Top Bucharest Instagram spots that you should mark on your map before visiting.
Welcome to the 21st century, where everyone clicks thousands of photos when they travel. Because why not? No one needs to carry big cameras anymore because smartphones are sharper than ever.
Pose, snap, and share. Once clicked, some of these photos find their way onto Instagram.
Romania’s capital Bucharest has several spots with unexpected beauty that are Instagram-worthy.
Bucharest city is less famous than other Instagram-able European capitals like Prague, Amsterdam, Paris, or Rome, it’s not clogged by tourists so you won’t struggle to find the perfect timing or setting.
I have an entire post about Bucharest and if it is worth visiting, but I will share a quick outline here too.
Well, in the early 1900s and until the communist regime came to power in 1945, the majestic French Renaissance architecture in the city and cultural life earned Bucharest the nickname “Little Paris.” Since then, the city went through many transformations and now boasts an eclectic combination of architectural styles.
The Old Town area has historical buildings with coffee shops and restaurants that brim with life and many stunning spots and corners that wait for the creative eye to capture them.
A carousel-shaped library, a French-style landmark, and the second-largest administrative building in the world are also noteworthy landmarks in Bucharest perfect for Instagram.
So without further wait, here are 10 amazing Instagram Spots in Bucharest
1) Carturesti Carusel: the Prettiest Bookstore
Me in Cărturești Carusel, Bucharest- the most beautiful bookstore in the world
Carturesti Carusel is a bookshop in the Old Town area famous for being one of Romania’s most beautiful libraries. This bookworm’s paradise is also one of the most photographed attractions in Bucharest and Instagramable libraries in South-Eastern Europe.
Using bright, natural light is one of the best ways to take a standout Instagram photo, and the library has plenty of it due to the structure’s architectural design. It looks like a carousel, hence the name, and covers 1000mp spread over six floors.
Carturesti Carusel in Bucharest – the most beautiful bookstore in the world
Carturesti Carusel is large enough to keep you busy all day, and you’ll be greeted by unique spots the moment you walk into the library. A white 3-level balcony shop, stunning spiral staircases, and a panoramic view of the library – all with the colorful touch brought by thousands of books! It’s a delight for your camera lens!
Carturesti Carusel bookshop is built in a historical building that dates back to the 19th century and has been home to a bourgeois family. Like most structures in Bucharest at that time, this one is built in Neoclassical style. But in the meantime, it got rehabilitated and transformed, and in 2015, it opened up as a library. Now, it offers a contemporary charm to the vibe of the area.
This bookstore is one of the most photogenic places in Bucharest, so prepare with patience because you’ll want to take many pictures.
2) The “Umbrella Alley” at Pasajul Victoria
Bucharest’s Pretty Umbrella Street, Romania
Pasajul Victoria is a French-style inspired alley and one of the most instagram famous locations in Bucharest. That’s why it became known as “Umbrella Alley!”
It is a small passageway with many rainbow-colored umbrellas hanging open in the air. The best time for a picture here is early in the morning when the sun shines through the hues, but for a more dramatic snap, the evening is excellent too.
The alley is off-limits for cars and is only a few minutes from Carturesti Carusel, so you can easily cross both spots off your list.
3) Pasajul Macca-Vilacrosse
Pasajul Macca-Vilacrosse, in Bucharest’s Old Town
Also located in the Old Town next to the impressive headquarters of the National Bank of Romania which you won’t miss is the lovely, French-inspired Macca-Villacrosse Passage. Built in 1891 it features colored glass covering the passage and in the center a dome with yellow and green glass, thus creating a beautiful light and atmosphere inside.
Needless to say, you won’t need to use any filters or do any edits for your shots here! Photographers love this place because it’s easy to recreate an ‘old world’ vibe. Lots of photo and video shoots take place here for this reason.
4) The Palace of the Parliament
house of parliament building Bucharest – top instagram spots
The House of People as it’s locally called is the second largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. This is also one of the world’s most expensive – and heaviest – structures!
And because it’s so huge you’ll have to try different angles and locations to get the perfect photo of it.
Apart from its grandeur, the best part is that you can visit its sumptuous interior and walk through the rooms as part of a tour.
Given its size and function, the official guided tour of the Palace of Parliament won’t show you much but just enough for those memorable shots. For instance, among the most Instagramable spots you’ll find here is the Senate Plenary Room, with beautifully ornated walls and a lovely stained glass dome ceiling.
5) Arc de Triumph
Arcul de Triumf in Bucharest, Romania
One of the reasons Bucharest is known as the “Paris of the East” is because it also has an Arch of Triumph similar to the one in Paris. Built as a World War I memorial, it’s one of the most important landmarks in Bucharest.
Arch of Triumph in Bucharest
The arc is located in the heart of a roundabout at the intersection of three major boulevards and close to Herestrau Park. So there are plenty of ways to go around it and get the shot you want.
Inside the Arch of Triumph, there’s a small museum documenting the structure’s rich history. It also has an internal staircase that will get you to the top where sweeping 360 views await. So it’s the perfect place for a panoramic shot.
6) CEC Palace
Cec Bank Building in Bucharest, Romania
CEC Palace is one building that I loved looking at every day when I was in Bucharest. I walked by this stunning building pretty often and I was surprised to know that it belongs to a bank!
Palatul CEC is among the most photogenic and stunning buildings in Bucharest and one of the most important landmarks in the capital. It’s an architectural masterpiece built in eclectic style, with its construction completed in 1900.
Bucharest CEC Palace – Instagram spots in Bucharest
The CEC Palace building is super wide, so a part of it peeps from several streets of the Old town in Bucharest as one walks around.
The structure boasts sophisticated and attractive elements including a glass dome that creates a spectacular light on the inside.
It’s also the headquarters of a bank so if you’ve watched Money Heist you know what to expect from this spot! It’s only a matter of what time of the day you choose to check it because it can be freely visited pretending to be an interested customer.
You will find this building at the crossroads of two of Bucharest’s most prominent streets for tourists – Strada Lipscani and Calea Victoriei – so it’s impossible to miss it while you’re roaming around.
7) Cismigiu Gardens
Cismigiu Gardens, Bucharest Instagram spots via Unsplash
Cismigiu Gardens is the “Central Park” of Bucharest. So if you’re looking to collect snaps with greenery, this place has many options. It’s a small taste of the spectacular and diverse nature you will find if you visit the national parks of Romania.
The park has an artificial lake that can serve as the perfect mirror for the blue sky and the rich green of the surroundings. You can even go on a boat ride!
There’s abundant nature on the backdrop of colorful flower sections and many wooden benches, cozy alleys, and passageways well worth a snap.
There’s also an area dedicated to chess players that’s always full, and one known as the Intellectuals’ Circle where you’ll find statues of major figures from Romanian culture and history.
8) Nomad Sky Bar (+ nearby hipster coffee shops)
Nomad Skybar, Bucharest – I loved the interiors
Perhaps one of the most exciting things about Bucharest is its rich, diverse, and dynamic going-out scene. You’ll find lots of coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, most of which go above and beyond to impress their clients through design and atmosphere, besides their menu and service.
