Bucharest Nightlife Guide by Locals. 35 Best Bars & Clubs To Go Out

As a passionate traveler, I can confidently say Bucharest’s nightlife is among Europe’s best. Easily top 10 worldwide.

Bold claim? Keep reading to discover why, plus a local’s top picks for the best bars in Bucharest, clubs, and wine bars, and see why this city is a true nightlife destination.

Many assume the Old Town (Lipscani) is the heart of Bucharest’s party scene, but locals know the real gems lie elsewhere. That’s why we’ve created this guide to show you where to go out on a Saturday night like a local.

Emerging from its communist past, Bucharest embraced modern social life with a “live fully” attitude. The result? A mature nightlife culture with great service, fair prices, and amazing music.

And if you need to organize stag or hen parties, special events or nights out with your group contact us and we'll create a specially tailored experience for your taste!

Why is Bucharest’s nightlife so amazing?

In short: diversity, social status and a true 'I enjoy going out' feeling.

No matter what kind of music you like, your drinks budget, noise-sensitivity, party or sleeping hours - there's a bar for everyone in the Romanian capital:

• student bars with basic decorum, drinks at affordable prices and loads of fun and energy
• a huge range of bars, pubs and clubs for most people to spend or dance the night away in all sorts of music styles (contemporary, live, karaoke, jazz, electronic, rock, etc)
• cozy and stylish wine bars to hang out with friends
• hotspots for eccentric fashionistas or die-hard rock music fans
• up-market clubs where the high class and well-off in Bucharest goes for a glamorous night out
• rooftop bars with amazing views or hidden gardens far from the bustling city

What do all these places share? Great music. From curated playlists to live DJs, you’ll hear everything from radio hits to fresh local tracks. Once the party starts (after 11 PM), there’s only one rule: dance all night!

Bucharest’s top clubs also shine through their design (industrial, urban, or luxurious), each one stylish and full of character.

What truly sets Bucharest nightlife apart is the Romanian passion for going out. A casual beer often turns into an all-night adventure, because here, one drink is never just one. So dress up and expect the unexpected. Anything can happen!

In Romania, going out isn’t just a hobby; it’s part of life. Like the French or Italians, we love long nights of laughter, drinks, and good company in lively, welcoming spots.

When the music hits, Bucharest offers it all, from high-energy clubs to elegant lounges, proving fun has no age limit. And while the nightlife is unforgettable, the city’s daytime charm is just as captivating, making Bucharest a perfect 24-hour destination.

Tours & Day Trips in Bucharest

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When to go out, dress code & practical tips

Start the evening with dinner: it’s always better to eat before you start a night of partying in Bucharest :) And learning a few useful Romanian phrases will be good too.

Locals usually dine and drink between 7–9 PM, so book ahead if you’ve got a favorite spot. Pre-drinks start around 8 PM, when bars set a chill mood for friends to catch up before the real party begins.

By 10 PM, most bars are packed; by midnight, Bucharest nightlife is in full swing. Clubs like Uanderful, Biutiful, E3, and Nomad turn up the volume and go strong until sunrise.

Most clubs open all week, but Thursday to Saturday are the liveliest. Always check event schedules before heading out. The best part? With no strict closing hours, the night ends only when the last guests leave.

Make reservations, especially on weekends, as popular spots fill fast. Clubs may require a minimum spend (around €100, often with bottle service).

Dress to impress: casual bars are flexible, but upscale venues in North Bucharest expect shirts and smart looks for men, and chic evening outfits for women. Skip flip-flops, shorts, or sportswear; they’ll keep you out.

Transport: Metro, buses, and trams connect all major nightlife areas. In the Old Town and University Square, most bars and clubs are within walking distance.

• Local tip: check our guide on Bucharest taxis to make your navigation between clubs easier

Safety: as always, if you're cautious, aware of your surroundings and stay out of trouble - you'll be fine! Read our Bucharest safety guide for more info on the topic and typical tourist scams.

Neighbourhoods and places to go out in Bucharest

So what parts of town should you go to for a party night in Bucharest?

• Old Town Bucharest for nightlife

Let’s start with Bucharest’s busiest nightlife hub, the city center, known as the Old Town (Centrul Vechi). This area, stretching between Piața Universității, Piața Unirii, and Calea Victoriei, includes streets like Lipscani, Smârdan, and Gabroveni. With over 100 cafés, bars, and clubs, it’s where locals and tourists flock for a night out.

