Author: Sean Keener

Bucharest, Romania

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Budget Scale: 1-5

1-least expensive; 5-most expensive
3 – Bucharest , Romania’s capital, is still one of the cities which can be visited on a backpacker’s budget. Not many low cost carriers fly to Bucharest, so that can be a bit expensive, but you can connect through Hungary (Budapest) and save money. However, the New Leu’s exchange rate will please everyone (but the locals).

Indie Travel Scale: 1-5

1-not a good Indie Travel destination; 5-a great Indie Travel destination
3 – Things have improved in Bucharest but the infrastructure can still give anyone headache. The metro is a good option to get around the city without dealing with the traffic. But above the ground, it’s hectic. Still, you can easily get around the city and travel to interesting places within the country by train or bus. Plus, there are plenty of ways to get away from the touristy areas.
Indie Travel Tips
Getting off the beaten path a bit may be difficult in a capital city, but it’s not that hard to find interesting and cheap things to do around and in Bucharest:

  • Bucharest is well connected to both the mountain resorts and the sea side resorts. So choose your favorite, take your backpack and enjoy. Visit castles, hike trails, or soak up the sun.
  • Not planning to leave the capital? No problem. The parks – Cismigiu, Tineretului, Herastrau, to name just some of them – are excellent places to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Or walk, jog, have a picnic.
  • The city’s old town has been renovated and although it’s not finished yet, there are plenty of cafes along the streets which make you feel like you are in Paris. “Little Paris” still lives up to its name.
  • Several forests are located close to the city. A rental car and a picnic basket assure a lovely Saturday or Sunday in nature.

Why you should add Bucharest to your RTW travel list

Of course Bucharest wouldn’t be complete without seeing some of the sites that makes it quite famous in Eastern Europe. Here are some ideas on what to do if you’ve never been there or plan on staying for a while.

  • People’s House (Parliament Palace) : the second biggest building in the world (after Pentagon) , a symbol of communism but used very well by the Parliament nowadays. Tours are available.
  • Village Museum: near Herastrau Park you’ll find a museum which highlights the life of Romanian peasants from all provinces. Many events and fairs also take place here so you can some traditional foods quite often.
  • The Arc of Triumph : yes, similar to the one in Paris.
  • Military History Museum: close to Gara de Nord (North Train Station) there is a museum which appeals to boys (regardless of age). Walk through history and enjoy your time here.
  • The food: traditional Romanian food is not exactly healthy but it’s hearty and yummy. Sarmalute (meat filled cabbage rolls), with mamaliga (polenta) and sour cream are to die for. And don’t forget the mititei (ground meat with seasoning, cooked on a grill) for a real taste of the local food.
  • No Dracula-related tourist things. For that, head to Bran.
  • Shopping: with a lot of Malls, Bucharest is a heaven for those wanting to find some clothes or souvenirs. Plus, during summer you can hide from the heat here.

Why you should not add Bucharest to your RTW travel list

  • Summers are really hot. Try to avoid traveling in July or August when temperatures can easily reach 40-45C.
  • Tourist traps are common. Never catch a cab at the train station (things have improved at the airport) and , as much as possible, use the public transportation within the city.
  • Don’t relay on English. Yes, you can ask for directions and people are nice, but often directions are given in a confusing manner even in Romanian. Maps are of help but make sure they are updated. GPS can throw you off course, though.

Bucharest, Romania – What do you need to do?


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