2025 FULL Bucharest Travel Guide: what to do, places to visit, day trips, going out & more!

Why visit Bucharest? Because Romania’s capital will surprise you with its rich history and multiple personalities: a Balkan vibe with Oriental influences, French-inspired beautiful buildings, megalomanic communist architecture, huge green spaces, and now a thriving Western-inspired city with Latin blood in its people.

Bucharest is an eclectic city - and that's the top reason why you should visit in 2025!

This made by locals guide updated in December 2025 will help you find out what to do in Bucharest, which places to visit, top tourist attractions, day trip ideas, where to go out, and practical info about public transport.

In this Bucharest travel guide, you'll find 50+ ideas for the very best things to do in Bucharest, along with unique tours and day trips we've created to ensure you have a great time on your holiday - so get ready!

Bucharest at a glance

Before we begin, let’s be honest. Bucharest doesn’t have the best reputation as a tourist destination. Here’s why:

1. Romania lacks an official tourist identity, so there’s no strong reason to visit.
2. Local authorities don’t invest in tourism, leaving locals to promote the city with limited resources.
3. Most visitors rely on mainstream travel blogs and TripAdvisor, missing what truly makes Bucharest unique.
4. Before 2015, taxi scams gave the city a bad name (no longer an issue; see our safety section).

Because of this, many skip Bucharest or stay just a day before heading to Brasov. But that’s a shame! The city, though rough around the edges, offers an offbeat, non-touristy experience.

Beyond the usual sights like the Palace of Parliament and Old Town, this Bucharest travel guide will show you hidden gems and how to enjoy the capital of Romania to the fullest.

Bucharest is a city of striking contrasts, not a polished Western capital, but an urban jungle with character. Some love that, others don’t. But beauty is in the eye of the beholder!

• Local tip: Unlike other capitals in Eastern Europe, the Romanian capital isn’t overrun with tourists. Prices are fair, and big-bus tours are rare (except for Dracula Castle trips). It’s an affordable, vibrant city with hipster cafés, trendy bars, fine dining at great prices, and welcoming locals ready to show you a good time.

If it’s your first time in our country, check our guide on how to visit Romania for more practical info. Now, let’s dive into the best ways to experience Bucharest!

Landmarks in Bucharest

Just like any other capital, Bucharest has a list of top places to visit and famous landmarks, which we will discuss in detail in the following sections.

Thanks to its long and wide boulevards the best way to see Bucharest landmarks is to go on a long walk from the Northern Piata Victoriei (Victory Square) to the Southern Piata Unirii (Union Square) or Piata Parlamentului (Parliament Square) - or in reverse.

1. Take a walk on Calea Victoriei

Calea Victoriei (Victory Boulevard) is the main pedestrian artery that connects the major two poles of our city. With a length of 2,7 km and lots of photo stops, high-end shops as well as local, vintage ones, coffee shops and snacks boutiques - this will be a 1-2h walk.

Dating from 1692, this boulevard has always been the beating heart of the city and lots of historical events took place here. It's where major Romanian figures, politicians and 'who's who' in our history lived.

That's why you'll see many of Bucharest's most famous landmarks, tourist attractions and impressive Romanian buildings here -without having to check Google Maps every 10 min :)

• Local tip: During summer weekends Calea Victoriei is closed for cars and turns into a huge pedestrian area. Locals love going on long walks, and stopping for ice cream, coffee, or a drink. Lots of street events take place here too, so watch out!

2. Admire the George Enescu Museum

If you start your walking tour of Victory Boulevard from the North (from the metro station), one of the first landmarks you'll come across is the George Enescu Museum. This is where our country's most famous classical compose, George Enescu, lived.
His work blends classical music with traditional Romanian folk sounds, motifs and instruments. Check out one of his most famous works:

Every year in September the George Enescu International Music Festival takes places in his honour in Bucharest. Orchestras from all over the world concert in the city and classical music fans rejoice.

Romanian Athenaeum: more than a concert hall, a landmark of historical significance

3. Visit the Romanian Athenaeum, a cultural landmark

The Romanian Athenaeum is Bucharest's most emblematic cultural landmark and concert hall. The building has a lot of significance for Romanian history and is spectacular on the inside, which is why you should visit.

