How to Spend THREE DAYS in Bucharest, Romania: 3-Day Itinerary

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Planning a trip to Bucharest but not sure how to fit everything in? Well, don’t worry because we’ve got you covered!

After wandering through historic squares, sampling local dishes, and soaking up the city’s surprisingly eclectic vibe, we’ve put together the ultimate three-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Romania’s capital. From tuk-tuk tours and communist history walks to a full-day adventure to Dracula’s Castle, this itinerary strikes the perfect balance between sightseeing and soaking it all in.

Whether you’re here for the food, the history, or the day trips, Bucharest has more to offer than you might expect. Let’s get into it!

Itinerary Overview

Bucharest is full of surprises, and in this three-day itinerary, we’ve laid things out to help you see the very best of it without feeling rushed. It’s flexible, fun, and designed to flow naturally through the city’s key highlights and neighborhoods. Getting around Bucharest is easy, too. It’s a very walkable city, and everything in the Old Town is close together.

You can get to pretty much all of the places we talk about in this itinerary on foot! There’s also a reliable metro system if you need it, and Ubers are cheap and widely available if you need to go further afield. Local taxis can be hit or miss, so we definitely suggest using ride-hailing apps to ensure you don’t get ripped off! 

Day 1: Today’s all about discovering Bucharest’s highlights, starting with a tuk-tuk tour to hit the top landmarks, followed by a stroll through Old Town and a visit to one of the city’s most iconic bookstores. In the afternoon, we’ll dive into history at a national museum and a peaceful monastery before wrapping up the day with a local tasting experience and dinner at a beloved traditional restaurant.

Day 2: We’ll spend the first half of the day on a guided food tour through Bucharest’s bohemian neighborhoods. Then, after a short break, you’ll explore the Patriarchal Cathedral before finishing the day with a fascinating walking tour about the city’s communist history.

Day 3: Time for a day trip! Today you’ll venture beyond the city on a guided tour of Dracula’s Castle, the fairytale Peles Castle, and the charming medieval town of Brasov, before heading back to Bucharest for a final meal.

Day 1

Breakfast – Nuba Cafe Downtown 

Kick off your first day in Bucharest with breakfast at one of our favorite spots: Nuba Cafe! It opens at 8 am and is a 6-minute walk from the starting point of this morning’s tuk-tuk tour. I love the smoked salmon on sourdough here, but they have a wide range of yummy options available. However, if you’d rather skip breakfast (or your hotel offers a complimentary one), then you can arrange for your tuk-tuk to pick you up from your accommodation instead. 

Morning – See top city sights on a private tuk-tuk tour 

This private tuk-tuk tour is the perfect way to hit the ground running in Bucharest! We did it on our first day here, and it turned out to be the ideal introduction. We learned so much and covered a ton of ground in just two hours. 

Multiple departure times are available, but we suggest booking the 9:30 or 10 am time slot. Choose a 2-hour tour so that you’ll wrap up by noon, ready for more exploring before lunch. 

As mentioned, you can meet the tour in the Old Town or get picked up from your hotel. From there, you’ll visit key landmarks including the Palace of Parliament, Revolution Square, and Triumph Arch. The latter is actually a little further out from the center, so the tuk-tuk tour makes it easy to check it out! 

You’ll learn so much along the way, too. Our guide, Valentin, taught us a lot about Bucharest’s history. I was particularly fascinated to hear the stories about the revolution in December 1989.

By the time the tour ends, you’ll really feel as though you have your bearings in Bucharest. It certainly started our trip with a bang, and judging by the hundreds of 5-star reviews, we’re not the only ones who loved this tour!

Book this top-rated tuk-tuk tour here!

Mid-morning – Carturesti Carusel Bookstore

The tuk-tuk tour is private, so you can ask your guide to drop you off outside the famous Cartuersti Carusel Bookstore when you’re done. It’s one of the biggest and most beautiful bookstores in the world, so even if you’re not much of a reader, we definitely think it’s worth checking out! 

