A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Bucharest for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Arachova or Bucharest?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Bucharest, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a historical, less touristy, and undiscovered city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arachova and Bucharest: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Arachova or Bucharest?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Bucharest are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm, while Bucharest attracts visitors for its big city activities. Arachova is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Arachova different from Bucharest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bucharest and Arachova. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Arachova or Bucharest Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Bucharest

Arachova is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Bucharest is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Bucharest is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Bucharest?

Arachova
Bucharest

Both Arachova and Bucharest have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Bucharest offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Bucharest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Bucharest

Arachova is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Arachova. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Arachova or Bucharest Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Bucharest

Arachova is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.


Is Arachova or Bucharest Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Bucharest

Arachova is well known for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Arachova. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is Arachova or Bucharest Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Bucharest

Arachova is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Bucharest?

Arachova
Bucharest

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bucharest and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bucharest. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.


Is Arachova or Bucharest Better for Families?

Arachova
Bucharest

Arachova is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Arachova is a very kid-friendly town. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Arachova or Bucharest Better for Couples?

Arachova
Bucharest

Arachova is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Arachova or Bucharest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Bucharest

Bucharest is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Bucharest Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Bucharest

Bucharest is well known for its public transit. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bucharest is fairly effecient and thorough. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

While Arachova offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are some public buses in the area.

Is Arachova or Bucharest a more walkable city?

Arachova
Bucharest

Arachova and Bucharest both are nice when exploring on foot.

Arachova is somewhat walkable. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Bucharest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bucharest or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Bucharest?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Bucharest. In our opinion, Arachova has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arachova than Bucharest. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bucharest.

Families should spend more time in Arachova than Bucharest. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Arachova, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Arachova than Bucharest. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Arachova that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Arachova or Bucharest? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Bucharest 1-3

One day in Arachova or Bucharest?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the town of Arachova. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The city of Bucharest offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Bucharest?

You'll find nightlife and food around the bustling destination of Arachova. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Bucharest is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bucharest, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Bucharest?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy town of Arachova. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bucharest is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Bucharest?

Arachova is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Bucharest is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania.


Which place is cheaper, Bucharest or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Bucharest is €129. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Bucharest in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Bucharest 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Bucharest 118
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Bucharest

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Bucharest? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Bucharest


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bucharest Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Bucharest 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Bucharest to Drobeta Turnu Severin - Private Transfer - Driver and Car: $207
  • ATV Adrenaline Race in Carpathian with Private Transfer: $141
  • Airport Bucharest Transfer: $54
  • Airport Henri Coanda (Otopeni) to Bucharest - Private Transfer - Driver: $43
  • Airport Private Transfer - to or from any Bucharest hotel: $64
  • Airport Transfer Bucharest - Brasov ,Brasov- Bucharest: $65
  • Airport to Bucharest - Private Transfer from Henri Coanda Airport OTP Otopeni : $43
  • Airport to Bucharest /Private Transfer from OTP Henri Coanda: $39
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bucharest Airport OTP to Brasov in Business Car: $147
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Bucharest Airport OTP to Bucharest City: $65
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Bucharest Airport OTP to Bucharest City: $51
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bucharest Airport OTP to Bran Castle of Dracula: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Bucharest?

Prices for flights to both Bucharest and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Bucharest 54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bucharest.

  • Dinner at the Museum of Communism - Traditional Food Tour: $53
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $60
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $65
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $74
  • Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $75
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $84
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $86
  • Private Walking Food Tour - Culture, History & Traditions: $98
  • Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $141
  • Cooking Class in Transylvania - Day Tour from Bucharest: $182
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $202

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Bucharest 14

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

Here are a few actual costs in Bucharest for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Tour Reyes y Palacios Bucarest: $11
  • Reptiland Bucharest Entry Ticket: $13
  • Communism Walking Tour from Lenin to Ceausescu in Bucharest: $13
  • A Tale of Bucharest Old Town Walking Tour: $16
  • City Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $17
  • Bucharest Highlights Walking Tour: $17
  • Calea Victoriei and Old Town Highlights Tour: $19
  • Parliament Palace Skip-the-line Ticket: $20
  • Palace of Parliament Bucharest 1 Hour Guided Tour: $21
  • Virtual Reality Experience: $21
  • Buchaest: Peles Castle, Bran Castle, & Brasov Old Town Tour: $21
  • Guided Tour at museum Casa Storck: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Bucharest 8.61

Sample the Local Flavors in Bucharest

Also in Bucharest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Weekend Pub Crawl: $24
  • Bucharest Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $25
  • From Romanian Wine Tasting Tour: $26
  • Bachelors Party in Custom Bar Crawl: $37
  • Private Bar Crawling in Bucharest Old City: $43
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bucharest: $43
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $47
  • Romanian Wine Tasting: $49
  • Private Romanian Wine Tasting in Urlați: $51
  • Bucharest Old Town Pub and Bar Crawl with Guide: $57
  • Bucharest VIP Bar Crawl in Lipscani 'Old Town': $59
  • Bucharest City Tour and Wine Tasting: $84


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Bucharest, we can see that Bucharest is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arachova Expensive? and Is Bucharest Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Bucharest?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 470 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Bucharest, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Arachova or Bucharest?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arachova or Bucharest in the Summer?

Both Bucharest and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bucharest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arachova is a little warmer than Bucharest. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Bucharest averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Bucharest. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Bucharest during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Bucharest receives 289 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Bucharest. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Bucharest in the Autumn?

Both Bucharest and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Arachova is generally much warmer than Bucharest. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Bucharest fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the autumn, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Bucharest. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bucharest receives 177 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets more rain in October than Bucharest. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Bucharest in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Bucharest. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bucharest can be very cold. Arachova is much warmer than Bucharest in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Bucharest fluctuates around -1°C (29°F).

Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Bucharest during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Bucharest receives 71 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives more rain than Bucharest. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Bucharest in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Bucharest. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year.

In the spring, Arachova is a little warmer than Bucharest. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bucharest averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the spring, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Bucharest. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bucharest receives 185 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Bucharest. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Bucharest and Arachova

Arachova Bucharest
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)