Bucharest, Romania
Locavy ratings
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4.5/5
Value
Top 20
5/5
Transport Links
4.5/5
Experiences
4/5
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4.5/5
Value
Top 20
5/5
Transport Links
4.5/5
Experiences
4/5
At a glance
Bucharest, with its charming Old Town, stunning sights, and diverse activities, is the perfect year-round city break destination.
Party
Bucharest’s vibrant nightlife is centered in the Old Town, offering a variety of bars, pubs, and nightclubs for partygoers to enjoy.
Sightseeing
Bucharest is a stunning city with must-see sights like the Palace of Parliament and Arcul de Triumf. Romania is also home to impressive castles and fortifications that are well worth exploring.
Relaxation
Bucharest is a great destination for relaxation. Therme Bucharest offers the ultimate spa and swimming experience, while a stroll through the peaceful Herăstrău Park is perfect for unwinding.
Value
Bucharest offers great value, with affordable accommodation and dining. To save even more, tourists should consider purchasing the Bucharest Card for discounts and free transport.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Bucharest Airport, Romania’s largest, is located 19km north of the city. To reach the city center, the quick and reliable airport bus is highly recommended, though the train is another excellent option.
Train
Traveling by train is the best way to explore Romania, with many of the country’s most popular towns and cities conveniently connected by rail.
Drive
Driving isn’t necessary in Bucharest thanks to its excellent public transport system. However, renting a car is ideal for exploring the outskirts of the city, Transylvania, and its stunning castles.
Experiences
Bucharest offers a diverse range of high-quality activities for visitors. Exploring Dracula’s Castle immerses you in history and legend, while a bear safari provides a rare chance to witness Romania’s wildlife.
Best Things To Do
1. Discover the Old Town Charm
Bucharest’s Old Town is a picturesque gem filled with cobbled streets, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. It’s the best area for dining, exploring historic landmarks, and soaking up local culture.
Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven.
2. Explore Dracula's Castle
Venture to Bran Castle, famously linked to the Dracula legend. This 14th-century fortress offers breathtaking views and fascinating insights into its mythical and historical significance.
Book your tickets in advance to secure a guided tour.
3. Relax at Therme Bucharest
Just 23km from the city, Therme Bucharest is Europe’s largest wellness center. Enjoy luxurious spa treatments, thermal pools, and exciting waterslides for a day of ultimate relaxation.
Admission starts from £40; evening tickets are often discounted.
4. Bucharest Walking Tours
Explore the city’s highlights on a guided walking tour, where you’ll uncover its rich history, cultural landmarks, and hidden gems. Learn about Bucharest’s fascinating past from knowledgeable local guides.Explore the city’s highlights on a guided walking tour, where you’ll uncover its rich history, cultural landmarks, and hidden gems. Learn about Bucharest’s fascinating past from knowledgeable local guides.
Check for free walking tours that operate daily and tip your guide generously.
5. Immerse Yourself in Museums
Dive into Bucharest’s history and culture at the Museum of Natural History or the Dimitrie Gusti Open-Air Museum. Art lovers should visit the National Museum of Art of Romania.
Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
6. Visit the Palace of Parliament
Admire the grandeur of the Palace of Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world. A guided tour reveals the fascinating history and architecture of this iconic landmark.
Tours require prior booking; bring photo ID for entry.
7. Day Trip to Peleș Castle
Discover the opulence of Peleș Castle, a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. This day trip offers a glimpse into Romania’s royal past.
Combine this trip with a visit to nearby Sinaia Monastery for added cultural value.
8. Go on a Bear Safari
Experience the thrill of spotting wild brown bears in Romania’s forests. A guided bear safari offers a rare chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Book a licensed tour to ensure ethical and safe wildlife encounters.
9. Escape to Herăstrău Park
Enjoy a peaceful retreat in Herăstrău Park, perfect for scenic walks, lakeside relaxation, or kayaking adventures. This sprawling green space is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Visit during spring or summer for the best weather and blooming gardens.
10. Marvel at Arcul de Triumf
Bucharest’s Arcul de Triumf is a striking monument honoring Romania’s World War I heroes. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Entry is seasonal; check availability before planning your visit.
