Where to stay in Bucharest: An accommodation guide for the city of contrasts

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a city that combines the old with the new. Majestic Baroque buildings coexist with modern constructions, while the city's history unfolds before visitors through its museums, art galleries and historic neighbourhoods. The famous Patriarchate Hill, the Old Town, and the Palace of Parliament are just some of the most characteristic sights you shouldn't miss. For those who love activities, Bucharest offers countless options, from strolls in beautiful parks to explorations of the charming narrow streets of the Old Town.

The city is ideal for every type of traveller, from history buffs to those who enjoy nightlife and gastronomic delights. Here, each area of Bucharest offers something unique, from a modern cosmopolitan atmosphere to picturesque streets and traditional restaurants.

In this guide, we will explore the five best areas to stay in Bucharest, for every type of visitor. Whether you are travelling with family, looking for a romantic getaway, or simply want to discover the city's nightlife, you will find the ideal area for you. Each area is accompanied by five selected accommodations, both budget-friendly and luxurious, to help you choose the perfect base for your exploration of Bucharest.

1. Old Town / Centrul Vechi - Ideal for those who love history and nightlife

Bucharest's Old Town (Centrul Vechi) is perhaps the city's most emblematic area, combining historical heritage with a modern sense of vibrancy. Its narrow, cobbled streets are filled with restaurants, cafes, and bars, while every corner exudes a sense of romance. From the Old Town, you can discover Bucharest's architectural heritage and admire buildings such as the Stavropoleos Monastery and the National Museum of Romanian History. The area caters to both history lovers and those who want to enjoy the city's nightlife.

Advantages

• Close to all historical attractions
• Vibrant nightlife with bars and restaurants
• Easy access to public transport

Disadvantages

• Can be noisy due to nightlife
• Restaurant and accommodation prices are often higher

Accommodation options in the Old Town

1. Hotel Capitol

Hotel Capitol is a historic hotel located right in the heart of the Old Town. It is ideal for travellers who want to experience the history and culture of the area, as the main attractions are within walking distance. The hotel's rooms are spacious and offer all necessary amenities, while the traditional character of the building adds a special charm to the stay.
Average cost: 100€ per night

2. Rembrandt Hotel

Rembrandt Hotel is a small boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Town, ideal for travellers who wish to enjoy Bucharest's cultural heritage in a more intimate setting. The hotel features classic decor, large rooms, and excellent services, making it perfect for romantic getaways.
Average cost: 120€ per night

3. Europa Royale Bucharest

Europa Royale Bucharest is a modern hotel with spacious rooms and contemporary amenities. The hotel is conveniently located for guests who want to explore the city's main attractions. At the same time, access to restaurants and cafes is easy, offering a variety of dining options.
Average cost: 110€ per night

4. The Mansion Boutique Hotel

The Mansion Boutique Hotel is a luxurious hotel that combines classical architecture with modern amenities. The hotel features elegant rooms with unique decor, and guests can enjoy the high-quality services offered. It is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
Average cost: 150€ per night

2. Piața Unirii - Ideal for families

The Piața Unirii area is one of Bucharest's largest and most vibrant squares, serving as a landmark for many tourists. This area is ideal for families, offering easy access to shops, parks, and restaurants, while being close to important attractions such as the Palace of the Parliament and the National Museum of Romanian History. Families can enjoy strolls around the square, while its proximity to Carol Park provides excellent options for outdoor activities.

Advantages

• Excellent choice for families, with many activities for children
• Plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby
• Very good transport links, with easy access to metro and buses

Disadvantages

• Can be quite a touristy area
• Some hotels may have increased prices during peak seasons

Accommodation options in Piața Unirii

1. Union Plaza Hotel

The Union Plaza Hotel is a stylish, modern hotel in the heart of Piața Unirii, offering luxurious rooms and city views. The hotel is ideal for families, providing large rooms and excellent facilities. Its proximity to the city centre makes it perfect for travellers who wish to explore Bucharest's important attractions.
Average cost: 120€ per night

2. NH Bucharest

NH Bucharest offers modern amenities and an excellent location in the Piața Unirii area, ideal for families who want to explore the city centre. The hotel features comfortable rooms and offers many options for family activities, while its proximity to the city's main attractions makes it perfect for holidays.
Average cost: 110€ per night

