Bucharest - Bukarest

Also known as Little Paris Bucharest (Bucharest) on Romanian capital. With a population of about 2.6 million, Bucharest is not only the largest city in Romania, but also one of the largest cities in Eastern Europe.

The city of opposites is still in poor condition following Nicolae Ceausescu and the Communists, but efforts have been made to improve it and its reputation over the years. On the other hand, in the middle of the gray, bullet-perforated communist-era buildings, there are also devastated areas, churches, and parks that make the city an interesting mix of different eras of history.

The best time to visit Bucharest is spring, when the winter frosts have been left behind and the summer sun has not yet made the city painfully hot.

Come

By plane

• 44.57046426.0783071 Otopeni Airport (Henri Coanda). (DATE: OTP) From Otopeni Airport you can reach the city center in 1-2 hours (price 7 lei) by express bus 783 (terminus Piata Unirii) and 780 (terminus Gare de Nord). Tickets are purchased in advance from a kiosk near the stop, as the driver does not sell tickets. Be sure to stamp the flag with a stamping device. In the city center, the terminus is on the edge of the Piaţa Uniir roundabout. You can also get on board from other stops (such as Piaţa Victoriei, Piaţa Romana and Piaţa Universitatii) along the way. A taxi ride from Otopeni Airport to the city center takes less than an hour, depending on the time and congestion. Official taxis leave from in front of the arrivals terminal. Fly Taxi is the only company whose taxis are allowed to wait at the airport and are therefore more expensive. When taking taxi trips inside the terminal, take the risk of being scammed. 

BluAir fly straight From Helsinki To Bucharest. Luftansa operates flights from Helsinki to Bucharest by changing aircraft in Germany.

• 44.49619626.0863842 Baneasa Airport (Aurel Vlaicu) (Closer to the center). (DATE: BBU) Beneasa airport is used, inter alia, by low-cost airlines. From Baneasa Airport there is a bus connection to the city center (Piaţa Romana) with buses 131 and 335. Tickets for these buses are also bought in advance, but they are somewhat cheaper than the 783 line. 

By train

All long-distance trains arrive at Gara de Nord, other stations are mainly served by local trains. There are international train connections to Bucharest from the capitals of all neighboring countries, as well as e.g. From Moscow, From Istanbul and From Vienna.

By bus

There are international bus connections to Bucharest from others Balkan countries and Istanbul.

By road

The capital is an important transport hub and roads run in every direction. The drive from Finland to Bucharest is just over a week e.g. Baltic, Polish, Slovak and Hungary through.

Move

In the public

Public transport [1] are functional and affordable. The subway is often faster. The land transport network is comprehensive, but at peak times traffic is slow. Schedules are often incorrect.

There is a different ticket system for the metro and land transport. Tickets can be purchased at the metro entrances and at ticket sales booths in connection with bus and tram stops. Single tickets must be stamped on the stamping device when entering the vehicle. Drivers do not sell travel tickets.

Traveling is safe, but pickpockets should be wary of, especially during peak times.

Metro

Bucharest has four metro lines (M1, M2, M3 and M4) covering the whole city quite well. There are quite a few stops in the downtown area, but the connections between the downtown and the outskirts of the city work well. The metro is also a good way to avoid chaotic traffic with congestion. They run from 5 to 11 p.m. Metro cards are sold at metro stations from the ticket office and in some places from vending machines. There are different types of metro cards: 2 trips, 10 trips, 1 day and 1 month. (There are no single trip cards.)

Buses, trams and trolleys

In buses, railcars and trolleys, Multiplu or Activ cards purchased from RATB ticket sales kiosks are used in advance.

• Multiplu card, better suited for tourists. It includes 2-10 trips or is valid for 1 day. The card is validated on the means of transport. The Multiplu card cannot be reloaded. The Multiplu Card cannot be used on bus lines 780 and 783 to the airport.

• Activ card purchase requires proof of identity.

Getting around the city center is convenient by bus or tram (trolleybuz) if you know where you are going. Displays inside vehicles are far from always working and are completely missing from most buses and trams. However, the townspeople are happy to help, so you can always ask for help. Route map for buses, trams and trolleys: [2]. Find a route: [3].

By taxi

Formal and unofficial taxis are plentiful, but you should be careful with the payment. Official taxis are identified by their yellow color and the taxi company logos and fare tables on their sides. However, many unofficial taxis mimic these colors and thus it is not worth jumping on board any car that advertises itself as a yellow taxi. Especially taxis waiting in front of Bucharest's northern railway station (Gara de nord) as well as drivers pushing taxis anywhere should be avoided. Often, the price of the trip should also be verified in advance to reduce the risk of scam attempts. When comparing prices, it is worth noting that often a cheaper start-up fee (pornire) is shown in larger letters than the actual mileage fee.

