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

Should you visit Bucharest or Stockholm?

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 Stockholm. 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 less touristy, undiscovered, and cultural 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.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a coastal, safe, and expensive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Bucharest and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Stockholm?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Stockholm than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Stockholm, Stockholm has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Stockholm is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. Also, Stockholm is famous for Gamla Stan (the old town). Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Bucharest different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stockholm 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 Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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 Stockholm? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Bucharest and Stockholm.

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).

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Bucharest or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

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

Stockholm is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and 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 Stockholm Better for Music?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Is Bucharest or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm is one of the most recognized in the world. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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 Stockholm?

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

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm 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, Stockholm is very family-friendly. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm Better for Couples?

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

Stockholm is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest and Stockholm are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Bucharest or Stockholm Better for Students?

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

Stockholm is popular with students. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm has a great public transit system. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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

Is Bucharest or Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm on foot is easy. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Stockholm?

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

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

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

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

One day in Bucharest or Stockholm?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bucharest. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bucharest has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undiscovered destination of Bucharest. 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.

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Bucharest. 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.

People visit Stockholm 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Stockholm?

Bucharest 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.

Stockholm 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 Stockholm, 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 Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Stockholm?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Stockholm. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

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

Bucharest is a little warmer than Stockholm in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Stockholm. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bucharest. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Stockholm. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bucharest or Stockholm in the Autumn?

Both Stockholm and Bucharest during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year.

In the autumn, Bucharest is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Stockholm averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 99 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Stockholm. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Stockholm in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Stockholm. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Stockholm. It's quite cold in Bucharest in the winter. In January, Bucharest is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bucharest or Stockholm in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Stockholm. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Stockholm in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Bucharest is much warmer than Stockholm in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the spring, Bucharest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in April than Stockholm. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Bucharest