3. Hotel Royal Bucharest

Hotel Royal Bucharest is a luxurious accommodation option in Piața Unirii, with elegant rooms and modern amenities. The hotel offers excellent services for families and is very close to major attractions such as the Palace of the Parliament and the Old Centre.
Average cost: 130€ per night

3. Lipscani - Ideal for those seeking culture and entertainment

Lipscani is one of Bucharest's best-known and most vibrant areas, with its narrow streets filled with historic buildings, modern cafes, bars, and art galleries. It is the heart of the Old Town and an ideal spot for those who want to combine cultural discoveries with lively entertainment. Here, you can visit attractions such as Palatul Voievodal Curtea Veche and Hanul lui Manuc, two of the area's most historic places.

Advantages

• Full of life and cultural activities
• Plenty of dining and nightlife options
• Convenient location for walking to attractions

Disadvantages

• Very touristy area, especially on weekends
• Nightlife can create noise

Accommodation options in Lipscani

1. The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection

The Marmorosch Bucharest is a luxurious hotel in the heart of Lipscani. The hotel offers modern amenities and high-quality services, making it an excellent choice for couples or travellers who want to enjoy their stay in style. The hotel is close to all the main attractions in the area.
Average cost: 160€ per night

2. Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel

Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel offers a unique accommodation experience, with elegant and comfortable rooms, a stone's throw from Lipscani's main points of interest. The hotel's decor marries modern design with traditional elements, creating a relaxing space.
Average cost: 130€ per night

3. Europa Royale Bucharest

Europa Royale Bucharest, also located in Lipscani, offers comfort and affordable luxury for those seeking accommodation in the heart of the city. Its classic decor and spacious areas make it an ideal choice for couples or families.
Average cost: 110€ per night

4. Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest Old Town

The Hilton Garden Inn offers comfortable and quality accommodation, combining elegance with modern architecture. It is conveniently located near Lipscani's cafes and restaurants, ideal for visitors who want to explore the area with ease.
Average cost: 140€ per night

4. Cotroceni - Ideal for those seeking peace and greenery

Cotroceni is a quiet and green area in Bucharest, away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. It is ideal for visitors who wish to enjoy more relaxed moments, while offering close access to some of the city's most important attractions, such as the Cotroceni Palace, which is also the official residence of the President of Romania. The area is filled with parks, and its streets are lined with villas and elegant houses, creating a relaxing environment for accommodation.

Advantages

• Quiet and green area
• Close to important attractions such as Cotroceni Palace and the Botanical Garden
• Ideal for walks and relaxation

Disadvantages

• Fewer options for nightlife
• Further from the city centre

Accommodation options in Cotroceni

1. Premier Palace Spa Hotel

The Premier Palace Spa Hotel is a luxurious accommodation offering all the amenities for a relaxing holiday. The hotel features one of Bucharest's most renowned spas, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to enjoy a peaceful stay. Its proximity to Cotroceni Palace makes it perfect for tourists who want to explore the area's history.
Average cost: 150€ per night

2. JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel

The JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel is an excellent accommodation in Cotroceni, offering luxury and comfort. The hotel is strategically located near Parcul Eroilor and Cotroceni Palace, making it ideal for travellers who want to combine relaxation with cultural discoveries.
Average cost: 170€ per night

3. Hotel Yesterday

Hotel Yesterday offers a more budget-friendly accommodation option in Cotroceni, with spacious and comfortable rooms. It is located near the Botanical Garden and is ideal for those who wish to enjoy the area's tranquillity while being relatively close to Bucharest's city centre.
Average cost: 80€ per night

4. Hotel Siqua

Hotel Siqua is an elegant boutique hotel in the Cotroceni area. With sophisticated decor and excellent services, the hotel offers a tranquil haven for travellers who want to explore the area and nearby attractions such as Cotroceni Palace.
Average cost: 90€ per night

5. Herăstrău - Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation

The Herăstrău area, located around the eponymous Herăstrău Park, is ideal for those who want to enjoy nature and relaxation. The park is the largest in the city and includes a large lake, perfect for walks, cycling, and leisurely activities. At the same time, the area is home to some of Bucharest's best restaurants and cafes, making Herăstrău ideal for those who wish to combine tranquillity with gastronomy.

