Discover Bucharest
Welcome to Bucharest - The Little Paris!
Bucharest is not only the Old Town area. Once you are here, it would be great to explore some other fascinating
areas of this surprisingly beautiful city.
Before diving into the main attraction points, we have to talk about accommodation, internet connection and
means of transportation, both around the city in general, as well as from the airport to your accommodation.
Airport Logistics
You can find the best accommodation options at Booking. They have many discounts and excellent customer
service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Bucharest. Also, stay tuned to our conference website, as we’ll
provide more accommodation options soon.
To always stay connected we use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
Looking for the airport pickup? Your two best options are the train or a ride sharing app. The train station is
situated in close proximity to the airport terminals and it can take you to the Bucharest North railway station. The
trains run 24 hours a day, every 40 minutes and the duration of the trip is approx. 20 minutes. From there, you can
use one of the route planning apps provided in the next section of this page (“Public Transport in Bucharest”) to
find the best way to reach your accommodation by means of public transport or you can use a ride sharing app
like Uber or Bolt.
Never travel without travel insurance, you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can
check the insurance policy for Romania here.
If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Romania check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals.
Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. We
recommend using the free app Maps.Me.
Public Transport in Bucharest
Buses & Trams
Bucharest has hundreds of bus and trolleybus routes, and tens of trams, serving every part of the city as well
as a
number of suburban villages and outposts.
Buses and trams run at infrequent intervals from very early in the morning (around 04:30) to around 22:50 (earlier
at weekends), after which the night buses take over. These serve all areas of the capital throughout the night, with
all routes departing from Piata Unirii. Most night bus lines run at hourly intervals.
Mobile Ticketing App: The easiest way to pay for public transport in Bucharest is using
the 24Pay app (available
in Google Play Store and Apple App Store), where you can find multiple types of passes and even buy train tickets.
Route Planning App: For route planning and information about departure times for busses
and trams, we
recommend using the InfoTB app (available
in Google Play Store and Apple App Store), Moovit app or Google Maps.
The Metro
The subway network also provides passenger transport in Bucharest, among the most used public transport
systems.
The route map can be found on metrorex.ro, subway website, but also explanatory maps are conveniently shown
in the subway stations and even in the trains themselves. The use of the subway system in Bucharest is based on
a magnetic card, which can be purchased from the subway stations, which entitles either a fixed number of trips
over a more extended period or to an unlimited number of trips per one fixed period. Magnetic cards for subway
access cannot be used for
the journey with the means of public transport to the surface. The passengers' access
to the subway stations is between 5.00 and 23.30, and trains with a frequency of 5 to 15 minutes depending on
the hours.
Taxis & Ridesharing
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt are well-established in Bucharest and represent a good alternative to taxis.
Prices (around EUR 0.50 per kilometre) are about the same as for standard yellow cabs, while standards are far
higher. If you do not have either app on your phone, we recommend you to download at least one, in order to
spare yourself running after a normal taxi and to avoid meter scams mentioned above.
Tips and Tricks for a Pleasant Visit to Bucharest
Now, let's talk about some things you should take into consideration while visiting Bucharest, to ensure a smooth
and enjoyable experience:
- Avoid taxis without meters: While taxis are generally safe in Bucharest, some drivers might try to overcharge tourists. Stick to apps like Uber or Bolt to ensure fair pricing.
- Don't exchange money on the street: It's best to use official exchange offices or withdraw cash from ATMs located in banks to avoid scams or counterfeit currency. In most places you can pay by card but in case you need cash, our local currency is RON/LEI (1 EUR=4.97 RON).
- Avoid Euronet ATMs: You may have observed the presence of Euronet blue ATM terminals scattered across Europe, and indeed, they are also present in Bucharest. As a recommendation for travellers, it is advisable to refrain from using these terminals. While they do not engage in fraudulent activities such as card cloning, they are known to impose significantly inflated fees.
- Areas to avoid in Bucharest: While statistics show that Bucharest is a safe city, with a low crime rate, there are specific areas that warrant caution. It is advisable to avoid locations such as Ferentari and much of Rahova. While some may dispute the necessity of caution in these areas, it is recommended to do so to prevent potential unpleasant experiences. Moreover, these neighbourhoods offer little in terms of notable attractions beyond residential areas.
- Wheelchair accessibility: While the local administration tries to keep up with european regulations regarding wheelchair accessibility, the city infrastructure is not too friendly in this regard. The sidewalks tend to be narrow, most don’t have the proper design and in many cases are blocked by parked cars. To travel from point A to point B, we recommend sticking to a car as a means of transportation.
