Retro Bucharest in a Day

Discover the hidden gems of Eastern Europe in Bucharest, Romania.

22 April 2023

A trip to Bucharest, Romania as a tourist is perfect for architecture and history lovers. You can explore the impressive communist-era buildings or stroll through the Old Town's cobblestone streets, where you will find colorful buildings, trendy cafes, shops and a lot of history. Further attractions include the Palace of the Parliament, museums like the National Museum of Art, and the green oasis of Herastrau Park.

Day trip plan

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Day

Retro Bucharest Delight

  • Start the day at Bistro La Etaj, a rustic-chic cafe with retro decor and delicious coffee.
  • Explore the iconic Bucharest Arch of Triumph, a marble-clad monument built to commemorate Romanian soldiers.
  • Take a stroll on Victoriei Avenue, one of the oldest streets in Bucharest, and admire the stunning Belle Époque architecture.
  • Visit Carturesti Carousel, a whimsical bookstore housed in a restored 19th-century building featuring a charming carousel.
  • Head to Caru' cu Bere, a historic brewery and restaurant serving traditional Romanian cuisine in a festive atmosphere.
  • Wrap up the night at J'ai Bistrot, a cozy bar located in the bustling Lipscani district, offering a wide range of cocktails and French-inspired bites.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bucharest by plane is to fly into Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP), which is located approximately 17 km north of the city center. There are many airlines that fly to OTP from various destinations worldwide.

Car

Driving to Bucharest is possible from neighboring countries. The most direct routes from Hungary or Bulgaria are via the A1 highway. However, visitors should be aware that traffic in Bucharest can be congested and parking can be difficult in the city center.

Train

Although it is possible to get to Bucharest by train, it is not the most efficient method of transport. However, if traveling from nearby countries such as Hungary or Bulgaria, there are a number of daily train services available. The train station in Bucharest is Gara de Nord.

Boat

Unfortunately, it is not possible to reach Bucharest by boat as the city is not located near any major waterways.

Bus

Getting to Bucharest by bus is a convenient option, with many international bus companies operating services to the city. Eurolines and Flixbus are two popular companies that offer services from multiple destinations. The bus station in Bucharest is called Autogara Filaret.

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