Where to Stay in Bucharest, Romania: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

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Trying to figure out where to stay in Bucharest? Let’s sort it out!

Bucharest isn’t a one-neighborhood-fits-all kind of city. It’s big, layered, and full of contrasts—historic Old Town streets, grand cultural boulevards, leafy park areas, and café-filled local hubs all offer very different vibes. That’s why choosing the right base can completely shape how the city feels.

Whether you want nonstop energy, easy sightseeing, green space, or a slower, more local rhythm, we’ve broken down the best areas to stay in Bucharest based on travel style, along with tried-and-true hotel picks for every budget. This way, you can spend less time overthinking logistics and more time enjoying the city. Let’s make Bucharest feel like yours!

Where to Stay in Bucharest Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Bucharest

Think of Bucharest as a walkable core with quick hops rather than a city you conquer entirely on foot. Stay anywhere central, and you’ll find daytime exploring pleasantly easy—grand boulevards, historic streets, cafés, and major sights all sit close enough that wandering feels effortless. But Bucharest is also big and spread out, so most days naturally turn into a blend of walking and short rides instead of marathon neighborhood-to-neighborhood strolls.

When you want to move fast, the metro is your best friend. It’s the quickest, most reliable way to zip between central squares or head north toward greener areas like Herăstrău. Above ground, buses and trams help fill in the gaps, though they can crawl a bit at rush hour. For easy, door-to-door trips, most travelers lean on Bolt or Uber for ride-hailing—it’s affordable and drama-free. Traditional taxis are fine too, just be selective: use official cars, insist on the meter, and skip anyone who approaches you offering a ride.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas to stay in Bucharest—plus a standout hotel in each:

• Old Town – Best for first-time visitors – If you want Bucharest at full volume, Old Town is where it happens, with historic streets, nonstop dining, and nightlife all within easy walking distance. For a great stay right in the middle of the action, Europa Royale Bucharest offers modern comfort inside a classic building just steps from Lipscani.

• Calea Victoriei – Best for culture – This grand boulevard is Bucharest at its most polished, lined with museums, landmark buildings, and elegant streets that make sightseeing feel effortless. Park Inn by Radisson is a smart choice nearby, especially if you want spacious rooms, family-friendly comforts, and easy access to both cultural sights and green space.

• Herăstrău – Best for families & nature lovers – Calm, green, and refreshingly relaxed, this area revolves around Bucharest’s largest park and suits travelers who value space over nightlife. For families or longer stays, Hotel Sir Royal works well as a practical home base here, with roomy accommodations, parking, and an easy drive into the city.

• Piata Romana – Best for a local & relaxed stay – Lively without being overwhelming, this central neighborhood is perfect for café hopping, casual wandering, and feeling like a local for a few days. Scala Boutique-Hotel adds extra charm with its old-world style, cultural events, and walkable access to some of the city’s best coffee spots.

Where to Stay in Bucharest

Old Town

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Walkable access to Bucharest’s top sights, restaurants, and nightlife
• Lively atmosphere that makes the city feel exciting from day one
• Well-connected to public transport with metro stops nearby

Cons

• Noisy at night, especially on weekends and around main bar streets
• Fewer local, everyday spots compared to residential neighborhoods
• Not much green space for quiet breaks or morning walks

Old Town is hands-down the best place to stay in Bucharest for first-time visitors. This is where the city’s history, energy, and everyday life all overlap, with narrow streets opening into lively squares and café-filled corners. Staying here puts you right in the middle of the action, meaning you can explore most major sights on foot and get a real feel for the city from the moment you arrive.

Lipscani Street runs through the heart of the neighborhood and sets the tone with its mix of historic buildings, buzzing restaurants, and late-night bars. Just off the main strip, things slow down a bit. Stavropoleos Monastery offers a surprisingly peaceful pause, while spots like Pasajul Macca-Vilacrosse add a dash of old-world character. Plus, cultural landmarks like the National Museum of Romanian History and iconic buildings like the CEC Palace are all just steps away, making sightseeing super easy.

