Here is all the Bucharest winter travel advice that you need. We’ve got a list of things to do in Bucharest in winter and where to stay.
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Bucharest In The Winter
Exotic, unexpected destination, the capital of Romania surprises its visitors with its incredible history and recent past. The city hosts impressive monuments, squares, and museums that manage to depict what life used to be like in the former Communist country.
Traveling to Bucharest is always a journey of exploration, discovery, and history at any time of the year. In winter, this cultural experience mixes with the magical atmosphere of the holidays and the beauty of endless snow-covered streets.
How Cold Does It Get?
The whole country is frigid during winter, which lasts from mid-November until March. In Bucharest, snow and frost are common, and days are cold and often cloudy.
Does It Snow?
Yes, it definitely snows in Bucharest! Winter temperatures usually hover around -4°C (25°F), which means you can expect some chilly days.
There are times when it gets even colder, with occasional cold spells dropping the temperature to about -15°C (5°F) or even lower.
If you’re like me and enjoy an authentic winter experience, you’ll appreciate the snow-covered streets that give the city a magical feel. Just be prepared with warm layers and a good winter coat to make the most of your time outdoors.
What To Pack For Bucharest In Winter
Packing for winter in Bucharest can be tricky, especially if you’re trying to fit everything into a carry-on. But don’t worry—it’s totally doable with a bit of smart planning. I’ve found that rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space, and layering is key to staying warm without overpacking.
When choosing what to bring, go for technical fabrics or natural fibers. I always start with thermal undergarments—they’re a lifesaver in keeping the chill out. Wool socks are another must-have, especially when paired with waterproof boots. Trust me, keeping your feet warm and dry can make or break your day out in the cold.
Don’t forget the essentials: gloves, a scarf, and a wool hat. These small items can make a big difference when the wind picks up. And, of course, an insulated jacket is your best friend in Bucharest’s winter weather. It’s perfect for those snowy days and will keep you comfortable whether you’re exploring the city or heading up into the mountains.
Best Things To Do In Bucharest In Winter
Many people head to the Balkans for their winter vacations; most Balkan countries offer affordable holiday opportunities to enjoy winter sports, such as snowboarding and skiing, as well as great city escapes full of interesting experiences.
A winter city break in Bucharest can be a fantastic alternative if you’re not into winter sports. The city is full of indoor activities to keep you warm.
In Bucharest, you can visit museums and former government buildings where you will learn a lot about the country’s recent history. You can also enjoy walks in the center of town, venture into off-the-track neighborhoods, go shopping, or enjoy the local cuisine.
Also, and mainly during the Christmas season, you can join the locals in their rituals and celebrations, visit Advent markets, shop for cute souvenirs, indulge in seasonal dishes, and even attend mass to feel that you’re participating in the local community.
Some even say visiting Bucharest during Christmas can be much more rewarding than getting there in summer when crowds flock to the country and plane tickets, accommodation, and prices generally increase.
Let’s check out the top winter activities you can enjoy in Bucharest, the best things to do, and a few extra smart tips that can transform your trip into a memorable experience.
1. Take Christmassy Pictures Of Bucharest
Dozens of colorful lights, giant Christmas trees, carols, and an overall magical atmosphere are part of what you could expect during Christmas in Bucharest. In town, you can admire public and private decorations and giant former Communist buildings with lights and signs constantly reminding you of the merry season.
The skies tend to be grey and gloomy, and even when you might think there are no great pictures, on the contrary! From a photographer’s perspective, clouds are the best natural filters for photos, avoiding extreme quantities of light entering the lens and giving your shots an atmospheric feel.
Taking photos in Bucharest around Christmas time can be very rewarding. Check out what time in the afternoon it gets dark (remember that in winter, the days are shorter) and also what time trees and street Christmas lights start glowing in the dark. You could get back home with stunning photos of Bucharest.
If you are unsure where to go first or need a few photography tips to get you started, a photo tour of the city with a local photographer is nothing but a winning decision!
Alternatively, a private tour of Bucharest means just you (and your travel party) and the tour guide; it is also a good idea to request a few extra minutes at each stop where you want to take a picture. The added value of such a tour is that you will also learn much about the city and its history by listening to the guide’s explanations.
2. Check Out Bucharest Christmas Markets
The seasonal markets you will find along the streets of Bucharest deserve a paragraph of their own. The city hosts at least three different markets during the Christmas season, and they are all ideal destinations to get yourself some Romanian-style tree ornaments.
