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Picture of Bucarest, Romania

Travel Guide for
Bucarest

Romania

Humid continental, warm summers, cold winters

Introduction

Bucharest, Romania’s lively capital, blends grand Belle Époque architecture with vibrant modern energy. Situated in the country’s south, the city boasts a fascinating history, from royal palaces and communist landmarks to a flourishing art and nightlife scene.

August is warm and sunny—ideal for exploring leafy parks, rooftop bars, and chic lounges with friends. Enjoy gourmet dining, exclusive clubbing, and private tours of the Palace of the Parliament. Bucharest offers a dynamic, upscale atmosphere perfect for a memorable group getaway.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates15-18 August 2025

BudgetHigh budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturefestivals and eventsgastronomysightseeing and toursoutdoor adventuresnightlife and entertainment

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Picture of Bucarest, Romania

Key Facts

Location

Muntenia region

Currency

Romanian Leu (RON)

Religion

Eastern Orthodox Christianity

Population

1,800,000

Language

Romanian, English, French

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type C & F

Time zone

UTCEET (UTC+2)

Country code

+40

Internet access

High-speed, widely available, affordable

Climate

Humid continental, warm summers, cold winters

See More Romania Facts

Language:

Romanian

  • hello

    bună (boo-nuh)
  • goodbye

    la revedere (lah reh-veh-deh-reh)
  • yes

    da (da)
  • no

    nu (noo)
  • how much

    cât costă? (kut kos-tuh)
  • please

    vă rog (vuh rog)
  • thank you

    mulțumesc (mool-tsoo-mesk)
  • excuse me

    scuzați-mă (skoo-zahts muh)

Map

Logistics

Bucharest is easily accessible by air, with Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) serving many major airlines and offering direct flights from across Europe and the Middle East. For a high-budget trip with friends, flying business class or using private jet services can add extra comfort and flexibility. Taxis and private car services offer comfortable transfers into the city center.

Traveling by train is another scenic option, especially from nearby European capitals like Budapest, Sofia, or Vienna, with first-class cars providing a premium experience. Luxury coach services and private chauffeured vans are available for road travel between neighboring countries. Weather in mid-August is typically warm and dry, so you’re unlikely to face travel delays due to weather at this time.

Weather

Bucharest experiences a continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year. Spring and autumn bring mild, pleasant weather, making them ideal for sightseeing, enjoying outdoor cafés, and exploring the city’s vibrant arts-and-culture scene.

From August 15 to August 18, expect daytime highs around 30°C (86°F) with warm nights and occasional brief thunderstorms. This period is great for outdoor adventures, festivals, and open-air nightlife, but stay prepared for short summer showers and pack light clothing with a small umbrella. Extreme weather events like heatwaves are rare but possible, so stay hydrated while enjoying Bucharest’s gastronomy, lively tours, and entertainment.

Food & Drink

Bucharest’s food scene blends hearty Romanian classics with modern flair. Savor sarmale (cabbage rolls), ciorba de burta (tripe soup), and mici (grilled meat rolls). Don’t miss papanași, a decadent local dessert, or try premium wines and tuica (plum brandy) for a true taste of Romania.

For a high-end experience, head to restaurants like The Artist for creative fine dining or Caru’ cu Bere, an iconic beer hall with traditional dishes and vibrant ambiance. Enjoy cocktails at FIX Merlot or sleek rooftop bars like Linea/Closer to the Moon. Cafés such as Origo brew superb specialty coffee.

Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available in Bucharest’s upscale spots, but it’s wise to check menus ahead. At restaurants, a 10% tip is customary if service isn’t already included. Reservations are strongly recommended for larger groups and popular venues.

A picture of Sarmale

Sarmale

Sarmale are traditional Romanian cabbage rolls stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, then...

A picture of Mămăligă

Mămăligă

Mămăligă is a beloved Romanian staple made from yellow cornmeal, cooked to a smooth, creamy consistency. It is...

A picture of Mici

Mici

Mici, also known as mititei, are flavorful Romanian sausages made from a blend of ground meat, garlic, and...

A picture of Ciorbă de Perisoare

Ciorbă de Perisoare

Ciorbă de Perisoare is a traditional Romanian soup consisting of meatball dumplings simmered in a tangy and aromatic...

A picture of Papanași

Papanași

Papanași are delightful Romanian doughnuts made from a combination of sweetened cheese and flour, fried to a golden...

Accommodation

For a high-budget, friends’ trip, the best places to stay are in central neighborhoods like Old Town (Lipscani), Piata Unirii, and Calea Victoriei. Top luxury hotels include the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, Athénée Palace Hilton, and Epoque Hotel, all praised for upscale amenities, spacious rooms, and excellent locations for nightlife and dining.

