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

Should you visit Bucharest or Toledo?

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

Toledo

Toledo is a fascinating, beautiful, and ancient city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Toledo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Bucharest or Toledo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bucharest than Toledo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bucharest is very popular for its big city activities, while Toledo attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Toledo is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its medieval buildings, ancient landmarks, and fascinating history. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. It is also well known for The Palace of Parliament.

How is Bucharest different from Toledo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bucharest
Toledo

Toledo 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 Toledo. This medieval city is filled with ancient landmarks including the iconic Catedral de Toledo. In the old town you'll find many many historic buildings and a fascinating Jewish Quarter. Other notable sights include the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes, the Alcázar de Toledo, and the Museo de Santa Cruz.

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 Toledo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
Toledo

Toledo 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 Toledo. The city offers a great cuisine at a reasonable price. The dishes are influenced by the city's diverse past. You'll find many meat dishes due to the area's long running tradition of hunting. There are also classic dishes like carcamusas, which is pork covered in a tomato sauce. Dishes in general tend to be heavy and saucy with filling and delicious flavors.

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 Toledo Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Toledo

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

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 Toledo has a few options to choose from. Most tourists visit the town as a day trip, so things can quiet down somewhat at night. There is a large student population that frequents the bars around town and help keep things lively.

Is Bucharest or Toledo Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Toledo

Toledo 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 Toledo is one of the most recognized in the world. Perched on a hill and spilling out around the cathedral, this Spanish old town is filled with historic landmarks.

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 Toledo?

Bucharest
Toledo

Shopping is a popular activity in both Toledo 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.

Toledo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Calle Comercio is the main shopping street in town and there are two major shopping malls in the new part of town.

Is Bucharest or Toledo Better for Families?

Bucharest
Toledo

Toledo 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 Toledo. The ancient streets are fun to explore. There are city gates, ancient Arab walls, and older kids will be fascinated by a visit to the Toledo Torture Museum. The city is known for its swords, and there are shops that you can visit to learn about this craft.

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 Toledo Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Toledo

Toledo is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Toledo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an ancient city that is filled with fascinating history and impressive historic sights. Couples will enjoy wandering the medieval streets and visiting the ancient gates.

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 Toledo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Toledo

Bucharest and Toledo are nice 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 Toledo. Many travelers visit Toledo as a day trip from Madrid, but for backpackers who want to spend more time, there are a handful of hostels in town.

Is Bucharest or Toledo Better for Students?

Bucharest
Toledo

Toledo is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Many students visit Toledo. The city is popular with students, and you'll find many activities and a lively atmosphere both during the day and at night.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest
Toledo

Bucharest is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Toledo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bucharest. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

You'll find some public transit in Toledo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a good bus system through town.


Is Bucharest or Toledo a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Toledo

Toledo 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.

Toledo is a very walkable city. It's a compact and easily walkable city, particularly within the old town. The bus and train stations are also about a 15 or 20 minute walk from the city center.

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 Toledo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toledo or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Toledo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bucharest or Toledo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bucharest than Toledo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 1-2 days is enough time in Toledo.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Bucharest or Toledo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bucharest 1-3 
    Toledo 1-2

One day in Bucharest or Toledo?

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 shopping and museums around the city of Toledo. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Toledo has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Toledo?

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 museums and nightlife around the medieval destination of Toledo. 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 Toledo?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful city of Toledo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Toledo?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the undiscovered 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.