The Food in Nomad Skybar, Bucharest, Romania
So if Instagramming the froth on your specialty cappuccino or your gourmet Romanian meal is on your list, check out M60, Energiea, Absinteria Sixthina, Shift Pub, or Biutiful by the Lake.
You’ll also be happy to hear there are many sky bars that offer great views over the city while you can enjoy a delicious coffee or meal.
View of Bucharest’s old town from Nomad’s Skybar
Nomad Sky Bar in the Old Town area is the most popular, and then comes Linea Closer to the Moon nearby. Naive offers amazing views over the Palace of Parliament while NOR Skybar is located in the highest skyscraper in Bucharest so you can imagine the views it offers.
9) Grand Hotel Bucharest Roof Top Jacuzzi
Roof top spa with in Grand Hotel Bucharest – Jacuzzi with a view
Grand Hotel Bucharest is one of the earliest super luxurious hotels in the city. It was initially called InterContinental but now is Grand Hotel.
It was once the tallest building in Bucharest but now is the 17th highest. Nevertheless, it is still the tallest building in Bucharest.
So what’s so special about this? It’s what’s on top.
Grand Hotel has a spa on the rooftop so you can sit on a jacuzzi with a view. So it is definitely one of the best Instagram spots in Bucharest and is unique.
Keep in mind that Grand Hotel is under renovation at the moment and will open up again in 2024.
10) Old Town area
Walking around in Bucharest’s Old Town – Cec Bank in the Distance
Bucharest’s Old Town is the kind of place that will test your photography skills and patience. It’s one of the most attractive areas in the city and a favorite spot for Instagrammers.
It’s also the hotspot for the city’s nightlife and going out scene with over 120 restaurants, bars, and cafes. So it’s quite crowded!
Bucharest Streets – Old Town Bucharest
You’ll also find lots of buildings designed in neoclassical and neo-baroque styles, as well as historic monuments and landmarks.
Pura Vida Skybar in Bucharest Old Town, Romania
If you’re interested in that consider visiting in the morning or during weekdays. Cause in the evening you’ll see the area come to life with people looking to relax and enjoy a night out with friends.
BONUS: Keep an eye out for street art
Bucharest Street Art – Photo spots in Bucharest
Street art reflects Bucharest’s urban culture so the city has plenty of. Not long ago, it was considered vandalism, but today it’s endorsed as a form of art that people can engage with outside the museum or gallery.
That’s why exploring off-the-beaten path streets and or going with a dedicated guide is one of the best things to do in Bucharest for those looking for unique pictures other than of the typical tourist sights.
Arthur Verona Street is one the best examples if you’re looking for an exciting background for your picture and creating opportunities for each shot.
You’ll find a lot of street art and many Instagramable spots here: ten walls covered in pure art that change every 2-3 years. So, ready to unleash your photographic creativity?
Where to Stay in Bucharest?
I spent a week in Bucharest and I ended up experiencing 3 hotels. I have a separate post about places to stay in Bucharest but here are my quick recommendations:
Stunning building right next to the Palace of Parliament. They have the most comfortable beds and an amazing breakfast buffet.
Some of the rooms at JW Marriot have a view of the Palace of Parliament – so you have an iconic landmark next to you which is a top Instagram spot in Bucharest.
The location is excellent and so are the rooms. This hotel was earlier called Golden Tulip but was later rebranded. I’d pick this place if I go again because it is in the middle of it all. From here, all Bucharest Instagram spots are nearby.
Leonardo Hotel isn’t as expensive as other high-end hotels and the views are excellent, especially if you get an executive suite.
Traveling with a family? Then you might want to book an entire apartment with a kitchen, washing machine, balcony, etc. The best rates are Black and White Apartments in the city center.
As you will see when you visit Bucharest, this city has many inspiring spots to capture for your Instagram. It boasts different architectural styles, inspiring street art, impressive lakes, and natural scenery, making it hard to leave your phone or camera aside. So, what location from this list caught your attention the most?
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us reduce the costs of keeping this site active. Thanks for reading!
It is historical, delightful, vibrant, and more – Bucharest is one of the most interesting cities in East Europe. The city is so pretty that it will turn literally everyone into a photographer.
Bucharest has something for everyone. History fans will be spoilt for choice when it comes to museums, architecture lovers will not stop ogling at the communist buildings and orthodox churches. It doesn’t end there – party lovers will absolutely love the lively scene and artsy ones will totally dig the art festivals and more.
Over the last few years, Bucharest has transformed itself not just into a top “traveler friendly” city but also a successful corporate travel destination in the Balkans.
Bucharest’s Pretty Umbrella Street, Romania
The city has so many amazing options of places to stay in literally every budget. If you’re thinking of spending a few days in Romania and wondering where to stay in Bucharest, this post will give you many options that have been tried and tested by me and my friends.
Where to Stay in Bucharest
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Best Hotels in Bucharest
Intercontinental Bucharest
Roof top spa with in Intercontinental Bucharest – Jacuzzi with a view
Intercontinental Bucharest towers literally above everything else because it is the tallest hotel building in the city. It is also one of the most luxurious hotels in Bucharest.
Bedroom in Intercontinental Bucharest, Romania
The rooms in Intercontinental are super spacious but the best part about this hotel is the rooftop. There is a spa on top of this hotel. You can sit and chill inside the hot tub and enjoy the view of the city.
Intercontinental Bucharest has an amazing restaurant and you will surely be rewarded with an amazing breakfast spread. The location is central so everything is pretty much walking distance – the museums, old town, etc.
My Super comfortable bed in JW Marriott Bucharest, Romania
JW Marriott is one of the grandest hotels in Bucharest. It is right next to the biggest parliament building in the world – the Palace of Parliament. Ans yes, a few sides of JW Marriott overlook the famous Parliament Building.
When I first arrived in Bucharest, someone mentioned that JW Marriott hotel has the most comfortable beds in the city. I eventually ended up staying here for my last night in Romania and I can certainly vouch for comfort. I slept like a baby!
JW Marriott has an amazing breakfast spread that included many kinds of breads, cheeses, cold cuts, cereals, fruits, eggs, pancakes, waffles and more.
The Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest is the perfect choice for your luxury stay. Located in a historic building it reflects the sophistication of years gone by with all the modern amenities, including an indoor pool, fitness centre, health club and beauty salon. It of course caters to business travellers too, with everything you need to work away from the office.
Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest Room – Where to stay in Bucharest
There are various options for meals, with formal restaurants, an English pub and a casual cafe area. An executive lounge is available with certain rooms too. This is the perfect accommodation if you want somewhere just a little bit special.
The excellent location of this hotel in Calea Victoriei will allow you to easily reach all the interesting places of Bucharest: government buildings, monuments, shopping centers, embassies and recreational areas are just a few steps away. For instance, the National Museum of Art is 3 minutes away on foot, and the National Theater and Parliament are 5 minutes away.
Golden Tulip hotel has 82 rooms spread over 10 floors; a modern lobby, 24-hour room service, restaurant, and all the services expected of a 4-star hotel. If you can, book one of the Executive rooms, which are on the corners of the building and enjoy extraordinary views and special comfort thanks to the glass facade (take a look at the photo). They also have a number of extra amenities and services such as slippers and a surprise gift.
