Hotel Stays
Here are some budget and moderate hotels in Bucharest, Romania, along with their price ranges:Budget Hotels
1. Hotel Traian (starts from €20/night)
* Address: Strada Nicolae Cusuma, 1, 030133 Bucharest
* Price range: €20-€50 per night
2. Hotel Capitol (starts from €25/night)
* Address: Calea 13 Septembrie, 269, 030233 Bucharest
* Price range: €25-€50 per night
3. Hotel Europa Bucharest (starts from €30/night)
* Address: Strada Ferdinand, 13, 030045 Bucharest
* Price range: €30-€60 per night
4. Hotel Regina (starts from €35/night)
* Address: Strada Regina Elisabeta, 27, 030012 Bucharest
* Price range: €35-€70 per night
Moderate Hotels
1. Hotel Christina (starts from €50/night)
* Address: Calea 13 Septembrie, 349, 030233 Bucharest
* Price range: €50-€100 per night
2. Hotel Champs Elysées (starts from €55/night)
* Address: Strada Nicolae Martinescu, 27, 030035 Bucharest
* Price range: €55-€120 per night
3. Hotel Aparthotel (starts from €60/night)
* Address: Strada Gheorghe Lăzăreanu, 14-16, 050537 Bucharest
* Price range: €60-€150 per night
4. Hotel Opera (starts from €75/night)
* Address: Strada Sfântul Sava, 7, 030026 Bucharest
* Price range: €75-€180 per night
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season, room type, and availability. It's always a good idea to check the hotel's website or a hotel booking website like Booking.com or Expedia for the most up-to-date prices.
Suggested Itinerary
Here's a suggested itinerary for a 3-day visit to Bucharest, Romania:Day 1:
* 9:00 AM: Start your day at the Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.
* 11:00 AM: Visit the nearby Museum of the Romanian Peasant, which showcases traditional Romanian folk art and architecture.
* 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a traditional Romanian restaurant. Try some of the local specialties like sarmale, mititei, and mămăligă.
* 2:30 PM: Explore the Old Town, also known as Lipscani, and its cobblestone streets lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Stop by the Lipscani Market for some street food and souvenirs.
* 6:00 PM: Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts to see Romanian and European art from the 18th to 20th centuries.
* 8:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Romanian dinner and folk show at a restaurant like Hanu' lui Manuc or La Mama.
Day 2:
* 9:00 AM: Start your day at the National Arena, home of Romania's national football team. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and the team's achievements.
* 11:00 AM: Visit the nearby Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum, which showcases traditional Romanian folk architecture and culture.
* 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a local bakery or food cart. Try some traditional Romanians' favorite snack, gogoși (donuts) with chocolate or cream filling.
* 2:30 PM: Explore the Herastrau Park, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. Take a stroll along the lake and visit the nearby Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum.
* 6:00 PM: Enjoy a drink or dinner at a rooftop bar with a great view of the city, such as the Aerial View Bar or the Sky Lounge.
* 8:00 PM: Attend a performance at the Romanian Athenaeum, a beautiful concert hall with a stunning architecture.
Day 3:
* 9:00 AM: Visit the Bucharest Museum of Totalitarianism, which showcases the city's communist past and the struggle for freedom.
* 11:00 AM: Explore the Cismigiu Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city. Take a stroll around the lake and visit the nearby Bucharest Museum of Fine Arts.
* 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a local café or restaurant. Try some traditional Romanian cuisine, such as sarmale or mămăligă.
* 2:30 PM: Visit the Bucharest History Museum to learn about the city's history and evolution.
* 4:00 PM: End your trip with a visit to the Eternal Youth Monument, a statue complex dedicated to the young people who died during World War II.
* 6:00 PM: Enjoy your last dinner in Bucharest at a favorite restaurant, or try some street food at the Lipscani Market.
Of course, you can always adjust this itinerary to fit your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Bucharest!
Suggested Restaurants
Here are some popular restaurants in Bucharest, along with their price ranges:Fine Dining
1. Bio ( contemporary French cuisine) - €20-€50 per person
Address: Strada Pictor Verona 22-24, Bucuresti
2. La Mama (Italian-Mediterranean) - €20-€40 per person
Address: Strada Nicolae Golescu 12-14, Bucuresti
Traditional Romanian
1. Hanul lui Manuc (traditional Romanian cuisine) - €10-€25 per person
Address: Strada Franceza 62, Bucuresti
2. Crama domnisoara (traditional Romanian cuisine) - €10-€25 per person
Address: Strada Vasile Lascar 2, Bucuresti
International
1. KOKO (Asian-Fusion) - €20-€40 per person
Address: Strada Nicolae Golescu 16-18, Bucuresti
2. La Cigale (French bistro) - €15-€30 per person
Address: Strada Schitu Măgureanu 19-21, Bucuresti
Budget-Friendly
1. Caru' cu Bere (traditional Romanian cuisine) - €5-€15 per person
Address: Strada Stavropoleos 5, Bucuresti
2. Gargarita (Romanian fast food) - €5-€10 per person
Address: Strada Edgar Quinet 20, Bucuresti
Cafes
1. Coffee Steps (coffee shop with pastries) - €5-€10 per person
Address: Strada Armand Calinescu 14, Bucuresti
2. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (coffee shop with cakes) - €5-€10 per person
Address: Strada Ioan Icoivanu 12, Bucuresti
Please note that prices are approximate and may vary depending on the season, menu items, and other factors. It's always a good idea to check prices and menu items before visiting a restaurant.
