Things To Do
in Bucharest
Bucharest, the capital of Romania, sits on the Dâmbovița River and blends ornate interwar architecture with bold modern developments. Its wide boulevards, grand Communist-era monuments, and a thriving cafe and arts scene create a dynamic urban tapestry. The city offers a rich calendar of museums, theaters, and markets alongside surprisingly green spaces like Cișmigiu and Herăstrău Park.
Visitors will find a friendly, affordable base for exploring Romanian culture, history, and cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of the Lipscani area, the heart of Bucharest's historic center. Stop by the iconic Stavropoleos Church, known for its stunning Brâncovenesc architecture, and enjoy a peaceful moment in its courtyard. Grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and coffee.
After lunch, visit the National Museum of Romanian History, where you can admire the impressive artifacts that tell the story of Romania's past. Wander through the beautiful Union Square, taking in the blend of architectural styles and vibrant atmosphere. Spend some time shopping for unique souvenirs in the artisan shops scattered throughout the area.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional Romanian restaurant, savoring dishes like sarmale and mămăligă. Post-dinner, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the atmosphere and perhaps stopping at a local bar for a glass of țuică. Conclude your day with a visit to the Romanian Athenaeum, where you can catch a classical music concert if available.
Start your day with a guided tour of the colossal Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world. Marvel at its grand architecture and opulent interiors, which showcase Romania's communist past. Don't forget to capture stunning photos of the palace's impressive façade against the blue sky.
Have lunch at a nearby café, sampling some of Bucharest's contemporary culinary delights. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful Cişmigiu Gardens, where you can relax by the lake or rent a paddle boat. Explore the nearby National Museum of Contemporary Art, housed within the Palace of the Parliament, featuring thought-provoking exhibitions.
As evening falls, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city. Consider trying out the local wine varieties that complement your meal perfectly. Cap off your day with a visit to the lively Old Town, where you can join locals in vibrant bars and enjoy live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Vibrant food and cafe culture
- Relatively affordable for Europe
- Compact city center easy to explore on foot
- Traffic congestion
- Air pollution in certain areas
- Seasonal crowds in the Old Town
- Some areas may be less English-friendly outside tourist zones
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Da" - Yes
- "Nu" - No
- "Scuză-mă" - Excuse me
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Cât costă asta?" - How much is this?
- "Este delicios" - Is this delicious?
- "Ajutor" - Help
Places to Visit in Bucharest
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the world’s largest administrative buildings; dramatic angles and massive scale photograph opportunities, especially from nearby viewpoints and wide urban vistas.
A compact, ornate Orthodox church in Old Town with intricate stonework and a serene courtyard for intimate shots.
Historic boulevard lined with neoclassical and art nouveau buildings; excellent for street photography and architecture.
A timeless city park with winding paths, ponds, and seasonal blossoms perfect for landscape and portrait shots.
A historic plaza with bold architectural contrasts and dramatic lighting, especially at sunset.
Iconic concert hall with a striking façade; captivating in the golden hour when the lighting softens around the dome.
Food in Bucharest
Bucharest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cabbage or vine leaves stuffed with pork and rice; a staple found in most traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
Grilled minced-meat rolls seasoned with garlic and spices, typically served with mustard and bread.
Sour tripe soup with garlic, vinegar, and sour cream; a favorite comfort dish.
Cozonac is a sweet bread, while papanasi are fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam; popular dessert options.
Polenta served with cheese and sour cream; a versatile side or vegetarian main.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, breads, and regional treats; great for sampling Romanian ingredients.
Markets and street stalls offering pastries, fruits, nuts, and quick bites; ideal for a casual lunch.
Pretzels (covrigi) and quick bites are common around central streets and parks; a handy snack while sightseeing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common. Use formal address (Domnule/Doamnă) with unfamiliar adults, switching to first names once invited. Public politeness and queuing are important in shops and transit.
Dress modestly and remove hats in churches; speak quietly and avoid disruptive behavior at sacred sites.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private settings or small shops.
Safety
Tipping in Bucharest
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes, typically 5-10% if service is not included; you can round up the bill for taxi drivers and hotel staff as a courtesy.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and shops. Cash (RON) is handy in markets and smaller venues; many places also accept international cards and contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and often humid; expect afternoon thunderstorms. Light clothing and sun protection are essential; evenings remain warm and lively in the Old Town.
Mild days with colorful foliage; layers are useful as temperatures swing from day to night.
Cold with occasional snow; indoor attractions and markets are popular. Layered clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended.
Pleasantly mild with blooming parks and gardens; showers are common, so carry a light jacket or umbrella.
Bucharest at Night
Hiking in Bucharest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Classic day hike in the Bucegi massif near Sinaia; dramatic rock formations and panoramic views. Access from Bușteni or Sinaia, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car from central Bucharest.
Easy nature loops around Lake Comana, excellent for birdwatching and a half-day escape from the city; about 40–60 minutes drive south.
Rugged limestone ridges offering more challenging day hikes; typically a 2–3 hour drive from Bucharest with trails suitable for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Bucharest by plane.
Main international gateway located in Otopeni, about 16-18 km north of central Bucharest. Access city center by train, bus, or taxi.
Smaller airport near Bucharest, used for some domestic and charter flights; limited schedule compared to OTP.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with a strong sense of national culture and language.
A significant minority with cultural institutions and bilingual signs in some areas.
A recognized minority with diverse communities across the capital.
Growing presence in tech, education, and business sectors; English is commonly understood in service and business districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and national team fixtures draw large crowds.
Active local leagues and public interest; games are widely watched.
Numerous clubs and public courts around the city; several international tournaments occur nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bucharest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian staples such as mămăligă, salads, soups, roasted vegetables, and cheese dishes. Look for mujdei (garlic sauce) and dairy or mushroom-based dishes to stay full and satisfied.