4. Get royal at the National Museum of Art

While on Victory Avenue and just across the Romanian Athenaeum you'll see the former Royal Palace, which now hosts the National Museum of Art of Romania. Besides the art collections, the palace museum is worth visiting.

5. A first step into Romanian history at the statue of King Carol I

Opposite the National Museum of Art, you'll notice the statue of King Carol I the first king of Romania and a significant figure in our history. The bronze statue weighs 13 tons and stands at a total height of 13 meters, with the actual statue measuring 7 meters and the plinth 6 meters.

Revolution Square known as Palace Square before the 1989 Romanian revolution

6. Take a look at Bucharest’s weirdest statue, the Rebirth Memorial

By now you probably noticed the weird-looking statue that looks like an impaled potato as locals call it. That's the Rebirth Memorial in Revolution Square where the 1989 anti-communist revolution took place.

7. Step into communist history at the former Communist Party headquarters

The massive building behind the Rebirth Memorial was the Romanian Communist Party headquarters.

From its balcony dictator Nicolae Ceausescu made his last speech on 21 December when people started booing him - to his incredible disbelief captured on video. This is where the violent 1989 Romanian revolution started in Bucharest (it first started on 16 Dec in Timisioara).

8. Admire the Art Deco architecture at the Odeon Theater

Continuing down South on Calea Victoriei, you will see Odeon Theater on the left, a cosy contemporary art deco building fit for the modern, avant-garde plays it hosts.

9. Visit one of the oldest buildings in Bucharest, Casa Capsa

On Calea Victoriei, you can also see one of the oldest historical buildings in Bucharest, Casa Capsa (Hotel Capsa), built in the mid-19th century. This is one of the most famous hotels in Bucharest and a walk through its lobby is worth it.

It's also said to have the best pastry shop in town - as you pass the building make a left on the side street and look for the sign.

10. Take a look at the National Military Circle

Where Calea Victoriei crosses Elisabeth Boulevard leading down to Cismigiu Gardens, you'll come across the impressive Palace of the National Military Circle.

Built in 1911 in the French neoclassical style, this building is now recognized as both a historical and architectural monument, and there's a small military museum you can visit on its left side.

11. Take a walk through the beautiful Macca-Vilacrosse Passage

Further down on Calea Victoriei, you'll come across the late 19th century Macca-Vilacrosse Passage which connects this thoroughfare with Bucharest Old Town.

Inside the passage, you'll find lots of shisha cafes and restaurants - and don't forget to look up and see the glass ceiling.

12. Admire CEC Palace

CEC Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings in Bucharest, epitomizes the city's Little Paris identity with its impressive eclectic architecture.

Crowned by a glass and metal dome, the entrance showcases an arch supported by composite-style columns. Sadly, this one can't be visited, but you can still gaze at it from the street.

13. Learn about the Dacians at the National Museum of Romanian History

The impressive National Museum of Romanian History is one of the best places to learn about our ancestors, the Dacians, who settled these lands before they were conquered by the Romans.

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Calea Victoriei ends in Piata Natiunilor Unite Square from where you can go East along Dambovita River towards Unirii Square, or West along the river towards the Palace of Parliament. Or return to the Old Town area to find a coffee shop and a nice place to eat.

Landmarks in Bucharest Old Town

Bucharest’s Old Town is a pedestrian area between Piata Universitatii, Piata Unirii, and Calea Victoriei, known for its old buildings and cobblestone streets.

• Local tip: Despite what many travel guides say, this isn’t the spot to experience Bucharest's Little Paris vibe. Keep reading for that!

With over 120 bars, coffee shops, and restaurants, it’s the city’s nightlife hub. However, it’s not ideal for shopping or staying due to noise and crowds. The few hotels like Hilton Garden Inn and Europa Royale are pricey and mainly cater to tourists.

14. Visit the Old Princely Court ruins

Curtea Veche or the Old Princely Court was built as a palace or residence in 1459. This was the seat of power for the ruling princes of Wallachia, including Vlad the Impaler, also known as Vlad Dracula, who built it and whose statue you'll find nearby.

15. Step into Romanian traditions at Hanu’ lui Manuc

The nearby Hanu’ lui Manuc (Manuc's Inn) is one of the oldest historic buildings in the city with its impressive courtyard and very good traditional Romanian restaurant.

