Bucharest, Romania

🇷🇴 Welcome to Bucharest – The Paris of the East

Bucharest, Romania’s capital, is a city of contrasts — rich in history, culture, and art, yet with a youthful edge thanks to its bustling cafes, trendy districts, and contemporary art scene. With beautiful parks, grandeur palaces, and a vibrant mix of cultures, it’s an emerging destination for travelers seeking a blend of old-world charm and cosmopolitan flair.


🏙️ Top Attractions in Bucharest

  • 🏰 Palace of the Parliament (Casa Poporului)
    The second-largest administrative building in the world (after the Pentagon). An architectural marvel and symbol of the excesses of the Communist era. Tours are available to explore its grandeur.

  • 🏛️ Old Town (Lipscani District)
    A charming maze of cobbled streets, medieval churches, bustling cafes, and art galleries. Don’t miss Stavropoleos Monastery and Curtea Veche, the ruins of the old princely court.

  • 🌳 Herastrau Park & Village Museum
    A large green space around a lake, ideal for a picnic or boat ride. The National Village Museum located here showcases traditional Romanian life.

  • 🖼️ National Museum of Art of Romania
    Home to both Romanian and European art, including works by Brâncoveanu, Goya, and Rembrandt.

  • 🏙️ Cismigiu Gardens
    The oldest public garden in the city — ideal for a serene stroll or a boat ride on its peaceful lake.

  • 🕍 Romanian Athenaeum
    A stunning neoclassical concert hall and symbol of Romanian culture. You can catch world-class classical performances here.

  • 🛍️ AFI Cotroceni Mall
    For a modern contrast, explore one of Romania's largest shopping malls, complete with an ice rink, cinemas, and dining options.


🍽️ What to Eat & Drink in Bucharest

  • 🍖 Sarmale
    Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mix of minced meat and rice, often served with sour cream and polenta (mămăligă).

  • 🥧 Mămăligă cu Brânză și Smântână
    A traditional cornmeal dish, similar to polenta, served with brânză (cheese) and sour cream.

  • 🍗 Mititei (Mici)
    Grilled sausages made of beef, lamb, or pork mixed with spices, typically enjoyed with mustard and fresh bread.

  • 🧀 Telemea Cheese
    A soft, brined cheese — often served as an appetizer with bread or tomatoes.

  • 🍷 Romanian Wine
    Romania is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world. Fetească Neagră is a popular local red, while Grasă de Cotnari is an excellent white.

  • 🥃 Țuică
    A traditional Romanian plum brandy that’s often served as a welcoming drink in rural areas.


🏨 Where to Stay in Bucharest

  • 🌟 Luxury: The Epoque Hotel
    A 5-star boutique hotel in a central location, offering a luxurious experience with impeccable service and design.

  • 🏨 Mid-Range: Radisson Blu Hotel
    Perfectly located with modern amenities, a large pool, and multiple dining options.

  • 🏠 Boutique: Hotel Caro
    Located near Herastrau Park, offering elegant rooms and a peaceful environment, ideal for both tourists and business travelers.

  • 🛏️ Budget: Pura Vida Hostel
    A cozy, welcoming place for backpackers and budget travelers, located near the Old Town.

📅 Best Time to Visit Bucharest

Season Months What to Expect
🌸 Spring April–June Mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. Perfect for outdoor sightseeing.
☀️ Summer June–August Warm weather, festivals, and a lively nightlife scene, but also the peak tourist season.
🍂 Autumn September–November Crisp air, golden leaves, wine harvests, and pleasant temperatures.
❄️ Winter December–February Cold with the possibility of snow, but the Christmas markets and cozy cafes are magical.

🧭 Travel Tips for Bucharest

  • 💬 Language: Romanian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially in the Old Town.

  • 💰 Currency: Romanian Leu (RON). Bucharest is generally affordable for European standards, but more expensive than rural areas.

  • 🚕 Transport:

    • Metro: Efficient and easy to navigate.

    • Buses & Trams: Also good for getting around the city.

    • Taxis: Ensure the meter is running, or use apps like Bolt or Uber.

  • 🎭 Culture Tip: Romanians love to eat and enjoy long, leisurely meals — perfect for bonding with locals and embracing the famous Romanian hospitality.

  • 🌍 Day Trips:

    • Peleș Castle – A fairytale castle nestled in the Carpathian Mountains.

    • Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) – A must-see for fans of Romanian folklore.

    • Mogoșoaia Palace – A beautiful example of Romanian Renaissance architecture just outside Bucharest.

📊 Traveler Ratings (Out of 10)

Category Rating Why It Matters
🏞️ Scenic Beauty 7/10 Green spaces, rivers, and a charming old town.
🏛️ Attractions 8/10 Rich historical sites and cultural landmarks.
🍽️ Food & Drink 8/10 Hearty, flavorful traditional cuisine and strong local drinks.
💸 Affordability 8.5/10 More affordable than many European capitals.
🚖 Transport 7.5/10 Public transport is functional, though traffic can be heavy.
🏨 Accommodation Variety 8/10 Good range of options from affordable to luxurious.
🎭 Culture & History 9/10 Deep cultural roots, fascinating museums, and a tumultuous history.
❤️ Romantic Appeal 7/10 Lovely parks and cafes, though not as romantic as other European capitals.
👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly 8/10 Many parks, museums, and open-air activities for families.
☀️ Weather 7/10 Warm in summer, but can be quite cold in winter.