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• Bucharest

Bucharest on a Budget: A 5-Day Adventure

Experience the charm of Bucharest without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

For a budget-conscious traveler, Bucharest offers a wealth of affordable attractions. Start with a visit to the Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world, and take a stroll through the charming Old Town. Sample delicious Romanian cuisine at a local market or restaurant and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant music and nightlife scene.

Travel plan

• Check-in at the Hotel Capitol, a budget-friendly option that offers comfortable rooms and a central location
• Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, admiring the intricate architecture and quaint shops
• Visit iconic landmarks like Stavropoleos Monastery, Lipscani Street, and Cismigiu Gardens
• Try traditional Romanian dishes at Caru' cu Bere, a historic beer hall with stunning Art Nouveau decor
• End the day with a nightcap at Fix Me a Drink, a speakeasy-style bar hidden on a nondescript street

• Start the day with breakfast at Simbio, a hotspot for coffee and brunch in the trendy Dorobanti neighborhood
• Visit the National Museum of Art of Romania, showcasing a vast collection of Romanian and European art
• Sample some of Bucharest's best street food at the bustling Obor Market, from grilled sausages to langos
• Sip on artisanal cocktails infused with local ingredients at Energiea, a cozy bar with an industrial-chic vibe
• Catch a performance at the avant-garde National Theatre, known for its experimental productions

• Take a day trip to Bran Castle, perched on a hilltop in the Transylvanian countryside
• Walk through the castle's maze-like corridors and learn about the legend of Dracula
• Explore the charming town of Brasov, with its colorful houses, medieval walls, and vibrant central square
• Enjoy a traditional Romanian dinner at La Ceasornicarul, a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city
• Drive back to Bucharest in the evening and unwind with a glass of wine at Corks Wine Bar

• Start the day with breakfast at Origo, a trendy cafe with artisanal coffee and fresh pastries
• Join a walking tour of Bucharest's Communist-era architecture, visiting striking landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament and the National Library
• Have lunch at CeaiLaFemme, a cozy tea room serving up delicious vegetarian fare and cakes
• Explore the alternative scene around Piața Romană, with its street art, vintage shops, and alternative bars
• Watch a movie at the iconic Cinema Elvire Popesco, a beautifully restored cinema from the 1930s

• Spend the morning at Herastrau Park, one of Bucharest's largest parks with stunning views of the lake
• Visit the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian architecture and crafts
• Have lunch at Terasa Van Gogh, a leafy terrace serving up fresh salads and hearty sandwiches
• Wander through Carol Park, home to the stunning Mausoleum of the Unknown Soldier and historical monuments
• Toast to an unforgettable trip with a cocktail at Nomad Skybar, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.