This area is ideal for travelers who want to experience Bucharest without constantly relying on public transport. The vibe is lively, social, and a little chaotic in the best way. Just be prepared for crowds and noise in the evenings, especially on weekends—Old Town doesn’t really do “quiet,” and that’s part of its charm.

The Marmorosch Bucharest – $$$

The Marmorosch Bucharest is one of those hotels that feels like an experience, not just a place to sleep. Housed in a beautifully restored former bank building, this Autograph Collection property brings serious Old World glamour right into the heart of Old Town. 

From the moment you step inside, everything feels polished, elegant, and just a little indulgent. Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, with modern comforts like minibars and plush bathrooms that make it easy to unwind after a full day of sightseeing. 

The real standout, though, is the spa. Having an indoor pool, sauna, and wellness facilities right in the middle of the city is a huge bonus, especially after long days wandering Lipscani and beyond. Prices typically range from €150 to €650 per night, depending on room type and season.

Check availability and book this high-end Old Town base here!

If you want something with a calmer vibe, Ecletico Villa is a charming boutique stay just a short stroll from The Marmorosch. It’s got stylish rooms and friendly service right near all the Old Town action, making it a great backup when the premier places are booked.

Europa Royale Bucharest – $$

Europa Royale Bucharest is a classic Old Town stay that nails location and value, especially if you want to be right in the middle of everything without splurging on a luxury hotel. Set inside a 19th-century building just steps from Lipscani Street, this hotel puts bars, restaurants, and historic sights practically at your doorstep.

Rooms are modern and comfortable, with clean design, minibars, and soundproofing that helps take the edge off Old Town’s late-night buzz. Some upper-floor rooms even come with views over Unirii Square and the historic Hanul lui Manuc, which is a fun bonus if you snag one. 

It’s also a solid pick for families, with roomy options and a metro stop practically next door. With prices generally landing between €90 and €250, it’s a pretty great deal for staying right in the heart of Old Town.

Book here for a prime Old Town location without the splurge!

If Europa Royale Bucharest is all booked up, Moxy Bucharest Old Town is a fun, modern alternative right in the heart of the action. It’s a great choice if you like a social vibe, contemporary design, and being steps from Old Town’s bars and restaurants.

Another solid option nearby is Peakture Hotel, which sits just outside the busiest streets while still keeping you close to everything. It’s a comfortable, well-located base with a slightly calmer feel at the end of the day.

Vilacrosse Boutique Inn – $

For a great budget-friendly option, Vilacrosse Boutique Inn puts you right in Old Town without sacrificing comfort. Set just off the main streets, this boutique-style hotel is just a short walk from Lipscani, Stavropoleos Church, and plenty of cafés and bars, while still feeling a bit more relaxed than some of the louder spots nearby.

The space here feels generous for the price, with air-conditioning, comfy beds, and thoughtful extras like bathrobes, coffee machines, and streaming services for winding down between outings. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar, perfect for an easy dinner or a low-effort nightcap without diving back into the crowds.

Families tend to rate this place highly, thanks to the room sizes and convenient location. Rates usually come in around €60 to €95 per night, making it one of the best value stays in Old Town.

Find the best prices and secure this affordable Old Town stay here!

Another great option in Old Town is Rembrandt Old Town, a cozy hotel with plenty of character and a warm, welcoming feel. It’s a solid choice if you like classic décor, friendly service, and being just steps from Bucharest’s historic sights without stretching the budget.

Related Read: Need help organizing your trip? Check out our 3-day Bucharest itinerary for our favorite activities, restaurants, and top travel tips!

Calea Victoriei

BEST FOR CULTURE

Pros

• Home to many of Bucharest’s most important cultural landmarks
• Grand, elegant atmosphere that feels classic rather than chaotic
• Easy walking access to Old Town, Piata Romana, and major metro stops

Cons

• Less nightlife compared to Old Town
• Can feel busy during the day with traffic along the main boulevard
• Some hotels come at a higher price due to the central location

Calea Victoriei is one of Bucharest’s most iconic streets, and staying here feels a bit like checking into the city’s cultural backbone. This grand boulevard cuts through central Bucharest and is lined with elegant buildings, museums, and historic institutions that tell the story of the city’s past.

