One of the largest cities in Southeast Europe, Bucharest became capital in1862 and subsequently the centre of Romanian media, culture and art. As a result, there is a rich architectural mix and the city has been referred to as ‘little Paris’ due to the elegant buildings and the sophistication of its former elite. The best places to stay in Bucharest tend to be those closest to the centre.

Unfortunately quite a bit of Bucharest was destroyed under communism, but the Old Town, around Unirii Square, survived and it’s beautiful. It also has some of the best restaurants, pubs, shopping, and some of the best places to stay in Bucharest. Primaverii is another beautiful and atmospheric part of town, but more leafy and residential, in fact expensive residential. If you’re looking for good value consider the Tineretului district, which is close to Tineretului Park - which is huge - and has good transport links.

What Not To Miss

• Why not start at the iconic Palace of the Parliament, which was constructed during the 1980’s when Nicolae Ceausescu held sway. This massive edifice boasts 1,100 rooms and is the largest parliament building in the world.
• There are museums galore; the Taranului (peasant customs and crafts), the Satului (village of preserved farmsteads etc.), Istorie (of history going back to the pre-historic) to name but a few.
• Don't forget the neoclassical Romanian Athenaeum which is the centre for performing arts, or the 15th century Curtea Veche Palace, once home to Prince ’Vlad the Impaler’.
• Plus there are lovely orthodox churches, most notably the Stavropoleos with its decorative sculptures and amazing frescoes.

The city is now enjoying an economic and cultural renaissance. And for this reason, it's a busy destination year-round. If you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Bucharest, get organised and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Bucharest

In the Old Town

• The Grand Hotel Continental is a five star hotel situated in the historic centre of Bucharest. Its rooms and suites are presented in traditionally elegant style with renaissance furnishings. There is a first class restaurant, function rooms etc. and, as you'd expect for a luxury establishment, there are very high service standards.
• The Hotel Christina is a sleek, contemporary hotel with colour themed rooms, located close to the centre right by the National Museum of Art.
• In total contrast, Hotel Scala boasts beautiful classic rooms with parquet flooring and sumptuous fabrics. It's a historic building right in the centre of the city with doubles starting from €75 per night B&B.

For great value

• Hotel Christina is a sleek, contemporary hotel with colour themed rooms, located close to the centre right by the National Museum of Art. It has all the mod cons, including a cafe and a restaurant, plus doubles start from just €69 including breakfast.
• In total contrast, Hotel Scala boasts beautiful classic rooms with parquet flooring and sumptuous fabrics. It's a historic building right in the centre of the city with doubles starting from €75 per night B&B.

For city centre luxury

• Grand Hotel Continental is a five star hotel situated in the historic centre of Bucharest. Its rooms and suites are presented in traditionally elegant style with renaissance furnishings. There is a first class restaurant, function rooms etc. and, as you'd expect for a luxury establishment, there's a very high level of service.

For An Apartment Or Villa

If you think you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• If you want to spend your days sightseeing then it's definitely best to visit in the summer months, with the average daily temperature reaching 22°C in July.
• However, this is peak tourist season so if you fancy visiting at a quieter and cheaper time then consider coming in May or September.
• International visitors can fly into Bucharest Henri Coandå International Airport, located about 18km north of downtown Bucharest. From the airport, either take the bus or the train to the city centre.
• Blue Air and Wizz Air fly from Luton to Bucharest, whilst Ryanair go from Stansted.
• For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of the best places to stay in Bucharest.
• Alternatively, widen the net to search through our list of the best places to stay across the border in Belgrade or Budapest.
• Or feel free to contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.