – $1.9

– Pasta (500g): $1.5 – $1.9

– Cheese (1kg): $8.00 – $12.00

– Yogurt (500g): $1 – $1.7

Farmers’ Markets: Fresh and Affordable Produce

Farmers’ markets in Bucharest are a great option for those looking for fresh, locally sourced produce. These markets offer various fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, and other essential groceries.

The most famous produce market in Europe is in Bucharest:  Obor Market , the  one featured in the Financial Times. Located in the heart of Bucharest,  Obor Market  is one of the city’s oldest and most popular outdoor markets. Here, locals and visitors can find fresh produce, vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, and other specialty items.

More than that, Bucharest Obor is where locals say you find the best Mici (skinless sausages) in the city – one of the best Romanian dishes to try while in the country.

But Obor Market, reachable by Subway or surface lines, is more than just a place to shop for groceries. It’s a lively hub of activity where vendors and customers come to socialize, haggle over prices, and share stories and laugh. Pay a visit to the local produce market (we strongly recommend Obor, but any other local market will do) and blend in the crowd, noticing the locals and their behaviour – you will understand the Romanian people even better.

Prices at farmers’ markets are generally lower compared to supermarkets. Here are some average prices you can expect to find at farmers’ markets in Bucharest:

– Milk (1 liter): $0.60 – $1.00

– Bread (500g loaf): $0.30 – $0.50

– Rice (1kg): $0.80 – $1.30

– Eggs (12): $1.00 – $1.50

– Chicken Breasts (1kg): $4.00 – $6.00

– Beef (1kg): $6.00 – $8.00

– Potatoes (1kg): $0.30 – $0.50

– Tomatoes (1kg): $0.60 – $1.00

– Apples (1kg): $0.60 – $1.00

– Bananas (1kg): $0.70 – $1.20

– Pasta (500g): $0.60 – $1.00

– Cheese (1kg): $4.00 – $7.00

– Yogurt (500g): $0.60 – $1.00

It’s important to note that prices at farmers’ markets may vary depending on the season and the vendor. It is always a good idea to compare prices and quality before purchasing.

Discount Stores: Budget-Friendly Options

If you’re on a tight budget, discount stores in Bucharest can be a great place to shop for essential groceries. These stores often offer lower prices compared to supermarkets and farmers’ markets. Some popular discount stores in Bucharest include Penny Market, Lidl, and Profi. Here are some average prices you can expect to find at discount stores:

– Eggs (12): $0.90 – $1.40

– Chicken Breasts (1kg):$3.50 – $5.50

– Beef (1kg): $5.50 – $7.50

– Tomatoes (1kg): $0.50 – $0.90

– Apples (1kg): $0.50 – $0.90

– Bananas (1kg): $0.60 – $1.00

– Pasta (500g): $0.50 – $0.90

– Cheese (1kg): $3.50 – $6.50

– Yogurt (500g): $0.50 – $0.90

Discount stores often have sales and promotions, so keep an eye out for those to save even more money on groceries.

Online Grocery Delivery: Convenient and Time-Saving

Another option for purchasing groceries in Bucharest is through online grocery delivery services. This option is particularly convenient for those who prefer to have their groceries delivered to their doorstep. Some popular online grocery delivery services in Bucharest include Carrefour, Mega Image, and Auchan. Prices for online grocery delivery are usually similar to those in supermarkets.

Also, mobile apps like Freshful and Bringo let you order fresh food and vegetables, which is convenient when you don’t look for a particular brand or store. However, keep in mind that there may be additional delivery fees.

What is the cost of housing in Bucharest?

The cost of housing in Bucharest can vary depending on location, size, and amenities. Generally, the most expensive neighbourhoods are in the city center, while the outskirts offer more affordable options. It’s important to note that rental prices are typically quoted in the local currency of euros (€) or lei (RON). The platform locals access to find rentals is imobiliare.ro . Also, there are Facebook groups for Expats and Foreigners in Bucharest where locals show their properties for rent.

For those looking to rent an apartment in Bucharest, the average monthly cost can range from $400 to $700 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. If you are willing to live in the outskirts, the prices can start around $300 per month. The average monthly rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $1000 to $1700, depending on the location and amenities.