Some of Bucharest’s most famous sights are clustered right along Calea Victoriei, so sightseeing here feels almost effortless. The Romanian Athenaeum is the main draw with its domed roof and concert hall interior that looks like it belongs in another era.

Just around the corner, Revolution Square adds an important layer of modern history, while the National Museum of Art of Romania—set inside the former Royal Palace—gives the area its cultural weight. And honestly, even if you don’t step inside a single museum, the street itself is worth the wander. With its Belle Époque buildings and grand façades, Calea Victoriei turns a simple walk into part of the experience rather than just a way to get from point A to point B.

This neighborhood suits travelers who want a more polished, cultural stay without feeling disconnected from the rest of the city. It’s central, walkable, and calmer than Old Town—perfect if you prefer museums and concerts over late-night bar hopping.

Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest – $$$

For a polished, all-in-one kind of stay right on Calea Victoriei, Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest is ideal if you like having everything at your fingertips. This is one of the city’s largest and most well-equipped hotels, with multiple restaurants and bars, a full spa, and even a beach club vibe in summer, which feels slightly surreal in the middle of Bucharest (in a good way).

The overall vibe leans modern and polished, making it easy to unwind after long days hopping between museums. Add in free access to a major health club with an indoor pool, whirlpool, and gym, plus the on-site THAIco Spa, and relaxation becomes part of the experience.

You’re only a short stroll from the Romanian Athenaeum and the National Museum of Art, so culture is basically built into the location. Prices usually start around €170 and can climb to €350+, depending on how fancy you feel like getting.

Reserve this central, culture-heavy location before rooms fill up!

If you love the elegance of Calea Victoriei and want something with a more classic, old-world feel, Grand Hotel Continental Bucuresti is a great alternative. It’s especially appealing if historic charm, refined interiors, and a quieter luxury vibe are high on your wish list.

Hotel Casa Capsa is another standout nearby, known for its long history and Belle Époque character. Stay here if you like the idea of sleeping in a piece of Bucharest’s past while still being right in the middle of the city’s cultural scene.

Park Inn by Radisson – $$

Park Inn by Radisson is a smart pick if you want a central location with a little more breathing room—literally. Tucked just off Calea Victoriei near leafy Cismigiu Park, this hotel is ideal for families, longer stays, or anyone who appreciates extra space after full days of exploring museums and boulevards.

Rooms here are notably large by city standards and come with practical comforts like coffee machines, fast Wi-Fi, and soundproofing. Some options even include kitchenettes, which is a huge plus if you’re traveling with kids or staying more than a couple of nights. 

You’re also connected to the larger Radisson complex next door, meaning easy access to additional dining spots and bars without needing to go far. With nightly rates usually falling between €150 and €300, Park Inn offers solid value for its size, location, and comfort.

Secure this roomy base before availability tightens up!

If you love the idea of Park Inn’s location but want a slightly more contemporary, business-friendly vibe, Novotel Bucharest City Centre is a handy alternative. It’s just around the corner and offers spacious rooms and a relaxed lounge—perfect if you want easy metro access and a calm base after cultural sightseeing.

Hotel Berthelot is another great nearby pick with boutique charm and a quieter atmosphere. Stay here if you’re after a more personal, design-forward hotel that still keeps Calea Victoriei, the metro, and key museums within a comfortable stroll.

Bucur Accommodation – $

Central location, comfy rooms, and prices that don’t hurt—that’s exactly what you get at Bucur Accommodation. Sitting just a short walk from Calea Victoriei and about five minutes from Old Town, it’s perfectly placed for bouncing between museums, cafés, and evening strolls without overthinking logistics.

Everything here is modern, clean, and set up to make city stays easy, whether you’re in Bucharest for one night or a full week. Air-conditioning, comfy beds, fridges, and Smart TVs with free Netflix make downtime genuinely enjoyable, while family-friendly layouts and a quieter overall vibe help it feel calm despite the central location.

Rates usually range from €65 to €120 per night, making Bucur Accommodations one of the best-value stays near Calea Victoriei.

Lock in your affordable stay at Bucur Accommodation here!