Golden Tulip Bucharest was all I was craving after a 2-week press trip with 40 other bloggers through some of Romania’s most stunning regions like Bucovina and Transylvania. So much, that I barely made it out of the room! Indeed, one of my favorite hotels in the city.
Ramada chain has many hotels in Bucharest, but this and this is the best one. It is very close to the old town in the city center and the area is informally known as the “Turkish Square”. The best part about this hotel is that it has the most convenient location.
This hotel somehow has an old school vibe and you will feel it in the lobby area, the corridors and even the room. I did not find the reception staff to be particularly helpful.
It is not only the most popular hostels in Bucharest, but Pura Vida is also a famous party place because of its happening skybar. Pura Vida is right in the middle of the old town, which by the way is Europe’s answer to the Khao San road.
The staff here is super friendly and helped me when I checked in very late at night. The dorm was clean and quite, with a toilet right outside.
The best thing about this hotel is the Skybar because there’s a party here literally every evening. On two different occasions I also saw live performances. Moreover, the skybar is a good place to catch the sunset.
Little Bucharest Old Town Hostel – where to stay in Bucharest, Romania
Little Bucharest Hostel is right next to Pura Vida Hostel. From what I understand, they are managed by the same people. I like the interiors of Little Bucharest more than Pura Vida because it is more spacious.
If you’re looking for accommodation in Bucharest that doesn’t break the bank, provides sense of community, has a cozy and comfortable ambiance, and is staffed by the happiest and most interesting people you’ll ever meet? Look no further than Podstel Bucharest. Podstel Bucharest was started by a backpacker himself, who, when traveling around the world, took ideas from all the hostels he stayed at to create his dream hostel. And a dream hostel it really is. From the outdoor lounge in their tea garden, to live music, to group dinners and activities, this just might be your favorite part of visiting Bucharest. Doom rooms start around $14 dollars a night.
First hostel is a hostel that has been beautifully-designed, with plenty of thought given to the people who’ll stay there. The hostel has capacity for 32 guests, but those guests get to enjoy 2 kitchens and 6 bathrooms.
Every bed has a USB charger and a bedside light. The hostel also provide a number of amenities for free including free bikes, free adapters, free local and national calls, and of course all of the standard essentials like free towels, linen, and wi-fi.
Located between the subway stations Universitate and Piata Iancului, Book-a-Rest offers a really nice terrace and has a free public parking. You can either stay in a 8-bed dorm or a 4-bed dorm. Otherwise, there are single rooms, double rooms. A bed in a dorm costs 14 euros per night, while a room costs 45 euros per night. There’s also a shared kitchen, a common area. The staff is friendly and helpful, the wifi works well, the rooms are clean and have lockers, and there’s a good restaurant next to the hostel! The terrace is probably the best place to meet fellow travelers, and a strong point of this hostel!
Disclosure: I was invited to Romania on a sponsored trip by Experience Romania team but all silliness and thoughts expressed in this article are totally our own.
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us reduce the costs of keeping this site active. Thanks for reading!
Want to visit Romania’s Black Sea beaches? Head to Constanţa, a historical coastal town with many spa resorts, beach bars and lively parties. Founded by the Greeks, it is the largest port on the Black Sea coast.
I visited Constanţa in May 2018 after visiting the Danube River Delta and Bucharest. Actually, there is a Constanta City and a Constanta County. The city is busy but you can get out and explore some smaller beach destinations and even a hippie village.
If you have a little extra time on your hands, you can also make a day trip to the nearby Bulgarian beach destination – Varna.
How to reach Constanta
It is easy to reach Constanta by road from Bucharest and it will take you 3 – 3.5 hours. If you’re driving, you will have to take the A2 highway, also called the Sun’s Highway, and cross the Danube River. There is a toll fee of RON 11, which is around 2.3 Euros.
You can also do this journey on a bus from Bucharest. I didn’t take the bus but my friends in Romania mentioned that the bus tickets can be bought directly at the bus station for RON 30 – 40, which is 6.5 – 8.5 Euros.
Things to do in Constanta – Romania’s Black Sea Beach destination
Constanta Day Trips from Bucharest:
If you’re short on time, then you can make a day trip to Constanta from Bucharest. I have handpicked a few tours for you that are between 80 – 99 Euros, where they will pick you up from the comfort of your hotel in Bucharest, take you to Constanta, and then bring you back to your hotel in Bucharest. Check them out:
1 Day Tour to Constanta: Pick up and drop back to Bucharest, Constanta town, museums, cathedrals and mosque
Day trip to Constanta: Pick up and drop back to Bucharest, Constanta town, cathedrals, mosque, Mamaia beaches
A day by the Black Sea: Pick up and drop back to Bucharest, Constanta town, Mamaia beaches and more
Please read the terms of each tour before booking to see what is included.
Anyway, now that I have helped you understand how to reach Constanta, I’d like to help you decide what to do when you’re there.
Things to do in Constanta
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1) Sunbathe on Mamaia’s Sandy Beaches
Mamaia Beach, things to do in Constanta, Romania
I get it – the main reason why you’re visiting Constanta is to enjoy the beaches. Mamaia in Romania has plenty for you. Book a hotel that’s right on the beach (Like Zenith) or head to a beach bar like Tan Tan Beach.
Mamaia is a resort destination and it tends to get busy in summer because the sand is very white. Some say that it is the only “pure white beach destination in Europe”.
I don’t agree with that statement because I did visit white sand beach Europe – Ireland’s Achill Island or Germany’s Reugen Island. Nevertheless, it is true that aren’t many white sand beaches in Europe. So make the most of it when you’re here!
2) Visit Vama Veche and Camp on the Beach
Vama Veche Beach, Constanta, Romania
Vama Veche is a hippie village near the Bulgaria border. Camping is not really permitted but is done as a sign of rebellion against the commercialization and overdevelopment of the Black Sea coast area.
Due to this, it has always been considered as the outlaw’s beach or a hippie beach.
Subcarpati in Vama Libre Festival, Vama Veche, Constanta in Romania
During the summer months, many music festivals and open-air parties are organized on the beaches of Vama Veche, such as the Stufstock Festival, Sunset Festival, VSLO Visual Arts Festival, etc.
I was in Vama Veche for Vama Libre festival and saw Subcarpati band play. I have been a fan of that band ever since. Here’s a little video of Subcarpati playing at Vama Libre festival in Vama Veche.
Remember I mentioned in my Live video from yesterday that partying in indoor clubs is really not my scene? Well yesterday I (with Teacake Travels – Kickass Solo Female Travel Blog) had an AMAZING time and finally heard the kind of music I enjoy. This was at a place called Vama Veche in Constanta – just a kilometre away from 🇧🇬 Bulgaria. This awesome band is called Subcarpati at Vama Libre festival. ❤️ Thanks to the Experience Romania team for bringing me here and my friend Aman for recommending it. #experienceromania
I know this building just doesn’t look like a casino but it was once upon a time. It is on Constanta’s main boardwalk and is a lovely sight. It is perched on a hill and is at a point where the coast forms a triangle.
