Things To Do
in Bucharest
Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is a vibrant metropolis blending historical charm with modern urban life. It is renowned for its wide, tree-lined boulevards, magnificent Belle Époque buildings, and the enormous, imposing Palace of the Parliament, one of the world's largest administrative buildings.
The city is also a cultural hub, hosting an array of museums, parks, trendy cafes, and artistic venues, making it a dynamic heart of Romanian culture, economy, and society.
- "Bună ziua" - Good afternoon
- "Ce mai faci?" - How are you?
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Te rog" - Please
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Palace of the Parliament, the world's second-largest administrative building. Guided tours are available to marvel at its stunning architecture and rich history.
Stroll through the beautiful Cismigiu Gardens, enjoying its serene vibe and picturesque surroundings. Grab lunch at a nearby café to recharge.
Head to the Old Town, where you can enjoy dinner at a traditional Romanian restaurant. End your night with a leisurely walk through the charming streets.
Visit the Romanian Athenaeum, an iconic concert hall with breathtaking architecture. Attend a guided tour to explore its opulent interior and learn about its significance in Romanian culture.
Discover the National Museum of Romanian History to delve into the country's rich past. The exhibits range from prehistoric artifacts to modern history.
Explore the vibrant Lipscani district filled with trendy bars and live music. Dine at a local eatery and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with numerous museums, galleries, and historic landmarks.
- Vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options, from traditional Romanian cuisine to international flavors.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other European capitals, making it attractive for expatriates and students.
- Growing tech scene and opportunities for entrepreneurs in various industries.
- Beautiful parks and green spaces for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Traffic congestion and limited public transportation can make commuting difficult.
- Issues with pollution and environmental quality in some areas.
- Bureaucratic challenges and slow processes in administrative services.
- Occasional earthquakes due to its geographical location.
- Economic disparities and social inequality can be evident in various neighborhoods.
Best Activities in Bucharest
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visiting Herastrau Park for cycling, walking, or picnicking.
Exploring Cismigiu Gardens for a peaceful stroll or boat ride on the lake.
Relaxing and enjoying outdoor pools and sunbathing at Therme Bucharest.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bucharest with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bucharest
Visit one of these nice places.
This massive building offers panoramic views of the city from its upper levels and is a popular spot for photography.
Known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful courtyard, this monastery provides great photo opportunities.
A large park surrounding Herastrau Lake, offering scenic views and natural beauty for photography.
Food in Bucharest
Bucharest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish of cabbage rolls stuffed with spiced minced meat, rice, and herbs, served with sour cream.
Must-Try!
Polenta topped with fresh cheese and sour cream, a classic Romanian comfort food.
Grilled ground meat rolls, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other spices, often served with mustard and fresh bread.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bucharest better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest and largest markets in Bucharest, offering a vibrant array of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, baked goods, and street food stalls serving traditional Romanian dishes.
This historic street is lined with food stalls and small eateries offering a variety of street food options, including covrigi (pretzels), kürtőskalács (chimney cake), and grilled meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When dining with locals, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Also, it is customary to offer a toast and maintain good table manners.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bucharest with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bucharest
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally appreciated in Bucharest, Romania, especially in restaurants and for good service. The usual practice is to leave a tip of about 10% of the total bill.
Payment in Bucharest, Romania, is commonly done in cash, but credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's always best to have some local currency on hand, as some smaller vendors may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bucharest.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Bucharest, with the city coming to life with beautiful blossoms and pleasant weather. Temperatures typically range from 10°C to 20°C, making it perfect for exploring the city's parks and outdoor attractions.
Summer in Bucharest is hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. This is the best time to experience outdoor festivals, events, and the lively atmosphere of the city. However, it can get crowded with tourists during this time.
Autumn brings vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. It's a great time for sightseeing and enjoying cultural events in the city. The weather is generally pleasant, and the crowds start to thin out.
Winter in Bucharest can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, it's a magical time to visit if you enjoy winter activities like ice skating and exploring Christmas markets. The city is less crowded, and you can experience a quieter side of Bucharest.
Bucharest at Night
Hiking in Bucharest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural park located about 2 hours from Bucharest, offering numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views, including routes to the iconic Bucegi Sphinx.
A beautiful forest located near the city, perfect for short hikes and nature walks, featuring various trails and picnic areas.
Located approximately 1.5 hours from Bucharest, this mountain offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels, showcasing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
About 3 hours away from Bucharest, this national park is a popular hiking destination, known for its dramatic peaks and rich biodiversity.
A lesser-known hiking spot located approximately 1.5 hours from the city, featuring rugged trails and a rewarding view at the summit.
Famous for its incredible natural beauty and extensive hiking network, the Bucegi Mountains are around 2 hours from Bucharest and offer trails for all levels of hikers.
Situated roughly 3-4 hours from Bucharest, this national park offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in Romania, showcasing pristine nature and stunning peaks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bucharest through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bucharest by plane.
The main international airport serving Bucharest, Romania, located about 16.5 km (10.3 miles) north of the city center.
Located near Constanța, approximately 225 km (140 miles) east of Bucharest, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Timișoara, about 540 km (336 miles) west of Bucharest, it is one of the busiest international airports in the region.
Situated in Cluj-Napoca, around 450 km (280 miles) northwest of Bucharest, it serves as an important hub for flights in and out of Transylvania.
Located in Bacău, approximately 250 km (155 miles) north of Bucharest, mainly serving the Moldova region of Romania.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Bucharest, comprising around 88% of the population.
A notable minority, especially in cultural and historical contexts, making up about 6%.
A significant ethnic minority known for their distinct cultural practices, estimated around 3%.
A small community in Bucharest, often involved in commerce and culture.
A historical minority group with roots in the region, though their numbers have declined over time.
Groups including Italians, Jews, Greeks, and various others constituting the remaining percentage of the population.
The Soul of Bucharest
Discover the essence of Bucharest through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Bucharest, with a rich history and several prominent teams, including FCSB and Dinamo Bucharest.
Basketball has gained significant popularity in Bucharest, featuring several professional teams and a strong youth following.
Handball enjoys a loyal fan base in Bucharest, with the Romanian national team performing notably well in international competitions.
Tennis is widely played and followed in Bucharest, especially after the rise of Romanian players in international rankings.
Rugby has a growing community in Bucharest, with local clubs and increasing attendance at matches.
Athletics is a popular sport in Bucharest, with many events taking place throughout the year, attracting both participants and spectators.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bucharest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Bucharest offer vegetarian and vegan options, with some dedicated establishments focused on plant-based cuisine like Energiea and Rawdia.
While gluten-free options are not as prevalent, certain restaurants and cafes like Simbio and Frudisiac offer gluten-free dishes and are accommodating to dietary requests.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bucharest with these cultural adventures.