But there’s more; you can sample pleasant flavors typical of the country and the season, such as sweet crepes and pies, sausages, salami, and the unmissable mullet wine, locally known as vin fliert.
You will find the biggest Christmas market set on Constitution Square, open from the end of November until a day or two after Christmas, from morning to evening. Here, you will marvel at the giant Christmas tree, enjoy carols and bands playing music, and check out over 200 stalls selling anything you could imagine.
3. Food Hunting In Bucharest
There is no better way to discover a country’s secrets than through its cuisine. National dishes tell tons of stories about a community’s history and traditions, and in Bucharest, it won’t be any different.
With rich gastronomy, perfect for the cold winter temperatures, indulging in Bucharest’s best restaurants can be a great idea.
Hang out at the same places where locals go and forget about the menu: ask for the day’s dish and enjoy discovering new flavors. If you’re unsure what to try in Bucharest, ask for mici, which is probably the most beloved dish in town. These are small skinless sausages served with mustard and cold beer.
Spend time in small bars and taverns; it will be perfect for keeping you warm if the snow or rain surprises you while walking around the city. However, if you want a complete idea about what the Romanians eat, head to the markets and look around to find new products you may have never seen.
A food tour of Bucharest is another way to meet new people and understand everything about local foods and traditions. These tours always include sampling different bites and even stops at popular food joints that the locals love. During the experience, you will learn about Romanian tastes; you will visit other food markets and sample some gustari (starters), homemade bread, and Romanian beer.
If you prefer to sample the food alone, start by heading to the Jewish Quarter to taste the famous covrigi, the Romanian version of pretzel. Then, head to Obor Market, the largest and most visited in the city, where you’ll find every food, spice, herb, and food-related thing you could imagine… and much more!
Do not miss the opportunity to sit at a bar and sample the Romanian palinca (a local kind of brandy), and why not… for added sweetness, look for a bakery and try a delicious Wallachian doughnut.
4. Stroll Through Cişmigiu Garden
Make your way to Cişmigiu Garden, Bucharest’s oldest park and one of the prettiest. But on your way there, stop at Bohemia Tea House, a cozy spot very popular with young Romanians. You can get different types of tea and snacks here and relax on floor cushions. There’s a big tea culture in Romania, which is particularly enjoyable on those cold winter days.
Once you arrive at Cişmigiu Garden, take in the sophisticated atmosphere and enjoy your stroll in the winter wonderland. In the winter, you can ice skate and people-watch.
5. Eat Papanasi – A Sweet Winter Treat
You will totally fall in love with this Romanian dessert. It’s cottage cheese, sweetened and combined with semolina. The mixture is shaped like a doughnut, passed through bread crumbs, and fried.
You usually get two papanasi in one serving. The doughnuts are covered with sour cream and jam and topped with a small ball of the same ingredients. Watch out for portion sizes, though. Some restaurants tend to be very generous with theirs.
6. Experience Romanian Folklore And Christmas Traditions
If you’re in Bucharest during the holiday season, don’t miss the chance to experience Romanian Christmas traditions. Attend a folklore show or visit a cultural center where you can learn about local customs like caroling or mask-making.
These activities are deeply rooted in Romanian history and offer a fun, interactive way to engage with the culture. Participating in these traditions is a memorable way to connect with the local community.
7. Cozy Up With Traditional Food & Drink At Caru’ Cu Bere
If you want to eat traditional Romanian food in a place packed with history, you won’t go far wrong with Caru cu Bere. The name means ‘The Beer Wagon.’ The restaurant has over 130 years of history, having been founded by the famous Mirceal brothers. The restaurant aims to keep alive the city’s old spirit and serve the best local dishes with the freshest produce.
Be sure to try sarmale, a type of Romanian cabbage leaf sarma that is stuffed with juicy minced meat; it’s also available in other flavors. It would be best if you also prioritized cod roe salad; although the menu is so extensive, you won’t struggle to find something to suit your tastes. This restaurant does get pretty busy at weekends, so you may need to book your table ahead of time.
8. Head Indoors At The Opera
The Romanian Athenaeum and the Romanian National Opera are the city’s two music halls, with year-round theatrical, concert, and opera performances. Seeing a performance while in Bucharest is a great cultural experience, especially when paired with a night out at a Caru’ cu Bere!
9. Discover Romania’s Recent Past
The country is a living museum of the Communist regime that governed most Balkan countries after WWII and until recent years. Romania, in particular, spent long years under brutal tyranny.
You can start by visiting Primaverii Palace, Ceausescu’s mansion in Bucharest, where he lived with his family from 1965 to 1989. Here, you can learn about the history of the building and the country, as well as the fascinating and highly controversial life of the last Romanian dictator.