Abandoned Casino Constanta – things to do in Constanta, Romania
Believe it or not, Constanta Casino has served not just as a casino and a club, but also a temporary wartime hospital. It last served as a “House of Culture” but is currently abandoned because of high operational costs.
You don’t actually have to go inside but you can enjoy an evening walk around it and watch how the seagulls fly very close to you.
4) Drive to Tuzla Beach
Tuzla Beach, Constanta, Romania
You cant reach Tuzla Beach by public transport but only if you drive to it. Maybe that’s a good thing because this little strip of beach is unspoiled and hopefully it remains like this for long.
This beach is beautiful – there are rocks, a bit of light sand and the turquoise-blue water. There was no one else on this beach while we were there, except just one campervan.
5) Pamper Yourself in a Spa
Constanta has some of the best spas in Romania and they are surprisingly affordable. The spa rates were as low as they are in South East Asia and some of them are really good.
I tried two different spas when I was in Constanta. I highly recommend Zenith Spa in Mamaia and Ana Aslan Health Spa in Ana Hotels Eforie Nord. They’re both spa hotels but they’re very different. Zenith Spa is flamboyant, while Ana Aslan Health Spa was more subdued.
6) Explore the Country Side
Constanta Country Side, Romania
Get away from the busy beaches and head to Constanta’s countryside. The drive is really beautiful and depending on the season, you will see flower fields.
Wheat field in Constanta countryside, Romania
I was there in May and I saw wheat and poppy fields. I was told that in a few months, there would be many sunflower fields.
7) Walk Around in Constanta’s Old Town
Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, Constanta, Romania
Inside Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, Constanta, Romania
Constanta old town is full of historical buildings. I mentioned the abandoned casino from the old times but as you move into the city from the boardwalk, you will notice Ovidiu’s Statue, the Church of St. Anthony, Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, St. Nicholas Church and Kral Cami King’s Mosque. There is also a folk art museum here; it is called Muzeul de Arta Populara.
8) Explore Constanta’s Party Scene
Decor in Acolo Bar in Vama Vecha, Constanta, Romania
Constanta is a party destination and there are many different kinds of parties that you can find every other night. I really enjoyed Acolo Bar in Vama Veche. This bar’s colorful decoration reminded me of Goa’s psychedelic bars. The music was not at all like Goa’s – it was mostly old school rock or even pop. But hey, it is a very good place for an old school hippy scene.
Tan Tan Beach Bar in Mamaia, Constanta, Romania
If you’re in Mamaia, you can check out Tan Tan Beach, which is directly on Mamaia beach. You don’t have to wait for it to get dark because a party can start early here. If not, you can chill on the bar because it is a fun place where you can spend hours at a stretch. It is colorful and there are many sand beds on the beach where you can enjoy the view. Tan Tan Beach
Alternatively, you can head to Café Del Mar in Mamaia for mainstream pop music party. I didn’t go there but many people in our group did and they enjoyed themselves.
9) Visit an Animal Farm – Ferma Animalelor Ograda Veseliei
Ferma Animalelor Ograda Veseliei – Animal Farm near Vama Vecha, Constanta, Romania
This is one of those things that you can do in Constanta with kids because they will love it. There is an animal farm that’s near Vama Veche and it is called Ograda Veseliei. We saw many goats, chickens, pigs and many other farm animals.
Alice with a donkey at Ferma Animalelor Ograda Veseliei – Animal Farm near Vama Vecha, Constanta, Romania
In Ferma Animalelor Ograda Veseliei, they have a little educational tour for small children to give them information about farm animals. You can also stay here or eat traditional home cooked food here.
10) Go Sailing at Life Harbour, Limanu
Sailing at Life Harbour, Limanu, Constanta, Romania
Life Harbour is a sailing club in Limanu where visitors can go experience sailing. Even if you’re not into sailing, you can just visit this place for a lovely lunch by the water. The restaurant here is very good and I ate a delicious lunch of pesto pasta here. You can also stay here overnight if you book your accommodation in advance.
11) Make a Day Trip to Bulgaria
Constanta is very close to Bulgaria and Vama Veche is literally just a walk away from Bulgaria’s border. In fact, when we were in Vama Veche, my friend Hayley literally just walked for 15 mins and she was at the border checkpoint.
You can make a day trip to the nearby Varna, a famous Black Sea beach destination.
Constanta Hotels – Where to Stay
I stayed in Ana hotels Eforie Nord and Zenith Mamaia and highly recommend both of them to you. They’re both a little different so I will mention a few things about them below:
Zenith Conference and Spa Hotel, Mamaia
View from my window in Zenith Hotel and Spa in Mamaia, Constanta, Romania
If you’re going to spend most of your time on Mamaia’s beaches, then you should book Zenith. This hotel is right on the beach and my room actually faced the ocean.
Zenith also has a good spa inside, which was unexpectedly affordable for a hotel that is this size. I got a back massage here which I highly recommend. They also have beauty packages in the spa – such as facials, waxing, etc. If you need more information, you can click here to read the reviews about this hotel on TripAdvisor.
The restaurant in Zenith is really good and has an outdoor sitting area where you can watch the sunset. We had an amazing seafood platter here with fresh jumbo prawns, calamari, and mussels from the sea. The dessert was memorable because it actually looked like a real flower pot but it was a chocolate pudding.
Ana hotels Eforie Nord
My Hotel Window at Ana hotels Eforie Nord, Constanta, Romania
Ana Hotel Eforie Nord is high end and perfect for couples and families. The view from here was very good because I could see the Black sea, hotel’s swimming pool and also Techirghiol Lake. Eforie Nord is a quieter area as compared to Mamaia, so it makes sense to stay here if you’re looking for a “non party” kind of a vacation. If you need more information, you can click here to read the reviews about this hotel on TripAdvisor.
Ana Aslan Health Spa in this hotel is perhaps more famous than the hotel itself. It was fully booked but I managed to get a 30-minute massage slot which was very relaxing. The buffet breakfast here was excellent.
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Relax in a spa in Constanta – Things to do in Constanta, Romania’s Black Sea Beach Destination
Explore the country side in Constanta – Things to do in Constanta, Romania’s Black Sea Beach Destination
Tuzla Beach – Things to do in Constanta, Romania’s Black Sea Beach Destination
Disclosure: I was invited to Romania on a sponsored trip by the Experience Romania team but all silliness and thoughts expressed in this article are totally our own.
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us reduce the costs of keeping this site active. Thanks for reading!
I sometimes like to surprise myself when I travel to new places and refuse to read about where to visit before I arrive. Bucharest in Romania is one such place for me.
On a warm summer day in late May, I landed in Bucharest with literally no expectations. All I knew was that I had to take an Uber or a bus from the airport to reach my hostel, which was in the old town.
I got out of the airport and realized it was unexpectedly easy [and cheap] to just take the bus instead of an Uber.
On the bus ride, I sat next to a young Romanian girl and chatted about her city with her. This is where my journey of falling in love with Bucharest began. Yes, it was full of surprises.
So, if you don’t know about Bucharest, let me introduce it to you.
Introducing Bucharest
Bucharest is a massive city in East Europe’s Balkan Peninsula. It has so much history, amazing architecture, a surprisingly good party scene, hidden alleys, cool cafes, and a very hip fashion scene!
