You’ve decided to visit the Romanian capital and you want to know where to stay in Bucharest. It’s a great question, as Bucharest is a big city with many distinctive neighbourhoods. With its tower blocks and brutalist architecture, it can feel a little overwhelming knowing which neighbourhood to pick.
Don’t worry, I’m here to help because I was born in Bucharest and lived here for 18 years! I know Bucharest like the back of my hand, and I’m here to tell you exactly where to stay in Bucharest and why, which neighbourhoods are most suited for visitors and which hotels to pick to be close to main attractions.
Bucharest is also considered a hidden gem still so visiting Bucharest is a great choice. You’ll be able to stay in luxury hotels for excellent prices, you’ll find several brand new tourist attractions, you’ll discover fantastic food and a nightlife vibrant atmosphere.
Here is the ultimate neighbourhood guide to finding where to stay in Bucharest for first time visitors.
Table of Contents
- Where to stay in Bucharest
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Hostels
- Bucharest Old Town
- Why stay in Old Town Bucharest
- What’s the catch
- Where to stay in Bucharest Old Town
- Unirii square
- Why stay in Unirii square
- What’s the catch
- Where to stay in Bucharest Unirii Square
- University square
- Why stay in the University square
- What’s the catch
- Where to stay in Bucharest University Square
- Romana Square
- Why stay in Romana Square
- What’s the catch
- Where to stay in Bucharest Romana Square
- Calea Victoriei
- Why stay on Calea Victoriei
- What’s the catch
- Where to stay in Bucharest Calea Victoriei
- Herastrau park
- Why stay in Herastrau Park
- What’s the catch
- Where to stay in Bucharest Herastrau Park
- Cismigiu Gardens
- Why stay in Cismigiu Gardens
- What’s the catch
- Where to stay in Bucharest Cismigiu Gardens
- Politehnica
- Why stay in Politehnica
- What’s the catch
- Where to stay in Bucharest Politehnica
- FAQ
- Is Bucharest safe?
- Is there any place to avoid in Bucharest?
- What is the best sector in Bucharest?
- Is Bucharest worth visiting?
- What is the center of Bucharest?
- What is the best area to stay in Bucharest?
- Where do expats live in Bucharest?
Where to stay in Bucharest
When it comes to finding accommodation in Bucharest, rest assured that you have the same options as in any other major capital city. Most major attractions are located in the city centre, so ideally you will be walking distance from most of them. However, Bucharest has an excellent metro infrastructure, so you can easily stay in a budget hotel somewhere a little further out from central Bucharest, as long as you’re close to a metro station.
Most first time visitors will stay in Bucharest somewhere in the city centre or the old town. I will explain which place to pick and why, and will cover some cons for an area as well.
Hotels
Most fist time visitors will stay in a hotel. Bucharest hotels are modern and lovely with spacious rooms. some have an on site restaurant, swimming pool, and fitness centre. Much like any other European capital, the hotels range in terms of price and amenities. However, luxury hotels in Bucharest are well priced and you are more likely to score a great deal here.
The best hotels will be in a charming area and will have spa services and fine dining restaurants on site. The best hotels in Bucharest are not the most expensive, but located on a quiet street so visitors can enjoy well-equipped rooms and a good night sleep.
We recommend Epoque Hotel – Relais & Chateaux.
Apartments
There has been an explosion of apartments for rent for tourism purposes. If you want to live like a local, then apartments are the way to go. There are apartments for short term rent everywhere in Bucharest including downtown Bucharest, in a quiet residential area and also in the old town.
Apartments are usually well decorated, a little larger than hotel rooms and a lot cheaper. They will come with kitchens so you get to save more on making your own food as well. However, Bucharest is a well priced city so chances are, you will end up eating out every dingle day anyway. Apartments are also a great way to experience Bucharest for longer periods of time.
We recommend Lascar Catargiu Vila.