The so-called Spring Palace can be visited from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., and tickets should be booked online. Independent tours are also available to visit the mansion.
For a glimpse into middle-class life during this period in history, visit the Feresroika Experience, a living museum showcasing the life of a military family during Ceaușescu’s rule.
And if you want some more action, jump on Bucharest’s quintessential public transport for a short ride on a tram along the famous Mosilor Street to explore more about Communist Bucharest, with blocks of housing projects and regimented areas.
For a complete experience, you can also book an organized tour of communist Bucharest. During three hours, you can learn more about how different regimes influenced the city’s landscapes and architectural styles and discover details about the communist regime’s violent beginnings.
The tour also includes a stop at the impressive Palace of Parliament and an introduction to the bloody anti-communist revolution of 1989.
10. Try Local Winter Drinks
When the temperatures drop, warm yourself up with some of Romania’s traditional winter drinks. Beyond the well-known mulled wine, try țuică, a potent plum brandy that’s especially popular in the colder months.
Another great option is a hot herbal tea made from ingredients like mint or linden flower, which locals commonly enjoy. These drinks are not only delicious but also a great way to experience Romanian culture through its flavors.
11. Visit Bucharest’s Prettiest Neighborhoods (Mahallas)
Next up, move to the Armenian Quarter to learn about the different foreign communities living in Bucharest for centuries.
Life in this particular neighborhood (mahalla) revolves around the beautiful Armenian church. At the same time, houses feature various architectural styles, from Classical to Belle Époque, Modernist, New Romanian, and more. It is around here that you can see the oldest house in Bucharest.
Not far away, you can check out Mantuleasa, another gorgeous nineteenth-century neighborhood known for its quiet atmosphere and inter-war architecture.
Personally, I think that a walk in Bucharest’s Old Town is another must during your visit. This part of town is all that remains of ancient Bucharest after the destruction of the city during WWII bombings and the communist era. The area has several churches with impressive doors, walls, and paintings worth a stop.
12. Explore Bucharest’s Libraries
Bucharest’s libraries are not just for book lovers; they’re also architectural gems. The Central University Library and the National Library of Romania are worth a visit, especially on a cold winter day.
These libraries offer a quiet refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city, with beautiful interiors that make them great spots for relaxing or catching up on some reading. Plus, they’re an excellent place to warm up while taking in some of the city’s history and culture.
13. Wander Stavropoleos Monastery & The Snowy Grounds
In the Old Town, you will see Stavropoleos Church, originally built as a monastery by a Greek monk. It’s a stunning little gem with fantastic frescoes and beautifully carved windows and doors. As one of the smallest churches in Bucharest, it’s also one of the city’s most fascinating landmarks.
The churchyard is also incredibly picturesque in the winter, especially after a fresh snowfall.
14. Explore The National Museum Of The Romanian Peasant
If you’re looking for a cozy indoor activity, the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant is the perfect place to spend a few hours.
This museum is dedicated to Romanian folk culture and features a wide array of traditional clothing, textiles, pottery, and tools. It’s an insightful look into Romania’s rural past and provides a warm escape from the winter chill.
The museum’s exhibits are thoughtfully arranged, making it easy to navigate and learn about the country’s rich heritage.
15. Check Out The Palace Of Parliament
This monumental building was erected as another unmissable stop in town during the communist Ceausescu regime. It is the world’s heaviest building and one of the biggest administrative buildings ever built, second only to the US Pentagon.
Locals confirm that dozens of secret tunnels within the palace reach many areas in town.
Within the palace, now you will find different museums, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Communist Totalitarianism, and the Museum of the Palace… and I think they are all excellent places to visit to see further shelter from cold Bucharest. There are different tours and routes to visit; you can check them all online.
16. Attend A Christmas Concert At The Romanian Athenaeum
The Romanian Athenaeum is one of Bucharest’s most beautiful buildings. During the holiday season, it hosts special Christmas concerts that are not to be missed.
The interior of the Athenaeum, with its grand architecture and warm lighting, creates a festive atmosphere perfect for enjoying classical music. Whether you’re a fan of orchestral performances or simply looking to soak in the holiday spirit, attending a concert here is a great way to spend an evening.
17. Ice Skating In Bucharest
It is probably the best place in the Balkans to enjoy this nostalgic sport; ice skating has always been a big part of the country and remains my favorite local hobby. Kids and adults of all ages love to spend time in one of the three outdoor skate rinks scattered around town.