It always functioned as an inn for locals, travelers and merchants passing the city and with business at the Old Court, and legends have it this is where most deals and political decisions were made.

Stavropoleus Church, the oldest church in the Old Town

16. Discover the unique Romanian architecture at Stavropoleos Church

Stavropoleos Monastery Church is built in the unique Romanian architectural style known as Brancovenesc or Wallachian Renaissance and is one of the historic sites of Bucharest.

It has special features like covered balconies with columns carved in flower designs, detailed door and window frames, and the use of columns inside. Go inside - just remember to be respectful!

17. Check out the impressive National Bank of Romania

The National Bank of Romania building is another architectural landmark worth spending a few minutes on. With its imposing Reinassance architecture dating from the end of the 19th century, the building is like a fortress.

Unfortunately, you can only admire it from the outside.

18. Feel the atmosphere on Lipscani Street

Lipscani Street isn’t an attraction itself but the most popular street in the Old Town. Once home to merchant shops and artisan workshops, it was abandoned during the communist era and left to decay.

By 2010, the area was renovated, with bars and restaurants opening. It has since become a popular nightlife spot for locals, transforming into a lively party hub at night.

19. Visit the beautiful Carturesti Carusel library

The Carturesti Carusel Library is on Lipscani Street and is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the country and possibly in Europe.

The building was the headquarters of a bank but it's now a great place for book lovers.

20. Visit one of the oldest restaurants in the country: Caru’ cu Bere

Caru' cu Bere restaurant is one of the oldest and most authentic in the country, specializing in authentic Romanian dishes. Here, you can savor the tastiest traditional dishes and enjoy a beer crafted from a unique, original recipe dating back to 1879.

21. Connect with the locals at Obor Farmer's Market

If you're interested in traditional Romanian food and want a true cultural shock, head over to Obor Farmer's Market the largest and oldest in Romania where small farmers and everyone else sell their stuff. Or go on our tour with a local guide who will show you the best way to experience this:

Bucharest Street Food Tour: Farmers' Markets & Hidden Streets

Start from: University Square

See details

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Communist Bucharest: forced transformation

Bucharest’s bourgeois identity was erased during the 1944-1989 communist rule, led by Nicolae Ceausescu, who came to power in 1965 and ruled for 25 years.

Communist Walking Tour: History, Megalomania & Hidden Sights

Start from: Revolution Square next to the Rebirth Memorial (The patatoe)

See details

Driven by megalomania and a personality cult, Ceausescu radically reshaped Bucharest, demolishing entire neighborhoods for his communist vision. The Palace of Parliament was built in place of one, and wide boulevards like Unirii, Magheru, and Aviatorilor were constructed for specific reasons. Churches were relocated or hidden behind apartment buildings, and new worker neighborhoods were created to house relocated factory workers.

These changes left a deep mark on Bucharest’s architecture, culture, and daily life. A specialist communist tour guide can take you on a walking tour, bringing the city's history to life with historical photos, stories of life under Ceausescu, and insights into this transformative era.

Untold Stories of Bucharest: Prostitution, Holocaust and Communist Terror

Start from: Piata Romana (Romana Square)

See details

22. Palace of the Parliament: Bucharest’s top tourist attraction

The massive Palace of the Parliament is likely the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Bucharest. Known by many names (Ceausescu Palace, House of People, etc.), it’s the heaviest building in the world and the second-largest administrative building after the Pentagon, covering 365,000 square meters.

Why visit? The building showcases communist opulence and megalomania, a reminder of the cost paid to satisfy a dictator’s whims during times of food shortages. Its plain exterior contrasts with the lavish interior, featuring 1 million square meters of marble, a 3-ton carpet, and a 5-ton crystal chandelier.

As a top tourist attraction and administrative building, planning your visit is key.

• Local tip: Official tours focus on the architecture, not Romania's communist past, so if you’re interested in that, consider a private communist-themed tour with a local expert.

Complete Bucharest Communism Tour: Palace of Parliament & Ceausescu's Home

Start from: Bucharest

See details

23. Step into Ceausescu’s Villa

Ceausescu's Villa (where he lived) is another tourist attraction that you can visit. This is one of the best places to see the huge discrepancy between the dictator's luxurious lifestyle while the Romanian people were queuing for basic foods and necessities in the '80s...