Local Food
Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a city with a rich culinary heritage! Here are some traditional Romanian dishes and specialties you should try when visiting Bucharest:1. Sarmale (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls): A classic Romanian dish made with ground meat (usually pork or beef) and spices, wrapped in cabbage leaves and served with mashed potatoes and polenta.
2. Mămăligă (Polenta): A staple side dish in Romania, made from cornmeal, flour, and water. It's often served with meat dishes or as a base for other foods.
3. Cârnații (Romanian Meatballs): These savory meatballs are made with ground pork, beef, and spices, then fried or baked and usually served with a side of sarmale and mămăligă.
4. Ciorbă (Sour Soup): A traditional Romanian soup made with a sour cream-based broth, vegetables, and sometimes meat or poultry. You can also find variations with cabbage, turnips, or lamb.
5. Papanasi (Dumplings with Fresh Fruits): Sweet or savory dumplings filled with cheese, apples, or cherries, and often topped with whipped cream or powdered sugar.
6. Tochitură (Mixed Meat Dish): A hearty dish made with ground pork, beef, and chicken, mixed with onions, garlic, and spices, and served with mămăligă and vegetables.
7. Mititei (Romanian Sausages): Grilled or pan-fried sausages made with pork, beef, and spices, often served with a side of fresh vegetables and polenta.
8. Ardei umpluți (Stuffed Bell Peppers): Bell peppers filled with a mix of rice, ground meat, and spices, then baked until tender.
9. Cornulețe (Romanian Doughnuts): Fried or baked doughnuts topped with powdered sugar, often flavored with vanilla or chocolate.
10. Salată de boeuf (Beef Salad): A classic Romanian salad made with chunks of beef, onions, pickles, and a vinaigrette dressing.
Some popular restaurants and cafes in Bucharest that serve these dishes and more include:
* Hanul lui Manuc
* Caru' cu Bere
* Bertha's Café
* Hanul lui Constantin
* La Mama
Be sure to explore the Old Town (Lipscani) for its vibrant street food scene, where you can find traditional vendors serving sarmale, ciorbă, or other Romanian delights. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Bucharest!
Shopping
Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, offers a wide range of shopping options to suit various tastes and budgets. Here are some popular shopping options to consider:1. Unirea Shopping Centre: Located in the historic heart of Bucharest, Unirea is one of the largest shopping centers in the city, featuring over 150 stores, restaurants, and cafes.
2. AFI Palace Bucharest: This modern shopping mall is located in the Pipera area and offers a variety of brands, restaurants, and entertainment options. It also has a car park and a cinema.
3. Baneasa Shopping City: This shopping center is located in the north of the city and features over 170 stores, restaurants, and cafes. It also has a cinema, bowling alley, and pool.
4. The Village Hotel: Within this hotel, you'll find a luxury shopping mall with high-end brands and a spa.
5. Cismigiu Fashion Boulevard: An upscale shopping area with high-end boutiques and designer stores, primarily catering to the locals.
6. Moxa: A small shopping area with a mix of independent boutiques, restaurants, and cafes in the Old Town area.
7. Obor Market: An outdoor market with a wide variety of goods, from clothing and accessories to household items, located near the Obor train station.
8. Magazinul Unirea: An historic department store in the Old Town area, offering a range of products, including clothing, cosmetics, and household items.
9. Cărturești: A popular bookstore chain with branches in Bucharest. It offers a wide range of books, as well as a cultural center with events, exhibitions, and workshops.
10. Mamaia Shopping Centre: Located near the Bucharest-Mamaia village, this shopping center offers a mix of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Some popular shopping streets in Bucharest include:
* Boulevard Nicolae Titulescu
* Strada Nicolae Titulescu
* Calea Victoriei
* Strada Mihai Viteazu
* Strada Titu Maiorescu
Keep in mind that Bucharest has a variety of shopping options, including outdoor markets, street markets, and smaller independent stores. You can also try shopping at Romanian boutiques like Victoria & Artizanală, which features handmade crafts from Romanian artisans.
Please note that some of the shopping options mentioned above may require slight changes in light of the ongoing pandemic or other unforeseen circumstances. It is always recommended to verify your plans and book accommodations beforehand.
Regional Wine
Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, has a rich wine culture and a growing number of wine bars, wine shops, and restaurants that offer an impressive selection of wines. Here are some wine options to consider in Bucharest:1. Wine Bars:
* Wine Connection: A modern wine bar with over 300 wines from around the world, including Romanian varieties.
* Vinoteque: A boutique wine shop with a cozy wine bar area, serving a selection of wines, including rare and boutique labels.
* Bistro dei Toscani: An Italian-inspired bistro with a wide range of Italian and Romanian wines.