Wait, you’re going to ask – aren’t most of the Eastern European capitals like this? Well, Bucharest is a little different because everything feels grander.
My Favorite Pictures of Bucharest, Romania
Believe it or not, I did so much while I was here that if I begin to write a post about things to do in Bucharest, it will take me months!
I walked around on my own on the first day, did a free walking tour of Bucharest that was full of communist history, explored so many churches, government buildings, and historical landmarks, visited an astronomical observatory, visited many different kinds of museums, went for a boat ride on the lake, climbed on top of Arcul de Triuf, visited the biggest cemetery in Bucharest, for a change even visited a few malls in Bucharest and ended up bowling.
Arcul de Triumf in Bucharest, Romania
No, it doesn’t end there, there’s more.
Literally every night, I ended up visiting one of the many bars in Bucharest to experience the city’s lively party culture. Trust me, there are so many things to see in Bucharest that I’m sure I did not even cover a fraction of the city!
Oh, and I stayed in a hostel and two different hotels. One of them is said to be one of the best hotels in Bucharest – JW Mariott.
Before I go further, I’d like to mention that if you’re visiting Bucharest, you can EASILY make a day trip [or longer] to some really cool places from here. Here are some day trips that I have handpicked for you:
Dracula’s Castle – full day day trip from Bucharest that includes a visit to Peles Castle, Bran Castle, tour of the medieval city Brasov, entrance tickets and round trip transport.
Day trip to Bulgaria from Bucharest – full day trip to Bulgaria’s medieval capital Veliko Tarnovo and back. Includes a visit to Arbanasi village, Tsaravets Fortress and St. Dimitrie Basarabov Monastery.
Transfagarasan Road Trip – visit one of the highest roads in Romania and enjoy the natural beauty + castles. Visit Curtea de Arges Monastery, Poenari Castle, Vidraru Dam and hike around Balea Lake.
Anyway, if you’re thinking of traveling the Balkans and are wondering if Bucharest is worth a visit, then hopefully this post will help you.
So, is Bucharest worth visiting? Let me try to answer with a few points and pictures.
Table of Contents
1) Bucharest’s Old Town is Gorgeous
Bucharest Streets – Old Town Bucharest
Love cobbled streets that are lined with open-air cafes? You’re going to LOVE Bucharest’s Old Town. This is the first place in the city where I walked aimlessly right after I arrived. A walking tour of Bucharest’s old town is one of the best things to do in Romania.
It is formally called Lipscani and this area has historical communist-style buildings, old churches, ruins, many shops, and a LOT of cafes and bars.
The University of Bucharest Building
As you walk around the old town, you will see how it lights up as the sun starts to set. The streets are full of people – students from the nearby Bucharest University, the younger generation of Bucharest’s residents, and travelers from all over the world.
View of Bucharest’s old town from Nomad’s Skybar
There are performers, and buskers with a backdrop of old buildings.
At a distance, you will see an impressive colonial-style building that stretches really wide. As you walk closer, you will be shocked to see that it is not a place to visit but is actually a bank – Cec Bank.
Walking around in Bucharest’s Old Town – Cec Bank in the DistanceCec Bank Building in Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest’s Old Town kind of reminded me of Bangkok’s Khao San Road because the streets were lined with endless open-air bars.
To make the most of your visit, you can check out the below walking tours in Bucharest’s old town:
Communist Bucharest (Very Popular Tour): 3 hour guided tour of the major landmarks and events of Bucharest’s communist past. Learn how the Romanian dictator Ceausescu rose and fell.
Bucharest’s Old Town: 2.5 hours of private walking tour that goes through the Old Town’s famous squares, important streets, and beautiful buildings.
Bucharest Sites and Bites: (Child Friendly) 4 hours long tour that not only includes the landmarks but also traditional 3 course Romanian food.
The best part about some of these tours is that you may end up discovering some hidden alleys and back lanes, which brings me to the next point.
2) Bucharest Has Many Hidden Streets and Alleys
If you walk around enough in Bucharest you will surprisingly hit a “themed” alley. I will talk about two such alleys here.
Bucharest’s Umbrella Street
The first is perhaps the most famous spot in Bucharest on Instagram. Yes, I’m talking about the city’s umbrella alley. Isn’t it pretty?
Bucharest’s Pretty Umbrella Street, Romania
Bucharest’s umbrella alley stretches for long and the second part of it is actually a café.
The second is a little more hidden – it is called Pasajul Macca-Vilacrosse. It is a hidden “sheesha lane” in Bucharest.
This passage is covered with painted glass because of which the natural light can come in, and yet it feels hidden. This passage is actually fork-shaped where one part is called Vilacrosse and the other is called Macca.
I visited Pasajul Macca-Vilacrosse on a free walking tour of Bucharest and I was told that this is one of the most famous sheesha lanes in East Europe. Yes, I could only see Middle Eastern-themed hookah and sheesha bars here!
Pasajul Macca-Vilacrosse has an interesting history. Back in the 1980s, it was once Câmpineanu Inn, which was gifted to two sisters by their father in dowry.
The daughters named the passages after the last names of their husbands – Vilacrosse and Macca. It was eventually bought by the city so that it could be used as a walking passage that opened up in 1891.
Have you been reading my blog for a while? I’m sure you know that I’m NOT into visiting churches or museums at all. But hey, Bucharest’s churches are spectacular. If you’re anything like me then please force yourself to visit at least one historical church and let your jaws drop when you step inside.
I visited three churches and each time I couldn’t help being round-eyed because they were absolutely breathtaking from the inside. All of these churches had elaborate frescos, the ceilings were full of art and the minute details were astounding.
Stavropoleos Church
Stavropoleos Church Monastery in Bucharest’s Old Town, RomaniaInside the Stavropoleos Church Monastry in Bucharest
The first church we visited was actually a monastery in the old town. It is called the Stavropoleos Church. The church is small and humble from outside but is really impressive from the inside. There is a little museum here too.
Biserica Coltea Church
Biserica Coltea Church, Bucharest, RomaniaInside Biserica Coltea Church, Bucharest, Romania
The second one we visited is Biserica Coltea Church, which is a little bigger than the first. The insides were shimmering with gold here. Just like the first church on this list, this one also had a little museum inside the complex.
Palace of the Patriarchate
the Palace of the Patriarchate Church, Bucharest, RomaniaInside the Palace of the Patriarchate in Bucharest, RomaniaThe Palace of the Patriarchate Church in Bucharest, Romania
The third was the Palace of the Patriarchate – a historical church with a patriarchal palace next to it. The church itself is stunning but we also got to visit the palace and the stunning chambers inside.
Orange Room inside the Palace of the Patriarchate, Bucharest, Romania
4) Even the Government Buildings Are Gorgeous
If you’re an architecture buff, try to do a themed city tour of Bucharest so that you can visit some important buildings. I did one that was free and our guide was really good. There are many noteworthy government buildings in Bucharest but I will just mention three.
City Hall of Bucharest
Primaria Municipiului Bucuresti – the City Hall of Bucharest, Romania
Believe it or not, the below picture is a government office in Bucharest. Yes, we visited the Primaria Municipiului Bucuresti and this is how it looks from the inside. It is the City Hall of Bucharest.