Every weekend from 10 PM till sunrise, the Old Town turns into an open-air party. Music everywhere, crowds hopping between bars, promoters waving you in, and late-night food lines for shaorma or gyros.

Its charm lies in its history: spared from WWII and communism’s destruction, the cobbled streets and old buildings give the nightlife a unique, timeless vibe.

Top picks: Urbanist, Shoteria, Club A, Fire, Nomad Skybar, Interbelic.

Pub Crawling & Bar Hopping in Bucharest Old Town

Start from: Lipscani street

See details

• University and Romana areas for a cozier night out

Locals avoiding the Old Town crowds head to the University and Romana areas, especially the side streets off the main boulevards. Here you’ll find hip cafés, stylish bars, and character-filled restaurants, favorites among Bucharest’s insiders. These spots get busy, so it’s smart to book a table in advance.

Top picks: Fix Me A Drink, Gradina Eden, Happy Pub, J’ai Bistrot, Salon Golescu, Green Hours

• Northern Bucharest for fancy bars and upmarket clubs

If you're the type who prefers a slightly more exclusive clubbing scene then head into the Northern Bucharest neighborhoods of Floreasca and Herastrau. Here you'll find bars and clubs where sophistication, elegance, status and ‘fine-partying' are at home. Prices are a bit more expensive and you can't get in if you're not dressed to blend in with the locals (think smart casual, fashionable or elegant).

Amazing food, premium wines and excellent cocktails are best enjoyed from 7-8 pm. After 11 pm most places turn into all out clubs where beautiful people party until dawn. In our opinion, this is THE place to experience the best of Bucharest's nightlife!

Over the summer most bars and clubs here (especially those on the shores of Herastrau lake) set up beautiful terraces where partying moves outdoors in ‘summer mode' and in the sunset light.

Top picks: E3 by Entourage, Beraria H, Fratelli, Biutiful, Uanderful

• Grozavesti and Regie for a fun and cheap night out

The Grozavesti and Regie areas in West Bucharest host most University-owned halls of residence, so here you'll feel young again (or old!) by partying with students enjoying Bucharest by night. And since everyone knows students like to have fun but don't have a lot of money, there are some very cool - and affordable - places to go out here.

Cheap prices, laid-back vibes, and a young crowd make Grozavesti and Regie a popular spot to hang out.

The best bars and clubs in Bucharest

There are a lot of bars and clubs in Bucharest where you can put your dancing shoes to the test for an unforgettable evening. Keep in mind that some of the most popular locations host events on weekends, making the experience even more exciting.

1. Fix Me a Drink

📍 Strada Ion Brezoianu no 23-25, Palatul Universul

Bucharest’s first botanical bar, it takes cocktail creativity to the next level. Its ever-changing menu features seasonal, high-quality ingredients for truly unique flavors. Set in a restored palace with cozy, artsy décor, it exudes a hip, intimate vibe and stays open past midnight, easily one of our favorite bars in Bucharest.

2. Control Club

📍 Strada Constantin Mille no 4

Control seamlessly shifts from live performances to electronic music nights, featuring top local and international artists, from underground to indie. By day, it hosts workshops, vinyl fairs, and art shows; by night, it’s all about dancing, drinks, and good vibes. In summer, its beautiful terrace is the perfect spot to relax with a drink by day or party under the stars.

3. The Urbanist

📍 Strada Căldărari no 3

The Urbanist brings a fresh twist to Bucharest’s party scene, blending music, fashion, and lifestyle in a laid-back Old Town setting. This stylish, street-smart bar is all about good vibes, local DJs, tasty snacks, and craft beers. Here, you can even shop the look: t-shirts, caps, and bags by local designers are all for sale, making for perfect Bucharest souvenirs. And don’t leave without trying their famous gin & tonics!

4. Gradina Eden

📍 Calea Victoriei no 107

If you love chill, green spaces, Eden Garden is a cozy, secluded spot to enjoy Bucharest at night with friends. Nestled in the lush backyard of Stirbey Palace on Calea Victoriei, it’s open only in the warm season.

There are no waiters (order at the bar) but their drink selection, especially beers, won’t disappoint. By day, it’s one of the best places for cooling off and escaping the city’s hustle; by night, it hosts electronic music events and concerts in a refreshing, relaxed setting.

5. Shoteria

📍 Strada Șelari no 17

Shoteria, Bucharest’s first shot bar, serves only creative, delicious shots, perfect for a lively pre-drinks session. Located in the heart of the Old Town on Strada Șelari, it’s an ideal starting point for a night of bar hopping.