See

• People's Palace (Casa Poporului). The People's Palace, built by Nicolae Ceausescu and now serves as the Parliament Building. The second largest building in the world right after the Pentagon. The palace and its history can be explored on guided tours, which are also held in English. The tour, which lasts about an hour, covers an estimated 2% of the total area of ​​the building. 
• Village Museum (Muulul Satului), Șoseaua Pavel Dimitrievici Kiseleff 28-30. An open-air museum displaying authentic dwellings from all over the Romanian countryside. Located in Herastrau Park. 
• Museum of Natural Sciences (National Museum of Natural History Grigore Antipa), Șoseaua Pavel Dimitrievici Kiseleff 1. On display is a large collection of stuffed animals, insects, butterflies and other animal-themed items. The showcases, which present the fauna of different areas in their real habitat, deserve special attention. Located near the Arc de Triomphe. 20 Lei. 
• Old Town (Between the Dâmboviţa River and Elizabeth Boulevard and Calea Victoriei and Calea Moşilor). Part of the historic center of the city which Ceauşescu did not demolish. 19th century buildings, Wallachian medieval Hovi churches, hotels, nightclubs, restaurants and shops. The restoration project is nearing completion in 2012. 
• Revolution Square (Revolution Beach). An important place in the 1989 revolution, close to other squares, the northern railway station and the People's Palace. In the middle of the square is a monument to those who fell in the revolution. 
• Curtea Veche Museum, Strada Franceză, nr. 25-31. Remains of the Royal Palace. 
• Old Court Church (Close to Piata Unir). Built around 1559, this was once crowned by the kings of Wallachia. 
• Military History Museum, Strada M. Vulcănescu, no. 125-127. Weapons from prehistoric times to the present day. 
• Museum of the Romanian Farmer, Şoseaua Kiseleff, no. 3. The museum presents traditional rural life in the form of interior design, clothing, tools and art. adults 6 Lei, students 4 Lei. 
• Bucharest Museum of History, Bd. I.C. Brătianu, no. 2 (At the Şuţu Palace). The history of the city from the 14th century fortress to the present million city. 

Parks

• Cismigiu Park. Especially a park popular with young couples, the pond in the middle of which can be reached by renting a pedal or rowing boat. 
• Parcul Tineretului (South of Tineretului Metro Station). 
• Parcul Herăstrău (Next to Aviatorilor Metro Station). 
• Parcul Natural Văcărești. A idle land with vegetation and a marshland. 

Tea

• National Opera (National Opera), Bulevardul Mihail Kogălniceanu nr. 70-72 (Eroilor district), ☎ 4021 3146980. 5-64 Lei. 
• Filarmonica George Enescu (George Enescun Philharmonic), Strada B. Franklin no. 1-3 (On the edge of Revolution Square), ☎ 4021 3152567. In Athenæum, Romania (one of the city's landmarks) 
• Itr Dacian National Theater of Operations (Ion Dacian National Operetta Theater), Bulevardul Nicolae Bălcescu nr.2 (near the university square), ☎ 4021 3151502. 
• Noul cinematograf al regizorului roman (New cinema for Romanian directors), Strada Intrarea Monetăriei nr. 3 (in connection with the farmer's museum), ☎ 4021 3179660. Art films and documentaries selected by well-known Romanian directors. 10 Lei. 

Buy

Chip credit cards are uncertain.

There are several currency exchange points and in many the exchange rate is better than in Finland.

At the airport (Otopeni) it is good to note that in a small Tax Free shop you only need euros, so it is not worth saving the local currency until the airport.

The stores of well-known brands are located on the main boulevard between Piaţa Romană and Piaţa Unir and its side streets but also on Calea Victorie, Calea Dorobanţilor (Blvd. between Iancu de Hunedoara and Piaţa Dorobanţilor) and Calea Moşilor on Blvd. Between Carol I and Piaţa Obor.

Shopping malls

• Unirea Shopping Center (Central Commercial Company), Unirii Square 1 (Metro: Unirii Beach). Mon-Sat 9:00 - 22:00; from 9:00 to 18:00. Romania's first modern shopping mall. 
• Bucharest shopping center (Bucharest Mall), Calea Vitan 55-59 (Bus: 123, 124, 133. Tram: 15, 19, 23, 30). Mon-Sun 10:00 - 22:00. A modern shopping mall with stores from many international chains. 
• Baneasa Shopping City, Sos.Bucuresti-Ploiesti 42D. Mon-Sun 10:00 - 22:00. A large modern shopping center with more than 220 stores, among several international brand stores. Also next to Ikea and Carrefour. Located next to Baneasa Airport about 7 km from the center. 
• Thomas Antiques, Str. Covaci 19 (Lipscani area), ☎ 4 0752 440 818‎. A beautiful antique shop with a wide selection and the opportunity to have a drink in a special environment. 

