Welcome to EuroDirections’ January Spotlight: Bucharest, Romania’s dynamic capital where East meets West in a fascinating blend of history and modernity. As winter blankets this vibrant metropolis, discover a city that transforms into a magical destination where Belle Époque architecture stands alongside Soviet-era monuments, all dusted with snow.
Often called “Little Paris” for its elegant architecture and tree-lined boulevards, Bucharest offers visitors a unique winter experience. January reveals the city’s cozy side, with warm cafes serving steaming cups of Romanian coffee, historic restaurants offering hearty traditional dishes, and grand museums providing shelter from the winter chill while showcasing Romania’s rich cultural heritage.
This month, we invite you to explore a capital city that defies expectations – where you can wander through Europe’s largest civilian building (the Palace of Parliament), lose yourself in one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, and experience a nightlife scene that rivals any European capital. Despite the cold weather, January in Bucharest brings its own charm with fewer tourists, winter sales, and the lingering magic of the holiday season.
Join us as we guide you through the essential experiences, hidden gems, and practical tips that will make your winter visit to Bucharest unforgettable. From navigating the best flight routes to discovering local haunts where you can warm up with a țuică (traditional Romanian plum brandy), we’ve got your January journey covered.
Flight Routes to Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)
Popular flights to Bucharest from:
- London Heathrow (LHR) – Direct flights via British Airways and TAROM, ~3 hours
- Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – Direct via Air France and TAROM, ~3 hours
- Frankfurt (FRA) – Direct via Lufthansa and TAROM, ~2 hours 15 minutes
- Amsterdam (AMS) – Direct via KLM, ~2 hours 45 minutes
- Vienna (VIE) – Direct via Austrian Airlines, ~1 hour 45 minutes
January Weather & What to Pack
- Average temperature: -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F)
- Precipitation: Expect snow and rain (avg. 40mm)
- Pack essentials: warm winter coat, thermal layers, Waterproof boots, Gloves, scarf, and hat, umbrella
Winter Activities & Attractions
Indoor Cultural Experiences
- Visit the Palace of Parliament (world’s largest civilian building)
- National Museum of Art of Romania
- Romanian Athenaeum for classical concerts
- Carturesti Carusel, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores
Winter-Specific Activities
- Ice skating at Cișmigiu Park
- Winter sales shopping in January
- Thermal spa experiences
- Traditional Romanian winter festivals
Historical Sites
- Old Town (Lipscani district)
- Stavropoleos Monastery
- Revolution Square
- Village Museum (dress warmly for this outdoor museum)
Top Cafes & Restaurants
Caru’ cu Bere
Historic restaurant created in 1879, Traditional Romanian cuisine, Gothic revival architecture, Must-try: Sarmale (cabbage rolls)
Hanul lui Manuc
Oldest operating hotel-restaurant in Bucharest, Traditional Romanian and Armenian cuisine, Historical atmosphere, Specialty: Cooked-to-order bulz
Artichoke Social House
Modern fusion cuisine, Excellent coffee selection, Contemporary atmosphere, Known for: Weekend brunch
Camera din Față
Hipster café culture, Great for working/reading, Homemade cakes, Specialty coffee
Shift Restaurant
Fine dining experience, Modern Romanian cuisine, Tasting menus available, Reservation recommended
Shopping Guide
Shopping Centers in Bucharest
- AFI Cotroceni Mall
- Băneasa Shopping City
- Mega Mall
- Unirea Shopping Center
Local Markets
- Obor Market (largest traditional market)
- Christmas Market (early January)
- Antique markets in Lipscani
Souvenir Ideas
- Romanian traditional blouses (ie)
- Local wines
- Handmade ceramics
- Traditional painted eggs
- Carved wooden items
Cost Guide & Lifestyle (Approximate Prices in EUR)
Common Expenses in Bucharest
- Metro ticket: €0.70
- Coffee: €2-3
- Restaurant meal (mid-range): €15-20
- Local beer: €2-3
- Museum entry: €4-8
- Taxi (airport to city): €15-20
- 3-star hotel: €50-70/night for 2 persons
- 4-star hotel: €70-120/night for 2 persons
Money-Saving Tips
- Use public transport (efficient metro system)
- Consider buying a Bucharest Card for attractions
- Eat at local “cantinas” for authentic, affordable meals
- Book accommodations in advance
- Many museums offer free entry on first Wednesday of the month
Cultural Tips
- Romanians appreciate when visitors try basic Romanian phrases
- Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants
- Bucharest is generally safe, but take normal urban precautions
- Uber and Bolt are widely available and reliable
- Most young people speak English, especially in tourist areas
Emergency Information
- Emergency number: 112
- Tourist police: +40 21 315 6806
- Keep your embassy number handy
- Major hospitals accept European Health Insurance Card
