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
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.
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.
Enjoy dinner at Caru' cu Bere, a historic beer hall, followed by a leisurely walk along the Dâmbovița River.
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.
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.
Experience Bucharest's nightlife by heading to the trendy neighborhood of Lipscani for drinks at one of the many bars and clubs.
Prices
Item | Price |
---|---|
🍽️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.
A monumental building that offers stunning architectural details and panoramic views from its balconies.
A historic square surrounded by important landmarks, perfect for capturing the essence of Bucharest's history.
A picturesque park in the city center with tranquil ponds and beautifully landscaped paths.
Food in Bucharest
Bucharest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, slow-cooked in a savory tomato sauce.
Must-Try!
A cornmeal porridge often served as a side dish, similar to polenta.
Grilled sausages made from a mix of beef, lamb, and spices, typically served with mustard.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and oldest markets in Bucharest, offering fresh produce, meats, and traditional Romanian snacks.
A seasonal event that showcases local street food vendors; try various dishes from around the country.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is the standard greeting; it's polite to maintain eye contact.
Wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating, and keep your hands on the table (but not elbows!).
Dress smartly when dining out or attending cultural events; Romanians take pride in their appearance.
Safety
Tipping in Bucharest
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants (10-15% is standard), and it's appreciated by taxi drivers and hotel staff.
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...
Temperatures rise, flowers bloom, and parks come alive. Ideal for outdoor activities and city exploration.
Hot weather with occasional rain; perfect for enjoying outdoor cafes and festivals.
Mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage make it a great time for sightseeing and photography.
Cold and snowy; however, the festive season brings beautiful lights and holiday markets to the city.
Bucharest at Night
Hiking in Bucharest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 2 hours from Bucharest, these mountains offer stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views and various difficulty levels.
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.
Located about 16 kilometers north of Bucharest, this is the main airport serving the city, offering numerous international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A growing demographic in Bucharest, contributing to the city's vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
With several universities, Bucharest has a large student population, adding to the city's dynamic atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Romania, with passionate fans supporting local clubs like Steaua Bucharest and Dinamo Bucharest.
Romania has a rich history in gymnastics, producing many Olympic champions and hosting various international competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bucharest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bucharest has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, but traditional Romanian cuisine is meat-heavy.
Gluten-free options are available in many restaurants, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.