1. Discover the Old Town Charm
Bucharest’s Old Town is a picturesque gem filled with cobbled streets, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. It’s the best area for dining, exploring historic landmarks, and soaking up local culture.
Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven.
2. Explore Dracula's Castle
Venture to Bran Castle, famously linked to the Dracula legend. This 14th-century fortress offers breathtaking views and fascinating insights into its mythical and historical significance.
Book your tickets in advance to secure a guided tour.
3. Relax at Therme Bucharest
Just 23km from the city, Therme Bucharest is Europe’s largest wellness center. Enjoy luxurious spa treatments, thermal pools, and exciting waterslides for a day of ultimate relaxation.
Admission starts from £40; evening tickets are often discounted.
4. Bucharest Walking Tours
Explore the city’s highlights on a guided walking tour, where you’ll uncover its rich history, cultural landmarks, and hidden gems. Learn about Bucharest’s fascinating past from knowledgeable local guides.Explore the city’s highlights on a guided walking tour, where you’ll uncover its rich history, cultural landmarks, and hidden gems. Learn about Bucharest’s fascinating past from knowledgeable local guides.
Check for free walking tours that operate daily and tip your guide generously.
5. Immerse Yourself in Museums
Dive into Bucharest’s history and culture at the Museum of Natural History or the Dimitrie Gusti Open-Air Museum. Art lovers should visit the National Museum of Art of Romania.
Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
6. Visit the Palace of Parliament
Admire the grandeur of the Palace of Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world. A guided tour reveals the fascinating history and architecture of this iconic landmark.
Tours require prior booking; bring photo ID for entry.
7. Day Trip to Peleș Castle
Discover the opulence of Peleș Castle, a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. This day trip offers a glimpse into Romania’s royal past.
Combine this trip with a visit to nearby Sinaia Monastery for added cultural value.
8. Go on a Bear Safari
Experience the thrill of spotting wild brown bears in Romania’s forests. A guided bear safari offers a rare chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Book a licensed tour to ensure ethical and safe wildlife encounters.
9. Escape to Herăstrău Park
Enjoy a peaceful retreat in Herăstrău Park, perfect for scenic walks, lakeside relaxation, or kayaking adventures. This sprawling green space is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Visit during spring or summer for the best weather and blooming gardens.
10. Marvel at Arcul de Triumf
Bucharest’s Arcul de Triumf is a striking monument honoring Romania’s World War I heroes. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Entry is seasonal; check availability before planning your visit.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Bucharest Card: Unlock Savings
Enjoy free entry to top attractions and free public transport with the Bucharest Card, a must-have for tourists.
6.
Common Scams to Avoid
Beware of fake guides, currency exchange scams, and parking frauds when exploring the city.
2.
Where to Stay
Stay in Bucharest’s Old Town to experience vibrant culture and easy access to major sights.
7.
Safety
Bucharest is safe, but stick to the Old Town and keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpockets.
3.
Taxis
Taxi prices are known to sometimes be greatly inflated for tourists, consider using Uber or Bolt for fair and reliable transport.
8.
Currency
Romania uses the Leu; bring cash as many establishments in Bucharest remain cash-only.
4.
When to Visit
Bucharest offers exciting experiences in every season, making it a great destination anytime.
9.
Tipping Culture
Tip 10–15% in restaurants for good service to follow local customs.
5.
Public Transport
Use Bucharest’s efficient metro, buses, and trams to explore the city with ease.
10.
Language
While Romanian is the official language, English is widely spoken throughout Bucharest.
6.
Common Scams to Avoid
Beware of fake guides, currency exchange scams, and parking frauds when exploring the city.
7.
Safety
Bucharest is safe, but stick to the Old Town and keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpockets.
8.
Currency
Romania uses the Leu; bring cash as many establishments in Bucharest remain cash-only.
9.
Tipping Culture
Tip 10–15% in restaurants for good service to follow local customs.
10.
Language
While Romanian is the official language, English is widely spoken throughout Bucharest.