Booking.com and Expedia are reliable sites for securing the best rates and room choices. Consider boutique hotels such as The Mansion Boutique Hotel for a unique stay. In August, especially mid-month, Bucharest hosts festivals and events, so book early to ensure availability in top hotels. Taxis and rideshares are easily accessible from these prime locations.

Itinerary

Unveil the vibrant art and cultural spirit of Bucharest by exploring its modern and historic creative hubs, grand architecture, and lively city atmosphere with your friends.

Discover the Artistic Treasures of the National Museum of Art

Begin your Bucharest journey at the National Museum of Art of Romania. Marvel at collections of classical and modern art in the former Royal Palace—an inspiring introduction to the country’s artistic legacy.

Architectural Stroll Down Calea Victoriei

Wander with friends down the elegant Calea Victoriei avenue, lined with iconic buildings like the Romanian Athenaeum. Absorb the vibrant city life, architectural masterpieces, and chic cafés.

Lively Evening at Caru’ cu Bere

Treat yourselves to a memorable dinner at Caru’ cu Bere, a gorgeous neo-Gothic restaurant famed for its Romanian cuisine and lively local music. Make a reservation to enjoy the vibrant ambiance and architectural charm.

Private 9-Day Transylvania and Bucovina UNESCO Tour in Historical Romania

Private 9-Day Transylvania and Bucovina UNESCO Tour in Historical Romania

INSTANT

Immerse yourself in a place of wonder, beauty, and adventure! Fresh air, good food, and a silent landscape - the time has stopped for a while, and you have entered a wonderland. You will discover pure nature, and multiculturalism in perfect harmony, where habits were left untouched for hundreds of years. This tour will lead you through the ancient world of Romanian traditions and crafts, perfectly combined with the gentle landscape. Yes, our tours lead you through comforting Bucovina. Enjoy an unforgettable experience while traveling through amazing scenery and enjoying the untouched customs and traditions of Bucovina and Transylvania! •Flexible in the program •Amazing experience: from visiting beautiful places, meeting local people and try Romanian local cuisine •Suitable for all people •From the South to the North of Romania, the country is beyond comparation. •Prepare to be amazed as you cross a land with more than 2000 years of history!

5.0 (1 reviews)

From $2011 USD

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Attractions

5.0 (71 reviews)
Private -RedPatrol Tour of Bucharest with a Romanian Vintage Car

Private -RedPatrol Tour of Bucharest with a Romanian Vintage Car

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Red Patrol Communist Tour of Bucharest is the out of the box private tour of Bucharest that sends you back in time by driving a fully restored Romanian classic car from the 70′-80’s! A private tour of Bucharest by car of 3.5-4 hours that crosses the city landmarks like The Palace of Parliament (Casa Poporului), The Revolution Square, Victoria Socialismului Boulevard, (The Champs-Élysées of Ceausescu), the Romanian Communist Party Headquarter, Casa Presei or the Private Residence of Nicolae Ceaușescu. You will discover in a 30 km city circuit the fancy boulevards of Bucharest while driving by yourself (or with a private driver) a fully restored Romanian Dacia 1300/1310 from the 70’s-80’s. A drive and stop tour with a Romanian vintage car on a city panoramic itinerary where you’ll get the best photo shots of your travel and hear the most amazing life stories of the locals from the last 100 years!

From $116 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Private-Red Patrol Bucharest Flea Market Tour with a Romanian car

Private-Red Patrol Bucharest Flea Market Tour with a Romanian car

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Red Patrol Romanian authentic 80’s Dacias take you to 2 flea markets of Bucharest for an amazing tour of antique & old stuff shopping or mingling with the locals. The Flea Market Tour is a ride in an urban discovery of the present and the past of the city: you will cross the city from one corner to the other, you will meet the locals & mingle with the them. And of course, you will not miss the Romanian Communism landmark, the Parliament House (Casa Poporului), the 2nd building in the world, where you will stop to hear its story & get the best pictures of your trip: with you & your friends, our vintage cars and The Parliament House. In Bucharest flea markets just be ready to find everything you can imagine: from plates to teapots to magazines, stamps, books, bags military coats, from watches to jewelry or from toys to furniture. And it’s not all Communism! Depending on your luck you can find items going back far beyond the golden age of the Dictator, down to the XIXth Century!

