Bucharest City Guide

Local dishes like sarmale and mici are must-tries. The city has many international restaurants and growing vegan options. Late-night food is easy to find.

Nightlife is lively, especially in Old Town with lots of bars and clubs. There are also upscale and relaxed spots across the city.

Bucharest has a strong coffee scene with traditional and specialty shops spread around the city.

Tipping 10-15% is common in restaurants. Taxi drivers appreciate small tips or rounding up.

SIM cards are easy to get at airports and stores. Major providers are Orange, Vodafone, and Telekom. ID is needed for prepaid.

Central areas are fairly clean; some neighborhoods have more litter. Recycling is limited but improving.

Late-night pharmacies and many minimarts operate 24/7. Some clinics and hospitals offer after-hours care.

Large supermarkets offer international products. Fresh markets like Obor sell local produce. Shops usually open 7-10 PM, less on Sundays.

Card payments are common in most shops and restaurants. Cash is still useful for small vendors and public transport.

ATMs from major banks like BCR, BRD, and Raiffeisen Bank are everywhere. Using your bank's network or partners can lower fees.

International schools include AISB, BSB, and French School. Instruction is mainly in English or French.

A growing community with meetups and nomad-friendly cafes and coworking spaces.

Parks like Herastrau and Cismigiu Gardens offer good green space for walking and running.

Popular running spots include Herastrau and Tineretului parks. Generally safe and clean in these areas.

Gyms are plentiful with fitness classes and equipment. Parks have outdoor fitness areas.

Many tennis clubs and courts across the city. Padel courts are growing in number and available with bookings.

Padel courts are becoming more common and accessible in Bucharest.

Several yoga studios offer various styles with English-friendly instructors.

Various dojos offer training in BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, and others, often with English speakers.

Ski resorts like Sinaia and Poiana Brasov are 1.5-3 hours away, open Dec-Mar with slopes for all levels.

Kayaking and paddleboarding available on Herastrau Lake in warmer months. Sailing less common in town.

No surfing near Bucharest as it is inland.

No diving spots in Bucharest; possible on the Black Sea coast but far away.

Private clinics like MedLife and Regina Maria offer English-speaking staff and good care. Public healthcare is less reliable.

Tap water is generally safe, though some prefer filtered or bottled due to taste or old pipes.

Parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes are common. Baby supplies are easy to find. Museums like Grigore Antipa are popular for families.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is rising, especially among youth. Some friendly venues and annual Pride events exist.

Many pet-friendly cafes and parks. Veterinary care is affordable and pet supply stores are common.