Eat

Cheap

• La mama, mm. Barbu Văcărescu 3, Delea Veche 51, Episcopiei 9, and Carrefour Orchid, ☎ 40-21-2124086. A locals-favored Bucharest restaurant chain serving ordinary Romanian food at reasonable prices. The portions are large and the price-quality ratio is excellent. An English-language menu may not be available, but waiters strive to interpret and assist in finding the right food to the best of their ability. There are La mama restaurants, e.g. Close to Piaţa Romana and the Bucharest Mall (Bucureşti Mall). 
• Chelsea Bistro-Cafe, Str. Joule Michelet no. 9 (B-dul next to Magheru around Piaţa Romană and Piaţa Universităţi), ☎0788 330 130, 0788 330 129, 317 33 78. A wide variety of pizzas and drinks. 14-28 Lei / 32 cm pizza. 
• Cuptorul cu lemne, B-dul Pache Protopopescu nr. 63, ☎ 40-21-2522414. A popular pizza restaurant that is often full on weekends. Cheap prices and some consider the best pizzas in Romania. 

Mid-priced

• Crama Domneasca, Str.Selari 13-15. 12-24. Restaurant in the old town with Romanian cuisine. Larger portions and a varied menu, but unfortunately the quality of the food is downright poor compared to other restaurants in Bucharest. 10-30 € / person. 
• Caru 'cu bere (Caru 'cu bere), Stavropoleos str. Well. 5 "phone" 0726.282.373. 
• City Grill, 7 restaurants in Bucharest. A popular steakhouse chain especially at lunchtime. Slightly higher than average price level but the portions are large and fresh grape juice is available. 
• Becker Brau, Strada Turturelelor 11 (Alba Iulia Square), ☎ 4021 335 56 50. Mon-Fri 11: 30-24, Sat-Sun 11: 30-03. One of the only micro-breweries in town, serving German-style food and beer. 
• Casa Gorjana, Strada Domnița Anastasia 13. National food in a rustic decor. 

Price methods

• Casa di David, Soseaua Nordului no. 7-9, ☎ 40 21 232 47 15. Opened in 2005, the main restaurant of the "new rich" in Bucharest. The food is Italian style, the atmosphere is good and the wine selection is wide. Admittedly, the doses are small and the price level on the ceiling by Romanian standards. three-course dinner with wine 400 Lei / 2 person. 
• Taj Indian Restaurant (Calea 13 Septembrie, 127-131,), Sector 5, Bucureşti (Marriott near the hotel), ☎410.18.20. 12.00 - 24.00. Indian restaurant, especially for vegetarians. price tag. 
• Rossetya, 9 Str Dimitrie Bolintineanu. A classic, upscale restaurant with a nice atmosphere, English service and good food. 

Juo

Cafes

Bars & pubs

• Becker Brau, Strada Turturelelor 11 (Alba Iulia Square), ☎ 4021 335 56 50. Mon-Fri 11: 30-24, Sat-Sun 11: 30-03. One of the only micro-breweries in town, serving German-style food and beer. 
• Interbelic (Interbelic Cocktail Bar), Intrarea Selari 1A (near Lipscani), ☎ 40722681618. 17-children. best cocktail bar in Bucharest; fine spirits, great nights medium. 
• Piranha, Splaiul Independenţei 313 (On the campus of the Polytechnic University), ☎ 4021 315 91 29. Huge pub with large park terrace. A favorite place for students and really low prices (beer 2.5 Lei, about 75 cents). Occasionally crowded. 

Nightclubs

• Control Club, Str. Academiei nr.19 (near the university square), ☎0733927861. 15-05. The best alternative / indie club in town, often with live music. 
• Expirat / OtherSide, Str. Lipscan no. 5 / Str. Brezoianu no. 4, ☎ 40 73 EXPIRAT, e-mail: [email protected]. An outgoing and popular club, divided into two parts. In Expirat (the old club) rock, dance and hip hop are played, on the new side, in the OtherSide, DJs play electronic music. Theme nights, tourist friendly, good cocktails and reasonable prices. 
• Underworld, Str. Colţei, no. 48. The only punk pub in Bucharest. The club has a small concert hall, various games, etc. 
• Club A (near the university square), ☎ 4021 313 55 92. 18-06. The first and oldest nightclub in Bucharest that is almost 40 years old (in a city where nightclubs are up to 5 years old). From the beginning, it has been popular with students. Special atmosphere, good music and low prices. 
• Bamboo, Str. Ramuri Tei 39 (in Tei Park), ☎ 40722 132 283, e-mail: [email protected]. The biggest nightclub in Bucharest, great and expensive. 