The building once housed a bank, which was owned by a Greek family. It was confiscated by the Communist regime in the 1950s, only to be abandoned once it collapsed. The family then went through 24 years of legal battles and reclaimed the building in 2007, when they began renovating it into the incredible bookstore it is today. There are five large floors to explore, and you’ll find both English and Romanian books here.

Lunch – Bread and Butter

Bread and Butter is a yummy brunch cafe just a 7-minute walk from the bookstore. It’s an elegant spot that does fantastic juices and lots of yummy dishes. I had a poke bowl, but there’s also avo toast, eggs benny, and shakshuka on the menu. 

After you’ve finished eating, take a stroll through Macca – Vilacrosse Passage. This is a famous arcade with very pretty architecture. Nowadays, most of the businesses here are shisha cafes, but it still feels very historic!

Afternoon – Museum and Monastery 

National Museum of Romanian History

The National Museum of Romanian History is just a 5-minute walk from Bread and Butter, so head here after lunch to explore the wide range of artefacts on offer. It’s not open on Monday or Tuesday, but if you’re here any other day of the week, then it’s definitely worth checking out. You can find everything from Trajan’s Column and Greek gold to royal crowns and suits of armor. Entry costs 22 RON ($5 USD), and we suggest spending about 1-2 hours here.

The Church of the “Stavropoleos” Monastery

This super historic monastery is a 5-minute walk from the National History Museum, or 6 minutes from Bread and Butter. Entrance is free, and we highly recommend checking out this beautiful building, which dates back to the 18th century. It’s small, so you don’t need to spend long here, but the colorful Byzantine frescoes and scenic little courtyard are definitely worth seeing. 

Sometimes, you’ll find a queue out front of the monastery as it’s a popular stop on walking tours. However, it’s small and you only need a few minutes to see it, so the lines tend to move quickly. 

If you have some time left before this evening’s tasting begins at 5 pm, we suggest grabbing a drink at Caru’ cu bere, which is just a few doors down from the monastery. It’s one of the city’s oldest drinking halls, and it has beautiful Gothic architecture, with intricately carved woodwork and stained glass windows. 

Evening – Taste local wine

Did you know that Romania is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world? 

Neither did we before we first visited! But I think that this rich history makes doing a tasting an absolute must while you’re here, so book this epic guided tasting in the Old Town. The bar is just a 5-minute walk from the monastery, and this tasting experience will take you on a flavorful journey across Romania! 

Our host, Dario, was really friendly and gave us a great introduction to each local variety we sampled. He explained where each one was from and shared stories about the different regions and grapes as we worked our way through the tasting.

We got to try two whites, a rosé (my personal favorite), and two reds. Most of them were small batch varieties made with grapes we had never even heard of before, so we really got a unique experience. Oh, and these weren’t tasting portions, either; they were all full pours!

Plus, we also got a huge charcuterie platter! It was so big that when Dario first brought it to our table, we weren’t sure if we’d be able to eat it all, but over the course of the tasting, we certainly managed. 

Book this tasting for 5 pm. Viator says it lasts for 2 hours, but we were actually there for 3 hours in total. Dario didn’t rush us at all and let us enjoy the tasting at our own pace. There’s a reason this experience has such stellar reviews!

This tasting experience is very popular, so book it ASAP, before it sells out!

Dinner – Restaurant Hanu’ lui Manuc

Hanu’ lui Manuc—aka Manuc’s Inn—is the most famous restaurant in Bucharest’s Old Town! It’s a gorgeous spot with a big courtyard, which was a hub for local merchants back in the day. Now, it serves up traditional Romanian food in a historic setting. Dishes to try include Transylvanian bean soup, venison goulash, and baked turbot. 

The restaurant is just a 5-minute walk from the tasting tour. Be sure to make a reservation, as this is one of the most popular dinner spots in the city! Reserve a table for around 8:15 pm so you’ll have time to amble over.