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Bucharest museums: the classics & cool

As the capital of Romania, Bucharest has the standard collection of national museums - and they’re very good and a nice thing to do if you have a particular interest in their subject or the weather is not great for an outdoor free walking tour.

24. Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art

The National Museum of Contemporary Art is located in a new glass wing of the Palace of the Parliament. The museum presents four floors of exhibitions and events throughout the year. At the top, you'll find an observation point with panoramic views of Bucharest.

25. A museum for the whole family: Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum

Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum has reconstructed dinosaur models that children will love, so that's a fun thing for families to do.

26. Make a stop at the Museum of Art Collections

The Museum of Art Collections is on Calea Victoriei just before the Romanian Athenaeum concert hall and is among the best places for art connoisseurs to visit.

27. Explore traditional Romanian houses at Bucharest Village Museum

My favorite place to visit is the Bucharest Village Museum because of its unique character: an open-air museum where you can find over 60 real-size replicas of traditional Romanian village houses from 36 regions and parts of the country.

28. Discover Romanian rural culture at Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum

The Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum regularly hosts exhibitions and events to promote Romanian rural culture. It will give you a taste of what the famous Romanian countryside looks like especially if you're not spending a long time in our country on this occasion :)

Bucharest also has of the most unconventional and interesting museums in Romania.

29. Challenge your perception at the Museum of Senses

The Museum of Senses is a quirky and very cool experience with optical illusions. This is a great place for both kids and adults.

30. Visit the special Museum of Romanian Records

The Museum of Records hosts world-record collections of peculiar items. It lets you explore forgotten parts of human history and see how clever people were at different points in time.

31. Look at the stars at the Astronomic Observatory Vasile Urseanu

The Astronomic Observatory Vasile Urseanu will thrill kids and passionate astronomers. Here, you can visit a permanent exhibition but also look at the stars and planets through a telescope.

32. Discover the 1920s Bucharest at the Little Paris Museum

The Little Paris Museum will help you understand why Bucharest was once called Little Paris, and get a glimpse of life in the capital in the 1920s.

33. Be a scientist at the Romanian Science Experiment Museum

The Romanian Science Experiment Museum is a wonderful destination for both kids and adults, where you need to press buttons, pull levers and make things work.

34. Step into a communist apartment

In Romania’s capital you’ll also find a communist apartment from the 1970s turned into a time-capsule museum. A typical Romanian worker family lived here and the apartment is preserved in its original state with objects, decorations, and food from past times. This is probably the best place to understand what life was like during the Romanian communist regime.

Museum of Communism: A Time-Capsule of Ordinary Lives

Start from: Bucharest

See details

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Bucharest Little Paris and Belle Époque architecture

We're done with classical tourist sightseeing - so let's see some of the lesser known, thematic things to do in Bucharest so you have a good time.

Essential Walking Tour of Bucharest: Old Town & Revolution Square

Start from: Bucharest

See details

In the early 1900s, Bucharest earned the nickname Little Paris thanks to its French-inspired Belle Époque architecture.

Many of Romania’s aristocracy, businessmen, and cultural figures were educated in France, bringing back influences that made Bucharest unique in Eastern Europe, setting it apart from capitals like Sofia, Budapest, and Belgrade.

Far from lacking in charm, Bucharest boasts neighborhoods and streets where a blend of architectural styles, neo-classical, Art Deco, Bauhaus, communist, and modern, creates a rich and fascinating urban landscape. Many of the city’s best hotels, restaurants, and businesses are housed in these architectural monuments.

The "Little Paris" Bucharest: Architecture, Old Houses & Bourgeois Stories

Start from: University Square

See details

35. Check out the Romanian Arch of Triumph

The Arch of Triumph (Arcul de Triumf) is a WW I memorial monument, though smaller than the French version, is proof of this cultural affinity. If you are in Romania on December 1st or November 24th, you can watch the military parade here.