Hostels
Hostels are the cheapest way to experience bucharest. Hostels are budget friendly and usually located bang in the city centre. They are a great way to meet new people and explore a lively nightlife with international friends. Some hostels do come with modern rooms.
From my personal experience as a Bucharest born writer, I would advise all visitors to opt for either a hotel in a great central location or for an apartment for longer stays.
We recommend Mil Pasos Hostel.
Bucharest Old Town
The old town is one of the best places to stay in Bucharest for first time visitors as it’s close to many amenities including great restaurants, bars, and public transport. Most of the old town has elegant villas and narrow streets with cobblestone, making it look stunning and lovely.
Your hotel will very likely be on a pedestrian street, so you won’t hear traffic noise at night. The Old Town is a great location if you wish to be close to many attractions including the unirii square, national theatre, national museum, national art museum.
Why stay in Old Town Bucharest
You will also be just walking distance away from some of the best bars and restaurants in the city. The lively university square is just around the corner as well, ideal if you wish to get on the metro and make your way to Herastrau Park or to the Henri Coanda international airport.
The old town is considered Bucharest’s historic centre and it’s where most people come to enjoy an evening out.
What’s the catch
The historical center is also where the nighlife happens, so chances are, while you won’t hear traffic noise from the cars, you might hear party people and music until late hours. Everyone loves coming to the old town, especially because this is where you will find great clubs, pubs and bars. The historical center also looks fantastic with its elegant villas and modern hotels.
Where to stay in Bucharest Old Town
Located in the Old Town of Bucharest, Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel welcomes you in a new building of neoclassical inspiration with river or city views. The air-conditioned rooms of Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel come with elegant earth tones, and plush carpets and plenty of natural light.
Situated in the Old Town of Bucharest, Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest is 1,300 feet from Bucharest National Theater and provides facilities like free WiFi, a fitness centre, and a shared lounge. At the hotel, each room comes with a Suite Dreams® by Serta bed.
Matisse Bucharest Old Town offers accommodation ideally set in the centre of Bucharest, within a short distance of Stavropoleos Church and Revolution Square. Fitted with a patio, the units offer air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower and slippers.
Unirii square
Unirii square is a popular place to stay in Bucharest and many Romanian tourists pick this area as well as international tourists. This is the largest squares in central bucharest built during the communist era. You will find a lot of accommodation here with a district communist architecture.
The square is a significant transport hub, with the unirii metro station and where many sectors of the city meet. Here, you will find the well-known Unirea Shopping Center, the Cocor department store and many other small boutiques as well as international brands.
Unirii square is known for its stunning fountain display, the National Library and Independence Boulevard and the major arteries which lead to Casa Poporului (People’s Palace) the most well known tourist attraction in Bucharest.
Why stay in Unirii square
Unirii Square is a sought after location in Bucharest often associated with the upper class. The area is considered safe and beautiful with its leafy large boulevards and lovely buildings. Being considered a major transportation hub, it’s a fantastic place to stay in Bucharest if you wish to visit other neighbourhoods around, as you will have all public transport as well as the largest taxi rank right at your door step.
The shopping gallery is quite literally in front of your accommodation and you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars in the area. Hanul lui Manuc is a well known Romanian restaurants which serves fantastic traditional food.
What’s the catch
Accommodation here is fairly expensive as you are in the city centre. You can easily find a modern hotel that suits all your needs. However, apart from the shopping centre and the Casa Poporului, you won’t have any major attractions here.
You will need to walk or take the public transport to see interesting places or buildings. Being a major hub of interconnected roads and avenue, traffic can get a bit loud even at night.
However, you are just 5-10 minutes walk from the old town, so the location is pretty great.
Where to stay in Bucharest Unirii Square
Right in the heart of Bucharest, The Mansion Boutique Hotel boasts an artful blend of individually decorated rooms. This stylish accommodation is located in a renovated historical building. Each room can take you on a journey through different styles, ranging from minimalist to eclectic, and from French-inspired to Moroccan-themed.