Suppose you are considering purchasing a property in Bucharest. In that case, you can expect to pay around $1,500 to $2,500 per square meter in the city center, while properties in the outskirts can be more affordable, ranging from $1,000 to $1,800 per square meter. It’s important to note that these prices are just averages and can vary depending on the specific location and condition of the property. Additionally, prices may be higher in more desirable neighbourhoods or buildings with amenities like parking, security, or a gym.

When considering the cost of housing in Bucharest, additional expenses such as utilities and maintenance fees must also be considered. These costs can vary depending on the size of the property and the specific utilities used. Inquiring about these additional expenses is advisable before finalizing a rental or purchase agreement.

To better understand the housing market in Bucharest, it can be helpful to consult with a local real estate agent or browse online listings on reputable websites. These resources can provide more specific information on available properties and their associated costs.

Overall, while the cost of housing in Bucharest can vary, it offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. By doing thorough research and seeking professional advice, expats can find a housing option that meets their needs and allows them to enjoy all that Bucharest offers.

In conclusion, the cost of housing in Bucharest can vary depending on location and amenities. Apartment rental prices can range from $300 to $1500 per month, while property prices can range from $1,000 to $2,500 per square meter. By understanding the market and considering additional expenses, expats can make informed decisions about finding a home in Bucharest.

Consulting with a local real estate agent or browsing online listings can provide more specific information on available properties and their associated costs. Additional expenses, such as utilities and maintenance fees, should be considered when calculating the overall cost of housing. With thorough research and professional advice, expats can find a housing option that suits their budget and preferences in Bucharest.

What is the cost of entertainment in Bucharest?

Regarding entertainment in Bucharest, expats will be pleased to find that the city offers various options to suit various budgets and preferences. From cultural events and nightlife to dining out and recreational activities, there is something for everyone in this vibrant capital city of Romania.

To give you an idea of the cost of entertainment in Bucharest, here are some average prices:

Cultural Events

– Theater tickets: Prices can range from 25 to 150 RON ($6 to $35) depending on the venue and performance.

– Concert tickets: Prices vary widely depending on the artist and venue, but expect to pay anywhere from 50 to 300 RON ($12 to $70) for a ticket.

– Cinema tickets: On average, a cinema ticket costs around 20 to 30 RON ($5 to $7).

Nightlife in Bucharest

Club entry: Entry fees to  nightclubs in Bucharest  can range from 20 to 100 RON ($5 to $23), depending on the venue’s popularity and exclusivity .

– Drinks: The drinks at bars and clubs vary, but you can expect to pay around 10 to 30 RON ($2 to $7) for a beer and 15 to 50 RON ($3 to $12) for a cocktail.

Eating or Dining Out

Restaurants: The cost of dining out in Bucharest can vary greatly depending on the type of restaurant and cuisine. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost 30 to 60 RON ($7 to $14) per person.

To select a good restaurant, please check our Bucharest restaurant selection .

– Fast food: If you’re looking for a quick and affordable meal, fast food options like McDonald’s or KFC can cost around 15 to 25 RON ($3 to $6) per meal.

Recreational Activities

– Gym membership: Monthly membership in Bucharest can range from 100 to 300 RON ($23 to $70), depending on the facilities and location.

Spa treatments: A relaxing spa treatment can cost between 100 and 500 RON ($23 to $115), depending on the type of treatment and spa.

– Outdoor activities: If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking or biking, plenty of options are available in and around Bucharest. Prices for equipment rental or guided tours can vary but expect to pay around 50 to 200 RON ($12 to $46) per activity.

It’s important to note that these prices are averages and can vary depending on the establishment and location. Additionally, prices in Bucharest may be lower than in other major European cities, making it a more affordable option for expats looking for entertainment.

Overall, expats in Bucharest can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer cultural events, nightlife, dining out, or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone at various prices. As an expat, it’s essential to consider your budget and personal preferences when exploring the entertainment scene in Bucharest.

Tickets for live performances, such as concerts and theatre shows, vary greatly depending on the artist and venue. On average, you can expect to pay 50 to 300 RON ($12 to $70) for a ticket. Remember that prices for popular and high-demand events may be on the higher end of the spectrum.

Cinema tickets are generally more affordable for movie lovers. On average, a cinema ticket costs around 20 to 30 RON ($5 to $7), making them an excellent option for a relaxed evening out.