- Emergency service number: Romania's international dialling code is +40, and the designated universal emergency number is 112. Regular police patrols are conducted in the city center, squares and boulevards (such as Unirii, Universitate, Romana, Victoriei), as well as tourist destinations and local event areas. Police personnel are approachable so do not hesitate to seek assistance or report emergencies if needed.
Must-see Attractions in Bucharest
Having addressed the practical aspects, such as transportation logistics, it's time to explore the
beautiful highlights
and focal points that Bucharest has to offer.
Visit Palace of Parliament
This is probably the most impressive place you can visit in Bucharest. The Palace of Parliament (known also as
the
Republic’s House or People’s Palace) is the second largest administrative building in the world after the
Pentagon in
the US, dominating the central part of Bucharest. In fact, to build this majestic structure a big part of the
historical
center (5% of the overall city’s area) had to be demolished and some 40.000 inhabitants were rehoused.
You can get the ticket for visiting the Palace of Parliament here.
Explore the Old Town
Even if Bucharest Old Town is a fairly small place, this is where you should start your exploration of the
Romanian
capital. The rest of the city is a mixture of architectural styles but here, in the maze of narrow, pedestrian
lanes, you
will find the charm of past times. This is in fact one of the very few areas of the city that was not destroyed
during
World War 2 or the Civic Centre project.
Find the beautiful Macca – Vilacrosse Passage
One of the most stunning hidden (literally) gems of the Old Town in Bucharest is the Macca – Villacrosse
Passage.
You can get inside via two entrances from Calea Victoriei and one from Strada Eugeniu Carada and even if from
the
outside the place doesn’t look like something special, it is a truly marvelous spot.
Visit Stavropoleos Monastery
Another gem of Bucharest Old Town is Stavropoleos Monastery, originally built in 1724 although ruined and
restored
afterward. Among all the churches you can find in central Bucharest, this is definitely the most beautiful one.
Shop at Cărturești Carusel
Cărturești is a bookstore chain with locations all over Romania. However, their shop in Bucharest Old Town (at
55
Strada Lipscani) is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world and you simply don’t want to
miss it.
Discover the local street art scene
Bucharest has a pretty great street art scene although it might not be too obvious at first. You can find some
nice
big murals around, but the real treat is small stencils that cover the city. They often have a meaning and treat
important issues – they might not be too obvious to visitors, especially those who don’t speak Romanian, but
they
do carry a message.
If you would like to see some of the best murals in Bucharest, check the
locations on this map.
Relax in Cișmigiu Gardens
Once you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city, head to Cișmigiu Gardens – a pleasant park
located in the central part of Bucharest.
Take a Stroll through King Mihai I Park
King Mihai I Park, known to the locals as “Herastrau Park” is a sprawling green oasis spanning 400 acres,
offering
serene lakes, scenic walking paths, and recreational activities like boat rides and cycling. It's the perfect
place to
unwind amidst nature and enjoy outdoor adventures. Whether you seek relaxation or exploration, Herastrau Park
promises an unforgettable experience. While there, you can also visit the Village museum, situated on the shore
of
Herastrau Lake.
Learn about Romanian Culture at the Village Museum
The Village Museum, found in the King Mihai I Park, is an open-air museum that offers a captivating journey
through
the country's rich cultural heritage. Founded in 1936, this unique museum showcases over 300 traditional
Romanian
buildings, carefully preserved and relocated from various regions across the country. Visitors can wander
through
charming villages, exploring authentic homes, churches, windmills, and other structures that reflect Romania's
diverse architectural styles and rural life. With its immersive exhibits and picturesque surroundings, the
Village
Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Romania's past, making it a must-visit destination for history
enthusiasts
and cultural explorers alike.
You can find out more about schedules and tickets here.
See the Romanian Arch de Triumph
The resemblance between Bucharest and Paris doesn’t end only in the architecture in the central part of the
city. At
the edge of King Mihai I Park, you can find Arch de Triumph, a bit similar to the one in the capital of France.
Step Inside History Visiting the Ceausescu House
Visiting the Ceausescu House in Bucharest offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Romania's former
communist
leaders. This grand residence showcases their extravagant tastes and provides insight into the country's
political and
social history during the communist era. It's a thought-provoking experience that contrasts the elite's luxury
with the
austerity experienced by the Romanian people. Whether interested in politics, architecture, or history, a visit
to the
Ceausescu House is a must in Bucharest.
Find out more about schedules and tickets here.