You can enjoy sitting with friends, and finally dive into the party spirit. Friendly bartenders, energetic music, and show-stopping flaming shots make every visit memorable. Plus, they offer anti-hangover drinks, so you can indulge without worry.

6. Beraria H

📍 Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff no 32

Step inside Beraria H and you’ll feel an instant Oktoberfest vibe. This huge beer hall on the shores of Herastrau Lake draws people of all ages to long tables, live music, and cultural events. As the largest beer hall in South-Eastern Europe, it’s always bustling. Great food pairs perfectly with pints of beer, making it a lively spot to hang out after exploring northern Bucharest, if you don’t mind the loud crowds.

7. Hard Rock Cafe

📍 Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff 32

Right across from Beraria H, Hard Rock Cafe offers a lively experience blending rock ’n’ roll history, live music, and great food. The space is filled with iconic rock memorabilia, creating an energetic vibe from the moment you enter.

Whether you’re a music fan or just want drinks and a special meal, Hard Rock Cafe delivers. The menu features American favorites and local delicacies, while live performances by talented local and international artists complete the unforgettable experience.

8. Pardon Pub & More, Beer O’Clock and Zaganu Romanian Craft Beer Bar

📍 Strada C. A. Rosetti no 10 (Pardon Pub & More)
📍 Strada Gabroveni no 4 (Beer O'Clock)
📍 Calea Victoriei no 91-93 (Zaganu Romanian Craft Beer Bar)

You might be surprised, but Romania’s craft beer scene is vibrant and delicious! While big brands like Ursus, Silva, and Ciuc cover the classics, pils, lager, black, or IPA, craft brewers are booming, offering creative flavors and retro-inspired labels. Beer festivals are now a regular treat for enthusiasts.

In specialized bars around Bucharest, there’s a beer for every taste. Check out Sikaru, Ground Zero, or Hop Hooligans, or join a craft beer tour to taste and learn about Romania’s brewing tradition.

Bucharest Nightlife Tour: Craft Beer & Hip Bars

Start from: Bucharest

See details

9. Club A and Fire Club

📍 Strada Smârdan no 29 (Club A)
📍 Strada Covaci no 7 (Fire Club)

The classic and oldest rock pubs of Bucharest, Club A and Fire Club, play only rock music and host live concerts. Oldies, goldies, contemporaries - you name it, but the music is always good and pleasant. You'll find the usual selection of drinks and the basic setup for pubs where people come together to enjoy drinks and good music. You cannot go wrong with them!

10. J’ai bistrot

📍 Calea Griviței no 55

Among Bucharest’s charming townhouse bars, J’ai Bistrot stands out with its bohemian garden and urban-chic interior. Enjoy delicious dishes, a wide drink selection, and friendly vibes in a laid-back setting. Popular with locals, it hosts regular brunches (always busy) and is perfect for both daytime visits and evening outings. Reservations recommended.

You'll find similar concepts at Simbio, Lente and Journey Pub, also very popular.

11. MOJO

📍 Strada Lipscani no 69

Mojo is Bucharest's original karaoke hotspot, and it's been bringing the fun seven nights a week since day one! With quality drinks, a lively atmosphere, and friendly, English-speaking staff, it's the perfect place to let loose and belt out your favorite tunes.

12. Salon Golescu

📍 Strada Nicolae Golescu no 17

One of Bucharest’s coolest spots, Salon Golescu blends chill daytime lounging with groovy nightlife vibes. Located in Romana, this upscale bar/lounge features a classy, retro interior and an impressive menu, with cocktails that stand out. By evening, the music and atmosphere effortlessly shift from relaxed drinks with friends to full-on party mode.

13. Nomad Skybar

📍 Strada Smârdan no 30

Nomad is an upscale restaurant, bar, and club with a stunning rooftop view over Bucharest’s Old Town. The dynamic atmosphere, wide selection of cocktails, wines, and whiskey, and good food make it a hotspot, though it’s the vibe, not the menu, that draws the crowd.

Weekends feature DJs and live music, so it’s often packed. Go early or book a table. For more rooftop fun, check out Upstairs Rooftop and Pura Vida Sky Bar.

14. E3 by Entourage

📍 Calea Floreasca no 111-113

E3 by Entourage on Calea Floreasca offers lunch and dinner in a chic setting that seamlessly shifts from bar/lounge to full-on club. With DJ sets, live performances, and themed parties, it keeps the energy high and the dance floor alive, perfect for experiencing how locals in Bucharest party in style.

