Travel to Bucharest

Travel to Bucharest

Situated in the southeast of Romania, the bustling capital of Bucharest has been an economic centre since antiquity. It is nestled on the Dambovita River and against the Vlasia forests, whichinspired rulers to set up their residences here since the time of Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for Bram Stokers Dracula.

Throughout its history, it has soaked up Turkish, Greek, Balkan and Russian cultures, creating a mix of cuisine and elevated high art, from painters to musicians. However, Bucharest is probably most noted for being the seat of power for Nicolae Ceausescu, the Soviet-era dictator who razed entire historical sections for his grandiose designs of state architecture. In the end, Ceausescu was run out of his own building by an angry mob after more than 20 years of rule, and wassubsequently tried and killed.

Transportation to Bucharest

The well-equipped and ever-expanding Henri Coanda International Airport is situated about 11kms from the city centre and provides all the customary facilities and amenities. The major airport serving Bucharest, the Henri Coanda Airport manages daily flight service between several major European cities.

Bus and rail services to Bucharest are also reliable, with train travel being more comfortable and faster than bus travel. Both modes of transport are accessible from Western Europe, connecting in Budapest. Road travel can be rough, with the Romanian road network being a little worse for wear.

What to see

Romanias capital will keep visitors captive during days in Bucharest, as the city is rife with history and rich in culture. Historic landmarks and sites of the Soviet era, such as Ceausescus grand Centru Civic as well as the Revolution Square, where he was shouted down and chased out, intermingle with quarters from centuries past.

The historic centre brings visitors back to a quaint Romanian life in the 17th century, and the Patriarchal Cathedral offers stunning icons and frescoes as well as a view over Bucharest from atop a hill. Art lovers will revel in the impressive collections of art and the citys stature in the world of classical music as well as the palace of the man who was the real-life inspiration for Bram Stokers Dracula.

Daytrips

Bucharest and its surrounding areas are wonderful to drive around, with spectacular scenery and impressive sights along the Dambovita River and in the surrounding towns. For wintertime visitors, the bordering Carpathian mountain range offers premier skiing in the region, with picturesque, tree-lined trails that arent too difficult, and the area offers exquisite resorts and accommodation.

Activities and leisure

Bucharest offers an exciting nightlife and music scene as well as several extravagant and unique annual festivals. After dinner, take in one of the many popular jazz clubs, some of which put local greats alongside renowned international acts. Clubs often stay open until the sun comes up, and 24-hour casinos offer action and entertainment whenever required.

The sports-minded should have no trouble finding spectator sports to take in, with football and the citys internationally competitive teams being the primary draw. Wintertime also offers fantastic and scenic skiing in the nearby Carpathians.

Safety issues

In general, Bucharest is a safe city to visit. However, like other main cities, pick-pocketing and scams can be a major problem. Always try to stay alert for possible dangers. Crowds invite pick-pockets, and the well-travelled tourist areas are prime hunting grounds for con-men to strike up conversations with their next victim. We strongly advise you take out travel insurance for you and your family.