Bucharest, Romania

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers. From its rich history and architecture to its vibrant cultural scene and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating city. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, and provide valuable tips and information to make your trip unforgettable.

Getting There

Bucharest is easily accessible by air, with Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) receiving flights from major European and Middle Eastern airlines. You can also reach the city by bus or train from other parts of Romania and neighboring countries.

By Air

  • Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP): Located about 17 km north of the city center, the airport offers modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and a 24-hour currency exchange.
  • Airlines: Wizz Air, Ryanair, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and many more fly to Bucharest from various European destinations.

By Bus

  • Bucharest Central Bus Station (Autogara Capitale): A major bus station serving domestic and international routes. You can find buses from other Romanian cities as well as neighboring countries like Bulgaria, Hungary, and Serbia.
  • Bus Companies: FlixBus, Eurolines, and many local operators offer bus services to Bucharest.

By Train

  • Bucharest North Railway Station (Gara de Nord): The main railway station in the city, serving domestic and international routes. You can reach the train station from other Romanian cities as well as neighboring countries like Hungary, Bulgaria, and Serbia.
  • Train Companies: CFR Calatori, Hungarian Railways, and Bulgarian State Railways operate trains to Bucharest.

Places to Visit

Bucharest is a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks. Here are some must-visit places:

Historical Landmarks

  • Palace of the Parliament (Palatul Parlamentului): A massive building that serves as the seat of the Romanian government, offering guided tours.
  • Royal Palace: The former royal palace now houses the National Museum of Contemporary Art (MNAC).
  • Casa Poporului: A historic building that was once the parliament house.

Museums

  • National History Museum: Showcases Romania’s history and cultural heritage.
  • Museum of the Romanian Peasant: Explores the country’s traditional folk culture.
  • Art Museum (Muzeul de Artă): Features an impressive collection of Romanian art.

Parks and Gardens

  • Cismigiu Park: A beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a stroll or picnic.
  • Herăstrău Park: The largest park in Bucharest, offering walking trails, bike rentals, and a lake with paddle boats.
  • Botanical Garden: Home to over 3,000 plant species.

Activities

Bucharest offers a wide range of activities for all interests:

Outdoor Activities

  • Walking Tours: Explore the city’s historic districts, parks, and gardens on foot.
  • Renting Bikes: Ride through the city or in one of the many parks.
  • Kayaking or Paddle Boating: Enjoy a leisurely ride on the lake at Herăstrău Park.

Cultural Experiences

  • Visit a Folk Show: Experience traditional Romanian music and dance performances.
  • Take a Cooking Class: Learn to prepare authentic Romanian dishes.
  • Attend a Festival: Bucharest hosts various festivals throughout the year, such as the Bucharest International Film Festival or the Jazz Festival.

Where to Eat

Romanian cuisine is a delicious blend of traditional and modern flavors. Here are some top recommendations:

Traditional Restaurants

  • Café Verona: A cozy spot for traditional Romanian coffee and pastries.
  • Hanul lui Manuc: A historic restaurant serving traditional dishes in an atmospheric setting.
  • La Mama: Offers homemade-style Romanian food.

Modern Restaurants

  • Caru’ cu Bere: A modern take on traditional Romanian cuisine with a focus on beer and live music.
  • Elie’s: Upscale restaurant offering international cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Casa Ioana: A stylish spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Food Markets

  • Piata Obor Market: Offers a wide range of traditional Romanian food and souvenirs.
  • Piata Romana: Sells fresh produce, meats, and dairy products from local farmers.

Where to Stay

Bucharest has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets:

Luxury Hotels

  • Hotel Bucharest Plaza: A 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Hotel InterContinental Bucharest: A luxurious hotel with modern facilities and amenities.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Hotel Casa Capitale: A comfortable hotel offering a range of rooms and suites.
  • Hotel Athene Palace Bucharest: A mid-range hotel located near the city center.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Hostel Toscana: A social hostel with dorms and private rooms.
  • Airbnb Apartments: Rent a cozy apartment in one of the many residential areas.

Things to Know

  • Language: Romanian is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
  • Currency: The Romanian leu (RON) is the local currency, although euros are also accepted.
  • Weather: Bucharest has a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters.
  • Safety: Generally safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

Bucharest has an efficient public transportation system:

Metro

  • Metro Line 1 (M1): Runs from the north to the south of the city.
  • Metro Line 2 (M2): Connects the west and east parts of the city.

Buses

  • Urban Bus Network: Offers a wide range of routes throughout the city.
  • Express Bus Services: Connect the city center with suburban areas.

Taxis

  • Taxis are widely available, but always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
  • Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt also operate in Bucharest.

Tips

  • Learn a few basic Romanian phrases, such as “hello” (salut), “thank you” (mulțumesc), and “excuse me” (scuzați-mă).
  • Try the local cuisine, including dishes like sarmale, mamaliga, and ciorba.
  • Explore beyond the city center to experience the authentic Romanian culture.
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular tourist attractions.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive guide to traveling in Bucharest, Romania. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious cuisine, Bucharest is a must-visit destination for any traveler.