You can even combine a couple of hours of skating with a visit to the Christmas market, as the most popular rink is set up right at Constitution Square. Grab a pair of skates, zip up your jacket, and let time fly as you enjoy outdoor skating in Bucharest.
18. Visit One (Or More) Pubs In The Old Town
Pub crawling is one of my favorite activities during cold weather; you can taste local beers and other drinks, enjoy the nightlife, and warm up in cozy and lively venues.
When you’re unfamiliar with a new town you’re visiting, so you still don’t have a favorite pub of your own, trust the task to experienced local guides who know their way around Bucharest’s magnetic pub scene.
It might be news to you, but Bucharest has been defined as one of Europe’s most promising party destinations, where grabbing drinks with friends is possible at very reasonable prices. There are pub crawls that take you to the best bars and clubs in the Old Town area, and, for at least four hours, you will visit four different party venues, ideal for dancing, meeting locals, and enjoying random events such as band performances or karaoke.
19. Get Lost Among Thousands Of Books
Cartuesti Carusel is Bucharest’s most famous bookstore and for a reason. If the weather outside is cold and harsh, what better place to be than a room full of books? This is the most book-lovers location in town.
Its impressively gorgeous interiors feature a completely white atmosphere. Three levels of books and two more floors are filled with souvenirs, gifts, and interesting objects to take back home as a memory of Bucharest.
If you are wondering, you can also find books in English and other languages. Besides, you can spend some time at the bookstore cafeteria enjoying a hot drink and your latest purchase.
20. Warm Up At Therme Bucharest Spa
After exploring so much of the city, you’ll probably want to rest and relax. Therme Spa is a wellness-focused water park and spa just outside Bucharest. The entire facility is indoor and fueled by a natural hot spring deep underground.
They have everything from water slides and theme park attractions to saunas and thermal relaxation pools – all in a beautifully designed, lush space.
Therme is located outside the city, but they have a free shuttle bus from Piata Romana daily. When you arrive at Therme, you pick your package based on which areas you want access to and how long you want to stay. Full-day passes for each of the different regions average around 100 Lei or 20 Euros.
21. Visit The Village Museum (Muzeul Satului) In Winter
The Village Museum offers a unique way to experience Romanian culture without leaving Bucharest. This outdoor museum features traditional houses, windmills, and churches from different regions of Romania, all set in a picturesque park. In winter, the snow adds a magical touch to the already charming wooden structures.
It’s a peaceful spot for a walk and an excellent place for photos that capture the essence of rural Romania. The museum is less crowded in the winter, making it an even more pleasant experience.
22. Warm Up With A Traditional Romanian Sauna Experience
After a day of sightseeing in the cold, why not treat yourself to a traditional Romanian sauna? Many hotels and wellness centers in Bucharest offer sauna facilities, providing a relaxing way to warm up. Saunas have long been a part of Romanian culture, particularly in the colder months, and they’re an excellent way to unwind and rejuvenate. Whether you choose a dry sauna or a steam bath, this is a great way to end a chilly day in the city.
23. Join A Winter Cooking Class
For a hands-on experience, consider joining a winter cooking class where you can learn to make traditional Romanian dishes. Imagine learning how to prepare sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) or cozonac (a sweet bread often made for Christmas).
Cooking classes are a fun way to immerse yourself in local culture, meet new people, and, of course, enjoy some delicious food. Plus, you’ll take home recipes that you can recreate long after your trip is over.
24. Explore The Underground Bucharest
Bucharest has its share of secrets, and some of them lie beneath the surface. Discover the city’s underground world by visiting places like the abandoned tunnels that run beneath the city.
These tunnels have a fascinating history and offer a different perspective on Bucharest’s past. Some tours specialize in exploring these hidden spots, making it an adventurous and unique way to learn more about the city’s history.
25. Take A Night Photography Tour
Bucharest is beautiful at night, especially in the winter when the city is lit up with holiday decorations. A night photography tour can help you capture the city’s charm after dark. Guided by a local photographer, you’ll visit the best spots for nighttime photos and get tips on how to shoot in low light.
Whether you’re an amateur photographer or just looking to improve your skills, this tour is a fun way to explore the city and come away with stunning images.
26. Stay Warm With A Bucharest Hot Chocolate
Sometimes, there’s nothing better than a hot chocolate to chase away the winter chill. Bucharest has several cozy cafes where you can enjoy a rich, warming cup of hot chocolate.
Whether you’re in the mood for something traditional or a bit more gourmet, you’ll find plenty of options in the city’s many cafes. It’s a simple pleasure that’s perfect for a winter afternoon break, especially after a long walk in the cold.