Inside Primaria Municipiului Bucuresti – the City Hall of BucharestPrimaria Municipiului Bucuresti Building, Bucharest, Romania
Romanian Athenaeum
The Romanian Athenaeum building in Bucharest, Romania – It is a concert hall
Another government building that took me by surprise is the Romanian Athenaeum, which is actually Bucharest’s concert hall. It looks like this from outside but wait till you step in!
This is how the Romanian Athenaeum looks from the insideInside the Romanian Athenaeum in Bucharest
The Romanian Athenaeum is a special venue and you can only see it from the outside garden area unless special permission or invitation to step inside. The concert hall is velvety red and golden from the inside. There is a circular dome-like roof with many lamps and paintings along it. It looks grand and I’d love to attend a formal event here!
Palace of the Parliament
The Palace of the Parliament, Bucharest
A special mention about one of Bucharest’s most famous government buildings – the Palace of the Parliament. I’m not sure if I can call this building gorgeous, but you have to see it for yourself to feel the power of it. It is massive, looks overpowering, and believe it or not is the second-largest administrative building in the world.
The Palace of Parliament is one of the biggest attractions in Bucharest and visitors can even go inside. The building is big not only from the outside but even the furnishing is massive when you step in. I did not go inside the Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest but if you end up going, please share a photo!
5) Bucharest Has the Most Beautiful Bookstore in the World – Cărturești Carusel
Cărturești Carusel, Bucharest- the most beautiful bookstore in the world
Ever heard of Cărturești Carusel? This Instagram-famous bookstore in Romania has been dubbed as the most beautiful bookstore in the world. Before you ask – yes it totally lived up to its expectations!
Inside Carturesti Carusel, Bucharest- the most beautiful bookstore in the worldInside Carturesti Carusel, Bucharest- the most beautiful bookstore in the world
Cărturești Carusel is in Bucharest’s old town and this bookstore has many levels, staircases, and sections. The inside structures give it a maze-like look that would please anyone who loves photographing symmetry.
Carturesti Carusel in Bucharest – the most beautiful bookstore in the world
Even though this bookstore has old school ornate pillars, it somehow looks very contemporary because of the stark décor and the white walls
I have this thing for books and I love them a little too much – I wish I had an entire day to spend here. Sadly this bookstore doesn’t have a smell of old books – a smell that I [and most of the people I know] have grown to love.
6) Rooftop Bars and Cafes – Nightlife in Bucharest is Amazing
Romanians love to party and considering Bucharest’s multicultural atmosphere; you’re always going to find a party somewhere or the other with locals, expats as well and travelers. To make the most of this lively eastern European city’s party scene, try a pub crawl in the old town.
In any case, here are two places that really enjoyed:
Pura Vida Skybar
Pura Vida Skybar in Bucharest, Romania
Pura Vida is one of the most popular hostels in Bucharest and every evening its terrace comes alive! Introducing Pura Vida Skybar – a place where there’s a party every evening. It is in Bucharest’s old town which is near the University, so expect to see local students, hostel guests, travelers, and sometimes even working professionals who come here directly from work for a drink.
Two out of the three times I was in Pura Vida Skybar, I saw musicians playing live music and the vibe was really fun. The sunset view is very nice, so come here early if you can.
Nomad’s Skybar
The Food in Nomad Skybar, Bucharest, Romania
I was at Nomad’s Skybar for lunch and loved this place. This place has really fun interiors and a lot of space to sit inside. The rooftop area has a good view of the old town. I really enjoyed my meal here and I highly recommend it.
Nomad Skybar, Bucharest – I loved the interiorsInside Nomad Skybar, Bucharest
Apart from the above two, there are many clubs in Bucharest where you can go for a party.
7) There is No Shortage of Museums
Inside the Museum of Ages in Bucharest, Romania
This point is no surprise considering Bucharest’s rich history. If you’re a museum lover then Bucharest will keep you very busy because there are so many of them here. In fact, WikiTravel recommends around 20 museums in Bucharest that are worth a visit.
Museum Nicolae Minovici, Bucharest, RomaniaMuseum nicolae minovici in Bucharest
If you want to get too much into the Romanian history, then you should visit Bucharest History Museum and the National History Museum. If you like art, then there are many museums in Bucharest such as the Art Museum, Museum of Art Collectables, or even the National Museum of Contemporary Arts.
However, if you’re looking for something different, then I’d like to suggest Future Museum where you can view contemporary art and conceptual art performances.
The Museum of Ages in Bucharest, Romania
If you like vintage cars, you can see Tiriac Collection, which usually has 150 vintage cars that belonged to Mr. Ion Tiriac. His collection also includes a Rolls Royce Phantom. There are only 17 Rolls Royce Phantoms that exist worldwide! Oh and this museum is really close to the airport – literally across the road
If you want to get a glimpse of the colorful Romanian traditions and handicrafts, check out the Peasant Museum. You can also check out the Museum of Ages, which I visited and it appeared to be like any other museum in the beginning but towards the end, it got a little freaky.
8) You can chill in the Gardens and Lakes
View from the boat on Herastrau Lake, Bucharest, Romania
I get you – cities can get really stressful and it is always a good idea to spend a few hours in a park. Well, Bucharest has some really amazing parks but I want to recommend Herăstrău Park in the north part of the city. It is also called King Michael I Park and there’s the Lake Herăstrău inside it.
You can walk around in Herastrau Park, check out the Japanese garden or even the sculptures and monuments. You can also go for a relaxing boat ride on Herastrau Lake – I did that too!
Boating on Herastrau Lake in Bucharest, Romania
I could see the famous Casa Presei Libere building from my boat, which is a government building and was once the tallest one in the city. I also saw many bars along the lake. Some of the most expensive clubs in Bucharest are along this lake.
9) Bucharest’s Food Scene Is Really Good
I always try to find local food but honestly, there are countries where I can’t enjoy that every day. If you’re from Romania, then don’t hate me for this but I never really developed a taste for typical local Romanian food. That could be because I don’t like meat.
One of the best meals that I had in Bucharest was in Trickshot Megamall, which is actually a very famous
Super delicious food in Trick Shot Mega Mall, Bucharest, Romania
place for bowling. I also really enjoyed eating burgers in one of the cafes in the old town where I kind of felt like I was on Khao San Street in Bangkok.
Bruschetta and Meat in Radisson Blu Hotel, Bucharest
Another place worth mentioning is the Radisson Blue Hotel, where I ate a delicious Italian meal. I started with Bruschetta and then ate a pizza that I loved. Keep in mind that I’m married to a half-Italian who has a family pizzeria, and I don’t usually like Italian food at just about anywhere. It has to be really good for me to like it.
Although I only talk about Bucharest’s international food scene, but that doesn’t mean you should miss out on experiencing the traditional food. Check out these three food tours –
If you’re a foodie, then you should consider experiencing one of the above food tours.
10) Hotels in Bucharest Are Breathtaking
Did I mention Bucharest has some of the most spectacular historical buildings? Also, many of them have been converted into luxury hotels. And even if they weren’t historical buildings, the new ones also look really impressive. I stayed in a few different hotels while I was there and here are my recommendations.
