Before you go
Bucharest essentials
Currency, transport, safety, tipping and season — short and up to date. Data is indicative; check official sources before you travel.
Currency & payments
- The currency is the Romanian leu (RON). Contactless cards are accepted almost everywhere, including on public transport.
- ATMs are plentiful; avoid exchange booths in tourist areas with poor rates, and keep some cash for markets or small venues.
- Check your bank's fees for foreign withdrawals and payments in advance.
Getting around
- The metro (M1–M5) is the fastest way across the city; see our metro page for lines and fares.
- Surface transport (STB buses, trams, trolleybuses) is paid with the Activ/Multiplu card or contactless onboard — not with cash to the driver.
- For point-to-point rides, use apps like Bolt or Uber. Avoid unlicensed taxis or any that refuse to run the meter.
From the airport to the centre
- Otopeni (OTP) is the main airport: bus 100 Express (Piața Unirii ↔ OTP, contactless onboard) or the CFR train Gara de Nord ↔ Henri Coandă are the cheapest options.
- The M6 metro line to Otopeni is under construction — until it opens, use the bus, train or a transfer/Bolt.
- Băneasa (BBU) is closer to the centre but mostly serves business aviation.
Safety
- Bucharest is generally safe, on par with other European capitals. Watch for pickpocketing in crowded areas and on public transport.
- Cross only at marked crossings; traffic can be heavy and pedestrians don't always get priority in practice.
- The single emergency number is 112.
Tipping
- In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is customary if you were happy; some places already add a service charge to the bill.
- For taxis, bars or small services, rounding up is enough and appreciated.
When to go
- Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal: pleasant weather, open terraces and fewer crowds.
- Summer can be hot but is full of festivals and beer gardens; winter brings markets and a special mood in the Old Town.
Water, plugs & internet
- Tap water is drinkable in Bucharest; many people still prefer bottled water for taste.
- Sockets are type C/F (European), 230V — UK and US travellers need an adapter.
- Prepaid SIM cards (Orange, Vodafone, Digi, Telekom) are cheap with generous data; free Wi-Fi is common in cafés, malls and on the metro.
Scams & traps to avoid
- Taxis: only get into ones with the fare displayed on the door and ask for the meter; the easiest option is Bolt or Uber, with the price known upfront. Avoid taxis that approach you at the airport or Gara de Nord.
- Exchange booths: avoid the ones in tourist areas advertising “0% commission” with poor rates; change at a bank or withdraw from an ATM.
- Venues with no prices on the menu or with unpriced “specials” — ask the price before you order.
- Watch for pickpockets in crowds and for people asking for signatures or donations on the street.
Free things to do
- Big parks: Herăstrău (King Mihai I), Cișmigiu, Tineretului, Carol — walks, lakes and greenery in the middle of the city.
- A stroll through the Old Town (Lipscani), along Calea Victoriei and through the covered passages — architecture and atmosphere, for free.
- Historic churches and monasteries (Stavropoleos, Antim) — free entry, observing the rules.
- Văcărești Delta — an urban nature reserve, great for walks and birdwatching.
- Some museums have free-entry days or discounts for certain categories — check each one's website.
Language & useful phrases
- The official language is Romanian; young people and tourism staff generally speak English, and other languages in tourist areas.
- Handy phrases: “Bună ziua” (formal hello), “Mulțumesc” (thank you), “Vă rog” (please), “Cât costă?” (how much?) and “Nota, vă rog” (the bill, please).
What things cost (typical prices)
| Coffee (cappuccino) | 12–20 lei |
| Draught beer (local) | 12–22 lei |
| Lunch / set menu | 35–60 lei |
| Dinner at a good restaurant (1 pers., no drinks) | 80–150 lei |
| Still water 0.5 L (shop) | 3–6 lei |
| Metro ticket (one ride) | 5 lei |
| STB surface ticket (one ride) | 3 lei |
| Bolt / Uber ride (3–5 km) | 18–35 lei |
| Museum ticket | 15–40 lei |
| Night at a 3★ hotel (centre) | 250–450 lei |
Typical prices in lei (RON), June 2026. The rate is about 5 lei to €1. Varies by area and venue.
The information on this page is indicative and can change. For official data (exchange rates, transport fares, rules), check the competent sources before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need for Bucharest?
For the essentials — the Old Town, Calea Victoriei, the Palace of Parliament and a few museums — two full days are enough. With 3–4 days you also fit neighbourhoods like Cotroceni, Herăstrău park and the nightlife.
How do I get from Otopeni airport to the centre?
The simplest options are bus 100 Express (Piața Unirii ↔ OTP, ~3 lei, contactless onboard) and the CFR train Gara de Nord ↔ Henri Coandă (~6.50 lei, ~20–25 min). Taxis/Bolt and private transfers are also available.
How much do the metro and public transport cost?
The metro is 5 lei per trip (2026). STB surface transport (bus, tram, trolleybus) is paid with the Activ/Multiplu card or contactless. See our metro and public-transport pages for details.
Is Bucharest safe for tourists?
Yes, it's generally safe, on par with other European capitals. Watch for pickpocketing in crowded spots and avoid unlicensed taxis — use apps (Bolt, Uber) or booked cabs.
Which area is best to stay in?
The Old Town and Universitate for nightlife and walkable sights; Calea Victoriei for elegance and museums; Dorobanți–Floreasca for restaurants and relative quiet. See the stays map on each page.
Plan your trip