Another great nearby location is Upstairs Boutique, a small, stylish hotel that keeps things simple and comfortable while staying close to Calea Victoriei. It’s a solid pick if you like modern design, friendly service, and a quieter atmosphere without drifting too far from Bucharest’s main sights.

Herăstrău

BEST FOR FAMILIES & NATURE LOVERS

Pros

• Access to Bucharest’s largest park and plenty of green space
• Quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than central neighborhoods
• Great for families, longer stays, and travelers who want breathing room

Cons

• Farther from Old Town nightlife and late-night dining
• Less walkable for sightseeing without using transport
• Fewer budget accommodation options

Herăstrău is where Bucharest slows down—and that’s exactly the appeal. Centered around King Michael I Park (still commonly called Herăstrău Park), this area feels greener, calmer, and more residential than the city’s historic core. Staying here is a great choice for families, couples, or anyone who likes starting the day with a lakeside walk rather than traffic noise.

The park itself is the star of the show, with wide paths, waterfront promenades, cafés, and shaded spots that make it easy to spend hours outdoors. 

Inside the park, the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum is a standout, offering a walk-through look at traditional Romanian village life in a setting that feels more like an open-air park than a museum. Just outside the greenery, you’ll find landmarks like the Arcul de Triumf and the elegant entrance at Charles de Gaulle Square, which connects the neighborhood to the rest of the city.

Herăstrău suits travelers who value space, greenery, and a more local feel over being in the middle of everything. It’s well connected by metro and ride-shares, so getting into the city center is easy, but at the end of the day, you’ll come back to a quieter, more relaxed side of Bucharest.

Pullman Bucharest World Trade Center – $$$

Pullman Bucharest World Trade Center is a great fit if you want greenery on your doorstep without giving up hotel comforts. Sitting right next to Herăstrău Park, this hotel makes it easy to swap busy streets for morning jogs, lakeside walks, or a playground break with the kids—something that feels surprisingly rare in a capital city.

The overall vibe is polished but relaxed, with spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and practical extras like minibars and coffee machines that make longer stays feel effortless. One of our favorite perks here is the balance between downtime and convenience: there’s a well-equipped fitness center, sauna, and on-site dining options, but you’re also just minutes from the park cafés and attractions. 

Families tend to love the quieter setting and easy access to outdoor space, while still being a short ride from the city center. Expect nightly rates to range from €150 to €450, depending on room type and season.

Book this park-side stay here and enjoy Bucharest at a slower pace!

If you like the idea of extra space and apartment-style comfort, Ramada Hotel & Suites is a solid runner-up. It’s especially handy for families or longer stays, with roomy suites and easy access to Herăstrău Park and the surrounding business district.

Phoenicia Grand Hotel is another top location if you want full-scale hotel amenities and a quieter setting away from the city center. With large rooms, multiple dining options, and plenty of space to spread out, it works well for families or travelers who value comfort over being walkable to sights.

Hotel Sir Royal – $$

Hotel Sir Royal is a low-key, practical choice if you want space, parking, and a calmer home base in northern Bucharest. Set a short drive from Herăstrău Park and RomExpo, this hotel works especially well for families, road trippers, or anyone who prefers easy logistics over being right in the middle of the city buzz.

What stands out most here is how roomy everything feels. The accommodations are generously sized and come with useful comforts like coffee and tea facilities, minibars, and cozy seating areas that make it easy to unwind after a day out. Free on-site parking is a big win in this part of the city, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and unfussy rather than flashy.

The city center is about a 15–20 minute drive away, making this a good fit if you’re planning to mix park time with occasional trips downtown. Rates typically fall between €60 and €160 per night, depending on room type and season.

For a cozy Bucharest visit, reserve your stay at Hotel Sir Royal here!

If Hotel Sir Royal is sold out, Stil Hotel is a great nearby alternative with a similar calm, residential feel. It’s a solid choice if you want a comfortable, well-run hotel in northern Bucharest with easy access to Herăstrău Park and plenty of space to unwind after a day out.

Hotel Herastrau – $

Hotel Herastrau is one of those rare stays where you can step outside and be instantly surrounded by greenery. Set right inside Herăstrău Park, this hotel feels more like a park retreat than a city base, making it especially appealing for families and anyone who wants easy access to outdoor space without leaving Bucharest.

