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

Should you visit Bucharest or Dublin?

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 Dublin. 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 historical, less touristy, and undiscovered city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bucharest travel costs.

Dublin

Dublin is a fun, laid-back, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping. See Dublin travel costs.

Bucharest and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Dublin?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Dublin than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Dublin, Dublin has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Dublin is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. Also, Dublin is famous for The Guinness Storehouse. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dublin 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 Dublin?

Dublin 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 Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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 Dublin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dublin 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 Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

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 Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Dublin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Bucharest or Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is well known for its live music scene. However, Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Is Bucharest or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Dublin 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 Dublin. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

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 the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Dublin?

Dublin is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Dublin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Bucharest or Dublin Better for Families?

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

Dublin is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

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 Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

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.

Is Bucharest or Dublin Better for Students?

Dublin is a good destination for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Dublin is popular with students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

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

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

While Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Bucharest or Dublin a more walkable city?

Dublin is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Dublin?

In either Bucharest or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dublin than Bucharest because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dublin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin than Bucharest 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 Dublin.

One day in Bucharest or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bucharest. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Dublin. 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.

A weekend in Bucharest or Dublin?

Bucharest is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find live music and food around the friendly destination of Dublin. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun city of Dublin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Bucharest. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dublin 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.

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 Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Bucharest and Dublin, we can see that Dublin 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 Bucharest Expensive? and Is Dublin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Dublin?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Dublin. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Dublin, 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 Dublin?

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 Bucharest or Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Dublin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Bucharest is a little warmer than Dublin in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bucharest. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Dublin. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bucharest or Dublin in the Autumn?

Both Dublin and Bucharest during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Dublin because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Bucharest is a little warmer than Dublin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Dublin averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Dublin. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Dublin. The winter months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

The weather in Bucharest can be very cold. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Dublin. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bucharest or Dublin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Dublin. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dublin for the activities around the city.

Bucharest is a little warmer than Dublin in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than Dublin. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Bucharest