2. Wine Shops:
* Bucharest Wine Shop: A charming wine shop in the Old Town area, offering a curated selection of Romanian and international wines.
* La Maison des Vins: A wine shop with a vast selection of wines from around the world, including rare and collectible labels.
3. Restaurants with Excellent Wine Lists:
* La Mama: An Italian restaurant with an impressive wine list featuring Italian and Romanian wines.
* The Grand Hotel Continental: A luxury hotel with a wine list that includes top-class Romanian and international wines.
* Caru' cu Bere: A traditional Romanian restaurant with a wine list featuring local and international varieties.
4. Romanian Wine Estates:
* Visiting Romanian wine estates is a great way to experience the country's wine culture. Some popular options include:
+ Cotnari: A wine estate in the north of Romania, producing award-winning whites.
+ Recaş: A wine estate in the south, known for its red and white wines.
+ Cojocel: A family-owned wine estate, producing a range of wines, including white, red, and sparkling.
5. Wine Tours:
* Book a wine tour to explore the surrounding vineyards, such as the Cotnari Wine Estate, which offers wine tastings and tours.
Remember to always drink responsibly and plan a designated driver or transportation in advance.
Keep in mind that the selection of wines may vary depending on the time of year, and it's always a good idea to check with the establishment for their current wine list before visiting.
Nearby places to explore
Here are some other cities and towns to visit around Bucharest, Romania:1. Brașov (approx. 170 km / 106 miles from Bucharest): Known as the "Little Paris" of Romania, Brașov is a charming city with a rich history, nestled in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains.
2. Sinaia (approx. 120 km / 75 miles from Bucharest): This picturesque town is famous for its stunning Peles Castle, a former royal residence, and its beautiful surroundings.
3. Târgoviște (approx. 60 km / 37 miles from Bucharest): The former capital of Wallachia, Târgoviște hosts the magnificent Curtea Veche (Old Court) and the imposing Mihai Viteazul Monument.
4. Constanța (approx. 250 km / 155 miles from Bucharest): On the Black Sea coast, Constanța is a popular summer resort town with beautiful beaches and historic attractions like the Constanta Casino and the Mamaia Resort.
5. Sibiu (approx. 280 km / 174 miles from Bucharest): Known for its charming medieval architecture, picturesque squares, and vibrant cultural scene, Sibiu is often called the "Little Vienna" of Transylvania.
6. Iași (approx. 330 km / 205 miles from Bucharest): Eastern Romania's largest city, Iași boasts a rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks like the Palace of Culture and the Metropol Hotel, and the famous Bârnova Synagogue.
7. Ploiești (approx. 90 km / 56 miles from Bucharest): This coal-mining town has been revitalized and now offers a mix of industrial and cultural attractions, including museums, parks, and an opera house.
8. Râșnov (approx. 160 km / 99 miles from Bucharest): Famous for its medieval teutonic castle, Râșnov is a charming town nestled in the Transylvanian Mountains, offering beautiful hiking trails and traditional villages.
9. Târgu Mureș (approx. 380 km / 236 miles from Bucharest): Located in Transylvania, this Hungarian-influenced city is known for its colorful merchant mansions, Baroque churches, and lively culture.
10. Sighisoara (approx. 230 km / 143 miles from Bucharest): This medieval fortified city, also in Transylvania, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its stunning Gothic architecture, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks.
These cities and towns offer a range of experiences, from history and culture to natural beauty, and are within a short drive or train ride from Bucharest.
Local Transport
Bucharest, the capital of Romania! Here are some public transportation options to help you navigate the city:1. Metro: Bucharest has four metro lines:
* M1: Pături străbune - Strănoja
* M2: Războieni - Parc Central
* M3: Lujerului - Gherghiței
* M4: Azef - Militari
2. Buses: Over 200 bus routes cover the city, including night buses.
* Use the RATB ( Bucharest Transportation Company) website or app for schedules and routes.
3. Trolebus: Troles 70, 80, and 100 operate on several routes.
4. Trams: There are 14 tram routes, including night trams.
5. Lacrima: A special bus service for students and pensioners, with reduced fares.
6. Night Bus: Night buses operate from 00:30 to 06:00, covering parts of the city.
7. Public Bike Sharing: Bucharest has a bike-sharing system called "S.C. Obliq S.R.L." with several stations across the city.
8. Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but not cheap. You can hail one on the streets or book in advance through apps like Bolt, Uber, or Free Now.
9. Renault Koleos (Bus-Shuttle): An eco-friendly, zero-emission public transportation system with limited routes.
10. Station Wagon-type shuttle: A city-run service, Astra Bus, connects major bus stations and main areas of the city.
To make the most of public transport in Bucharest:
* Buy a "Ticket" or "Bilet" at most kiosks, stations, or on buses; it's valid for 60 minutes and costs around 4 RON (
0.90 EUR).
* Use the RATB app or website to plan your routes and track schedules.
* Be prepared for crowded buses and trains, especially during rush hour.
* Consider purchasing a weekly or monthly pass for unlimited travel.
Remember to validate your ticket or use contactless payment methods to avoid fines.
Enjoy your time in Bucharest and stay on the move with these public transportation options!