Food
While strolling through Bucharest, you'll have the opportunity to savour both international cuisine as well as
local
dishes steeped in culinary tradition.
Traditional Cuisine and Restaurants
When it comes to experiencing the rich culinary heritage of Romania, you're in for a treat. Here are some of the
most traditional foods you must try during your visit:
SARMALE:
These are delicious cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat (usually pork), and spices, often served with sour cream. They can also come in a vegetarian variety, where the minced meat mixture is replaced with rice, mushrooms and other vegetables. Just as delicious!
These are delicious cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat (usually pork), and spices, often served with sour cream. They can also come in a vegetarian variety, where the minced meat mixture is replaced with rice, mushrooms and other vegetables. Just as delicious!
MĂMĂLIGĂ:
Similar to polenta, mămăligă is a staple food made from yellow cornmeal, boiled to a thick consistency. It's often served as a side dish, accompanied by cheese, sour cream, or stew.
Similar to polenta, mămăligă is a staple food made from yellow cornmeal, boiled to a thick consistency. It's often served as a side dish, accompanied by cheese, sour cream, or stew.
MICI:
Also known as "mititei," these are small, grilled sausages made from a blend of minced meat (usually a mix of beef, pork, and lamb) seasoned with garlic, black pepper, and other spices.
Also known as "mititei," these are small, grilled sausages made from a blend of minced meat (usually a mix of beef, pork, and lamb) seasoned with garlic, black pepper, and other spices.
CIORBĂ:
A sour soup commonly found in Romanian cuisine, ciorbă comes in various varieties, such as ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), ciorbă de perişoare (meatball soup) and ciorbă de fasole (bean soup flavoured with smoked meat). It's typically served hot and sour, often with a dollop of sour cream.
A sour soup commonly found in Romanian cuisine, ciorbă comes in various varieties, such as ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), ciorbă de perişoare (meatball soup) and ciorbă de fasole (bean soup flavoured with smoked meat). It's typically served hot and sour, often with a dollop of sour cream.
SALATĂ DE VINETE:
A popular appetiser, salată de vinete is a creamy eggplant salad mixed with mayonnaise, onions, and sometimes tomatoes or peppers, served with toasted bread.
A popular appetiser, salată de vinete is a creamy eggplant salad mixed with mayonnaise, onions, and sometimes tomatoes or peppers, served with toasted bread.
BULZ:
A traditional Romanian dish prepared by roasting polenta (mămăligă) covered with cheese in the oven. It is often served with sour cream or bacon.
A traditional Romanian dish prepared by roasting polenta (mămăligă) covered with cheese in the oven. It is often served with sour cream or bacon.
PAPANAȘI:
A beloved Romanian dessert, papanași are fried doughnuts made from a mixture of cottage cheese, flour, eggs, and sugar, typically served with sour cream and jam.
A beloved Romanian dessert, papanași are fried doughnuts made from a mixture of cottage cheese, flour, eggs, and sugar, typically served with sour cream and jam.
If you want to discover even more click here.
If you're interested in sampling any of these dishes, we'd be happy to suggest some restaurants that embody
the traditional Romanian essence of hearty food and warm hospitality:
VATRA
Found in the heart of Bucharest, near the Cișmigiu Park, Vatra serves delicious dishes in an atmosphere
pleasantly
adorned by Transylvanian original interior decorations dating back from 1920.
HANU’ LUI MANUC
Situated in the heart of the historic city centre, this restaurant evokes the nostalgic charm of old Bucharest.
Additionally, they frequently host artistic performances featuring traditional Romanian dancers, offering guests
the
opportunity to immerse themselves further in our rich culture.
CARU’ CU BERE
This restaurant is a symbol of Bucharest, as it was founded in 1879 and it’s still renowned for its rich
cultural heritage
and traditional Romanian cuisine. Housed in a beautifully preserved building dating back to the early 20th
century,
the restaurant exudes an atmosphere of old-world charm and elegance. With its ornate interior adorned with
intricate woodwork and stained glass windows, "Caru' cu Bere" offers delicious food and a truly immersive dining
experience steeped in history and tradition.
It's worth noting that if you plan to visit any of these establishments, it's essential to make a
reservation in advance,
particularly on weekends, as they are very popular destinations for travellers and locals alike.
International Cuisine
If you feel like taking a break from traditional food, it’s worth mentioning that Bucharest offers a vibrant and
diverse
array of culinary experiences. Here are some restaurants that we can recommend in this regard:
One more thing worth mentioning is that all the restaurants in this list (Romanian and international alike) offer both
vegetarian and vegan options.
For further information contact us at: