With so many neighborhoods in the city, let’s take a look at where to stay in Bucharest.
Best Time to Visit Bucharest?
Bucharest is a great place to visit year-round. However, the winter months can be a bit harsh, so unless you like the cold I would try to avoid them.
The best months to visit Bucharest happen to be in the shoulder seasons for Spring and Autumn.
We recommend visiting Bucharest in May, June, September, or October. These are the months you will find the best weather with the cheapest prices.
Where To Stay in Bucharest?
Since the city is so big, there is an insane number of neighborhoods for you to choose from. Understandably, this is pretty tricky if you’ve never visited before.
That’s why we’re giving you all the insider secrets on the top 10 Bucharest neighborhoods.
1. Old Town
Old Town is smack bang in the middle of Bucharest and is famous for its outstanding nightlife. It houses Vlad the Impaler’s court which has since been turned into a museum with fabulous ruins and religious icons. The locals call it “Centru Vechi” meaning, quite literally, “Old Centre”, for obvious reasons.
On the south side, you are blessed with the Danbovita river. To the west, you’ll see Calea Victoriei (another great neighborhood to stay in). To the east, you’ve got Bulevardul Bratianu and to the north, Regina Elisabeta.
The surrounding scenery here is truly breathtaking. Trust me.
Old Town is pretty much the only part of Bucharest that wasn’t touched by World War II. For all those history buffs out there, you shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to at least visit this area.
In our opinion, Old Town is the best place to stay in Bucharest.
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
It’s a charming neighborhood that comprises ancient ruins with a fantastic selection of shops, bars, and pubs to give a unique old world that meets a slightly modern atmosphere.
History buffs and nighttime party-goers won’t ever want to go home! You have the Zlatari Church, Palace of Parliament (the second biggest building in the world might we add!), Stavropoleos Monastery, and all the clubs in one place. What more could you want?
$$ This cute apartment is modern, clean, and the perfect location in old town Bucharest. Right in the center of town, but far enough from the bars that they won’t keep you up all night.
2. Piata Unirii
This place is one of the biggest squares in the middle of Bucharest. It’s split into two by Unirii Boulevard which was renamed from the “Boulevard of the Victory of Socialism” after the revolution.
Yes, you could say this area does hold a lot of historic weight too.
Piata Unirii is the place to be for transport links. The neighborhood is home to the Piata Unirii metro station, tram terminals, and a huge RATB bus interchange station.
Not to mention the various taxi ranks!
Don’t worry, it’s not all hustle and bustle. The area boasts a lovely park with fountains that are a real help in the sweltering summer months.
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
In short, Piata Unirii is the center of modern Bucharest.
The greatest tourist spots like Parcul Unirii, Piata Constitutiei, Bucharest Artesian Fountains and loads more are all within walking distance.
Plus, visiting areas outside of the neighborhood is as easy as pie thanks to the transport links we talked about earlier.
Whether you’re a tourist or businessperson, Piata Unirii will treat you well.
$$ This hotel serves up an amazing breakfast spread and is just close enough to walk to everything you want to walk to.
3. Universitae
Universitae is Bucharest’s heart and soul. The neighborhood of celebration and love.
While the 1989 revolution did take place here, in more recent years this area is one of peace, love, knowledge and happiness. It is a very colorful neighborhood, that is painted bright colors.
You will find everything you could possibly want in the countless shops, bars, hotels, restaurants, and pubs that line the streets of Universitae.
This area is also home to the first Bucharest skyscraper, the InterContinental which may or may not appeal to you.
Carturesti Modul can be found here too which is Romania’s most exquisite bookstore. And of course, it wouldn’t be a holiday without visiting Universitae’s FolCHLOR shop which sells a plethora of Romanian souvenirs.
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
Everything about this place screams real life. For those wanting to immerse themselves in the everyday life of the modern locals, you can’t go wrong basing yourself here.
$$$$ Sometimes you just have to splash a little cash on vacation and go out. If you enjoy nice hotels and taking full advantage of your holiday then you need to stay here.
$$$ If you prefer a smaller more boutique hotel you should check this place out. Clean, modern, and located in the perfect location in Universitae.
4. Piata Romana
Arguably, this neighborhood is the most important part of the entire city.
It houses the number one university, the Academy of Economic Studies (called ASE by the students and prospects), along with important streets like Bulevarduls Magheru, Dacia and Lascar Cartagiu.
In recent times, the government has poured a lot of heart and soul into the Piata Amzei produce market.
They’ve completely renovated it to ensure an updated feel for both tourists and locals.
Some have argued that the range of items on sale here is “decent” while I’d say that it’s thoroughly eclectic.
Either way, you won’t want to miss out on the gorgeous food made by the surrounding cafes and restaurants.
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
For those who see exquisite architecture and drool at the mouth, Piata Romana is a must-stay place.
Initially, you might be a tad put off by the traffic. But this quickly wears off when you catch glimpses of the Athenaeum or Calea Victoriei street.
And, if you’re a wannabe hipster (or just a fashionable, trendy kind of person) the vintage shops and chic cafes will be perfect for you.
$$ This hotel is a great bang for your book. Their rooms are very nice and it is closely located to the metro for getting around the city.
5. Gradina Icoanei
As the name suggests, this area is a small park in the middle of Bucharest. It’s not too far away from Piata Romana which we just talked about!
It was created in 1873 and is home to Ioanid Park, The Bulandra Theater, the Iconaei Church, and the Anglican Church. All these tourist and religious attractions are within perfect walking distance from the middle of Gradina Icoanei.
The scenery is breathtaking. It comprises statues, trees, meticulously maintained walkways and various grass patches for children to play. You will also find an expansive lake that adds depth and even more beauty to the area.
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
Not that you will ever get enough of the various parks and gardens but, if you do there around lots of cafes and restaurants to choose from.
They serve Romanian delicacies and foods from all over the world so you’ll never get homesick during your stay. Plus, the Cismigiu Gardens offers an English-esque park with a delightful rose garden and pavilion. There is something for all the family in Gradina Icoanei.
$$- Want to save money on your vacation, but still want to stay in an up to date place. This apartment has you covered with everything you would want.
6. Calea Victoriei
Central Bucharest hosts loads of very important avenues but Calea Victoriei is one of the most valued of all.
Even if you don’t decide to stay in this area, a walk or guided tour is a must.
You’ll stroll alongside the Dambovita River, up to Piata Victoriei and after a while, you’ll see Soseaua Kiseleff in the north.
Beautiful sights await you in Calea Victoriei.
To tell you the truth, it’s an architect’s heaven. The Museum of Art Collections, The Cantacuzino Palace, Odeon Theatre, Casa Capsa, Piata Revolutiei, Romanian Athenaeum, National Museum of Art, and bucketloads of other architectural phenomenons call this street home.
All are exceptionally stunning and guaranteed to incite inspiration and joy into anyone who cares to look.
Honestly, even just a glance on Google Maps will show you just how many important places line this street!
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
Calea Victoriei is the heart of all this architectural. You will never get bored of looking at the sheer size and demeanour of the museums. Nor will you get tired of the artefacts and exhibits that live inside.
Not to mention that there are so many parks dotted between each building so you’ll have plenty of room to stretch your legs. Staying here will give you a true sense of Bucharest in all its forms.
$$$ Probably the nicest hotel in Bucharest. It is perfectly located and the design is just stunning. Even if you don’t stay here you will want to take a stroll to check it out.
$$ This is a great budget hotel in the heart of Calea Victoriei. You get what you pay for as they say, but you won’t be disappointed with this budget hotel.
7. Bucharest North
Bucharest North is the main railway station in the entire city.
Staying near here will ensure your travel time is as short and hassle-free as possible. There is nothing worse than landing in your holiday destination and having to travel for hours to get to your hotel, right?
Well, Bucharest North can save you that stress since it connects to everything and anything.
At the moment, there are a total of 14 tracks and 8 platforms that ensure the city and its surrounding areas are fully connected. You can even catch a bus from here to take you on day trips or shopping sprees!
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
The transport links are undoubtedly the best in the city. If it’s a stress-free sightseeing holiday you’re looking for, staying in Bucharest North will give you exactly that.
However, unless you have an early morning train or get in super late at night, there is not much else to this neighborhood.
$$ If you are just traveling through, sometimes it makes it so much easier to just stay near the train station. This place is the nicest one near the train station, so you can sleep comfortably
$ This is your best cheap option near the train station. Also, they are a great hostel and have fun activities planned to show you all around Bucharest.
8. Dorabanti
This neighborhood is where the style of red brick and glass buildings never goes out of fashion.
It’s quite amazing to see the glorious 19th-century villas standing next to modern, glass-paneled buildings. You won’t ever quite get over it — we sure haven’t anyway!
There are loads of things to do in the area too. You could visit Dorobanti Square, go to the SkyBar or even just take a stroll through a shopping center.
Whatever takes your fancy, Dorabanti has it.
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
There is just so much to see, do and eat in Dorabanti! Whether you like an outdoor vibe, fine-dining atmosphere or a chill, casual, historic state, you can have it all here.
$$- Like boutique hotels? Then you can’t miss this place. It has a great breakfast every morning and a super friendly staff.
9. Herastrau
Otherwise known as King Michael I Park, Herastrau is a huge park situated on the north side of Bucharest.
Lake Herastrau borders the whole place, making it feel like you’re on an island all by yourself.
Get rid of any misconceptions you may have about Bucharest being all about the concrete jungle because Herastrau is all about nature.
The wildlife, plants, and natural reserves you find here is astonishing and not to be missed.
It is the perfect spot for nature lovers that want to avoid the city.
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
For those whose home lives are based in a concrete jungle, this is a welcome retreat. You’ll wake up to the bird song and go to sleep listening to the soft breeze whispering through the trees. Heavenly.
$$$ World-class meets nature. This hotel is modern chia, has a gym, is close to the park and a killer breakfast. Perfect for anyone wanting to stay fit during their vacation.
$$ This hotel is located right on the park, which makes it super easy to access. Anyone wanting to stay near nature on their trip to Bucharest should stay here.
10. Floreasca
Floreasca is home to all the finer things in life. Think fine dining, fancy clubs, luxurious bars and flashy cars. If you want to live the high life for a week you shouldn’t go anywhere but here.
The Promenade Mall, Sky Tower, and Aurel Vlaicu are dotted throughout this neighborhood alongside the showstopping Lake Floreasca.
Wherever you walk, glamour oozes from every vertex.
So, Why Should You Stay Here?
For those who enjoy staying in lavish, wealthy places, traveling to Floreasca is the place to be. Seriously, you don’t get more luxury than this.
$$$$ Let the name speak for itself. This is a lovely, modern hotel, which can be hard to find in an old soviet union country. It screams modern and chic.
$$$ Western hotels never disappoint. They are clean, comfortable, and always have a good breakfast to serve. You can’t go wrong.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, wherever you choose to stay in Bucharest, you’ll have a fantastic time. I hope you enjoyed this post on where to stay in Bucharest.
Megan is the founder of Peter Pan Traveler. She left her full-time career in search of never-never land. Megan has lived in Costa Rica, Mexico, and France and has sailed around the Caribbean. She is here to help everyone find their never-never land and the best beaches possible.