BONUS IDEA: Take A Day Trip
There is a lot to see in town, including buildings, fascinating museums (the National History Museum comes to mind as one of the top museums to visit in Bucharest), parks, markets, and much more. However, and if you have enough time, taking a short trip to another area of the country can offer alternative things to do during your visit to Romania.
A visit to a different city, for instance, will help put Bucharest into perspective and help you understand how more provincial areas in the country were during the communist regime and how much they have changed in the past decades.
Romania is known for being home to impressive castles all over the territory; the most famous of all is Bran Castle, which is arguably the most visited monument in the country.
Since it bears a curious resemblance to the castle described by Bram Stoker in his classic Dracula, Bran Castle has been officially labeled Dracula’s Castle, and there is no visitor in Romania nor no Stoker fan who would dream of skipping a tour.
Several day tours to Bran Castle and other beautiful fortresses in Rumania depart and return on the same day. This Dracula’s Castle, Peles Castle, and Brasov old town day trip is perfect for visiting several spots in a day. You will particularly enjoy checking out Brasov, a town with an imposing collection of Medieval buildings and unique buildings built in Renaissance, Baroque, Provincial, and Neo-Classic styles. The tour is affordable and convenient, including pick-up and drop-off from your hotel.
As you can see, no cold season can stop you from seeing the best of Bucharest. The city offers several indoor activities and incredible outdoor experiences to enjoy the Balkan gem of a city.
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Where To Stay In Bucharest, Romania
Explore the city on foot and be relatively close to most attractions. The winter charm of the historic district or old town is the best area to stay in. These are the places I recommend:
Budget: Hotel Michelangelo
Hotel Michelangelo is located in a central area of Bucharest. It offers easy access to the metro to walk to every critical point in town. It’s also 20 minutes from the airport. It has spacious rooms with elegant and modern décor, a historical architectural style and heating, ATM facilities, and a paid shuttle service to the airport. There is also a daily buffet breakfast and a bar and bistro open 24 hours a day.
Mid-Range: Capital Plaza Hotel
Capital Plaza Hotel is an affordable 4-star property in the center of town, between Victoria Square and Dorobanti. The property highlights include stylish rooms and a fine restaurant. You can enjoy a buffet breakfast every morning.
Luxury: Ramada Plaza Bucharest
Ramada Plaza Bucharest offers excellent accommodation options in Bucharest. It offers free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, and free access to the on-site spa, which is equipped with a heated indoor pool, a dry and wet sauna, an aerobics room, a spinning center, and an extensive fitness area. There are also two restaurants on-site.
Visit Bucharest In Winter FAQs
What is the weather like in Bucharest in winter?
The winter season in Bucharest typically features cold temperatures, often dropping to around -5 to 5 degrees Celsius. The cold weather can bring occasional snowfall, making it a picturesque time to explore the city. J
anuary is usually the coldest month, while February and December can also be quite chilly. Visitors should prepare for winter temperatures in Bucharest and dress warmly to enjoy outdoor activities.
What are the best things to do in Bucharest during the winter months?
There are many exciting things to do in Bucharest during the winter season.
You can visit the enchanting Christmas market, stroll through the Old Town, or enjoy a day at Therme, a large wellness complex. Other popular activities include visiting the Palace of Parliament, enjoying a hot drink at a cozy cafe, or exploring Herastrau Park, which is covered in snow.
Each of these activities allows visitors to experience winter in Bucharest uniquely.
What should I wear when visiting Bucharest in winter?
When visiting Bucharest in winter, it is essential to dress in layers to adapt to the varying winter temperatures. A good winter coat, thermal layers, gloves, scarves, and warm boots are recommended.
The cold can be quite brisk, so be prepared to keep warm while enjoying the sights. Remember, the right attire can enhance your experience while exploring the streets of Bucharest.
Are there any special events in Bucharest during the winter season?
Yes, Bucharest hosts several special events during the winter season.
The most notable is the Bucharest Christmas Market, which features local crafts, traditional foods, and festive decorations. Additionally, various concerts and performances take place at venues like the Romanian Athenaeum.
These events are great opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and celebrate the holiday spirit.
How does snow in Bucharest impact travel plans?
Snow in Bucharest can affect travel plans, especially if there’s heavy snowfall. While the city is generally well-prepared for winter conditions, snow can sometimes cause delays in public transportation or road travel.
It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and allow extra time for getting around. However, the snow also adds a magical touch to the city, making it an even more enchanting place to explore during winter.