A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bucharest vs. Canberra for Attractions, Food, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bucharest or Canberra?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Canberra. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a cultural, charming, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Bucharest and Canberra: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bucharest or Canberra?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Canberra than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Canberra, Canberra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Canberra is better known for its museums, food, and hiking, while Bucharest is more popular for its historical sights. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. Also, Canberra is famous for the Australian War Memorial.

How is Bucharest different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bucharest
Canberra

Canberra is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Canberra. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. 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 Bucharest or Canberra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
Canberra

Canberra 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 Canberra. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

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 Bucharest or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Canberra

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Bucharest and Canberra.

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Canberra has a few options to choose from. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Bucharest or Canberra Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Canberra

Bucharest is a popular place for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Bucharest. 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.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.


Is Bucharest or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Bucharest
Canberra

Canberra is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Canberra offers some nice hiking trails. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Canberra?

Bucharest
Canberra

Shopping is a popular activity in both Canberra and Bucharest.

Bucharest offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Canberra has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Bucharest or Canberra Better for Families?

Bucharest
Canberra

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

Canberra is a very kid-friendly city. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

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 Bucharest or Canberra Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Canberra

Canberra is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Canberra makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

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 Bucharest or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Canberra

Bucharest is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Bucharest or Canberra Better for Students?

Bucharest
Canberra

Canberra is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Many students visit Canberra. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Bucharest is not popular with students.


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

Bucharest
Canberra

Bucharest is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Bucharest has some very good public transit options. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Bucharest or Canberra a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Canberra

Bucharest and Canberra both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Canberra?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bucharest than Canberra if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bucharest.


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

One day in Bucharest or Canberra?

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Canberra. 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.


A weekend in Bucharest or Canberra?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Canberra. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Canberra?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Canberra. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Canberra?

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.

Canberra is a popular choice for travelers. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Canberra or Bucharest?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bucharest is $139, while the average daily cost in Canberra is $135. 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 Bucharest and Canberra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $63
    Canberra $83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $126
    Canberra $166
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Canberra

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or Canberra? 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 Bucharest


Hotels in Canberra


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 and Canberra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    Canberra $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Transfert Privat București: $61
  • Transfers to Danube Port: Bucharest - Navrom Tulcea: $132
  • Transfer from Otopeni Airport to Bucharest: $29
  • Transfer from Bucharest to Brasov - Hotel Pick-up: $176
  • Transfer from Bucharest to Brasov: $165
  • Transfer Bucharest to/from Giurgiu Cruise Port: $142
  • Transfer Bucharest Otopeni Airport (OTP) to/from Brasov: $247
  • Transfer Bucharest Airport to Brasov: $290
  • Transfer Airport Otopeni - Bucharest: $44
  • Transfer Aeroport Otopeni: $65
  • Transfer & Access for 4.5-Hour at Therme Bucuresti: $59
  • Therme Spa Ticket with Transfer - Galaxy and Palm Areas : $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Canberra

Also for Canberra, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68
  • Canberra Int'l Airport to Canberra - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra to Canberra Int Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Guided Tour of Floriade Festival with Transfers: $118
  • Private Transfer from Canberra Airport CBR to Eden Cruise Port : $82
  • Private Transfer from Canberra city hotels to Eden Cruise Port: $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Canberra?

Prices for flights to both Canberra and Bucharest 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
    Bucharest $59
    Canberra $35

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: $54
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $60
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $64
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $66
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $74
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $87
  • Private Walking Food Tour - Culture, History & Traditions: $99
  • Discover Private Highlights and Traditional Food Tour: $109
  • Private Bucharest Food Tour with a Local Foodie: $116
  • Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $142
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $203
  • Bucharest City Tour & Traditional Home-made Cooking Experience: $229

Typical Food Prices in Canberra

For Canberra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Canberra $17

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

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

  • Bears Sanctuary, Dracula's Castle, Brasov Day Trip Private Tour from Bucharest: $251
  • Bucharest Panoramic Sightseeing - Private City Tour: $93
  • Transylvania Heritage Tour at Peles Bran and Cantacuzino Castles: $93
  • 1 Day 4x4 Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $174
  • 1 Day ATV Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $208
  • 10h Bucharest City Tour & Snagov Monastery (Dracula's Grave): $260
  • 14 Days Private Tour in Romania, Moldova & Transnistria: $4,761
  • 2 Days Private Tour - The Romanian Caves from Bucharest: $563
  • 2 Hour Photoshoot Experience Near Bucharest Architectural Charms: $99
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Bucharest City: $88
  • 2-Day Medieval Transylvania with Brasov,Sibiu and Sighisoara Tour from Bucharest: $252
  • 2-Day Small-Group Tour to Dracula's Castle, Rasnov Fortress, Peles Castle, Sighisoara and Libearty Brown Bear Sanctuary with Overnight in Brasov: $204

Tours and Activities in Canberra

For Canberra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Building + Architecture Tour | 10am Daily: $13
  • Museum Highlights Tour | 1pm Daily: $13
  • First Australians Tour | 3pm Daily: $13
  • Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour: $14
  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in Canberra: $30
  • LGBTQIA+ History Walking Tour: $33
  • Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines: $39
  • Women's History Walking Tour with Local Guide: $40
  • Spies in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour: $40
  • Best of Wildlife Tour: $89
  • Best of Wildlife and Birds Tour: $98
  • Beer, Wine, and Spirits Tasting Tour: $112

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.28
    Canberra $16

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: $38
  • Private Bar Crawling in Bucharest Old City: $43
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience: $43
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $47
  • Private Romanian Wine Tasting in Urlați: $52
  • Guided Pub Crawl in Bucharest: $56
  • 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: $85

Typical Alcohol Prices in Canberra

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canberra from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Bar
    $9.25

Sample the Local Flavors in Canberra

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

  • Canberra Brewery and Beer Tour in 3 Hours: $99
  • Canberra Brewery Winery and Distillery Tour: $112
  • Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $122
  • CanBEERa Explorer: Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $123
  • From Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch: $149
  • Canberra Wine Tour: $158
  • Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch: $162


When comparing the travel costs between Bucharest and Canberra, 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. Even though Bucharest is in Europe and Canberra is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Canberra?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Canberra, 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 Bucharest or Canberra?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Bucharest has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Bucharest or Canberra in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Canberra. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bucharest is a little warmer than Canberra in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Canberra fluctuates around 20°C (68°F)in January.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in July than Canberrain January. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F) 
    Canberra 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Canberra in the Autumn?

Both Canberra and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Canberra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Bucharest is cooler than Canberra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Canberra averages at about 17°C (63°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Canberra. In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Canberrain April. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F) 
    Canberra 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Canberra in the Winter?

Both Canberra and Bucharest during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Canberra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Canberrain July. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Bucharest usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Canberrain July. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F) 
    Canberra 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Canberra in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Canberra. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Canberra because of the activities around the city.

Bucharest is cooler than Canberra in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F)in October.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Canberrain October. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F) 
    Canberra 15°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Canberra and Bucharest

Bucharest Canberra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in) 12°C (54°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (56°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 15°C (60°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)