Toledo 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 Adventure Tours to Spain, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Toledo or Bucharest?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bucharest is $137, while the average daily cost in Toledo is $132. 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 Toledo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $63
    Toledo $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $126
    Toledo $140
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Toledo

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or Toledo? 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 Toledo


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 Toledo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    Toledo $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Transfert Privat București: $60
  • Transfers to Danube Port: Bucharest - Navrom Tulcea: $131
  • Transfer from Otopeni Airport to Bucharest: $29
  • Transfer from Bucharest to Brasov - Hotel Pick-up: $174
  • Transfer Bucharest to/from Giurgiu Cruise Port: $141
  • Transfer Bucharest Otopeni Airport (OTP) to/from Brasov: $244
  • Transfer Bucharest Airport to Brasov: $288
  • Transfer Airport Otopeni - Bucharest: $43
  • Transfer Aeroport Otopeni: $64
  • Transfer & Access for 4.5-Hour at Therme Bucuresti: $59
  • Therme Spa Ticket with Transfer - Galaxy and Palm Areas : $86
  • Therme Bucharest Express Shuttle Transfer: $7.63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toledo

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

  • From Puy du Fou Round-Trip Transfer: $24
  • Hot Air Balloon over Toledo with optional transfers from Madrid : $234
  • Madrid: Private Airport Transfer to Toledo: $180
  • Madrid: Puy du Fou Round-Trip Transfer & Optional Ticket: $36
  • Private Transfer from Toledo or Avila to MAD Airport by MiniVan: $176
  • Balloon Ride with Transfer Option from Madrid: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Toledo?

Prices for flights to both Toledo 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 $58
    Toledo $42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

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

  • Dinner at the Museum of Communism - Traditional Food Tour: $53
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $60
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $65
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $74
  • Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $75
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $84
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $86
  • Private Walking Food Tour - Culture, History & Traditions: $98
  • Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $141
  • Cooking Class in Transylvania - Day Tour from Bucharest: $182
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $202

Typical Food Prices in Toledo

For Toledo, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    $12

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Toledo $32

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: $249
  • Bucharest Panoramic Sightseeing - Private City Tour: $93
  • Transylvania Heritage Tour at Peles Bran and Cantacuzino Castles: $93
  • 1 Day 4x4 Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $173
  • 1 Day ATV Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $207
  • 10h Bucharest City Tour & Snagov Monastery (Dracula's Grave): $258
  • 14 Days Private Tour in Romania, Moldova & Transnistria: $4,724
  • 2 Days Private Tour - The Romanian Caves from Bucharest: $558
  • 2 Hour Photoshoot Experience Near Bucharest Architectural Charms: $98
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Bucharest City: $87
  • 2-Day Medieval Transylvania with Brasov,Sibiu and Sighisoara Tour from Bucharest: $251
  • 2-Day Small-Group Tour to Dracula's Castle, Rasnov Fortress, Peles Castle, Sighisoara and Libearty Brown Bear Sanctuary with Overnight in Brasov: $203

Tours and Activities in Toledo

For Toledo, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Toledo Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.28
  • City of the Three Cultures Guided Walking Tour: $5.35
  • Hospital de Tavera Entrance Ticket: $5.35
  • Escape Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Auidio Tour - Toledo - Monuments of the 3 cultures: $6.41
  • Toledo Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • English Tour - Toledo Complete + Visit Casa Palacio: $8.56
  • Underground Guided Tour with Entry Ticket: $8.56
  • Tour of the Inquisition and Witchcraft in Toledo: $8.56
  • The Enchanted City: A Mysterious Tour of Toledo: $8.56
  • Legends and Secrets Walking Tour in Spanish: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.17
    Toledo $21

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
  • Bucharest Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $25
  • From Romanian Wine Tasting Tour: $26
  • Bachelors Party in Custom Bar Crawl: $37
  • Private Bar Crawling in Bucharest Old City: $43
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bucharest: $43
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $47
  • Romanian Wine Tasting: $49
  • Private Romanian Wine Tasting in Urlați: $51
  • Bucharest Old Town Pub and Bar Crawl with Guide: $57
  • Bucharest VIP Bar Crawl in Lipscani 'Old Town': $59
  • Bucharest City Tour and Wine Tasting: $84

Sample the Local Flavors in Toledo

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toledo:

  • From Madrid: Toledo Tour with Wine Tasting and 7 Monuments: $58


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


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Toledo?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Toledo. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Toledo, 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.