Bucharest is quickly making a name for itself when it comes to European travel destinations. It’s unique mix of history, stunning architecture, and buzzing cultural scene make it unlike anywhere else. Luckily, Bucharest remains relatively affordable when you compare it to other European capitals. To help you save even more, we’re sharing a handy guide for exploring Bucharest on a budget. Use these tips to help you see, do, and eat more during your trip for the littlest money!

How can you explore Bucharest on a budget?

Believe it or not, traveling in Bucharest and sticking to a budget isn’t too difficult. There are many things that you can experience for little or no money, in addition to affordable dining and entertainment options. It’s important to know Romania uses the Leu, not the euro. 1 Leu is equivalent to .21 euro, to date. Let’s take a look at some of the best and cheapest things in Bucharest that will help you stretch your budget as far as possible.

View this post on Instagram

Make sure that you stop at this amazing bookstore when you're in #Bucharest; it's a book-lover's dream come true! Cărturești Carusel boasts more than 10,000 books and has been named one of the world's most beautiful bookshops. See it for yourself and prepare to be transported to literary heaven! ??? ． ? : @svhare Congrats on your awesome picture! ． http://carturesticarusel.ro/ ． ?Hashtag #olalahomes or tag @olalahomes to get your travel experience featured! ． ． #travel #traveling #traveler #traveller #europe #trip #ig_captures #ig_romania #igersbucharest #españa #romania #wanderlust #hotel #aparthotel #viaje #viajar #viajeros #backpack #picoftheday #photooftheday #travelinspiration #travelphotography #explore #bucuresti #buchareststreets #buchareststyle #travel_europe #travel_captures

A post shared by Olala Homes (@olalahomes) on

What to see and do

Here are some things that will cost you no money to see and do:

  • Stroll through Herăstrău Park: Bucharest’s go-to green space is perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and see the more natural side of the city. It’s a great place to take a walk, rent a bike, or enjoy an afternoon picnic.
  • Wander the streets of the Old Town: admiring the architecture of the city won’t cost you a cent. Simply walk around and see some of the sights like the Stavropoleos Monastery, the old bank, and the old court ruins.
  • Marvel at the Cișmigiu Gardens: another beautiful green space with lush flora and fauna. These gardens make up the oldest park in Bucharest and sit just our front of the city hall.
  • Browse the shelves at the Carol I Central University Library, a public library that has to be seen to be believed. It’s size, design, and beauty are enough to want you to stay for hours!
  • Cruise Lipscani Street: shops, street art, and dining line the main drag of Bucharest, which provide endless window shopping opportunities.

    There's so much to see in Bucharest on a budget!
    Photo by StefanJurcaRomania on VisualHunt

For less than 10 euros you can:

  • Enjoy a coffee in one of Bucharest’s many cafés: the coffee scene is blooming in Bucharest! Enjoy a delicious caffeine creation in any of the city’s coffee houses, which are so cozy and inviting.
  • Visit a museum: most are quite cheap, and offer free entrance days a few times a year!
  • Hop on a boat: a boat ride in Herastrau park is about 1.5 euros per person per hour. Elevate your experience at the park even more and enjoy beautiful lakeside views.
  • Enjoy authentic Romanian food: many restaurants are quite reasonably priced. Sample the local fare and keep your wallet full at the same time!

What to eat and drink

Eating when in Bucharest on a budget is easy!
Photo by ioana_cis on VisualHunt

Eating and drinking is pretty easy in Bucharest on a budget. Delicious, craft beer is widely accessible in many of the pubs and is very affordable. Settle in one of the pubs and throw back a few, and you’ll only spend a few euros! Street food is also insanely cheap, especially since you can get pastries, covrigi (pretzels), and mici (meat pies) all for less than 5 euros. It’s worth it to note that international cuisine like kebab, pizza, and sandwiches can be found almost everywhere these days and don’t cost much at all.

Additionally, the food and produce markets in Bucharest offer delicious eats at low prices. Getting fresh food from the city’s farmer’s markets is a great option so that you can try what is in season. Plus, who doesn’t love to browse the local food market in a new city?

See more: A Checklist of the Top 8 Spots for Brunch in Bucharest

Join These 7 Walking and Bike Tours in Bucharest to Really See the City

7 Reasons Why You Absolutely Have to Visit Bucharest

Five Amazingly Delicious Things to Eat in Bucharest

To further enjoy Bucharest to the max, come stay with us at Olala Homes! Our stylish, affordable, and comfortable apartments are the luxurious solution to your accommodation needs!