Bucharest

Bucharest is a city that immediately strikes you with its stark, beautiful chaos. This is a place where grand, Parisian-style boulevards crash into imposing Soviet-era blocks, and hidden, serene monastery courtyards lie just steps away from buzzing-till-dawn nightlife. The vibe is energetic, a bit rough around the edges, and undergoing a creative renaissance that makes it one of the most dynamic and interesting spots in Europe right now.

Bucharest is a compelling destination for a few key reasons. First, it's incredibly affordable compared to most other European capitals, meaning you can have a rich experience without overspending. Second, the history here is palpable; you can literally trace Romania's tumultuous 20th century through its architecture, from the royal era to the scars of communism and the optimism of the 21st century. The food scene is also a huge draw—it's hearty, soulful, and delicious, with must-try dishes like sarmale and mici. Plus, the sheer scale of attractions like the Palace of the Parliament is something you just have to see to believe.

Romanians, especially the younger generation in Bucharest, are generally friendly, though perhaps not in an overly bubbly way. They have a directness that many travelers appreciate. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, restaurants, and cafes, so communication rarely poses an issue. You'll hear Romanian everywhere, a Romance language that sounds like a fascinating mix of Italian and something uniquely Slavic. The city is a melting pot of Romanians from all over the country, contributing to its dynamic and ever-changing social fabric.

The food here is pure comfort. Expect rich, hearty, and flavorful dishes. You absolutely have to try sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat) and mici (grilled, skinless sausages), which you can find everywhere from traditional restaurants to market stalls. A meal for two at a nice, traditional place like Caru' cu Bere might set you back around 250 RON, but you can eat incredibly well at local spots and markets for much less. For a real local experience, grabbing a plate of mici and a beer at the terrace at Obor Market is highly recommended.

Bucharest's infrastructure is a mixed bag, showing its age in some areas but rapidly modernizing in others. The internet is surprisingly fast and reliable, a huge plus for travelers. Power is stable, and modern amenities like AC are common in hotels and newer apartments, which is essential in the hot summers. Public transport, especially the metro, is efficient for getting across the city, though the trains and stations themselves can feel a bit dated. Roads, however, are often congested. The city is also in an active seismic zone, which is something to be aware of, though it's not a daily concern for travelers.

You'll almost certainly fly into Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), which is about 17 km north of the city center. From there, the easiest and most reliable option is ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt, which are very affordable, typically costing between 50-80 RON to the city center, though prices can be higher during peak hours. There's also the 783 express bus line, a direct route to the city center (Piața Unirii and Piața Victoriei), operating 24/7. A 24-hour public transport tourist card, which includes the 783 bus and metro, costs 20 RON. Taxis are an option, but be cautious and make sure the meter is running to avoid getting scammed.

The best way to explore the central areas is on foot. Bucharest is quite walkable, especially around the Old Town and Calea Victoriei. For longer distances, the metro (Metrorex) is fantastic. It's cheap, with a simple card system, and it bypasses the city's notorious traffic. As of January 2025, a 2-journey card is 10 RON, and a 10-journey card is 40 RON. You can also purchase a 24-hour pass for 12 RON or a 72-hour pass for 35 RON. Buses and trams are also extensive but can be a bit more complex to navigate. A new smartcard system introduced in 2021 allows travel on both the metro and surface transport. Uber and Bolt are readily available and a reliable choice for late-night travel or when you want maximum convenience.

Overall, Bucharest feels very safe, especially compared to other major European capitals, with a low probability of violent crime. The main things to be aware of are petty crimes and various scams. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like the Old Town, public transport, and around major attractions. Drink spiking can be an issue in the Old Town's nightlife scene, so always watch your drink. There's also a known scam where people posing as plainclothes police might approach you; real Romanian police won't randomly ask to see your wallet. Also, be mindful of ATMs; only use ones inside banks or major shops to avoid card skimming devices. While the issue of stray dogs was significant years ago, it has been dramatically reduced in central, touristy parts of the city and is not something to generally worry about as a tourist today. As anywhere, avoid poorly lit streets at night and be aware of your surroundings. Public demonstrations are common, generally peaceful, but it's wise to exercise caution in crowded places.