Where to Stay in Bucharest, Romania - A Complete Guide
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Here’s my complete guide to accommodation in Bucharest, the capital city of Romania.
I recently travelled to Bucharest as part of my 30th birthday celebrations and had an absolutely fantastic time.
The capital of Romania, Bucharest is a vibrant and bustling city of more than 1.75 million, with a further 2.3 million living within the surrounding metropolitan areas.
While I was initially drawn to the area by Bucharest’s viral spa and water park, I was lured into its old town by the beautiful architecture, modern vibe and abundance of restaurants and bars.
Whether you’re planning a whirlwind 24 hour spa break or a longer stay to explore the city, Bucharest has a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets.
At a glance…
Best hotel near the Otopeni Airport: RIN Airport Hotel
Best budget hotel in the Old Town: Piata Unirii Cozy Inn
Best luxury hotel in the Old Town: InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest
Best Airbnb: This luxury river view apartment
Where to Stay Near Otopeni Airport
If you’re travelling specifically to see the spa and don’t plan on venturing further into the city, then I recommend finding a place to stay that is close to the airport.
The Therme Spa in Bucharest is located just 5km from Otopeni Airport, while the Old Town totals around 20km in the opposite direction.
Here are some of the very best places to stay that are close to the Otopeni Airport.
Hotels
For a budget friendly option, take a look at Ibis Styles Bucharest Airport - an affordable 3 star option that’s just 800m from the airport. There’s even a free shuttle bus that can drop you off before and after your flights.
While there are no 5 star hotels in this area, a higher end option could include the RIN Airport Hotel. A four star option and the largest hotel in the vicinity of Otopeni Airport, this luxurious hotel is very well equipped - not only does it have a gym, but there’s tennis courts, a football pitch and a swimming pool in the wellness centre.
Guests have two upscale restaurants to choose from, a lobby bar, and even a waterpark with 10 pools!
Other hotels available in this area include the Vienna House Easy by Wyndham Airport Bucharest, which is a four star hotel just 600m from the Otopeni Airport. They offer a breakfast buffet and bar, fast internet and gym access.
Another four star option, Ramada by Wyndham Bucharest also has a spa and wellness centre, plus three restaurants. Breakfast here is operated on a cook-to-order basis.
Finally, why not try Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest Airport, which is a 5 minute walk from the airport. Here you will have access to an all day restaurant, terrace and fitness centre, with reviews reporting that the breakfast is fabulous.
Outside the Stavropoleos Monastery in Bucharest
Airbnb
For those who prefer to stay in a homey Airbnb rather than a hotel, there are plenty of properties to choose from that are close to the Otopeni Airport.
This beautiful cabin has a small garden area and is rated five stars on Airbnb.
For a more modern option, this stylish studio apartment is equipped with everything you might need. There’s even a little balcony.
If you’re after a pool, this two bedroom loft apartment has a shared option.
Finally, for those who are travelling in a group, Airbnb has a beautiful three bedroom villa available. It’s just a 10 - 15 minute drive from the airport and enclosed within a gated area.
Where to Stay in Bucharest Old Town
For those who are heading to Bucharest for a longer trip, or are not interested in seeing the spa, then I would highly recommend staying in the Old Town. With beautiful architecture and loads of restaurants, bars and shops, there’s plenty here to keep you occupied.
Tour companies even run trips to Dracula’s Castle (Bran Castle) in Transylvania, which departs from Bucharest. Take a look on the Viator website here, and the Get Your Guide website here (please note that these do not typically include entry tickets to the castles or lunch).
Here is my accommodation guide to Bucharest’s Old Town.
Hotels
Budget
For those who are travelling on a budget, there are plenty of low cost hotels and hostels to choose from. While these tend to be basic and don’t necessarily have the best amenities, they do provide a clean and comfortable place to rest your head for a low price.
Piata Unirii Cozy Inn is a well rated guest house in a beautiful old villa which dates back to 1918. They offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms - so no need to share with other travellers, as well as dormitories.
Antique Hostel Bucharest offers both private and dormitory style rooms, with lots of facilities including free lockers, paid laundry facilities and a common room.
For another dormitory style hostel, Hostel Sport Bucharest has several options available, all of which are separated into male and female rooms.
Mid level
For those who are still looking to travel on a budget but prefer a mid-range option, there are many recognisable hotel brands for you to choose from.
The Moxy Bucharest Old Town is a four star offering with modern rooms and a lively 24/7 bar. Continental and buffet breakfasts are available in the cafe area for an additional charge. Other amenities include a terrace, gym and meeting rooms.
The Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest Old Town is another four star hotel that’s equipped with modern rooms, a fitness centre and a restaurant. A similar option is the four star Novotel Bucharest City, which has a restaurant as well as an onsite fitness centre.
The final mid-range option is the Europa Royale Bucharest Hotel. Yes, it is another four star hotel but this time located in a well preserved 19th century building. The interiors are modern, the restaurant reportedly has a fabulous breakfast and the views are supposed to be fantastic from the 4th floor rooms.
Luxury
For those who have a bit more money to spend and are looking for a high end experience, there are plenty of hotels to choose from in Bucharest.
My first five star choice is Marmorosch Bucharest, which is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. The interiors are modern and stylish, and the hotel has plenty of amenities including a restaurant, bar, spa, and indoor pool.
Located in the heart of the city, the Epoque Hotel has an impressive French neo-classical facade and is also rated five stars. They have a fantastic onsite spa, as well as a beautiful restaurant, bar, lounge, and an outside terrace. This is a wonderful luxury option that will make any stay in Bucharest one to remember.
The InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest is another five star option to consider. With a legacy spanning more than 100 years, the hotel has an upscale restaurant with an outside terrace, a cafe and English style bar with a history rich in spy stories. There’s also a spa, pool and fitness centre available to guests.
Last but not least is the five star Grand Hotel Continental Bucharest. Similar to the previous suggestions, this boutique hotel has an onsite spa, as well as two restaurants. Next door they run a continental pastry shop, and there’s also a hotel bar available which serves a traditional 5 o’clock tea experience.
Airbnb
During my visit I stayed in a lovely Airbnb that was cosy, clean and comfortable. It’s right next to the Old Town, and I found it easy to book taxis (using the Bolt app) from here to the Therme spa. Use my code AIASTAY10% for a discount!
If the previous recommendation doesn’t fit your needs, there are plenty of other Airbnb options to choose from.
This lovely two bedroom flat in Bucharest Old Town has a modern bathroom and small balcony. There’s also an Airbnb with a freestanding bath tub, and another elegant option with two bedrooms.
If you’re looking for a particularly luxurious option, then check out this two bedroom apartment which has stunning decor and a large bathtub!
Have a fantastic time during your trip to Bucharest, and make sure you read my blog post all about the fantastic Therme Bucharest spa here.
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