Should You Visit Bucharest?

Is Bucharest worth visiting?

Bucharest is worth visiting for one to three days so that you can explore everything that the city has to offer. Bucharest is loved by visitors for many reasons, and is routinely on national "best of" lists, including Tripadvisor's Best Places to Visit in 2023. Bucharest is the capital of Romania and it has an authentic and fascinating culture that includes architecture, a nightlife scene, and deep-rooted religion. While it may be overlooked by many European tourists, those who visit will enjoy a glimpse into a less touristy side of Europe.

Bucharest, Romania

Reasons to Visit Bucharest

Museums
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.

Food
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).

Nightlife
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.

Historical Sights
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.

Shopping
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.

The Costs
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Bucharest might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Bucharest here or see if Bucharest is expensive here.

Authenticity
Bucharest has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Bucharest worth visiting in the Summer?

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 23°C (73°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 29°C (85°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Bucharest, so expect to see more tourists than usual. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.

This is a great time of year to wander through the museums, enjoy the city's energy, and admire the historic sights. Also, you'll be able to take advantage of the local nightlife.

Is Bucharest worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Bucharest. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F).

You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to browse around the old town, browse through museums, and discover the big city activities.

Is Bucharest worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Bucharest. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Bucharest can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -1°C (29°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the cuisine, and the historic old town. Also, you can grab some drinks at a bar and soak up the big city atmosphere.

Is Bucharest worth visiting in the Spring?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 12°C (54°F).

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Bucharest, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

This is a great time of year to browse the shops, browse the museums, and admire the historic sights. Also, you can check out the nightlife.

Related

What is Bucharest most famous for?

Bucharest is most famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. The city is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. It is often described as less touristy, undiscovered, cultural, charming, and historical.

What is the most famous sight in Bucharest?

The most popular sight in Bucharest is The Palace of Parliament. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Bucharest on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Palace of Parliament and other attractions here.

How touristy is Bucharest? Is it a popular city to visit?

Bucharest is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Bran Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov City - Private Tour from Bucharest: $249
• Private Bucharest Beer and Culture Tour with a Local: $94
• Visit Bulgaria - Veliko Tarnovo Medieval Fortress - Private tour from Bucharest: $173
• 4x4 Nature Tour in Land of Dracula - 1 day: $198
• The Ashes of Communism - Bucharest Private Tour: $74
• Highlights of Bucharest 4h private Tour: $118
• Bucharest 3-hours Walking Tour (Small Groups): $36
• Tuk Tuk Bucharest Romantic Tour - miniBAR included: $109

How long should I spend in Bucharest?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Bucharest is one to three days. Since Bucharest has activities such as dining, nightlife, and historical sights, most people visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Bucharest? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Bucharest?.