Situated in the center of Bucharest, on the popular Unirii Boulevard, 0.8 miles from the Old Town, Union Plaza Hotel features accommodation with a restaurant, secured private parking and a Sky Bar. Guests at Union Plaza Hotel can enjoy a “Breakfast with a view” buffet served each morning at 12 Sky Bar.
In the heart of Bucharest, set within a short distance of Stavropoleos Church and Patriarchal Cathedral, Panorama the Parliament Palace offers free WiFi, air conditioning and household amenities such as a microwave and kettle. Stunning views of the Palace of the Parliament right from your window.
Click here for prices and book Panorama the Parliament Palace
University square
The University square is a historical landmark knwon for the university, the national theatre and the intercontinental hotel, one of the tallest buildings in Bucharest. Other major landmarks include the beautiful Colțea Hospital and Three Hierarchs Church.
University Square always played an important role for Romanians. The square was the site for many protests and demonstrations.
The square continues to be a major meeting point for many locals. To cross the large intersection, you need to use the underground passage dotted with shops and small boutiques. Sometimes, there are temporary art galleries there as well.
Why stay in the University square
University Square is a wonderful place to stay in Bucharest because you are in close proximity to the old town but also have a great link to other neighbourhoods and areas. You are just a few minutes from the Stavropoleos Monastery Church, the famed Cărturești Carusel, the main library and the Romanian National Museum of Art.
A 15 minutes walk will take you to Royal Palace of Bucharest as well as Cismigiu Park. Stay in one of the quiet streets behind the main arteries and not only you will be bang in the middle of the city but you will enjoy a good night sleep.
I always recommend visitors to pick the University Square given that you will now be just walking distance to all major attractions and other neighbourhoods of importance.
What’s the catch
You’ll need to select your accommodation with a lot of care. Many luxury hotels are located right on the main artery which means you will very likely hear traffic at night. Stay in a quiet residential area just behind the main roads.
If you decide to stay in an apartment, check to make sure the block in which the apartment is located does not have a “red dot”. Bright red dots on buildings in the Romanian capital warn of risk of collapse. They represent a symbol for seismic risk. There are 349 high earthquake buildings in Bucharest, with close to 3000 apartments in total.
Where to stay in Bucharest University Square
Lahovary Palace Hotel is situated 0.9 miles from National Museum of Art of Romania, 1.2 miles from Cismigiu Gardens and 1.4 miles from Patriarchal Cathedral. The hotel features family rooms. At the hotel, every room comes with a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels.
Featuring a fitness centre, evening bar, bright and open lounge with a video wall, Moxy Bucharest is just 1,650 feet from Stavropoleos Church and 2,650 feet from Revolution Square. The property is located within 1.3 miles from famous landmarks like the Patriarchal Cathedral, Romanian National Opera and Romanian Athenaeum.
Featuring high-speed free WiFi, Bucur Accommodation offers rooms and suites in the centre of Bucharest. The Old Town area, with its pubs and restaurants, is a 5-minute walk from here. All units are air conditioned and feature a flat-screen TV, and a refrigerator.
Romana Square
Romana Square is a similarly great place to stay in Bucharest if you wish to be in a central location. Romana Square is usually quieter than the Unirii or University Squares. The location is well known for the many boutiques and shops as well as the major Academy of Economic Studies which attracts thousands of students every single year.
From Romana Square, you’re only a short walk to the Romanian Athenaeum and the many great restaurants, pubs and cafes in the area.
If you love having your breakfast with a cafe, this is a great place for it as well. One of the best things to do here is to take a walk down Lascar Catargiu Boulevard. There are many gorgeous buildings dotted all around.
Why stay in Romana Square
Much like Unirii and University Square, Romana is a large transport hub. Romana is a great place to stay in Bucharest because you are close to many attractions but also to fantastic pubs, bars and eateries. Many visitors love to visit Piata Amzei for fresh produce, then admire the gorgeous Știrbei Palace, visit the Museum of Art Collections and the National Museum of Romanian Literature.
