Romania
Bucharest
Bucharest is a city of surprising extremes, where monumental socialist-era architecture intertwines with graceful French villas for which it was once nicknamed “Little Paris.” Here, ancient Orthodox churches hide in the shadows of brutalist quarters, and the vibrant nightlife of the Old Town bubbles right under the majestic historical facades. This is a place for those who want to experience the real Balkan flavor, appreciate the scale of the gigantic Palace of Parliament and plunge headlong into the incredible energy of the most original city in Eastern Europe.
How to get to the city
By public transport
From Henri Coanda International Airport (Otopeni) to the city center (Union Square / Piața Unirii) you can take the convenient express bus number 100 (formerly 783). The bus runs 24 hours a day. There is also a direct train from the airport to the Central Station (Gara de Nord).
Cost: About 3-4 Romanian lei (RON) per trip. Tickets can be paid with a contactless bank card directly on the bus or on the train platform.
By taxi
For a safe and comfortable trip, use the official Uber, Bolt or Bolt Taxi apps. The trip to the center will take from 25 to 40 minutes (depending on traffic) and will cost approximately 50–80 RON.
What to see
Palace of Parliament
One of the most monumental buildings in the world and the largest civil administrative building on the planet. Built by order of Nicolae Ceausescu, this gigantic palace amazes with its scale, luxurious interiors, endless marble halls and huge crystal chandeliers. You can only get inside as part of an official tour (be sure to take your passport with you).
House of Ceausescu
The former private residence of dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and his wife Elena, where they lived for a quarter of a century. The outside is modest, but inside the palace amazes with its luxury: mosaic pools, gold plumbing fixtures, a winter garden, expensive carpets and a collection of gifts from world leaders. This is a unique place that allows you to look behind the scenes of the life of the Romanian party elite.
Romanian Athenaeum
The main concert hall of Bucharest and a true symbol of Romanian culture. The neoclassical building with a dome resembles an ancient temple. Inside, you'll find a stunning circular hall with superb acoustics and a huge mural illustrating key moments in Romanian history. Be sure to go inside to appreciate the architectural splendor.
Where to stay
ibis Styles Bucharest City Center
A bright, modern and stylish hotel located in the central part of Bucharest. Excellent location: Revolution Square, Cismigiu Park and the Gara de Nord central station are within walking distance. The hotel offers creative design, comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent base for exploring the city on foot.
Where to eat
Caru'cu bere
The legendary and most famous restaurant in Bucharest, operating in the Old Town since 1879. The Gothic Revival interior, with stained glass windows and carved wood, is reminiscent of a cathedral. Try: traditional Romanian mititei (grilled sausages), pork knuckle with stewed cabbage (Ciolan afumat), hominy and signature homemade beer. In the evening, national dances are often held here.
Smokareala Texas BBQ
A great place for lovers of juicy meat and true American barbecue culture in the heart of Romania. They serve perfectly cooked brisket, pulled pork and ribs that are simmered in a smoker for many hours. An ideal choice for a hearty dinner in an informal and relaxed atmosphere.
Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest
One of the largest restaurants of this chain in Europe, located in the picturesque Herăstrău park on the shore of the lake. Here you will find huge portions of classic American burgers, legendary cocktails, live music and, of course, a unique collection of rare items that belonged to world rock stars.
Places map
👀 What to see
🛏️ Where to stay
🍽️ Where to eat
Additional info
Practical information
- Transport in the city: Bucharest has a well-developed metro (the fastest way to travel between districts), as well as buses, trolleybuses and trams. To pay for travel on ground transport, you can use a contactless bank card directly at the validator in the salon.
- Currency and payment: The official currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). Most places (hotels, restaurants, chain stores, taxis) accept bank cards without any problems. However, to buy souvenirs from street stalls or tip, it is worth carrying some cash lei.
- Connectivity: Romania boasts one of the fastest and most accessible internet connections in Europe. 4G/5G is available everywhere in the city, and hotels and restaurants always have free, high-quality Wi-Fi.
What else should be included in the program
- Stroll through the Old Town (Lipscani): The historic Lipscani district is a pedestrian zone filled with bars, clubs, restaurants and cozy bookstores (be sure to check out the incredibly beautiful Cărturești Carusel bookstore).
- King Michael I Park (Herăstrău) and Village Museum: A huge green park in the north of the city. On its territory there is a stunning Romanian Open-Air Village Museum (Muzeul Satului), where authentic wooden churches and houses from all regions of Romania were brought.
- Bucharest Baths (Therme București): Europe's largest thermal complex, located near the airport. Huge heated pools, dozens of types of saunas, water slides and real tropical palm trees are the ideal place to relax after long walks.
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