From $119 USD

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4.0 (2 reviews)
3 Days Tour Romania & Bulgaria from Bucharest

3 Days Tour Romania & Bulgaria from Bucharest

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

There’s more to Bulgaria & Romania than legends dare to unveil. In just three days you will have the chance to find out the history of these two beautiful countries, old medieval places and also you could try and taste the traditional food of these countries. Confirmation will be received at time of booking Children must be accompanied by an adult Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking Not recommended for pregnant women Not recommended for participants with back problems Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions A moderate amount of walking is involved

From $593 USD

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5.0 (15 reviews)
Best of Romania in 10 Days

Best of Romania in 10 Days

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Travel throughout Romania in a small group tour of a maximum of 8 travelers. Discover the best of Romania on a 10-day tour with departure from Bucharest. We will head towards the western side of Romania where we will visit Cluj-Napoca, the Turda Salt Mine, and the Alba Carolina Fortress, and then make our way into the time-forgotten land of Bukovina. Here, we will visit the UNESCO Painted Monasteries, and get to know more about the customs and traditions of this region. We will then head back into Transylvania to discover some of its most prominent landmarks, such as the UNESCO Villages with Fortified Churches, the Sighisoara Citadel, and Bran Castle, as well as the city of Brasov. Our tour will continue with a tour of the former residence of the Romanian royal family, Peles Castle, and then we will return to Bucharest for a city tour of Romania’s capital.

From $2646 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Romania 2 Day Private Tour from Bucharest

Romania 2 Day Private Tour from Bucharest

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The 2-Day Private tour to Brasov, Sighisoara and Sibiu will include Peles & Bran Castles tour too. Visiting the best 3 Fortified Cities from Transylvania and a king’s palace (Peles Castle), a medieval castle (Bran Castle) will make your break great. - Benefit of complete flexibility of having the tour tailored on your requirements, in terms of the route, the duration, and the features of the tour; - Enhance your experience through our choices of tours to match your particular interests and travelling style; - Enjoy the exceptional knowledge and expertise of Romania’s top-rated licensed tourist guide with excellent reviews; - Take a Brasov, Sibiu and Sighisoara tour and have a great walking tour in the medieval part of Transylvania; - Make the most of your tour experience through our exclusively designed tours with all admissions included and not just only guided walks.

From $492 USD

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4.5 (2 reviews)
4 Days Private Tour in Romania from Bucharest

4 Days Private Tour in Romania from Bucharest

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

An adventure of a lifetime, for this 4-day tour of Romania we have chosen an assortment of rich sensory experiences, from medieval sites to a taste of the wilderness, with deep forests, vibrantly colored wildflowers and fresh mountain air (in the right season), all the way to modern exhibits, and a dash of traditional herbs and spices with the delicious foods we will be trying in every medieval town we visit.

From $1356 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
7 days Private Romania Grand Tour from Bucharest

7 days Private Romania Grand Tour from Bucharest

INSTANT

Experience an 7-day private tour from Bucharest to include Sibiu, Sighisoara, Bistrita, Gura Humorului, Piatra Neamt, Brasov and Sinaia. Learn how three different cultures converge in one country. Enjoy sightseeing in Bucharest, Romania's capital. Visit Dracula's birthplace, Sighisoara. See Borgo Pass, Dracula's Castle, Peles Castle, Bicaz Gorges, the magnificent painted churches from Bucovina and Wooden Churches in Maramures.

From $1779 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
14 Days Private Tour in Romania, Moldova, Transnistria from Bucharest

14 Days Private Tour in Romania, Moldova, Transnistria from Bucharest

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

It’s the best way to understand Romania and the Romanians by spending 2 nights on a Guest House in Maramures and then drive to Republic of Moldova (plus Transnistria) to see the old Romanian territory plus Danube Delta – Private Tours 14 Days – Complete Romania & Moldova! An adventure of a lifetime! For this 14-day tour of Romania we have chosen an assortment of rich sensory experiences, from medieval sites to a taste of the wilderness, with deep forests, vibrantly colored wildflowers, and fresh mountain air (in the right season), all the way to modern exhibits, and a dash of traditional herbs and spices with the delicious foods we will be trying in every medieval town we visit.

From $4982 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
3 Days Private Tour Romania with Transfagarasan Road from Bucharest

3 Days Private Tour Romania with Transfagarasan Road from Bucharest

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The best way to spend 3 days in Romania it's to book this tour :) Transfagarasan Highway, Transalpina Road, Densus Temple, Polovragi Cave, Poienari Fortress will give you a great satisfaction and perfect memories for the rest of your life :)

From $1017 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
13 Days Private Tour in Romania from Bucharest

13 Days Private Tour in Romania from Bucharest

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

An adventure of a lifetime! For this 13-day tour of Romania we have chosen an assortment of rich sensory experiences, from medieval sites to a taste of the wilderness, with deep forests, vibrantly colored wildflowers, and fresh mountain air (in the right season), all the way to modern exhibits, and a dash of traditional herbs and spices with the delicious foods we will be trying in every medieval town we visit. It’s the best way to understand Romania and the Romanians – on a Private Tour of 13 days in Romania with a local guide. Join us!

From $4745 USD

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