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

Should you visit Bucharest or Pittsburgh?

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 Pittsburgh. 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a authentic, under-rated, and industrial 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.

Bucharest and Pittsburgh: 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
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bucharest or Pittsburgh?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bucharest than Pittsburgh, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bucharest is more popular for its historical sights, while Pittsburgh is known for its museums & sights and nightlife. Bucharest is popular for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. It is also home to The Palace of Parliament. Pittsburgh is popular for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Bucharest different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

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 Pittsburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Bucharest and Pittsburgh.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bucharest. 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).

Pittsburgh is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Bucharest or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

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 Pittsburgh Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

Bucharest is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Pittsburgh does not have a historic old town.

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.

Pittsburgh does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Pittsburgh?

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

Is Bucharest or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

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 Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

Most people don't think of either Bucharest or Pittsburgh as a couple's destination.

Most people don't think of Bucharest as a couple's destination. 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.

Pittsburgh is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.


Is Bucharest or Pittsburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

Bucharest is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

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

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bucharest. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Is Bucharest or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Pittsburgh

Bucharest and Pittsburgh both are good when exploring on foot.

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

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable city. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Pittsburgh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bucharest and Pittsburgh. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-3 days is enough time in Pittsburgh.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bucharest than Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bucharest 1-3 
    Pittsburgh 2-3

One day in Bucharest or Pittsburgh?

With museums and nightlife around the cultural city of Bucharest, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bucharest, one day is sufficent for most.

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

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bucharest, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh?

Bucharest, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the industrial city of Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh?

Bucharest is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Pittsburgh 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Bucharest?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bucharest is $144, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $181. 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 Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $66
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $132
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or Pittsburgh? 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 Pittsburgh


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 Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $27
    Pittsburgh $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Bucharest to Sofia - Private Transfer: $595
  • Private Transfer From Cluj to Bucharest: $516
  • Bucharest Airport: Private Transfer To / From Pitesti: $461
  • Bucharest to Sofia Private Transfer: $460
  • Bucharest to Mihail Kogalniceanu - Private Transfer: $353
  • Mihail Kogalniceanu to Bucharest - Private Transfer: $353
  • Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo - Private Transfer: $331
  • Bucharest to Fetesti - Private Transfer: $331
  • Bucharest to Craiova - Private Transfer: $309
  • Transfer From Bucharest Airport To Sofia Bulgaria: $298
  • Transfer Bucharest Airport to Brasov: $295
  • Bucharest (Romania) to Veliko Tarnavo (Bulgaria) - Private Guided Transfer : $291

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Private Airport Transfer: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh 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 $61
    Pittsburgh $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

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

  • Dinner and tour inside the Museum of Communism: $52
  • Dinner at the Museum of Communism & tour after closing: $55
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $62
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $67
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $87
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $87
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $88
  • Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $88
  • Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $144
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $207

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

For Pittsburgh, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $90
  • Strip District Food Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Pittsburgh $38

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: $256
  • Bucharest Panoramic Sightseeing - Private City Tour: $106
  • Dracula's Castle & Peles Palace Tour from Bucharest Including Brasov Old Town: $190
  • 1 Day ATV Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $212
  • 1 Day Castles Tour - Sinaia and Bran: $141
  • 1-Day Guided Tour: Bucharest-Peles, Dracula Castle & Brassov: $18
  • 1-Day Private Car Tour: Peles, Dracula Castle & Brasov: $220
  • 10 h Ceausescu Communism Private Tour in Bucharest plus Dracula's Grave : $246
  • 10 hours Private Apiary Tour in Romania - From Bucharest: $280
  • 10h Bucharest City Tour & Snagov Monastery (Dracula's Grave): $265
  • 14 Days Private Tour in Romania, Moldova & Transnistria: $4,850
  • 2 Days Private Tour - The Romanian Caves from Bucharest: $573

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pittsburgh.

  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Pittsburg Prowl Amazing Race & Tour: $24
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh: $25
  • Sinister Shadows of Steel City Ghost Tour: $25
  • Pittsburgh Ghosts Steel City Haunted Tour: $25
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • New! Black & Gold Sports History Tour: $28
  • Public Art Walking Tour: $30
  • Downtown Holiday Lights Tour: $30
  • Lights, Camera, Pittsburgh - Movie Tour: $33
  • Evening Ghost Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.61
    Pittsburgh $33

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
  • Romanian Wine Tasting Experience at Corks: $29
  • Bachelors Party in Custom Bar Crawl: $38
  • Bucharest Guided Pub Crawl: $40
  • Bar Crawling: $45
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $48
  • Wine Tasting in Bucharest: $53
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience: $55
  • Guided Pub Crawl in Bucharest: $57
  • Wine Tasting in Bucharest long version: $65
  • Bucharest VIP Bar Crawl in Lipscani 'Old Town': $76
  • Private Wine Tasting and Cheese Platter: $86

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $69
  • Bikes & Brews Tour: Pittsburgh Brewery Tour: $89
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $89
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bucharest and Pittsburgh, we can see that Pittsburgh is more expensive. And not only is Bucharest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bucharest is in Europe and Pittsburgh is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Pittsburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Pittsburgh?

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