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

Should you visit Bucharest or Florence?

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 Florence. 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Florence?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Florence than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Florence, Florence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florence is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest is more popular for its big city activities. Florence is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Florence has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Bucharest or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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 Florence?

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

Florence is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence Better for Families?

Florence is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Florence. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

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 Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is renowned for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

Florence is renowned for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Bucharest can get you to some places easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Bucharest or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence 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 Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city 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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Florence?

Both Bucharest and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Bucharest. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Bucharest or Florence?

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 Florence. 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 Florence?

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 iconic destination of Florence. 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 Florence?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the artistic city of Florence. 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Florence?

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.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bucharest and Florence, we can see that Florence is more expensive. And not only is Bucharest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bucharest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bucharest and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence than you might in Bucharest.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Florence?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Florence, 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 Florence?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bucharest or Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Florence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Florence. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Florence. 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 Florence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bucharest is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Florence. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Florence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Florence. The winter months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

The weather in Bucharest can be very cold. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Florence. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Florence. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the natural beauty.

Bucharest is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Florence. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Bucharest