Staying here means morning walks by the lake, playground time with the kids, and relaxed evenings away from traffic noise. Some rooms come with balconies or park and lake views, which is a lovely bonus if you plan on spending downtime at the hotel. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar, plus free parking, which makes logistics refreshingly simple in this part of the city.

Despite the peaceful setting, you’re still a short ride from major sights like the Arch of Triumph and Calea Victoriei. Nightly rates can start as low as €60, depending on room type and season.

Enjoy Bucharest’s greenest area and book Hotel Herastrau here!

If you like the idea of staying near Herăstrău Park but want something with a more classic, historic feel, Hotel Triumf is a great nearby option. Located close to the Arch of Triumph, it offers spacious rooms and a quieter atmosphere while still keeping green space and key sights within easy reach.

Piata Romana

BEST FOR A LOCAL & RELAXED STAY

Pros

• One of the best areas in Bucharest for cafés, bakeries, and casual dining
• Excellent public transport connections, especially the central metro stop
• Walkable access to Calea Victoriei and nearby cultural sights

Cons

• Less historic charm compared to Old Town
• Traffic can be busy around the main square
• Not as nightlife-focused as other central areas

Piața Romană is one of those neighborhoods that somehow feels effortlessly local, even though it sits right in the middle of the city. Built around a busy square and a major metro hub, it nails that sweet spot between super convenient and genuinely lived-in. This is the kind of area where mornings start with a coffee in hand, afternoons turn into casual wandering, and plans are happily made up as you go.

The square itself is always buzzing, with trams, buses, and the metro constantly moving people around the city. From here, Magheru Boulevard stretches out in one direction, opening into wide streets and leafy side roads filled with independent cafés, bakeries, and low-key restaurants that locals actually use. It’s lively without feeling chaotic, and there’s always something happening, even if it’s just people watching from a sidewalk table.

What we love most about staying here is how close you are to Bucharest’s cultural highlights without feeling dropped into a sightseeing zone. Calea Victoriei’s museums, the Romanian Athenaeum, and Revolution Square are all an easy walk away, but the area itself still feels relaxed and familiar. 

Piața Romană is perfect if you want to stay central while feeling like you’ve found your own corner of the city—bonus points if good coffee and walkable streets matter to you.

InterContinental Athenee Palace – $$$

InterContinental Athenee Palace is pure old-school elegance with a front-row seat to the city’s cultural scene. Sitting right next to the Romanian Athenaeum, this landmark hotel feels grand without being stuffy, and it places you steps from cafés, museums, and leafy walks toward Piața Romană and Calea Victoriei.

Inside, the vibe leans classic and refined, from the marble-columned lobby to the polished guest rooms overlooking either the city or the quiet inner courtyard. One of the biggest perks is the spa access, which includes an indoor pool, saunas, Jacuzzis, and a well-equipped gym for unwinding after a day spent bouncing between museums and coffee stops. 

The English Bar is another highlight, ideal for a late cocktail in a setting that feels timeless rather than trendy. Nightly rates usually start around €200 and can climb over €2,000 for top-tier suites.

Book this iconic stay if location and classic luxury top your list!

If InterContinental Athenee Palace feels too grand, Sheraton Bucharest Hotel is a nearby alternative with a more contemporary feel and plenty of space to spread out. Its central location keeps you close to both Piața Romană and Calea Victoriei, and the classic service and facilities make it a reliable choice for business travelers and families alike.

Hotel Lido by Phoenicia is another solid option in the area with a quieter, boutique-leaning vibe. It’s perfect if you want modern, comfortable rooms and easy access to café culture without the formality of a heritage property, and it keeps key metro lines and cultural sights within easy reach.

Scala Boutique-Hotel – $$

Scala Boutique-Hotel is a charming pick if you like your stays with a side of personality. Set right on Magheru Boulevard, this small, elegant hotel feels worlds away from cookie-cutter chains, offering a more intimate, old-world atmosphere right in the heart of Bucharest. You’re an easy walk from the Romanian Athenaeum, National Theatre, and plenty of cafés that make Piața Romană such a great base.