Cotroceni neighbourhood, one of the most beautiful in Bucharest

36. Go for a walking tour around Soseaua Kisselef, Aviatorilor, and Calea Dorobanti

Just go for a walking tour aka get lost in the area between Soseaua Kisselef, Aviatorilor Boulevard, and Calea Dorobanti to understand Bucharest’s beautiful blend of cultures. Also around Gradina Icoanei Park. Unfortunately, these are not tourist attractions per se so without a local tour guide to take you deep into the neighbourhoods and show you around, it will be hard for you to find these spots on your own.

37. Get lost in the Cotroceni neighbourhood

The Cotroceni neighbourhood is known for its superb eclectic architecture, the botanical garden, and beautiful buildings.

Visit a typical communist apartment in Bucharest turned time-capsule museum

38. Discover Bucharest street art, gentrification, and local culture

After the Little Paris years, communist changes, and Western revitalization, Bucharest began to show striking contrasts. Vibrant street art emerged, especially in local neighborhoods less visited by tourists.

Bucharest Street Art & Architecture Tour

Start from: Bucharest

See details

One of the best ways to experience Bucharest is to go off the beaten path and explore local life beyond the main attractions and tourist spots.

the famous Bucharest 3D iMapp competition

There are also lots of events going on - check online or ask a local when you're here. Various exhibitions, sports competitions, street food or art fairs happen throughout the year, usually in front of the Romanian Athenaeum, in Piata Universitatii, or on Calea Victoriei.

Relax in Bucharest’s many green spaces

If you’re getting tired of so much urban exploring, many beautiful parks in Bucharest will help you disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.

39. Relax in Cismigiu Park

The most beautiful park in the center of Bucharest is Cismigiu Park on Regina Elisabeta Boulevard. It's sometimes called Cismigiu Gardens because it has many areas with different interests, sights, and cultural significance - so this is a perfect place to take a break from your walking tour of the city!

• If Cismigiu doesn’t offer enough relaxation, Therme, located just 10 minutes outside Bucharest, is a great spa and wellness resort in Romania where you can spend a full day.

40. Admire the Parliament Building from Izvor Park

*Izvor Park*, a relatively small park, is another great place to relax and admire the massive Parliament Building. Here, you can enjoy a short walk in a relaxed setting.

41. Go to the WW I memorial at Carol Park

Carol Park has another WW I memorial on a hill with great views. Here, many locals gather to engage in sports activities on the stairs leading to the memorial.

42. Take a walk in Bucharest's biggest park, Herastrau Park

King Michael I park (formerly Herăstrău Park) is the largest park in the city and also the largest park located inside a city in Europe. Spanning 187 hectares, the park has various sections. One favorite spot is the Japanese Garden, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and Japanese acacia trees with hanging branches.

43. Go to the vibrant Tineretului Park

Tineretului Park is another popular park in Bucharest with a pretty big lake, perfect for a jog, or bike ride, and the right place for renting a boat.

44. Natural diversity in the heart of Bucharest: Delta Vacaresti

The newest green space in Bucharest is Delta Vacaresti, located in the southeastern part of the city. Originally cleared by the communist regime for a major project that was later abandoned, nature slowly reclaimed the area, transforming it into a thriving natural biosphere.

In 2016, Vacaresti Natural Park was granted protected status, making it a unique open-air museum of biodiversity in the heart of a European capital. It’s a great spot to visit, especially between April and October, for a mix of urban sightseeing and nature.

Vacaresti Natural Park: the Newest Urban Delta

Start from: Bucharest

See details

• Pro tip: Most young people speak good English, are friendly and helpful, especially in the city hotspots, so you don't have to worry about getting lost in translation

Day trips & tours from Bucharest

Bucharest is a great place to tick off some of the best things to do in Romania. With our network of specialist tour guides we can organise any kind of trip for you - so contact us we're happy to help!

45. Go on a Transylvania tour from Bucharest

Contrary to what most people think - going on a day trip to visit Peles Castle, Brasov and Bran Castle (the most popular day trip in Bucharest) does NOT mean you visited Transylvania. The region is huge with a history and culture that can't be experienced in one day. Read our blog on how to visit Transylvania for more.

That's why we created a unique 3-day best of Transylvania tour that will give you an authentic experience of this popular tourist region of Romania.

46. Discover the impressive Transfagarasan Highway

The famous Transfagarasan Highway can also be seen from Bucharest and the best time for that is July - October when the road is open for driving.