Day 2

Breakfast – Grab coffee at Citrick

We’ve got a food tour coming up this morning, so rather than enjoying a full breakfast, just grab a coffee before it starts. Citrick is a super cute and locally-owned coffee shop just a 5-minute walk from the tour’s starting point, so get your caffeine fix here before the adventure begins. We love the bright and colorful decor, and they usually have some fun seasonal specials on offer—espresso lemonade, anyone?

Mid-day – Taste your way around the city

Part of getting to know a new city is tasting all of the local specialties, so book this top-rated food tour for 10 am this morning. It lasts for 5.5 hours, so you’ll wrap up around 3:30 pm with a smile on your face and a full stomach! 

During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Bucharest was known as “Little Paris of the East”, and after this food tour, we know why! We were able to get away from the busy and explore its Belle Époque neighborhoods, where we had a great time trying authentic Romanian food.

The food was absolutely amazing! We sampled traditional cheeses, cured meats, Romanian pretzels, and of course, mici, which is Romania’s famous grilled sausage.

One of my favorite moments was trying freshly made Wallachian doughnuts at Obor Market. These are a regional specialty you won’t easily find outside of this area.

Beyond the incredible food, this tour felt like a deep dive into Bucharest’s soul. We hopped on a tram with locals, walked through a historic Armenian neighborhood with stunning architecture, and even saw a church that had been moved on rails to save it from demolition—how cool is that?

If you’re looking to see the real Bucharest, then this is just the tour for you, and you don’t just have to take my word for it because you can read hundreds of 5-star reviews here.

Book this stellar food tour here and enjoy free cancellation!

Afternoon – Patriarchal Cathedral of Bucharest 

This evening’s tour kicks off in front of the Patriarchal Cathedral of Bucharest, perched on top of Dealul Mitropoliei Hill. It takes about 20 minutes to reach this area by tram or on foot, so plan to arrive a little early to explore. We used the extra time to relax in the nearby park under the trees, which was a perfect break between tours! If you’re up for it, you can also walk around the grounds to see the cathedral’s peaceful courtyards and other historic buildings before the next part of the day begins.

Evening – Learn about the communist history on a walking tour

Romania’s communist history is SUPER interesting, but it’s not widely taught everywhere, so it’s definitely worth booking this walking tour to dive deep into the country’s past. If you’re visiting in the summer like we did, the 5 pm start is perfect, but in other seasons the tour runs earlier, so you might need to adjust your plans. You can also explore the main sites on your own if timing doesn’t work out.

We started at Revolution Square, where the 1989 uprising unfolded. Standing there while our guide described the final days of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s rule was surreal. It’s hard to imagine how different (and difficult) life in Bucharest was just a few decades ago!

From there, we moved through the Old Town, where former party elites dined, and onto the Patriarchal Palace, which once housed Romania’s Communist legislature.

One of my favorite parts was learning about the Mihai Vodă Monastery, one of several churches that was physically moved to avoid demolition under Ceaușescu’s rule. And, of course, we stopped outside the Palace of Parliament. This is actually the second-largest building in the world by area, after the Pentagon, and it’s so heavy that it sinks by about 6 mm every year.

This tour is the perfect way to get to know Romania’s history beyond its Dracula myths. I’m not at all surprised that it has over 500 5-star reviews! 

Check prices and book this must-do history tour here!

Dinner – Trattoria Don Vito Ristorante

You’ll be hungry after all of that walking today, so head to Trattoria Don Vito for dinner after your tour ends at 8 pm. This is a top-rated Italian restaurant that’s just a 10-minute walk from Revolution Square, where the Communist walking tour ends. They do delicious pizza and pasta, and I highly recommend treating yourself to the chocolate lava cake for dessert. Reserving a table for 8:15 or 8:30 pm gives you just enough time to settle in and start the evening at a relaxed pace.

Related Read: Planning more time in the city? Check out our guide to the 8 best things to do in Bucharest here for even more can’t-miss experiences

Day 3

Full-day – Explore Dracula’s Castle, Peles Castle, and the charming city of Brasov 

On your final morning in Bucharest, head out of the city on this small group tour. We’ve dived into Bucharest’s modern history, food scene, and local flavors, but now it’s time to see a totally different side of Romania by exploring its legendary castles.