What’s the catch
Romana Square can get pretty busy day and night so renting a hotel facing the main road can be really loud for the light sleeper. Generally speaking, you will stay here if you wish to be in a central location that’s closer to Victory Square and Herastrau Park. I recommend this location for the traveller who wants to experience a bit of everything in Bucharest.
Where to stay in Bucharest Romana Square
Hotel Lido by Phoenicia is a historical hotel dating from 1930, designed by the famous architect Ernest Doneaud. The property boasts architecture from the interwar modernist current, with Art Deco elements. It is located on the posh Magheru Boulevard, less than 0.6 miles away from the Old Town and 650 feet from the Romanian Athenaeum.
Elysium is located in a residential area of Bucharest, 1,650 feet from Stefan Cel Mare Metro Station and the Stadium. It features a 24-hour front desk, air-conditioning and free WiFi access. Romana Square is a 4-minute walk away.
Every unit at Emil Balaban Luxury Apart-Hotel has a private bathroom and shower, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a microwave. Some units have a seating area and/or a patio. A gym and laundry facilities are available at the aparthotel.
Click here for prices and book Emil Balaban Luxury Apart-Hotel
Calea Victoriei
Calea Victoriei is a beloved avenue by everyone who lives in Bucharest. It’s considered the most exciting avenue, as it was Bucharest’s showpiece street in the Interwar period.
Podul Mogoșoaiei was the first street in Bucharest to be illuminated with candles during the night, starting July 1814.
It’s now known as an upmarket shopping street where many of the well known fashion brands reside, as well as classy indie shops. The avenue is home to many buildings and monuments including The Cantacuzino Palace, hosting The George Enescu Museum, The Athénée Palace Hotel, Romanian Athenaeum, National Museum of Art of Romania, Kretzulescu Church, Palatul Telefoanelor, Odeon Theatre, Casa Capșa and so much more.
Essentially, if you are after history, and stunning buildings, this is the place to stay in Bucharest.
Why stay on Calea Victoriei
Calea Victorieri comes with a lot of history and it’s very close to the city center. In fact in connects many of the squares with the Victory Square so you will be just a short distance from any major central location. Apart from the main attractions located here, you will also be close to world class shopping and excellent eateries.
What’s the catch
Calea Victoriei is an old artery so much like other old town locations, you need to be careful when picking an apartment to stay here. You want to avoid any building with a red dot on it. Calea Victoriei is known for luxury accommodation so expect to pay a premium for the location. On the bright side, you will be in proximity to everything you’ll ever want to enjoy the best stay in Bucharest.
Where to stay in Bucharest Calea Victoriei
Centrally located on Victoriei Street in the heart of Bucharest, Grand Hotel Continental is steps away from the National Art Museum and close to the Athenaeum, Universitate Metro Station, and business district. The sophisticated rooms and elegant suites offer free WiFi feature a seating area and glass-encased showers and bathtubs.
Set in the heart of Bucharest, Athénée Palace Hilton Bucharest offers accommodation in one of the city’s iconic buildings, located next to the Athenaeum. Complimentary access to the 24-hour fitness centre is available. Athénée Palace Hilton Bucharest has free WiFi in the entire hotel. The fitness centre is fully equipped, and the health club comprises an indoor pool, a hot tub, a steam bath and a sauna.
This 4-star hotel is located directly on the Victoriei Boulevard, close to the University of Bucharest and Cismigiu Park. It offers free access to the wellness centre and indoor pool with artificial waves, steam room and fitness area. It’s one of my favourite hotels as it features a preserved old theatre facade with a modern hotel in the background. Stunning!
Herastrau park
While not the most central location to stay in Bucharest is by far the most exciting and beautiful. Herastrau Park is where the wealthiest live, and for good reason. Herastrau Park is a huge green space with a lake in the middle.