Each room is individually decorated, leaning classic rather than modern, and some even come with balconies or kitchenettes for extra flexibility. One standout feature is the hotel’s cultural flair. Live music, exhibitions, and special events regularly take place on-site, giving it a distinctly local feel. 

The on-site restaurant and gourmet dining options make evenings easy, whether you’re after a relaxed dinner or something a bit more refined. Rates typically range from about €90 to €220 per night, depending on room type and season.

For a central stay with character, book Scala Boutique-Hotel here!

If you’re drawn to boutique hotels with a more modern edge, Unique Boutique is a great nearby option. It’s a smaller, design-forward property that keeps things sleek and comfortable while still placing you within easy walking distance of Piața Romană’s cafés, shops, and metro connections.

Hotel Boutique Monaco offers a slightly more classic boutique feel, with spacious rooms and a quieter atmosphere tucked just off the main streets. It’s a solid choice if you want something elegant and intimate while staying close to Magheru Boulevard and Bucharest’s cultural highlights.

Nobel Boutique – $

Nobel Boutique is a cozy, well-priced option if you want a calm place to come back to after exploring central Bucharest. Tucked on a quieter street within walking distance of Piața Romană, the Romanian Athenaeum, and Revolution Square, it strikes a nice balance between convenience and breathing room—something that’s not always easy to find this close to the action.

The feel here is simple and welcoming rather than flashy, with comfortable, air-conditioned rooms and a handful of studio-style options that work especially well for families. A small garden and terrace add a surprisingly peaceful touch, making mornings slower and more relaxed. Guests also appreciate the solid breakfast spread and the rare bonus of free on-site parking in a central location.

With rates usually landing between €55 and €120 per night, Nobel Boutique offers excellent value for its location and comfort.

Find the best deals and book this affordable stay here!

For something similarly central with a slightly more modern, hotel-style setup, Atrium Hotel Ateneu City Center is a great alternative. It’s just a short walk from the Romanian Athenaeum and Piața Romană, offering clean, comfortable rooms and a polished feel that works well for couples or short city stays.

Elysium is another appealing option close by, especially if you like smaller, quieter properties with a boutique touch. Tucked away from the busiest streets, it offers a relaxed atmosphere while still keeping cafés, metro connections, and cultural sights within easy walking distance.

Top Activities to do in Bucharest

Now that you’ve picked out your favorite area and hotel, you can start planning your itinerary! Bucharest felt like a hidden gem, with charming city streets, lots of history, and memorable day trips right at your fingertips. Here are a few of our favorite things we did while visiting, so you can add them to your bucket list too!

• Tuk tuk city tour – Save your feet and explore Bucharest on this tuk tuk tour! You can cover more ground, and since tuk-tuks are small, it’s a private experience, and you can ask as many questions as you want.

• Take a day trip to Transylvania – This day trip to see Dracula’s castle simply can’t be missed! This is your chance to see Bran Castle (which inspired the vampire novel), as well as other castles, charming small towns, and the beautiful countryside.

• Learn about Romania’s history – Bucharest has a rich history, so this communist history tour helped us better understand the city. We loved exploring with a local guide who led us around the city and gave us the long and fascinating history that we honestly didn’t know beforehand!

• Go on a food tour – One of our favorite ways to learn about a new place is to try all the good food! This food tour knocked it out of the park, as we tried mici, traditional cheeses, and sweets from the market. Yum!

• Discover the city’s spooky past – This ghost and myths tour gave us a new look at Bucharest’s streets. Everything looks different after dark, and as we wandered the streets, our guide regaled us with tales of the past that gave us goosebumps. It was entertaining and informative – true or not? We’re not sure, but it was worth it!

Related Read: Check out our complete list of the top things to do in Bucharest for even more memorable activities!

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!

Choosing where to stay in Bucharest is an important decision. Since the city is a bit spread out, picking out the right neighborhood for your travel style can make or break your trip. But don’t stress, with these top options of areas and hotels, you’re sure to find an excellent choice!

If you need help planning the rest of your trip, see all of our Europe blogs. Whether you’re looking for more where to stay guides, multi-day itineraries, or lists of top activities, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next destination – cheers!

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