Bucharest is known for its vibrant nightlife, with various clubs and bars. Club entry fees can range from 20 to 100 RON ($5 to $23), depending on the venue’s popularity and exclusivity. Drink prices vary, but you can expect to pay around 10 to 30 RON ($2 to $7) for a beer and 15 to 50 RON ($3 to $12) for a cocktail.

When dining out, the cost can vary greatly depending on the type of restaurant and cuisine. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can range from 30 to 60 RON ($7 to $14) per person. For a more upscale dining experience, prices can range from 60 to 150 RON ($14 to $35) per person. However, plenty of budget-friendly options are available, where you can enjoy a meal for as low as 15 to 25 RON ($3 to $6) per person.

If you’re a foodie, Bucharest offers a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of international cuisines. Whether you’re craving Italian, Asian, Middle Eastern, or traditional Romanian dishes, you’ll find it all in the city.

For those looking to stay fit and active, there are plenty of gyms and fitness centers in Bucharest. Prices for gym memberships can vary, but on average, you can expect to pay around 100 to 300 RON ($23 to $70) per month. Many gyms also offer discounts for longer-term memberships or off-peak hours.

Also, the largest indoor spa in Europe is in Bucharest: Bucharest Therme, where an annual Sauna Fest is held, and it waits for its guests to enjoy seaside-like days indoors and inside the city.

If you prefer outdoor sports, there are several parks and green spaces in Bucharest where you can exercise or relax. The Herăstrău Park , for example, offers jogging paths, bike rentals, and even paddleboat rentals during the summer months.

Shopping in Bucharest  is a mix of high-end boutiques, shopping malls, and local markets. Prices for clothing and accessories can vary depending on the brand and location. However, you can find international and local brands at various price points catering to different budgets.

Conclusion: Is Bucharest an Expensive City to Live In?

Whether or not Bucharest is an expensive city to live in depends on your perspective. Bucharest is relatively inexpensive compared to other major European cities, such as London, Paris, and Berlin. However, compared to the average salary in Romania, the cost of living in Bucharest can be high.

Here is a breakdown of the average cost of living in Bucharest, Romania, in 2023:

• Rent:  A not-good, not-bad one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around $350-450 monthly. A two-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around $500-700 monthly. Of course, there are all sorts of properties available for rent, but this is an average.
• Utilities:  Utilities, such as electricity, water, and gas, cost around $70-120 per month.
• Groceries:  Groceries in Bucharest are relatively inexpensive. A family of four can expect to spend around $350-500 monthly on groceries.
• Transportation:  Public transportation in Bucharest is very affordable—a monthly pass for public transportation costs around $30, where Subway and Surface lines are included.
• Entertainment:  Entertainment costs in Bucharest are also relatively inexpensive. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15 per person. A ticket to the cinema costs around $5-7.

Overall, the cost of living in Bucharest is lower than in most other major European cities. However, wages in Romania are also lower than in Western Europe.

Here is a comparison of the cost of living in Bucharest to other major European cities:

As you can see, Bucharest is significantly cheaper than London, Paris, Berlin, and New York.

Here are some tips for saving money while living in Bucharest:

• Live in a shared apartment or house. This is a great way to save money on rent and utilities.
• Cook at home instead of eating out. Groceries in Bucharest are relatively inexpensive, so you can save a lot of money by cooking at home.
• Use public transportation instead of driving. Public transportation in Bucharest is very affordable and efficient.
• Take advantage of free activities. There are many free things to do in Bucharest, such as visiting parks, museums, and art galleries.

Overall, Bucharest is a relatively inexpensive city to live in. However, it is crucial to be mindful of your spending and to take advantage of the many opportunities to save money.

Living in Bucharest as an Expat

Are you living in Bucharest as an expat? Then, you probably know that Bucharest is third in CommercialSearch’s Best Worldwide Cities for Digital Nomads, and this chapter is dedicated to you.

We invite all those who want to share their opinions with others to send us their impressions on living in Bucharest as an expat so we can publish genuine views of life as an expat in our city. All the decent, documented, and well-written opinions will appear in this section, citing the name and occupation of the expat offering them.

Only this way can we determine the actual cost of living in Bucharest and whether or not it is an affordable city.

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Cost of Living in Bucharest, Romania

How much does it cost to live in bucharest.

Bucharest is Romania ‘s capital and largest city, as well as the most importan industrial and commercial center of the country.

It is also one of the largest cities in Southeastern Europe, and, without a doubt, the largest city between Berlin and Istanbul .