Advantages

• Green environment, ideal for relaxing walks
• Close to top restaurants and cafes
• Easy access to the city centre

Disadvantages

• A bit further from the main attractions of the centre
• Some hotels may be more expensive due to their location near the park

Accommodation options in Herăstrău

1. Crowne Plaza Bucharest, an IHG Hotel

The Crowne Plaza Bucharest is a luxurious accommodation near Herăstrău Park, offering spacious and elegant rooms with all modern amenities. The hotel features beautiful gardens, an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy nature while being close to the city centre.
Average cost: 160€ per night

2. Pullman Bucharest World Trade Center

The Pullman Bucharest is excellently located near Herăstrău Park, offering luxurious accommodation and direct access to the park's beautiful walks. The hotel has all the amenities for business travellers, while the area's tranquillity makes it ideal for a relaxing stay.
Average cost: 150€ per night

3. Ramada Hotel & Suites Bucharest North

The Ramada Hotel & Suites Bucharest North offers modern and comfortable rooms in a quiet location near Herăstrău Park. It is ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy nature, while providing easy access to the city's important commercial and business centres.
Average cost: 120€ per night

4. Hotel Herăstrău

The Hotel Herăstrău offers an affordable and peaceful accommodation option within Herăstrău Park, making it ideal for families and nature lovers. The rooms are comfortable and the hotel's garden provides an ideal space for relaxation.
Average cost: 80€ per night

5. Phoenicia Grand Hotel

The Phoenicia Grand Hotel is a luxurious hotel in the Herăstrău area, offering spacious rooms and top-notch services. The hotel is ideal for those who want to enjoy the tranquillity of nature while remaining close to the city centre.
Average cost: 140€ per night

How to get to Bucharest

Access to Bucharest from Greece is quite easy, as there are plenty of flights from the country's largest airports. The main airlines serving the Athens-Bucharest and Thessaloniki-Bucharest routes offer direct flights at very good prices, especially if you book in advance.

• From Athens: Direct flights from Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport to Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Airlines such as Aegean Airlines and TAROM offer frequent services, and ticket costs can be more economical during off-peak periods.
  
• From Thessaloniki: Makedonia Airport is also connected to Bucharest with direct flights lasting approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Ryanair and Aegean Airlines often offer routes with quite affordable prices.
  Find the best prices for airline tickets on Travelo.gr.

Bucharest is a city that offers a unique experience, combining rich history with modern life. Whether you are looking for the atmosphere of the Old Town with its historical monuments and vibrant nightlife, or you prefer the tranquillity and nature offered by areas such as Cotroceni and Herăstrău, Bucharest has something for everyone. By choosing the right area for accommodation, you can fully enjoy the city and create unforgettable memories.

Regardless of your budget, Bucharest offers options for luxurious and affordable accommodations that will meet every need. We hope our guide helps you choose the ideal area and the best hotel for your stay in the city of contrasts. Book early to secure the best prices and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the Romanian capital.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which area is best for accommodation at the destination?

The ideal area depends on the type of trip. If you are looking for vibrancy, restaurants, and easy access to attractions, choose the historic centre. For a quieter stay with good value, opt for neighbourhoods just outside the centre that are served by public transport. Families usually prefer accommodations with space and easy access to parks or beaches.

How many days do I need to visit the destination?

For a first introduction to the main attractions, 2 to 3 nights are sufficient. If you want to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the gastronomy, and truly relax, allow 4 to 5 days. For a base-camp trip with day excursions, a week is ideal.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) usually offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices. Summer is the busiest period, while winter suits those who want an authentic experience without crowds of tourists.

How can I book accommodation at the best price?

Booking through Booking.com offers flexible cancellation policies, reviews from real guests, and often the best available prices. Book 2-3 months in advance for the peak tourist season and compare prices between neighbourhoods, as a few minutes further from the centre often means significant savings.

Is the destination safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a visitor-friendly destination. As with any trip, it is advisable to be mindful of personal belongings in crowded areas and on public transport, and to use reliable means of transport. Accommodations with high ratings are usually located in safe neighbourhoods.