The tour begins at 8 am and it offers hotel pick-up from hotels in the Old Town beforehand. Just note it usually isn’t available on Monday and Tuesday, so make sure to plan accordingly and swap your itinerary days if needed.

Once you’re picked up, you’ll watch the cityscape fade into rolling Transylvanian hills. The first stop of the day is Peles Castle, a breathtaking neo-Renaissance royal retreat. And if Peles Castle happens to be closed on the day of your tour, you’ll enjoy a guided visit to the Cantacuzino Palace instead. 

But of course, the main event is visiting Bran Castle, which is said to be the inspiration for Dracula’s castle in Bram Stoker’s famous novel. Surprisingly, Stoker never actually clapped eyes on the place, but the castle’s narrow corridors and secret staircases had an eerie charm that was impossible to resist!

After that, we headed to the charming medieval town of Brasov, where we wandered the cobbled streets and grabbed lunch. The Black Church and Old Town Square were stunning, and it was the perfect way to end the day.

This is a long day trip, but it’s absolutely worth it. If you want to see Romania’s most famous castles and a beautiful Transylvanian town in just one day, this is the way to do it!

Check availability and book our FAVORITE Bucharest tour here!

Dinner – Noa Restoclub

Today was a long day, but you’ll still need food this evening! So if you have some energy left, head back to the Old Town for one last meal at Noa Restoclub. This is a cozy and classy restaurant where you can enjoy a quiet night out. They serve up delicious steaks, burgers, and even sushi, so fill your boots and make the most of your final evening in Bucharest.

Where to Stay in Bucharest, Romania

Now that you’ve got the perfect three days in Bucharest planned, it’s time to find the right place to stay! Bucharest is packed with personality, and it caters to pretty much every type of traveler. We do recommend staying in or close to the Old Town, though, as then you’ll be able to walk basically everywhere! 

To make planning easier (and way more fun), we’ve rounded up the top places to stay, so you can skip the endless scrolling and dive straight into soaking up the energy, history, and charm of Romania’s vibrant capital. If any of these spots are available for your dates, book early—they fill up fast!

Luxury – $$$

The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection is a five-star luxury hotel set in a beautifully restored former bank in Bucharest’s Old Town. With elegant rooms, a stunning historic lobby, and top-tier amenities like an indoor pool, sauna, spa, and fitness center, it’s a refined escape in the city center. Guests rave about the location, breakfast, and stylish design!

Room rates typically range from €161–€500 per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Bucharest Convention Center is a top pick for a mid-range stay in Bucharest’s business district. It offers modern, soundproof rooms, a delicious complimentary breakfast, and access to a full-service wellness club with indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and a large fitness center. Guests also enjoy on-site dining at two restaurants and easy access to nearby public transport and shopping centers. 

Nightly rates average around €120–€250. Check availability and prices for your travel dates on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Hostel Sport Bucharest is a top-rated budget stay in the heart of Bucharest, offering clean, well-equipped dorms, a cozy garden terrace, and unbeatable proximity to the metro and Old Town. With air-conditioned rooms, a shared kitchen, and ultra-friendly staff, it’s a favorite among solo travelers and backpackers alike. You’ll find thoughtful touches like security lockers, coffee machines, and even a flat-screen TV in shared spaces.

Beds start at just €24 per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.

For more options, see all of Bucharest’s hotels listed here!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

We hope this three-day Bucharest itinerary helps you plan an amazing trip to Romania’s capital! Between wandering historic squares, tasting local flavors, learning the city’s communist history, and venturing out to Dracula’s Castle, you’re in for an unforgettable mix of culture, history, and adventure.

Before you go, make sure to check out our other Europe blogs here for even more travel inspiration. Whether you’re planning a longer trip or adding on another destination, our guides will help you make the most of your time. Or check out some of our favorites below that we think you’ll love!

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