Things To Do
in Bucharest

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a vibrant city known for its eclectic architecture ranging from neoclassical buildings to communist-era structures. It is often referred to as 'Little Paris' due to its wide boulevards and charming parks. The city is a cultural hub, offering a rich history and a lively arts scene, making it an intriguing destination for travelers.

With a mix of modernity and tradition, Bucharest showcases a unique blend of Eastern European charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Bucharest
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Palace of the Parliament, the second largest administrative building in the world. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and grandeur.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the Old Town (Lipscani), where you can explore charming cobblestone streets, shops, and cafes. Don’t miss the Stavropoleos Church, a beautiful example of Brâncovenesc architecture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Caru' cu Bere, a historic beer hall, followed by a leisurely walk along the Dâmbovița River.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Romanian Athenaeum for a guided tour of this iconic concert hall. Following that, head to the National Museum of Art of Romania to admire its art collections.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Herăstrău Park, where you can rent a bike or take a boat ride on the lake. Enjoy a picnic in the park's beautiful surroundings.

evening
:

Experience Bucharest's nightlife by heading to the trendy neighborhood of Lipscani for drinks at one of the many bars and clubs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within the city)$5
🎟️Museum entry fee$5
🍺Local beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe.
  • Traffic congestion can be challenging.
  • Petty crime in tourist areas.
  • Public transportation can be overcrowded during peak hours.
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "La revedere" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Bucharest

Visit one of these nice places.

Palace of the Parliament

A monumental building that offers stunning architectural details and panoramic views from its balconies.

Revolution Square

A historic square surrounded by important landmarks, perfect for capturing the essence of Bucharest's history.

Cismigiu Gardens

A picturesque park in the city center with tranquil ponds and beautifully landscaped paths.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bucharest

Bucharest offers a delectable array of traditional Romanian cuisine, highlighted by hearty flavors and unique ingredients. From savory stews to sweet pastries, the city's food scene is a delightful exploration of local flavors.

Bucharest Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, slow-cooked in a savory tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A cornmeal porridge often served as a side dish, similar to polenta.

Mititei

Grilled sausages made from a mix of beef, lamb, and spices, typically served with mustard.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Obor Market

One of the largest and oldest markets in Bucharest, offering fresh produce, meats, and traditional Romanian snacks.

Street Food Festival

A seasonal event that showcases local street food vendors; try various dishes from around the country.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bucharest has a temperate-continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, often dropping below freezing with occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) provide mild temperatures, making these transitional seasons ideal for city exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting; it's polite to maintain eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating, and keep your hands on the table (but not elbows!).

Dress Code

Dress smartly when dining out or attending cultural events; Romanians take pride in their appearance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bucharest is generally safe for tourists, with low rates of violent crime. However, petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, so it's advisable to stay vigilant. It's also recommended to avoid poorly lit areas at night and to use reputable transportation services.

Tipping in Bucharest

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in restaurants (10-15% is standard), and it's appreciated by taxi drivers and hotel staff.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used (Romanian Leu), but credit cards are accepted in most establishments. ATMs are available throughout the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures rise, flowers bloom, and parks come alive. Ideal for outdoor activities and city exploration.

Summer

Hot weather with occasional rain; perfect for enjoying outdoor cafes and festivals.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage make it a great time for sightseeing and photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy; however, the festive season brings beautiful lights and holiday markets to the city.

Nightlife Guide

Bucharest at Night

Bucharest's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with something for everyone. The Old Town is the epicenter of nightlife, filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Options range from laid-back pubs to high-energy nightclubs featuring local and international DJs. Many places stay open until the early morning, making it a great city for night owls.

Hiking in Bucharest

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bucegi Mountains

Located about 2 hours from Bucharest, these mountains offer stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views and various difficulty levels.

Piatra Craiului National Park

Approximately 3 hours away, this park features some of Romania's most spectacular hiking routes, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Bucharest by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)

Located about 16 kilometers north of Bucharest, this is the main airport serving the city, offering numerous international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bucharest is a walkable city, especially in the central areas like the Old Town and the parks. Many attractions are within walking distance, and the pedestrian-friendly streets make exploring on foot enjoyable. However, outside the center, public transport or taxis may be necessary to reach farther destinations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Bucharest, contributing to the city's vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.

Students

With several universities, Bucharest has a large student population, adding to the city's dynamic atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Romania, with passionate fans supporting local clubs like Steaua Bucharest and Dinamo Bucharest.

Gymnastics

Romania has a rich history in gymnastics, producing many Olympic champions and hosting various international competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bucharest can be quite congested, especially during rush hours. Public transportation includes buses, trams, and a metro system that is efficient and affordable. Taxis and ridesharing options are also widely available, but it's advisable to use reputable services to avoid scams.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bucharest.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Bucharest has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, but traditional Romanian cuisine is meat-heavy.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available in many restaurants, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Bucharest has a well-established healthcare system with both public and private hospitals. Emergency services are available, and private hospitals often offer higher standards of care with English-speaking staff. It's recommended for travelers to have health insurance for medical needs during their stay.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide