Bucharest

Romania, Europe

Bucharest, Romania's vibrant capital, seamlessly blends history and modernity. Famous for its eclectic architecture, from the grand Palace of the Parliament to charming old towns like Lipscani, the city bursts with energy. Explore lush parks, enjoy lively nightlife, and savor traditional Romanian cuisine. The city also hosts numerous cultural events and festivals year-round, making it a captivating destination for every traveler.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Baneasa

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

14 Best Things to Do in Bucharest

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Palace of the Parliament

Visit the world's second-largest administrative building, an architectural marvel.

Booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Old Town

Wander cobblestone streets filled with vibrant cafes and bars.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Village Museum

Discover traditional Romanian village life in an open-air museum.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in Herastrau Park

Enjoy nature in Bucharest's largest park by the lake.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Romanian cuisine

Savor traditional dishes like sarmale and mămăligă at local eateries.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Romanian Athenaeum

Admire stunning architecture and enjoy classical music concerts.

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the National Museum of Art

Explore Romania's rich art history and stunning collections.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Check out Revolution Square

Learn about Romania's history at this iconic public space.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the Bucharest Mall

Browse local and international brands in a modern setting.

No booking required
10

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Enjoy the nightlife in Lipscani

Experience vibrant bars and clubs in the heart of the city.

No booking required
11

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cotroceni Palace

Explore the official residence of the Romanian President.

Booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a performance at the National Opera

Enjoy world-class opera and ballet performances in Bucharest.

Booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Botanical Garden

Experience diverse plant species in a beautiful setting.

No booking required
14

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the National History Museum

Learn about Romania's past through engaging exhibits.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Romanian Leu

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Romanian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Cabbage Rolls (Sarmale)

Stuffed cabbage rolls with meat and rice. (National dish)

Mici

Grilled minced meat rolls, spiced and juicy.

Mămăligă

V

Cornmeal porridge, often served with cheese.

Ciorbă de Burtă

Tripe soup with sour cream and spices.

Papanasi

V

Sweet cheese dumplings, often served with sour cream.

Phrases to learn

English

Romanian

Hello

Salut

(Sah-loot)

Yes/No

Da / Nu

(Dah / Noo)

Thank you

Mulțumesc

(Mool-tsu-mesk)

Excuse me

Scuzați-mă

(Skoo-zahts-mah)

How much?

Cât costă?

(Cut koh-stah)