Quick facts about Bucharest

1. When to Go

• Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October are ideal for pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and plenty of cultural events.

• Winter: December to February is cold, but Bucharest transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and festive decorations.

2. How to Get There

• By Air: Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) is the main gateway to Bucharest, located about 18 kilometers north of the city center. Direct flights are available from most major European cities.

  • Taxis: Available at the airport, with a ride to the city center costing approximately 70-100 RON.

  • Uber/Bolt: Both are widely available and often cheaper than traditional taxis.

  • Express Bus: The 783 bus connects the airport to the city center for about 7 RON.

• By Train: Bucharest is well connected by train to other Romanian cities and neighboring countries. The main station is Gara de Nord, centrally located.

• By Bus: Long-distance buses connect Bucharest with many European cities, offering a budget-friendly option.

What to Do in Bucharest?

1. Explore the Old Town (Lipscani)

• Historic Heart: Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Bucharest’s Old Town, where history meets modernity. The area is filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a perfect place to start your journey.

• Stavropoleos Monastery: Visit this beautiful Orthodox church, known for its intricate architecture and peaceful courtyard.

• Caru' cu Bere: Stop by this famous traditional restaurant for a taste of Romanian cuisine and live folk music.

2. Visit the Palace of the Parliament

• Architectural Marvel: The Palace of the Parliament is one of the largest buildings in the world and a symbol of Bucharest’s Communist era. It’s a must-see for its sheer size and grandiose architecture.

• Guided Tours: Available daily, offering insights into the history and construction of this monumental building. Be sure to book in advance.

3. Relax at Therme Bucharest

• Ultimate Spa Experience: Therme Bucharest is the largest wellness and entertainment center in Europe, located just 10 kilometers north of the city. It's a perfect place to unwind and relax after exploring the city.

• Facilities:

  • The Galaxy Zone: Ideal for families, featuring water slides, wave pools, and a tropical environment.

  • The Palm: A tranquil area with indoor and outdoor pools, surrounded by real palm trees. It’s the perfect place to relax with a cocktail in hand.

  • Elysium: A luxurious area offering a range of saunas, steam baths, and mineral pools designed for ultimate relaxation.

  • Dining: Multiple on-site restaurants and bars serve everything from casual snacks to gourmet meals.

• Getting There: Therme is accessible by a shuttle bus from the city center or by taxi/Uber for around 40-60 RON.

4. Discover Calea Victoriei

• Historic Boulevard: One of Bucharest’s most famous streets, Calea Victoriei is lined with beautiful buildings, museums, and monuments. It’s a great place to walk and soak in the city’s architectural heritage.

• Landmarks: Don’t miss the Romanian Athenaeum, the National Museum of Art of Romania, and Revolution Square.

5. Stroll Through Herastrau Park and Visit the Village Museum

• Herastrau Park: Bucharest’s largest park, located around Lake Herastrau, is perfect for a leisurely stroll, boat rides, or simply relaxing in nature.

• Village Museum (Muzeul Satului): Located within the park, this open-air museum showcases traditional Romanian village life with over 300 authentic peasant houses, churches, and farms from across the country.

6. Visit the Romanian Athenaeum

• Cultural Icon: The Romanian Athenaeum is a stunning concert hall and a symbol of Bucharest’s cultural life. It hosts classical music concerts and events throughout the year.

• Tours and Concerts: You can take a guided tour of the building or, even better, attend a concert to experience the hall’s incredible acoustics.

7. Explore the Cotroceni Palace

• Presidential Residence: The Cotroceni Palace is the official residence of the President of Romania and also houses a fascinating museum.

• Museum Tours: Explore the palace’s opulent rooms, art collections, and beautiful gardens. Tours are available by appointment.

8. Experience Romanian Cuisine

• Traditional Dishes: Sample Romanian specialties like sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled sausages), and ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup). Bucharest has a vibrant dining scene with both traditional and modern options.

• Dining Experiences: Try Caru' cu Bere for a traditional setting, or Mahala for a contemporary twist on Romanian cuisine.

9. Wander Through the Botanical Garden

• Peaceful Retreat: The Bucharest Botanical Garden offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, with over 10,000 species of plants, beautiful greenhouses, and tranquil pathways.

• Seasonal Beauty: Visit in spring or autumn for the best display of flowers and foliage.

10. Visit the National Museum of Romanian History

• Historical Insight: Located on Calea Victoriei, this museum offers a comprehensive overview of Romania’s history, from ancient times to the modern era.

• Exhibits: Highlights include the Romanian Crown Jewels and a full-scale replica of Trajan’s Column.

11. Explore Bucharest's Art Scene

• Contemporary Art: Visit galleries like MNAC (National Museum of Contemporary Art) housed in the Palace of the Parliament, or Muzeul Zambaccian, which features works by Romanian artists.

• Street Art: Bucharest has a growing street art scene, with murals and installations found throughout the city, especially in the Piata Romana and Obor areas.

12. Take a Day Trip to Snagov Monastery

• Historical Escape: Located about 40 kilometers north of Bucharest, Snagov Monastery is famous for being the burial place of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula.

• Lake Snagov: The monastery is situated on an island in Lake Snagov, offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere.