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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

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.

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 $2505 USD

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Attractions

4.8 (5 reviews)
4 Days Private Transylvania Tour from Bucharest

4 Days Private Transylvania Tour from Bucharest

INSTANT

Experience the atmosphere of Transylvania on this 3-night tour. Starting with an pick up from your hotel, visit first the medieval city of Sibiu. The second day is dedicated to the most beautiful castle from Eastern Europe, Hunyadi Castle and the citadel of Alba Iulia. Then on the third day you will visit Sighisoara, a medieval Unesco city, and the birth place of Vlad Dracul the Impaler and the beautiful medieval center of Brasov. The last day is dedicated to the wonderful Peles Palace in Sinaia and Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle). Don’t forget to taste some of the local food with Romanian, Hungarian, and German influences.

From $1448 USD

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4.3 (6 reviews)
Bucharest City Tour by Night

Bucharest City Tour by Night

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover Bucharest , the city that has everything.The capital of modern Romania , Bucharest is by far the country’s largest city, boasting with rich history, fascinating architecture, a vivid street life, lush green parks, and a large number of excellent restaurants. Go on this tour for a 1.5 hours night drive through the city center and allow yourself to discover the most interesting sites and to hear the story of "little Paris".

From $71 USD

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5.0 (18 reviews)
Private Tour - Food, Culture, History & Traditions

Private Tour - Food, Culture, History & Traditions

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Step into the heart of Romania's capital on a journey that transcends mere sightseeing. This tour is meticulously designed to peel back the layers of Bucharest, revealing the resilient character and unique cultural traits of a nation shaped by a tumultuous past. Alongside an expert local guide, you will trace Romania’s evolution from its ancient roots to its modern state. The route moves beyond the usual tourist areas into a quieter, historically significant neighborhood, where Bucharest’s local identity is most visible, especially through its Neo-Romanian architecture. Complete your experience by diving into the local lifestyle with a yummy, traditional two-course meal, ensuring you taste the true flavors of our heritage.

From $115 USD

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4.9 (9 reviews)
5h Bucharest City Tour by Car/Minivan – Small Group max 7 people

5h Bucharest City Tour by Car/Minivan – Small Group max 7 people

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join our comfortable, small-group sightseeing tour of Bucharest! Traveling by car or minivan (maximum 7 passengers), you'll enjoy a relaxed, personal atmosphere while covering all of the city’s must-see highlights. We’ll explore the main sights of Bucharest, stopping for photos and admiring many of them from the outside. You'll see iconic landmarks such as: • The Palace of the Parliament – One of the largest buildings in the world • Revolution Square – The heart of Romania’s 1989 revolution • Romanian Athenaeum – A symbol of culture and classical beauty • Arch of Triumph – Honoring Romania’s WWI heroes • Victory Avenue and University Square – Lively, historic boulevards • Royal Palace, CEC Palace, and more! We stop for lunch inside the famous Village Museum – a peaceful, open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian homes and village life from across the country. It’s a refreshing and authentic cultural stop, nestled right in the city!

From $95 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
4h Bucharest Panoramic Private Tour by Car with Photo Stops

4h Bucharest Panoramic Private Tour by Car with Photo Stops

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you’re short on time in Bucharest, a private tour will sure satisfy your desire to explore the capital of Romania. After convenient pickup from your hotel, join your guide for a panoramic city tour by car. He will show you the most important local landmarcks like the Palace of the Parliament. We'll stop for pictures and we'll talk about them. Later, see the highlights of the city center, în walking tour, including the Palace of Vlad the Impaler, Old City, Romanian Ateneu, Royal Palace, Revolution Square, Victory Avenue and many other. Explore Bucharest’s bohemian charm and Communist legacy on a half-day city sightseeing tour. Get a taste for Romanian peasant life at the down charming streets in the historic city center. We will discuss about the Royal Family of Romania which is descends in a direct genealogical line, from the Imperial German Family. Our tour is interactive and we can modify it according to your preferences. In the end we drive you back to the hotel.

From $91 USD

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5.0 (10 reviews)
2h Bucharest Private Tour by Car

2h Bucharest Private Tour by Car

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you’re short on time in Bucharest, a private tour will sure satisfy your desire to explore the capital of Romania. Our guide will pick-up you for a city tour by car. He will show you the most important local landmarcks like: Romanian Ateneu, Royal Palace, Revolution Square, Victory Avenue and many other. Explore Bucharest’s bohemian charm and Communist legacy on a city sightseeing tour. We will discuss about the Royal Family of Romania which is descends in a direct genealogical line, from the Imperial German Family. Our tour is interactive and we can modify it according to your preferences.

From $127 USD

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5.0 (11 reviews)
Private 4-Day Tour in Transylvania including Transfagarasan Road from Bucharest

Private 4-Day Tour in Transylvania including Transfagarasan Road from Bucharest

INSTANT

Book a 4-day round-trip Best of Romania tour to Brasov from Bucharest. Take a ride on Transfagarasan Road (only open between July - October), the best road in the world! Pick up and drop off at your hotel in Bucharest. Enjoy guided sightseeing tours in Brasov, explore Sighisoara medieval town, and walk on Vlad the Impaler path! Discover the place where Vlad Dracula was born! Visit astonishing Peles Castle, Fagaras Fortress, and the famous Bran Castle and discover the truth behind the legends! Visit The Bears Sanctuary, the largest brown bear sanctuary in the world, and prepare your camera for amazing pictures! Discover the legends behind the mysterious Rasnov Fortress! Visit Snagov Monastery and see the tumb where Vlad the Impaler is buried! Visit two authentic Romanian villages, Ohaba and Lisa. 3 nights accommodation in Brasov.

From $720 USD

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5.0 (199 reviews)
Best of Bucharest | Private Walking Tour

Best of Bucharest | Private Walking Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Bucharest Private Walking Tour – History, Culture & Local Life Explore the heart of Bucharest with a local guide on a private walking tour that brings the city’s past and present to life. Discover must-see landmarks and hidden corners as you learn about Romania’s royal heritage, French influences, Communist legacy, and contemporary culture. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors looking for a meaningful introduction to the city. Along the way, we’ll share stories, architecture, local traditions, and everyday insights that reveal Bucharest’s unique charm and layered identity. Flexible, friendly, and informative, this experience goes beyond sightseeing—offering context, conversation, and a true local perspective.

From $314 USD

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4.9 (14 reviews)
 Dracula's Castle & Peles Palace Tour from Bucharest Including Brasov Old Town

Dracula's Castle & Peles Palace Tour from Bucharest Including Brasov Old Town

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Mountains, castles and legends! - the perfect combination for a full day out! From magnificent city landmarks to mysterious ruins, Romania is bursting with fascinating palaces and castles to visit. In the morning, after a short drive from Bucharest, we'll explore a majestic palace, set amongst landscapes that will take your breath away: Peles Palace in Sinaia, the former summer residence of the Romanian royal family. One of the most innovative, modern and beautiful residences of an European royal family at the end of the 19th century, Peles Palace still has the power to astonish the thousands of tourists who visit the site every day. From Sinaia to Bran, the drive alone will prove to be spectacular, as you climb the windy mountain roads. Next is Dracula's Castle, featuring towering spires, thick stone walls and a dramatic setting atop a 60 meters high rock Later visit Brasov, one of the seven walled cities of Transylvania. Late in the evening return to Bucharest.

From $278 USD

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