This article has links to products and services we love, which we may make commission from.
Bucharest, Romania’s capital is fast becoming a popular destination. With an attractive party scene, interesting recent history and an easy day trip to Bran Castle, it’s no wonder this surprisingly hipster, and affordable, city is on many European bucket lists. Bucharest is actually quite big, with many of the main attractions located around the Old Town, but city parks and lesser-visited things to do are a bit further out. Let’s take a look at where to stay in Bucharest, so you can choose the best area for your type of travel. Don’t miss our popular guide on things to do in Bucharest.
The Best Hotels in Bucharest By Area
Bucharest Areas
- Best for atmosphere – Universitatii or Piata Romana
- Best for nature – Herastrau
- Best for partying – Old Town
→ Note: We personally use Booking.com when we plan our trips. We find it great value for money, easy to use and love that you can often cancel without charge. We also link to TripAdvisor to give our readers more choice.
Bucharest’s Old Town (Sector 1)
Centru Vechi, the Old Centre, isn’t actually that old. Redeveloped in the late 2000s, the Old Town today is where you will find streets of bars, restaurants with PRs and shops. A little calmer during the day, by night this area of Bucharest is jumping.
Expect blaring music, groups of friends partying and dancing girls in windows. Not to everyone’s taste but we stayed in the Old Town and managed to sleep peacefully. Pretty much everything you see on Instagram is near the Old Town, Carturesti Carusel (that white library with spiral stairs), ‘Umbrella Alley’ (Pasajul Victoriaget), and the sunset over those bronze roofs!Bucharest Old Town Hotels
- Filitti Boutique Hotel $$ – a 4-star modern hotel with unique decor (very 70s chic). Italian restaurant and sky bar onsite. Guests love that breakfast is served with a city view. Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
- Little Bucharest $ – This is actually a boutique hostel so a great option for those wanting a budget stay in a nice setting. We stayed with Little Bucharest during our trip and loved that the private room windows open up onto what can only be described as a fairytale city! Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
Cismigiu (Sector 1)
Cismigiu is mainly a quiet residential area with a few exclusive boutique hotels taking up prime real estate.
The appeal? As well as being central, Cismigiu Park (or Cismigiu Gardens) is close by. This tree-lined green space is a popular city escape. You can hire pedalos or just go for a nice walk. During winter, locals ice skate on the park rink.Cismigiu Hotels
- Hotel Cismigiu $$ – Gorgeous historic building, guests love the location as it is not quite in the Old Town but everything is walkable. Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
- Hotel Trianon $ – Clean rooms, friendly staff. Lots of food for breakfast. Ten minutes walk to Old Town and ten minutes walk to the Palace of the People. Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
» Visiting for the festive period? Check out our guide to Bucharest at Christmas
Herastrau
Herastrau is the biggest park in the city and well used by residents and tourists. The park is where you will find Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum and the Michael Jackson tribute.
Herastrau Hotels
- Hotel Herastrau $ – Surprisingly affordable for a park central hotel. very large rooms and hospitable staff that go the extra mile. Guests like being surrounded by nature. Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
- Nordului Herastrau Luxury Apartment $ – Heated swimming pool wins the guests over, rooms are often reserved during summer so book in advance at TripAdvisor and Booking to avoid disappointment.
Piata Romana
Piata Romana is a historically important area. This is where the dictatorship of Nicolae Ceausescu did a runner via helicopter in 1989.
Today it is a hip area with lots of cafes, vintage shops and restaurants. Architecture fans will like the prestigious street, Calea Victoriei and the ornate concert hall, Athenaeum.Piata Romana Hotels
- Athénée Palace Hilton $$$ – Grand building that doesn’t skimp on bedroom size. Guests love the outdoor seating, breakfast and location. Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
- Radisson Blu $$$ – Location, location, location. Outdoor jacuzzi and swimming pool are also a hit with visitors. Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
Universitatii
Surrounded by statues, this is where life happens in Bucharest. In the past, this was the meeting point where a friendly student protest resulted in violence in 1990 (Golaniad).
Today, still an important location where the locals shop, dine, and go to university. Here you will also find the National Theater of Bucharest.
Universitatii Hotels
Intercontinental Hotel $$$ – 5 star, historically significant hotel in the heart of Bucharest. Guests adore the bedroom balconies with city views and club on the 21st floor. Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
Unirii
Unirii Square is the centre of Bucharest.
During the weekends in spring/summer, the Unirii Square fountains put on a show to light and music.
They really are quite special to the city after being left to decay for decades.
The Palace of the Parliament is also close by where you can take a tour of the elaborate seat of Parliament.
Unirii Metro Station is located in this area but the Old Town is only approximate a 7-15 minute walk. The Palace of Parliament is around 15 minutes’ walk.
Unirii Hotels
- Hotel Mercure Bucharest Unirii $$ – Modern hotel with nice views of the city. Continental breakfast is available. Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
Floreasca
Floreasca is an upmarket area of Bucharest, home to fine dining restaurants, bars and clubs. Less frequented by tourists in comparison to the above neighbourhoods.
Floresca Hotels
- Soffitta Boutique Hotel $$ – Fresh, clean and modern rooms. Owner is super friendly and helpful too. Close to the metro and a tramline. Check for the best prices at TripAdvisor and Booking.
Pin to your Romania board for later
» Read next: our Romania travel guide