Known as Park Mihai I, it’s located right next to the Aviatorilor metro station. Next door you have the affluent Primaverii neighbourhood, the safest and the richest, full of stunning villas in baroque style. Nearby is the Arch of Triumph, avenues lined with the world’s most important embassies as well as the desirable neighbourhood Dorobanti.
Why stay in Herastrau Park
There are so many museums right at your door step, Dimitrie Gusti National village museum, Casa Ceausescu, Muzeul Național al Hărților și Cărții Vechi, National Geology Museum, Antipa Museum and so many more. You will want to come to Herastrau to walk around the park, see the Japanese garden in bloom and take a romantic boat ride on the lake.
Not to mention, the most sought after restaurants are right in the area. Celebrities are often seen in the cafes next to the park and it’s not uncommon that the best parties in the city happen in the clubs on Dorobanti.
The most beautiful buildings are here with stunning gardens and gorgeous architecture. The business center is also just around the corner and you still have easy access into the old town should you wish to party there for the evening.
What’s the catch
While it’s the most expensive area to live in Bucharest, you won’t find many hotels here. You might be after a luxury hotel, but there are not that many here. It’s clear that it’s one of the best neighbourhoods, but to stay in this charming area, you might need to rent a villa or an apartment from a local. To access the old town and other squares you will need to either walk for about 30 minutes or take the metro for 2-3 stops.
Where to stay in Bucharest Herastrau Park
Vila Paris is a 4-star boutique hotel in the elegant residential quarter of Dorobanti, one of Bucharest’s most important business and commercial areas. Opened in 2007, the hotel offers spacious and stylishly furnished rooms, a beautiful summer terrace and an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
Set in Bucharest, 1,000 feet from Herastrau Park, Hotel Herastrau offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge. This 3-star hotel offers room service and a business centre.
Pensiunea Helvetia is located just 350 feet from the Aviatorilor Metro Station, Charles de Gaulle Square and Herăstrău Park. Air-conditioned rooms come with free Wi-Fi and there is an on-site restaurant. Rooms also have a minibar and a TV.
Cismigiu Gardens
Cișmigiu Park is a vast English-style garden with fountains and monuments. Many Bucharest residents come here for a long walk or to rent a boat on the lake. In the middle of the lake you’ll see landmark Monte Carlo restaurant stands on a central island.
Cismigiu Gardens is a well regarded, sought after residential area. Around the park there are several blocks of flats with eclectic apartments and gorgeous design.
Why stay in Cismigiu Gardens
Cismigiu Gardens is a lovely area to stay in Bucharest. You will be very close to the lake and rose gardens but also 10 minutes walk to Calea Victoriei. You’ll also be a few minutes away from the Old Town. It’s worth noting that not many tourists know about this lovely park of Bucharest. There are lots of great accommodation options in the area. Many Romanians as well as Bucharest locals love Cismigiu Gardens, being a safe and lovely place to stay in Bucharest.
What’s the catch
There aren’t many hotels in the area as it’s mainly a residential neighbourhood. However, several locals transformed their apartments into wonderful and unique rentals around here. While you might not feel the nightlife of Bucharest, you will have a quiet night sleep as it’s one of the loveliest and peaceful areas of the city. Plenty of eateries and cafes around, so you’ll always have something fun at your doorstep.
Where to stay in Bucharest Cismigiu Gardens
Centrally located near the Cismigiu Central Park, away from Bucharest’s noisy boulevards, Epoque is a stylishly and elegantly decorated boutique hotel with spacious and air-conditioned rooms, as well as free on-site parking and free WiFi in all areas. Guests at the Epoque enjoy free access to a spa centre with a Finnish sauna, a wet sauna, a hot tub, an indoor pool and a fitness centre.
Click here for prices and book Epoque Hotel – Relais & Chateaux
Royal Palace by CityLife Suites features a balcony and is located in Bucharest, within just 1,000 feet of National Museum of Art of Romania and less than 0.6 miles of Revolution Square. The property, housed in a building dating from 1960.