Road trip to Poenari Castle & Transfagarasan Highway

Start from: Bucharest

See details

47. Visit the Romanian coast

Another popular day trip, just a few hours from Bucharest, is to the Romanian Black Sea and the city of Constanta. So, if you love spending time on the beach, Constanta is a must while in Romania.

The Black Sea Calling: Day Trip to Constanta & Mamaia Beach

Start from: Bucharest

See details

48. Discover a unique place: the Danube Delta

If you want to visit a unique place, the UNESCO Danube Delta reserve is what you are looking for. To visit the Danube Delta, you need to get to Tulcea (4h away from Bucharest, possibly only by car). From there you'll enter the Delta through a boat ride, so you need a minimum of 2-3 days to see its beauty, birds, and fauna.

2-Day Danube Delta & Birdwatching Tour from Bucharest

Start from: Bucharest

See details

49. Take on your hiking boots and discover the Romanian Mountains

You can also go hiking in the Romanian Mountains known for their wilderness and impressive heights of over 2,500m altitude. Bucegi Mountains are one of the most popular national parks in Romania. The Romanian Sphinx and Babele are major natural attractions tourists want to see when in Bucharest.

1 or 2 Day Hiking Trip in Bucegi Mountains: Sphinx, Babele, Omu Peak

Start from: Bucharest OR Brasov

See details

But there are a lot more options for hiking day trips from Bucharest - check our guide on the best hikes in Romania.

50. Taste the Romanian wine in the Dealu Mare region

Just 1,5h away from Bucharest, in the Dealu Mare region, you can find some of the country's best wineries. This is one of the best places to discover the long history and high quality of Romanian wines (#7th producer in the world!) with superb views too!

The Wine Tradition of Romania: Premium Wine Tasting in Dealu Mare

Start from: Bucharest

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Check our full list of unique tours and hand-picked day trips in Bucharest so you have the best time in our country:

Tours & Day Trips in Bucharest

See tours

Explore Bucharest by bike, starting in Piata Victoriei

Because of the wide boulevards and long distances in Romania's largest city, renting a bike is a great way to explore Bucharest. Calea Victoriei has a dedicated bike lane so traveling by bike makes everything easier and you get to see much more, especially in the beautiful Northern part of the city (Kisselef and Aviatorilor Boulevard, Herestrau Park, Arch of Triumph).

You can rent a bike on your own from a public docking station (check here), or go on a guided tour by bike with one of our guides who will take care of everything so you can focus on enjoying the experience AND learn about Bucharest.

Panoramic Bike Tour of Bucharest

Start from: Bucharest - Hard Rock Cafe

See details

Where to go out in Bucharest: restaurants, coffee shops, and bars

After all these Bucharest attractions and tourist places you've visited, you're probably looking for a great place to eat, grab a coffee, or go out in the evening.

Bucharest is an affordable food destination with a variety of international cuisines, modern twists on classic dishes, fresh local ingredients, and excellent service. Whether you're on a budget or seeking upscale options, there's something for everyone.

Here are some recommendations to get you started with some great food:

• Traditional restaurants: Zexe, Jaristea, La Mahala, Beca's Kitchen, Maize (upscale), La Copac, Lacrimi si Sfinti, City Grill, Vatra Neamului, Hanu' lui Manuc, Caru cu Bere
• Italian: Trattoria Don Vito, Grano, Il Peccato, Trattoria Fresca, SARA Restaurant
• British & Irish pub: The Harp, Trafalgar
• Lebanese: Piccolo Mondo, Zaitoone, Four Seasons, Al Mandaloun
• Burgers: Burger van Bistro, Switch.eat, Vivo Fusion Bar
• Steakhouses: Osho, Prime Steaks & Seafood, VacaMuuu
• Cool & urban spots (Modern European): Energiea, Biutiful, Uanderful, Simbio, Lente, Alt Shift
• International fine dining: Joseph, Casa Doina, Stejarii Pool Club, Casa di David, Le Bistrot Francais, L'Atelier
• Street food (try shaorma!): Calif, Divan, Dristor

Local tip: Vegetarians or vegans needn’t worry. Thanks to Orthodox fasting periods, there are plenty of delicious plant-based dishes. Check out our article on traditional Romanian food for more!