15. MNAC Terrace

📍 Izvor no 2-4

Visitors seeking spectacular views and inspiration will love the MNAC Terrace, perched atop Bucharest’s Palace of the Parliament. Part of the National Museum of Contemporary Art, it offers breathtaking city skyline views framed by stunning architecture.

Beyond the view, the terrace reflects the museum’s artistic concept, occasionally hosting exhibitions, installations, and cultural events. We recommend pairing a drink here with a visit to the Palace of the Parliament, the grandiose landmark of Bucharest’s communist era.

16. Interbelic Cocktail Bar

📍 Strada Lipscani no. 17

Interbelic is a veteran of Bucharest's clubbing scene: great music played all night long paired with proper, large-sized cocktails mixed by some of the best bartenders in Bucharest. And decent prices - 5€! The industrial design and low lights make it a perfect place for partying the night away! Sometimes there's an entrance fee but I was never disappointed after paying it :) On their website you can also find free tickets for certain events.

17. Expirat

📍 Strada Doctor Constantin Istrati no. 1

Rock bands, local artists, and Romanian DJs bring the party to Expirat every weekend. Housed in a former industrial hall, the club blends industrial design with lights and minimal décor. The music is contemporary, dance-ready, and spans all styles, but when you need a break, head to the spacious courtyard to sit, stick with friends, and grab a quick bite.

18. Kulturhaus Bukarest

📍 Strada Sfânta Vineri no. 4

Electronic music tracks combined with commercial hits or rock classics, Kulturhaus is students' favorite club in Bucharest. Unpretentious interior, filled with positive vibes and offering cheap alcohol, this club will always offer a good dose of entertainment when in the Old Town area. Note: Kulturhaus Bukarest is temporarily closed. To check its updated status, please check their website

19. El Dictador

📍 Strada Lipscani no. 43

El Dictador Club, located in the center of Bucharest's bustling nightlife scene, stands out as an alluring place for people looking for an outstanding experience. El Dictador transports visitors on a thrilling trip through time by portraying the mood of a bygone period with its unique concept and vibrant atmosphere.

• P.S: For a club located in the historic center of Bucharest, it has reasonable prices, which makes it a top pick for many locals. for a similar vibe, also check out El Comandante Junior.

20. Apollo 111

📍 Strada Ion Brezoianu no. 23 - 25, Palatul Universul

From 90s theme parties to all Romanian music nights to mainstream pop songs, Apollo 111 has its unique vibe and stands out in the market as a club with unusual events. There is a wine bar available at this venue and more than enough room to dance, so people like it anyway. The big colorful globe in the center will put you in disco mode guaranteed!

21. Green Hours Jazz Club

📍 Calea Victoriei no. 120

There's no party like a live jazz party! At Green Hours, you can take a break from the radio or electronic music and enjoy a chilled ambience in a secluded garden. Usually less crowded than the other clubs but not less popular with locals, here you'll experience a more relaxed but equally lively atmosphere. Local artists hold live events or jazz sessions in the evening, some of them free!

22. SIP Bucharest Cocktail Bar

📍 Strada Covaci no. 12

Step inside and dive into a menu of over 40 cocktails, with options both boozy and alcohol-free, ranging from bold and punchy to silky and smooth. Feeling adventurous? Challenge the talented staff to create a custom drink that perfectly suits your taste.

23. Fratelli Studios

📍 Strada Glodeni no. 1-3

Fratelli is a top name in Bucharest’s luxury club scene. For a true upscale experience with beautiful people, great music, and a lively atmosphere, it’s hard to beat.

Expect higher prices, crowds, and a fancy dress code, but the posh Northern Bucharest setting makes it worth it. Similar vibes can be found at Uanderful and Biutiful.

• Local insight: During the Summer season the posh nightclubs of Bucharest (Fratelli, Loft, etc) switch to beach mode and move to Mamaia the most popular and luxurious of the Romanian Black Sea resorts. Parties are on the beach and last until Sunrise which makes it a memorable experience!

24. True Social Club

📍 Strada Covaci, no. 19

True Club is the ultimate spot to spend your night in Bucharest's Old Center. Known as the House of Live Music, it's a haven for music lovers, fun seekers, and party people alike. Whether you're into live bands, karaoke nights with a twist (yes, you get to sing with a live band!), jam sessions, or cocktail parties, True Club always delivers an unforgettable experience.

