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

Should you visit Bucharest or York?

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 York. 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

York

York is a medieval, fanciful, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and York: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bucharest or York?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bucharest than York. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bucharest is very popular for its big city activities, while York attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and historical sights. York is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. 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 York?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bucharest
York

York 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 York. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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 York? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
York

York 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 York, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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 York Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
York

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

York is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

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 York Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
York

York 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 York is one of the most recognized in the world. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

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 York?

Bucharest
York

Shopping is a popular activity in both York 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.

York has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is Bucharest or York Better for Families?

Bucharest
York

York 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, York is very family-friendly. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York Better for Couples?

Bucharest
York

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

Couples visit York frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend 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 York Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
York

York is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

York is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks 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 York Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bucharest
York

Bucharest is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bucharest is fairly effecient and thorough. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is Bucharest or York a more walkable city?

Bucharest
York

Bucharest and York both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

York is a somewhat walkable city. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.


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

Should I spend more time in York or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or York?

It's fun to spend time in either Bucharest or York. Generally, people tend to spend more time in York due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-4 days is enough time in York.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Bucharest or York? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bucharest 1-3 
    York 2-4

One day in Bucharest or York?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bucharest. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of York. 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 York?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Bucharest. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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


A week in Bucharest or York?

The charming city of Bucharest offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

York 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 10-Day Tours from London, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh.


Which place is cheaper, York 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 York 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 York in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $63
    York $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $126
    York $146
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and York

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or York? 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 York


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 York Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    York $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Therme Bucharest Express Shuttle Transfer: $7.63
  • Bucharest Airport Transfer: $11
  • Bucuresti: Transfer Therme Bucuresti different hours: $12
  • Therme Bucuresti Transfer with Optional Ticket: $13
  • Bucharest Transfer Service: $17
  • Bucharest Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Tecuci: $21
  • Airport Transfer: $21
  • Private Bucharest Otopeni Airport (OTP) Transfer: $22
  • Bucharest Private Airport Transfer from or to City Center Hotel: $22
  • Bucharest Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Barlad: $24
  • Bucharest Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Vaslui OMV: $26
  • Bucharest Otopeni Airport OTP to Bucharest City Center Hotel - private transfer: $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from Hambleton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $163
  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $271
  • Private Transfer from York to Manchester Airport (MAN): $279

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or York?

Prices for flights to both York 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
    York $40

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 York

Some typical examples of dining costs in York are as follows:


  • Dinner
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in York

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

  • Breakfast Food Tour in York: $51
  • Party Cruise with Welcome Drink, Dinner, and DJ Music: $56
  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $83

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    York $14

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 York

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for York are as follows:

  • York Guide - Everybody Hates a Tourist: $6.35
  • Tower Tour: $7.63
  • Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Discover York's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour of the City Walls: $11
  • York Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private York Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • York Cocoa Works Guided Tour and Tasting: $12
  • Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Original Harry Potter Locations Tour - York: $13
  • York Bird of Prey Centre Entry Ticket: $14
  • City Chronicles Historical Walking Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.17
    York $16

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

Typical Alcohol Prices in York

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in York are as follows:


  • A Couple Beers
    $11

Sample the Local Flavors in York

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in York:

  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $32
  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience: $57


When comparing the travel costs between Bucharest and York, 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 York Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or York?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and York, 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 York?

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 York in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and York. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to York for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than York. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), and York fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In Bucharest, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than York during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while York receives 196 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives more rain than York. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while York receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F) 
    York 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or York in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as York. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to York in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Bucharest is a little warmer than York in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and York fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than York. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while York receives 112 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than York. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F) 
    York 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or York in the Winter?

Both York and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to York for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

York can be very cold during winter. Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than York. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and York averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than York during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while York receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than York. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while York receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F) 
    York 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or York in the Spring?

Both York and Bucharest during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Bucharest is generally much warmer than York. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and York fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than York. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while York receives 151 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as York. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F) 
    York 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for York and Bucharest

Bucharest York
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in) 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)