Getting Around Bucharest
Getting Around Bucharest
All City Transport Options: What Locals Use and What’s Best for Tourists
General Overview
One thing that surprised me about Bucharest transport is how efficient the public transport system can be, despite its occasional quirks. The metro is the backbone of getting around the city, and it's often the fastest way to navigate Bucharest’s busy streets. You also have trams, buses, and trolleybuses at your disposal, allowing for quite a bit of flexibility. The metro usually runs from about 5 AM to 11 PM, which is pretty reasonable. If you're grabbing a ride on the other forms of transport, they run a bit longer, often starting even earlier.Now, let’s talk money—public transport is relatively cheap compared to many other European cities. A single metro or bus ticket costs around 3.5 lei, whereas a day pass is about 20 lei. For perspective, a similar ticket in Paris could set you back around 2.5 euros. However, many tourists make the mistake of not getting a pass when they’re using public transport multiple times in one day.
My first time using the metro was a bit of an education. I'd just hopped off a bus and tried to navigate to the Universitate station while juggling my phone and a map. I ended up on the wrong line (rookie mistake—use the official transport app for real-time directions!), but it gave me a chance to see some of the vibrant street art around the area.
Oh, before I forget! A solid local hack is to always travel off-peak. The metro can get quite crowded, especially between 7 AM and 9 AM, with locals heading to work. And if you choose to ride during rush hour, try to avoid the Piata Unirii station—it's a popular interchange and gets chaotic.
I learned that winter in Bucharest may make things challenging, especially when there’s snow, but trams and the metro are usually well-maintained, so you can still rely on them. Just be cautious about icy sidewalks!
For a good experience, hop on Tram 21 to reach the gorgeous Cismigiu Gardens. And as for safety, be mindful of your belongings as pickpockets can be sneaky in crowded areas, particularly around bus stops and on busy trams.
So, if you plan to explore Bucharest's transport system, just grab a recharge card and stick to using the metro or trams for quick travel. You'll get the hang of it before you know it!
Types of Transport
popular with tourists
The metro in Bucharest is a fast and efficient way to navigate the city, covering key areas such as the city center, major shopping districts, and historic sites. To use the metro, you can purchase a chip card (called a "card de transport") at any metro station, which costs around 5 RON and can be loaded with multiple trips, with each trip costing 2.5 RON. A great tip for tourists is to take Line M1 (the yellow line) to reach landmarks such as the Palace of the Parliament and the Unirii Square; it’s a direct and convenient route. For time-saving, try to avoid peak hours (7:30 AM - 9:30 AM and 5 PM - 7 PM) as the trains can get quite crowded. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy areas, to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
The bus system in Bucharest is extensive, covering key tourist areas like the historic center, the Palace of the Parliament, and the main parks such as Herăstrău and Cișmigiu. For bus fare, you can purchase a single ticket for around 3.5 RON (less than 1 USD) from kiosks or machines at bus stations; it’s crucial to validate your ticket using the machines on board before you sit down. A great tip for tourists is to download the STB app, which provides real-time information about bus schedules and can help you find the best routes to your destinations. When traveling, keep an eye on your belongings, especially during peak hours when buses can get crowded, and consider choosing off-peak times to avoid long waits. Lastly, if you want to save time, knowing the bus numbers that serve main attractions—like bus 783 to Henri Coandă Airport or 139 to the Botanical Garden—can make getting around much more efficient.
The auto in Bucharest is a convenient way to explore the city, with many rental companies available throughout the city, especially near Henri Coandă International Airport and in the city center. Most rental agencies accept credit cards, and you should expect daily rental rates starting from around €25, depending on the vehicle type and rental duration. A key tourist tip is to download a reliable GPS or map app to navigate Bucharest’s complex road network, and consider avoiding peak hours (typically 8-9 AM and 5-6 PM) to save time in traffic. Be aware that parking can be tricky in the city center, so look for public parking lots or opt for parked areas where payment is accepted via SMS, as street parking regulations can be strict. Additionally, always keep your vehicle locked and belongings out of sight to ensure safety while parked.
Here you can learn about all types of transport in Bucharest. What transport is available, how to reach tourist attractions and which mode of transport is optimal.