JW Mariott
My Super comfortable bed in JW Marriott Bucharest, Romania
This hotel is right next to the Palace of Parliament – which is the BIGGEST Parliament building in the world. This hotel is pretty massive too and a few sides overlook the famous Parliament Building.
Moreover, it is believed that the JW Mariott Hotel has the most comfortable beds and I can certainly vouch for that because I slept like a baby here.
InterContinental
Rooftop spa within Intercontinental Bucharest – Jacuzzi with a viewBedroom in Intercontinental Bucharest, Romania
It is the tallest hotel building in Romania and is super luxurious. InterContinental Bucharest has a rooftop spa, so you can literally sit in a hot tub and look at the view!
Ramada Majestic
Ramada Majestic in Bucharest, Romania
There are a few Ramada Hotels in Bucharest but this one is in the city center in a place that’s called “Turkish Square”. This hotel is not as fancy as the above two and somehow has an old-school vibe.
11) Bucharest is Affordable
Let’s face it, traveling in Europe isn’t cheap! But hey, this is what I love about Eastern Europe because even the big cities can be affordable.
It is easy to fall in love with a destination when it doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket, and Bucharest totally wins in this aspect. When I arrived, I withdrew a measly amount of money on the first day and it lasted until my final day.
Although tours in Europe can be expensive but Bucharest is one of those places where you can enjoy a different kind of tour that will still be affordable. For example, see the below three tours –
Eating out is affordable and so is drinking beer or coffee. Hostels are obviously cheap but luxury hotels aren’t exactly super expensive. Traveling within Bucharest was super cheap because UBER was very affordable here. This is also one of the reasons why you’ll see many expats in Bucharest.
Is Bucharest safe for solo women travelers?
Many people say that Bucharest is one of the safest cities in Europe and I felt safer in Bucharest than I felt on the streets of New York City. As a general thumb of rule, I’d suggest you listen to your gut. Be nice to locals but don’t just trust random strangers who want to offer you “help” by showing you the way when you’re alone.
While walking back to my hotel at night, I saw many girls in Bucharest who were on the streets with their friends or by themselves. I’m talking about the Old Town, which is the backpacker and the University area. I’d recommend you not to walk around at night alone but get on to a radio taxi if you must be out alone.
I did read about a scam in Bucharest, which involved unlicensed taxi drivers who drove the victim to remote locations and asked for money. This is why I always recommend radio taxies like Uber that you can order on apps.
Rooftop Jacuzzi in Intercontinental Bucharest – things to do in Bucharest Cărturești Carusel – the most beautiful bookstore in the world – photos of BucharestBucharest’s Umbrella Alley – things to do in Bucharest, Romania
Disclosure: I was invited to Romania on a sponsored trip by Experience Romania team but all silliness and thoughts expressed in this article are totally our own.
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us reduce the costs of keeping this site active. Thanks for reading!
As I sat on the edge of the boat sinking in my surroundings, the time stood still. Everywhere around me was water, but there was the forest too. In the distance I could see a pelican slowly gliding over the water in a hunt for a prey. Life seemed slow and relaxed on Danube Delta – my first wetland experience.
Slow Boat ride in the Danube Delta, Romania
Back in my school days, I remember how our Geography teacher explained the life of a river to us. “At the beginning of its life, a river is like a young child and has a lot of energy. It moves at a very fast pace and erodes the rocks as it goes down the mountains. At the end of its life, the pace becomes very relaxed right before it meets the ocean. That’s when a river creates deltas”.
Yes, that’s what is so special about visiting deltas – the calm pace of the water. It somehow sets in a relaxed atmosphere all around. You will feel it in the people you meet, the animals that you see, the sounds that you will hear and you will also eventually feel it in your own mind.
Anyway, now that I have given you a glimpse of a typical river Delta, let’s talk about Danube River and the place where it forms a delta.
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Introducing Danube River Delta + Danube River Facts
If you’ve ever traveled to Europe, most likely you have heard of the Danube River. After all, it flows through more countries than ANY OTHER RIVER in the world.
Danube River originates in Germany’s Black Forest and ends in the Black Sea. Apart from Germany, it passes through Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova and Ukraine.
Danube Delta, Romania – Forest and Water Canals
As it ends in the Black Sea, Danube River forms the second largest delta in Europe. Most of the Danube Delta lies in Romania and some in Ukraine too. Interestingly, this delta area is a UNESCO world heritage site.
Where is the Danube Delta & How to Reach
If you see the map of Romania, the absolute east part is where the Danube River forms its delta. To be more specific, it is in the Tulcea county of Romania. 1/3rd part of Tulcea is the Danube Delta Area.
Many people opt for Danube River Cruise to visit the Delta area, but I’d recommend something else. If you want to explore the Danube delta area properly, you should know that a cruise ship won’t head to the narrow canals, which are the prettiest parts.
To see the best of Danube Delta area, you should stay here for a few days and for that you have to reach Tulcea city. It is easy to reach Tulca by road from Bucharest – it is just 174 KMs away. Buses from Bucharest to Tulcea leave from Augustina Bus Terminal.
Tulcea city is just the starting point and from there you can take a ferry to go deeper in the Delta area. The only way inside is by boat.
The easiest thing to do would be to ask your hotel to arrange for a boat to pick you up. Most of the high-end places offer this service anyways.
Danube Delta Map + Where to go
If you look at a map of Danube Delta area, it looks a little complicated. You can broadly divide the regions based on the starting point and the three distributaries or channels as mentioned below. Here’s the Danube on Map towards the end of her life when it makes a delta in Romania and Ukraine.
the Danube Delta Map, Romania – Where to Go
Tulcea
As mentioned earlier, Tulcea is an ideal starting point for exploring the Danube Delta area. From here, three important channels start and lead on to further destinations. All the things that you can do in the Danube Delta area can further be divided between three geographical areas below. These are actually three channels.
Sulina
Siluna arm is the first place that we visited in the Danube Delta area and stayed here overnight. It is the shortest channel out of three and that’s why is the main route of transportation. We stayed at Hotel Sunrise in Sulina.
Sfântu Gheorghe
Sfântu Gheorghe channel was the most beautiful part of Danube Delta for me and is the far south end of the Delta. There is a village here by this name too. We stayed in a beautiful waterfront resort called Green Village in Sfântu Gheorghe. I’d recommend you stay in one of the waterfront hotels on Sfantu Gheorghe because there’s so much to do here.
Chilia
We didn’t stay in Chilia channel overnight but visited it from Sulina. There is a forest here called Letea Reserve. Interestingly, this channel is one of the newer ones and there was a port here earlier, which is now under the water.
Things to do in Danube Delta
Slow Boat Ride through the Delta Channels
Slow Boat Ride in the Danube Delta area, Romania
No matter how many times in your life you’re been on a boat, cruising on the Danube river’s delta on a slow boat will be a rewarding experience. Let the stillness of the water massage your mind into feeling relaxed. After all, this is the most special aspect of visiting a river delta.