The property is a 3-minute walk from Cismigiu Park and 10-minutes walk from the famous Palace of Parliament. Guests benefit from tastefully decorated, fully equipped rooms fitted with free WiFi. Izvor Metro Station is 8-minutes walk from the property, while the Old City Centre and North Train Station is 0.7 miles away.
Politehnica
Feeling young and fun, then Politehnica might be the place for you to stay in Bucharest. Known for the Politehnica University, the campus is also a large gorgeous park, ideal for a long walk first thing in the morning.
Walk on a chestnut lined avenue, visit the botanical gardens and enjoy the green spaces in Bucharest. During term, you will see many students enjoying picnics and studying in this campus.
You have the Politehnica metro station right at your door step, which takes you to Unirii square. Nearby you will have two large malls for shopping and supermarkets.
Why stay in Politehnica
Politehnica is a little off the beaten path as you do need to rely on the subway to get to the city centre. Because of this you will get lower pricer for accommodation in this area. In exchange you get to stay in a residential area that’s suited for budget travellers who want to enjoy the green spaces of the university campus. Next door you have the Regie neighbourhood, a well-known large student complex with university accommodation. It’s in that area where all the parties come to life at night. So for the nightlife lover, this might just be the best place to stay.
What’s the catch
You won’t find that many accommodation options in the area and many of them are tailored towards budget travellers. You will also need to make your way to the centre every day to be able to be in the middle of the action. It’s however a great place for families who wish to be close to a large green space for cheaper prices. It’s also one of the best neighborhoods for students who want to party and enjoy a more fuss free nightlife that Bucharest has to offer.
Where to stay in Bucharest Politehnica
Ideally situated inear Politehnica and Regie, Le Blanc ApartHotel features 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi throughout the property.
Situated in Bucharest, 0.6 miles from Bucharest Botanical Garden, ibis Bucharest Politehnica features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a terrace.
The apartment offers a seating area with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with bathrobes, slippers and shower. A microwave, a fridge and oven are also offered in the kitchen, as well as a kettle.
FAQ
Is Bucharest safe?
Yes, Bucharest is a safe city with a safe city centre. It’s a safe European capital city for solo travellers as well.
Is there any place to avoid in Bucharest?
All tourists will want to stay in the central Bucharest simply because you will want to be close to pubs, bars and restaurants as well as attractions. It makes no sense to venture too far out in residential areas as there isn’t anything to do there. I don’t recommend staying too far in the north of Bucharest in places like Floreasca, Tei or Baneasca as you will be way too far out from the city centre.
What is the best sector in Bucharest?
Sector 1 is the best in Bucharest but it’s rather big. The best areas in Sector 1 are Primaverii, Aviatorilor, Dorobanti and the main University Square.
Is Bucharest worth visiting?
Absolutely, Bucharest is a fantastic place worth visiting. You have so much to see and do in this lesser known capital city. You are going to love your time in Bucharest, especially as you get epic amenities for cheaper prices.
What is the center of Bucharest?
Locals and residents see the center of Bucharest as being the old town, extending to university square. But Unirii Square is also central as it is a main hub where many sectors meet.
What is the best area to stay in Bucharest?
For first time visitors, staying in the old town is probably the most exciting as you will be right in the middle of it all. Plus you will be just minutes away from all attractions or from the main metro stations for public transport.
Where do expats live in Bucharest?
Many expats live in the centre of Bucharest including apartments near the old town, university square and Cismigiu gardens.
As you can see there are plenty of lovely places to stay in Bucharest. You can probably tell I love Bucharest as it is the place where I grew up. I know it so well and I’m passionate about sharing my knowledge about the city with you.
You now know where to stay in Bucharest to suit your own travelling needs and requirements. It’s a beautiful place and a gorgeous city you are going to love so much. There are so many wonderful things to do and see. Plus there’s plenty of great food to be enjoyed for excellent prices. Where are you going to stay during your trip? Please let me know in the comments section below.
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