25. Biutiful

📍 Splaiul Unirii no. 165 (Biutiful Downtown)
📍 Șoseaua Nordului no. 3 (Biutiful By The Lake)

This posh lounge-bar-club lives up to its name: simply beautiful! With two Northern Bucharest locations, one on Herastrau Lake, both serve premium food and drinks by day. In the evening, they effortlessly transform into lively dance clubs, perfect for experiencing the stylish side of Bucharest nightlife.

26. QP Pub

📍 General David Praporgescu, no. 13

Nestled in central Bucharest, this cozy pub is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the city vibes. Its charming terrace is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Inside, enjoy a wide selection of drinks, from cocktails and wines to craft beers and non-alcoholic options. Whether for a quick drink or a leisurely evening, it’s a delightful spot in the heart of the city.

27.Loft and Gaia Boutique Club

📍 Strada Grigore Alexandrescu no. 89-97 (Loft)
📍 Piața Presei Libere no. 1 (Gaia Boutique Club)

Two different upmarket Bucharest clubs with a similar concept – Loft and Gaia host eccentric parties for fashionistas with fun party themes, special events and good dancing music. These clubs are on the expensive side but the pretentious crowds don't mind. They're a top choice for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a fancy night in Bucharest.

28. Linea | Closer to the Moon

📍 Strada Lipscani no. 17

Perched on the roof of the iconic Magazinul Victoria, this sky bar is a must-visit for incredible views of Bucharest's skyline. What sets it apart from other sky bars is its clever winter twist, cozy igloos on the terrace that let you enjoy the breathtaking scenery even in the chillier months.

What about strip clubs?

For those seeking adult entertainment, Bucharest offers plenty quality strip clubs combining sensuality, fun, and sophistication. Talented performers captivate with mesmerizing dances in venues featuring chic décor, dim lighting, and comfortable seating.

Each club has its own rules, so it’s wise to check them beforehand. Most options are concentrated in the Old Town, making it a good starting point for exploration.

Best wine bars in Bucharest

Bars are for chilling, clubs for dancing, but wine bars offer a different, relaxed vibe, and Bucharest has some excellent options. Before exploring our picks, try Romanian wines, less known in other countries, yet high-quality, flavorful, and affordable. Many of the bars and clubs mentioned above also serve them, so you can start tasting anywhere!

1. Corks Cozy Bar

📍 Strada Băcani no. 1

Experiment with different wine flavors by visiting Corks. A wide selection of wines by the glass are served here, and the prices are usually affordable. Make sure to try their veal tagliata, which goes perfectly with your favorite type of red or the waiter's recommendation.

2. GastroLab

📍 Aviatorilor Boulevard no. 8

Visit GastroLab for a complete gastro-wine experience in an elegant setting. You can choose your drinks from the wide display of wines and try out Romanian cuisine with a special twist, courtesy of the talented young chefs. Our pick for the best wine bar in Bucharest!

3. Industry Wine Bar

📍 Strada Șepcari, no 19

Industry Wine Bar in central Bucharest is a hidden gem to kick off a memorable wine experience. Stylish and intimate, it offers a curated selection of wines, guided by knowledgeable staff. Pair crisp whites or bold reds with artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and gourmet bites for a truly sensory experience.

4. Abel’s Wine Bar

📍 Strada Nicolae Tonitza no. 10

A small and cozy place in a quiet area of the Old Town that serves lots of different types of wines paired with a selection of cheese, including Romanian specialities. With minimalist decor and soft music in the background, Abel's is a fusion bar that regularly hosts wine-tasting events.

• BONUS: A wide variety of music festival are also held in Bucharest, showcasing local as well as international artists, resulting in an unparalleled blend of music and culture.

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Now that we (hopefully) convinced you that the Bucharest nightlife is something that deserves the hype, we invite you to check other things that Romania is famous for .

Aaaand that's it! Remember to drink responsibly and stay out of trouble. Other than that - have fun!

In the morning you can enjoy a delicious - and strong - cup of coffee, so be sure to check our list with the best coffee shops in Bucharest -- you'll be surprised!

And if you're interested in taking a break from the energetic Bucharest nightlife scene, why not explore some of the city's top attractions during the day? From impressive historical landmarks to fascinating museums, there's no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant capital city.

Check our Bucharest guide to find out what the capital of Romania has to offer!

Your Romanian Friend,
Marius.