Try to get on a smaller non-motorized boat so that you can move around silently and sink in the natural beauty. These smaller boats won’t take more than 4 people, which is a good thing. This way, you will spend less time talking to multiple people on the boat and more time experiencing the surroundings. Even the Lonely Planet guide recommends getting on to the smaller boats instead of the bigger ones to enjoy the delta.
Bird watching and see Danube Delta birds
A flying Pelican – Danube Delta Birds, Romania
A slow boat ride can be easily be combined with bird watching. If you’re interested to know more, you should ask your hotel to arrange a bird watching specialist. I’m not good with bird names but I do remember that we saw pelicans, herons, terns, egrets, swans and marsh harrier.
A row of Pelicans – Bird Watching in Danube Delta, Romania
Pelicans were massive and you will easily spot them even without a guide. We also saw the Great White Pelicans and Dalmatian pelicans – which are very rare and you will need an expert to show you which ones are those!
Unlike most of the bird watching trips, you don’t necessarily need to wake up at 4 or 5 am in the morning when you’re here. You can go in the early evening too.
Letea Forest Reserve – the famous Danube Delta Horses
Letea Forest Reserve – Danube Delta, Romania
Letea Reserve is in the middle of Sulina and Chilia channels and it was once completely underwater. There was a gulf at the same place where now the Letea forest stands. Yep, it is so because the Delta is in a continuous transformation.
Letea Reserve is the only place in Europe and one of the very few places on earth where there are wild horses. The forest area has jackals too.
A Horse in Letea Forest Reserve – the Danube Danube, Romania
Another very interesting thing about Letea Reserve is that hallucinogenic berries grow here! The locals mentioned that these berries are called Afedra Distatia. I can’t find the name of these berries in English though.
There are a few very little sand dunes in this reserve, where you can still see broken seashells because once it was a seabed. Because of the shells, the tree roots in this reserve go horizontal. 300 – 400 years back, this was a part of the Ottoman Empire.
160 years back, there was also a lighthouse in the middle of the Black Sea here. Right now it stands in a museum in Sulina town.
Sfântu Gheorghe Island Exploration
It is also called Saint George and is the oldest inhabited area in the Danube Delta region. After spending most of your time near water, walking around in this adorable fishing village will give you a change of scenery.
As you walk from the main port on Sfantu Gheorghe, you will notice a few old school communist buildings. There is a beautiful church in Sfantu Gheorghe where the insides are covered with colorful frescos.
Inside Sfântu Gheorghe Church, the Danube Delta, Romania
For me, the best part of walking around this village was getting to see some lovely small houses on both sides of the street. All of these houses had gardens with lovely trees or plants.
Saint George Beach
Saint George Beach, the Danube Delta, Romania
While I was in Romania, I visited some very popular Black Sea beaches in Constanta, however the beach in Saint George holds a special place in my heart. This is because this beach was massive and very empty when we visited it. It reminded me of Goa’s beaches before they went mainstream.
You can reach Saint George beach from Sfantu Gheorghe village very easily. It is a 30-minute walk or 7-minute drive. If you do decide to walk, please note that many areas of this road were completely under water so walking may not be the easiest option.
There are no beach bars or shops on this beach, so carry your own water and essentials.
Danube Delta Resorts
Green Village Resort, Sfântu Gheorghe
Inside Green Village Resort, Sfântu Gheorghe, Romania
One of the easiest ways of organizing a trip to the Danube Delta area is by booking a few days in a resort. For that purpose, I found Green Village Resort in Sfantu Gheorghe perfect. They organized boat transfers, slow boat rides, bird watching trips and much more.
Dinner area in Green Village Resort, Sfantu Gheorghe, the Denube Delta, Romania
Inside Green Village Resort, Sfantu Gheorghe, the Denube Delta, Romania
Tipi in Green Village Resort, Sfantu Gheorghe, the Denube Delta, Romania
The resort area itself is beautiful and very spread out with multiple ponds, bridges, play area for kids, swimming pool and also early morning Yoga. I’m not much into eating meat and I didn’t exactly have the best experience with food in Romania – however, I LOVED the food in Green Village. I normally recommend self–planned and organized trip but the Danube Delta is remote and you will be much happier if you book an all–inclusive deal with a resort like this one.
My room in Green Village Resort, Sfantu Gheorghe, the Danube Delta, Romania
I also enjoyed an amazing massage with a view in Green Village Resort. It wasn’t exactly expensive as per European standards.
Another good thing about the Green Village Resort is the location. We were close to the Black Sea beach and also the village. Click here to read the reviews of Green Village resort on TripAdvisor and Book here (find deals).
Hotel Sunrise, Delta Dunarii, Crișan
Sunset view from Hotel Sunrise, Delta Dunarii, Danube Delta, Romania
If you’re thinking of breaking up your journey like we did, you’ll probably want to spend a night closer to Tulcea before going deeper in the Delta. We were in Hotel Sunrise Delta, which is on Sulina channel. Staying in this place makes a lot of sense for those who don’t have time to go deeper in the Delta.
The room here was lovely and so was the area around. They also organized a very good slow boat ride on traditional boats for free. There is a wooden sitting area along the road on the water, where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset.
The local guide mentioned that the months of spring is the best time to visit the Danube Delta area. Springtime is when nature comes back to life after sleeping for months during winter. Danube Delta is a destination for nature exploration so visiting it in spring makes total sense.
I visited towards the end of spring, which was the month of May. It was warm but not unbearably so except the midday village exploration.
Quick Tips before you visit the Danube Delta
You need permits
In order to enter the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, you need a permit. In most of the cases, your hotel will get that for you. You can also get this permit yourself from the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Administration office. It costs 5 Lei a day or 15 Lei a week. Additionally, you also need a special permit for your boat.
Mosquito Repellant
Where there’s water, there will be insects and mosquitos for sure. Mosquitos can cause many diseases to I’d recommend you to carry a herbal insect repellant. Normally Citronella oil or Coconut oil should be enough.
Humidity
Carry cotton clothes that aren’t very tight because the Delta area is humid.
You MAY See a Snake or Two – but don’t be afraid
Snakes are beautiful when they’re far away and the ones in Danube Delta area are mostly harmless. I saw a very little one on a narrow muddy path and a few bigger ones in the water. Remember – you’re in a forest area and seeing snakes is normal. In most cases, you may not even notice them.
If you’re really scared of them then stamp your feet harder when you’re walking so that they feel the vibrations and stay away. Oh and make sure you keep your windows and door shut.
Boat
I did all of my boat transfers on my Hotel boats – Green Village and Sunshine Resort. However, in case you’re planning on taking the public ferries, you will find the boat schedule on this website.
Bird Watching in Denube Delta Biosphere Reserve, Romania
Green Village Resort in Danube Delta, Romania
Slow Boat ride in Danube Delta, Romania
Yoga in Tipi in Danube Delta, Romania
Have you ever visited a river delta before? We’d love to know where. Let us know in the comments.
Disclosure: I was invited to Romania on a sponsored trip by Experience Romania team but all silliness and thoughts expressed in this article are totally our own.
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us reduce the costs of keeping this site active. Thanks for reading!
Hello Travelers!
Namaste, Guten Tag!
I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).
I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a think for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.