Sleep

Cheap

• Vila Helga, str. Mihai Eminescu no. 184 (Near Piaţa Romană), ☎ 4021 2120828, e-mail: [email protected]. 10-10.50 € / night (price includes bed linen and breakfast). 
• Butterfly Villa Hostel, Str. Stirbei Voda 96 (entrance from Str. C.Stah side), ☎Ph. 40 (0) 21 314 75 95/40 (0) 741 721 169, e-mail: [email protected]. Newly renovated and clean hostel in the first district. The price includes bed linen, breakfast and internet. Airport transfers, excursions and a laundry service can be arranged at an additional cost. from € 12 / night. 
• Carpathians, str. Matei Millo no. 16, ☎ 40(021)3150140, e-mail: [email protected]. In the old part of Bucharest, between Calea Victoriei and Grădina Cişmigiu, 15 minutes from Universitate Metro Station. Small but affordable and clean rooms. € 40- € 85 / night. 
• Dalin Center Hotel, Sos.Ştefan Cel Mare 33A, ☎ 4021-211-0070. New and modern design hotel. € 49- € 59 / night. 
• Casa Romaneasca, Calea Bucureștilor 285A (1 km from Otopeni Airport). Motel and restaurant. 

Mid-priced

• Ambassador, Blvd. Magheru No. 8-10, ☎ 40213159080, e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]. € 56- € 99 / night. MULTIPLE-EMAIL
• Capitol, Calea Victoriei 29, ☎ 4021315 80 30. Comfortable one hundred year old three star hotel near Cercul Militar. Large rooms. € 55- € 75 / night. 
• Casa Victor, Str. Emanoil Porumbaru no. 44 (Near Aviatorilori metro station), ☎ 4021 222 57 23 or 222 96 26, e-mail: [email protected]. Check-out: 11:00. € 55- € 140 / night. 
• Ibis-Nord, Calea Grivitei no. 143, ☎40(021)4011011, e-mail: [email protected]. A basic two-star hotel in a French chain. from € 45 / night. 

Price methods

• Hilton-Athénée Palace, str. Episcopiei no. 1-3, ☎40(021) 303 3777, e-mail: [email protected]. A typical Hilton near the Atheneum. Pleasant café and a nice summer terrace. 
• JW Marriott Bucharest Grand, Calea 13 Septembrie no. 90, ☎ 40 21 4030000, e-mail: [email protected]. Large luxury hotel behind the People's Palace in a central location, all amenities. 
• Intercontinental, Blvd. Nicolae Bălcescu nr. 4, ☎4021310202. Partially renovated, renovations are still ongoing in part of the hotel. Large rooms with balconies. Good service, excellent nightclub and lounge on the 22nd floor. 
• Howard Johnson Grand Plaza, Calea Dorobanţilor nr. 5-7, ☎ 4021 2015000, e-mail: mailto: [email protected]. New luxury hotel near Piata Romana, with great restaurants and a casino. 

Apartments

• ApartHomes, ☎ 40 212 320 406, e-mail: [email protected]. Long-term or short-term apartment accommodation, especially for the needs of business travelers. 
• Victoria Studio, Strada Actor Ion Brezoianu (Next to the Old Town). Neat small studio with kitchenette, bathroom and air conditioning. 

Stay safe

Bucharest was famous for its tens of thousands of street dogs. Most of the street dogs in the urban area have been removed and are not a nuisance today.

When moving around the city, you should use common sense. Pocket thefts are common, but they can be avoided by taking care of your belongings. Some neighborhoods are at a disadvantage.

Unofficial taxis should not be used, as the ride may end up costing as much as coming off the ATM.

The biggest danger for tourists in Bucharest is traffic. Motorists should not be expected to follow traffic rules or traffic signs. So don’t cross the street, even if the light is green, until you’re sure the cars stop.

Stay healthy

Tap water is mainly potable, but not nearly always good-tasting or smelling. It is best to drink only bottled water.

During the summer, temperatures in Bucharest can easily rise above 40 degrees Celsius. To avoid problems, it is best to protect yourself from the sun and remember to drink plenty of water.

Take contact

• Finnish Embassy, Strada Atena 2 bis, ☎ 40-21-230 7504, e-mail: [email protected]. 

Continue your journey

• Snagov small town 20 km north of Bucharest. Beaches and a large lake in the middle of the island and a small monastery. There is also the tomb of Vlad III (also known as Dracula or Vlad the Savior).
• Brasov - city 200 km northwest, several trains a day. Attractions include e.g. medieval old town. Nearby are several ski resorts and the castle of Bran (according to legend, Count Dracula).
• Busteni - the mountain town of Buceg next to the Natural Park, in the area of ​​hiking trails
• Constanta and Black Sea beach resorts 220 km east of Bucharest.
• Other Romania

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