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

Should you visit Bucharest or Windsor?

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 Windsor. 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. 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Windsor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle


Is there more to do in Bucharest or Windsor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bucharest than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bucharest is better known for its shopping and big city activities, while Windsor is more popular for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. Also, Bucharest is famous for The Palace of Parliament.

How is Bucharest different from Windsor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bucharest
Windsor

Windsor 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 Windsor. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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 Windsor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
Windsor

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

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).

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Bucharest or Windsor Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Windsor

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

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 Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Bucharest or Windsor Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Windsor

Visitors enjoy the notable old town areas in both Bucharest and Windsor.

Many people head to Bucharest to see the 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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Windsor?

Bucharest
Windsor

Bucharest is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bucharest or Windsor Better for Families?

Bucharest
Windsor

Windsor 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 Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

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 Windsor Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Windsor

Windsor is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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 Windsor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Windsor

Bucharest is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Bucharest
Windsor

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

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Bucharest or Windsor a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Windsor

Windsor 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.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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 Windsor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Windsor or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Windsor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bucharest or Windsor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bucharest than Windsor 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 Windsor.

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

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

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

One day in Bucharest or Windsor?

In Bucharest, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Windsor has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Windsor?

In Bucharest, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bucharest has to offer.

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Windsor?

Bucharest is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Windsor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bucharest. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Windsor 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Windsor 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 Windsor is $187. 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 Windsor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $63
    Windsor $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $126
    Windsor $176
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Windsor

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or Windsor? 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 Windsor


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 Windsor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    Windsor $82

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Bucharest to Drobeta Turnu Severin - Private Transfer - Driver and Car: $207
  • ATV Adrenaline Race in Carpathian with Private Transfer: $141
  • Airport Bucharest Transfer: $54
  • Airport Henri Coanda (Otopeni) to Bucharest - Private Transfer - Driver: $43
  • Airport Private Transfer - to or from any Bucharest hotel: $64
  • Airport Transfer Bucharest - Brasov ,Brasov- Bucharest: $65
  • Airport to Bucharest - Private Transfer from Henri Coanda Airport OTP Otopeni : $43
  • Airport to Bucharest /Private Transfer from OTP Henri Coanda: $39
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bucharest Airport OTP to Brasov in Business Car: $147
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Bucharest Airport OTP to Bucharest City: $65
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Bucharest Airport OTP to Bucharest City: $51
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bucharest Airport OTP to Bran Castle of Dracula: $240

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Windsor?

Prices for flights to both Windsor 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
    Windsor $49

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 Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    $3.11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Windsor $33

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

Here are a few actual costs in Bucharest for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Tour Reyes y Palacios Bucarest: $11
  • Reptiland Bucharest Entry Ticket: $13
  • Communism Walking Tour from Lenin to Ceausescu in Bucharest: $13
  • A Tale of Bucharest Old Town Walking Tour: $16
  • City Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $17
  • Bucharest Highlights Walking Tour: $17
  • Calea Victoriei and Old Town Highlights Tour: $19
  • Parliament Palace Skip-the-line Ticket: $20
  • Palace of Parliament Bucharest 1 Hour Guided Tour: $21
  • Virtual Reality Experience: $21
  • Buchaest: Peles Castle, Bran Castle, & Brasov Old Town Tour: $21
  • Guided Tour at museum Casa Storck: $21

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.17
    Windsor $9.40

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


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


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Windsor?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Windsor, 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 Windsor?

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 Windsor in the Summer?

Both Windsor and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bucharest. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Windsor. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F) 
    Windsor 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Windsor in the Autumn?

Both Windsor and Bucharest during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Windsor in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Windsor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Windsor averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Windsor. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 107 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Windsor. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F) 
    Windsor 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Windsor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Windsor. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Windsor can be very cold during winter. Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Windsor. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Windsor fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Windsor. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F) 
    Windsor 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Windsor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Windsor. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Bucharest is a little warmer than Windsor in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Windsor fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Windsor. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 147 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Windsor. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F) 
    Windsor 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Windsor and Bucharest

Bucharest Windsor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in) 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)