Bucharest is a vibrant city with lots to offer in every way, plus – it’s cheaper than most European capitals.

You’ll definitely enjoy the local cuisine, liveliness and architecture of the old and new town. Add that on top of reasonably priced nights out and amazing street food, plus extremely cheap taxis and public transportation.

Romania : Cost of Living by City

• Cluj-Napoca

RESTAURANTS

Restaurants are very affordable in Bucharest, and in this sense it is one of the cheapest capitals of Europe. The food you’ll try in its restaurants is delicious, made locally and is very fresh. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Bucharest will cost you around 7$. As for mid-range restaurants, you can eat a three-course meal for two and it will cost you less than 30$.

Stores and supermarkets are open until late, even during weekends and offer a variety of groceries, all kinds of cheese, milk, yogurt etc. You can find tasty organically-farmed fruits and vegetables in special markets in all cities throughout the city. During summer, try fresh fruit directly from the street vendors and farmers – and they will be very cheap!

TRANSPORTATION

Public transport is far from reliable in Romania, but the good thing is that taxis are very affordable and disposable, so you rarely have to ride public transportation, especially if you are a foreigner. If you have to go somewhere outside of the city, you can take the train, it is also very affordable. A monthly pass for public transport is staggeringly cheap – around 13$ a month.

UTILITIES (MONTHLY)

Average cost for all utilities (meaning sewerage, water, gas, building management, garbage, electricity, TV and internet) in an 85m2 apartment in Bucharest, would be at around 120$ per month in the summer months and 270$ per month in the winter months. Internet speed is lightning fast in Bucharest! You can get 1GB/s download speed for about 9$ every month.

SPORTS & LEISURE

Like most cities in Romania, Bucharest too has many natural resorts for practicing sports outside. You can go for a ride with your bike in the city or go for a walk anywhere around the city. However, if you’re more of an indoor person, you can become a member of a gym or fitness club for around 40$. There are also many cinemas in Bucharest, and they cost around 7$ per ticket.

CLOTHING & SHOES

Bucharest also has many shopping malls, with a range of Western stores and brands where you can shop for your favorite clothes and shoes. The prices aren’t exactly low (which you might expect from a country located in the eastern part of Europe), but they aren’t sky-high either. You can buy quality jeans for around 60$, and running sneakers for only 70$.

RENT PER MONTH

While rents can be high, they don’t come anywhere close to those that you’d encounter in London or other large cities in Western Europe. Rent will, however, be your main concern while living here. You can find places where you’ll pay 120$ for a studio – if it’s far from the center, while anything above 400$ means you’ll be getting decent accommodation in the best part of the city. A larger apartment for the whole family, in the city center is over 700$.

Cost of Living Averages Table for Bucharest

How does the average person spend their money in bucharest.

Like in most countries of the world, the biggest expense for the people of Bucharest is food and groceries – they take up 30% of one’s income.

The second biggest expense is rent, since it’s relatively high though not as high as in more developed countries of Europe.

Transportation expenses and going to restaurants are equally as important for the people of Bucharest, with people spending around 15% of their income on restaurants and 11% on transportation.

Utilities have a very low percentage on this pie chart of expenses, with sports drawing more money from the residents’ wallets!

Average Costs Breakdown

Bucharest: average salary, minimum wage & mortgages.

The wages in Bucharest are pretty low outside of finance and software development, although they are rapidly increasing like the economy.

Ever since Romania joined EU, the wages have been growing, but they are still on the lower side.

Their average monthly net salary is around 700$ which is definitely more than what is considered the country’s average and surely good enough to cover all expenses.

Minimum wage in Bucharest, in turn, is around 350$, which is still not staggeringly low but could still mean quite a bit of struggle for someone who’s renting.

Bucharest Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Bucharest Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: LOW
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• TERRORISM RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Cost of Living by City in Bucharest

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Cost of Living in Bucharest

Updated: March 01, 2024

The average cost of living in Bucharest is $961 , which is in the top 40% of the least expensive cities in the world , ranked 5593rd out of 9294 in our global list and 3rd out of 47 in Romania .

The median after-tax salary is $1072 , which is enough to cover living expenses for 1.1 months. Ranked 703rd (TOP 8%) in the list of best places to live in the world and 1st best city to live in Romania . With an estimated population of 1.72M, Bucharest is the 1st largest city in Romania.

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