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

Should you visit Bucharest or Paris?

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 Paris. 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Paris?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris. Although Bucharest and Paris are roughly the same size, Paris has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paris is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest attracts visitors for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Bucharest different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris 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 Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Bucharest or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Bucharest is not a theatre destination.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Bucharest is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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 Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

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

Paris is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris Better for Music?

Paris is renowned for its live music scene. However, Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Is Bucharest or Paris Better for its Old Town?

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

Bucharest is a good destination for visiting its old town. 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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Paris?

Paris is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Paris make it a world-class shopping destination. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Bucharest does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Paris is not to be missed. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Bucharest does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bucharest or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

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

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris 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 Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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 Paris Better for Students?

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

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

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

Paris has a great public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Bucharest offers a very effecient public transportation network. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Is Bucharest or Paris a more walkable city?

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

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored 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 Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Paris?

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

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

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

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

One day in Bucharest or Paris?

In Bucharest, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this undiscovered destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

People visit Paris because there is so much to do. 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

People visit Paris because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Paris?

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bucharest. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

People visit Paris because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Bucharest. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bucharest and Paris, we can see that Paris 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Bucharest. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Paris. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Paris. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Paris. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Paris in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Paris during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Paris. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Paris in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Paris. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than Paris. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and Paris averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Paris. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Paris. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Paris during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Bucharest