• Romanian beers and wine in Bucharest

Romanians love to drink, especially in Southern Romania where beer is the favorite (unlike Transylvania). Local brands like Silva, Ciuc, and Ursus are popular, and craft beers are rising in popularity with young people. Try Nenea Iancu, Zaganu, Hophead, Ground Zero, or Gambrinus. Beer bars have become local hotspots.

Bucharest Nightlife Tour: Craft Beer & Hip Bars

Start from: Bucharest

See details

For a great glass of Romanian wine, try Corcova Rose at Entourage, Liliac White Young Fresh at Energiea, or Lacerta Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz at Corks Cozy Bar. Domeniul Coroanei Segarcea and Prince Stirbey are also excellent choices.

• Do not skip dessert and coffee shops in Bucharest

Don’t miss the booming coffee scene in Bucharest, with specialty coffee shops serving up delicious brews since 2010. Popular spots include Origo, Coftale, Beans&Dots, Steam, and more. What's a cortado or V60? Go and find out - and be sure to check our list with the best coffee shops in Bucharest to find out more.

For dessert, try traditional papanasi at Stadio, éclairs at French Revolution, or profiteroles at Chocolat Boutique Ateneu. Or stop by any pastry shop for apple or cheese pie (placinta cu mar/placinta cu branza).

Bucharest nightlife? The BEST in Europe!

There are several reasons why Bucharest nightlife is so good and famous - our article will tell you more and also the best bars and places to go out. Or maybe there's a Romanian music festival happening when you're visiting?

• BONUS: Cluj-Napoca is another city with great music festivals, such as Untold and Electric Castle.

If you're heading out in Bucharest, dress well (shirts and skirts) to blend in with locals. Keep a friendly, relaxed attitude after your busy day of visiting Bucharest.

For cocktails, try an Aperol Spritz at Deschis Gastrobar, or visit Newton Cocktail Bar or Fix Me a Drink for any cocktail you can imagine. On a warm evening, enjoy a cider at Control or a beer at Eden Garden for a laid-back vibe.

The trendiest spot right now is Expirat, with green spaces, terraces, and cool music—a great place to soak in the young, vibrant Bucharest atmosphere.

For a classic Bucharest nightlife experience, start with colorful shots at Shoteria before exploring the bars, pubs, and clubs in Lipscani, the Old Town.

I should tell you that in recent years the Old Town of Bucharest has become quite touristy, with too many places with loud music, people and tourists in a frenzy looking for alcohol-induced fun. Still, the Old Town is a must-experience part if you want to visit Bucharest for its nightlife.

For a fancier night out, dress up in high heels or a dress shirt. Head to high-end clubs in Floreasca or Herestrau, like Biutiful, Fratelli, or Funky Lounge. Nuba, Tuya, Kayo, and Hiro offer fine dining that turns into clubs as the night progresses.

Budget, transport & safety in Bucharest

Check our article on Bucharest public transport with all the info you need about Bucharest Otopeni Airport, public transport in the city, taxis and official tourism infrastructure.

We also prepared a guide on what you need to know about safety in Bucharest because there are a lot of misconceptions about this beautiful city. But with a little information and awareness, you'll have a great time here.

• You don’t need to spend much to have a good time in Bucharest

If you're coming from London, Paris, Milan, or Munich, you'll be surprised by how affordable Bucharest is! A full meal with a drink costs just 6-15 EUR, coffee is 2-3 EUR, and cocktails or wine are around 4-5 EUR. Museum tickets are typically 3-5 EUR. You can comfortably explore the city on a budget starting at 30 EUR per day.

• Take the metro or a taxi, buses are unreliable

The subway is the best way to get around: affordable and convenient at 2 EUR for 2 rides or 8 EUR for 10. Taxis are cheap (about 0.5 EUR/km), but Uber and Bolt are the preferred options. Avoid buses and trains. They're confusing for visitors and unreliable even for locals due to traffic and irregular schedules.

Where to stay in Bucharest

You’ll find plenty of options on Airbnb and booking.com to suit your budget. Stay near a metro station for easy access around the city.

Hotels are common around Union Square, Cismigiu Gardens, Piata Romana, Piata Victoriei, and Revolution Square. Major chains like Marriott, Ramada, and Hilton are available, along with charming boutique hotels in historic Little Paris-era buildings.