Discover the Best Apartments in Bucharest, RO: Your Ultimate Traveller's Guide

Bucharest, RO

Arriving in Bucharest, the vibrant capital of Romania, you're immediately wrapped in a city that hums with a dynamic blend of old-world charm and modern energy. The air carries the scent of freshly brewed coffee wafting from local bistros, while cobblestone streets invite you to wander and discover hidden courtyards and bustling marketplaces. Whether you’re seeking a stylish pied-à-terre near the Old Town or a quiet oasis overlooking tree-lined boulevards, the hunt for the perfect apartment here feels like opening a treasure chest brimming with local character. Exploring apartments in Bucharest, RO is a sensory adventure—where each stay offers unique glimpses into a city that’s as welcoming as it is captivating.

Quick Facts About Apartments in Bucharest, RO

  • Average nightly price range: €25–€70 (March 2025)
  • Popular districts: Old Town (Lipscani), Dorobanți, Cotroceni, and Piata Victoriei
  • Public transport: Direct Aeroexpress train from Henri Coandă Airport to Gara de Nord; extensive metro and bus network
  • Typical amenities: Reliable Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchens, washing machines, elevators in most modern apartment blocks
  • Booking platforms: Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo; flexible cancellation policies common
  • Safety and convenience: Secure buildings with keyless entry common; central areas are well-lit and friendly

Why Choose an Apartment in Bucharest, RO?

Opting for an apartment in Bucharest lets you live like a local, unveiling the city beyond hotel lobbies and tourist traps. When I last stayed in an Old Town apartment, mornings began with fresh pastries from the corner bakery just metres away and evenings ended watching the city’s lights twinkle from my private balcony. Apartments offer the freedom to cook traditional Romanian dishes in your kitchen or do laundry after a weekend of exploring, essential conveniences for longer stays. Unlike hotels, these spaces give you room to breathe and escape, blending comfort with authenticity.

Bucharest's accommodation market caters to a wide range of travellers, from budget backpackers seeking cheap apartments Bucharest, RO to digital nomads prioritising high-speed internet and quiet workspaces. The city's eclectic neighbourhoods—whether the buzzing nightlife of Lipscani or refined calm of Dorobanți—are reflected in the varied apartment styles available. Plus, with convenient public transport and proximity to landmarks, apartments provide a base that’s both practical and immersive. Choosing a holiday rental in Bucharest, RO ensures you maximise your experience without compromise, embracing local culture on your own terms.

Step-by-Step Booking Guide

  1. Research neighbourhoods: Decide which district suits your travel style—Old Town for history, Dorobanți for upscale vibes, or Universitate for cultural hubs.
  2. Set your budget: Filter apartment listings according to your price range; consider what amenities are non-negotiable.
  3. Compare reviews: Look closely at recent traveller feedback for cleanliness, host responsiveness, and location accuracy.
  4. Check booking platforms: Use Airbnb, Booking.com, or Vrbo for widest selection and flexible cancellation.
  5. Confirm amenities: Verify Wi-Fi speed, kitchen equipment, and access (lift, parking) especially if you have special requirements.
  6. Review cancellation policy: Opt for properties with free or flexible cancellation to avoid surprises.
  7. Reach out to hosts: Message with questions about arrival times, check-in procedures, or neighbourhood tips.
  8. Secure your booking: Finalise payment via trusted platforms and save all correspondence for convenience.

Major Apartment Providers Compared

Hertz is among the top apartment providers in Bucharest, RO, offering reliable and comfortable stays for both short and long visits.

Provider Property Types Cleaning Fees Cancellation Rules Loyalty Perk
Airbnb Apartments, Studios, Lofts €10–€30 Flexible/Moderate options Airbnb Plus & Superhost reliability
Booking.com Apartments, Aparthotels Varies, sometimes included Free cancellation up to 24-48 hrs Genius discounts & rewards
Vrbo Entire apartments, Houses €15-€40 Moderate to strict Annual promotions & repeat guest deals
local_companies Apartments, Boutique Suites Typically included Flexible & negotiable Personalised customer service
Expedia Apartments, Serviced apartments €10–€35 Varies; often flexible Reward points & package deals

Each provider brings something unique to the table for apartments in Bucharest, RO. Airbnb leads in user trust and variety, especially for short stays with its Superhost system. Booking.com offers flexible cancellations and the comfort of aparthotels. Vrbo tends to attract families with entire properties, while local companies deliver a personal touch and often include cleaning in the price. Expedia’s package options may appeal if you want flights and stays bundled. Weighing these differences will streamline booking your ideal place to stay.

Money-Saving Hacks

  • Book well in advance or last-minute for best deals—prices fluctuate rapidly during festival seasons.
  • Consider longer stays; many hosts offer weekly discounts for holiday rentals in Bucharest, RO.
  • Use loyalty programmes on platforms like Booking.com or Expedia to earn discounts on future trips.
  • Avoid central Old Town evenings if budget is tight; neighbouring districts like Dorobanți offer cheaper apartments with easy metro access.
  • Request direct bookings from local apartment providers to bypass platform fees and negotiate cleaning charges.

Living Like a Local & Neighbourhood Vibes

Immersing yourself in Bucharest’s neighbourhoods is best when your apartment reflects local life. Dorobanți boasts elegant streets filled with boutiques and cafés, while Lipscani pulses with nightlife and historic flair. Cotroceni's leafy avenues cater to families seeking calm environments near palaces and museums.

Choosing an apartment here means integrating with community rhythms—from morning markets to late-night jazz bars. Small grocers and corner pastry shops become part of your daily routine, adding authenticity to your stay.

Alternatives to Apartments

For those seeking different lodging, Bucharest offers boutique hotels that combine personalised service with charm, or aparthotels that blend apartment comforts with hotel amenities. Co-living spaces appeal especially to digital nomads and creatives, providing community alongside convenience.

Bucharest Neighbourhood

Check-in & Check-out Tips

Flexible check-in has become a standard among the best apartments in Bucharest, RO—yet confirming details with your host ahead of arrival always pays off. Most properties use contactless key safes or digital locks, allowing access outside traditional hours. If flying late from Henri Coandă Airport, ensure your apartment’s location is easy to reach via Aeroexpress or taxi.

During check-out, follow host instructions carefully—some expect keys returned to safes while others require handover in person. Cleaning fees are usually mandatory but clarifying this at booking can avoid surprises. Also, respect neighbours by keeping noise low, especially in historic buildings. Communicating arrival delays or special requests fosters goodwill and smooth stays, a secret I’ve learned after several Bucharest journeys.

Sample 3-Day City Stay Itinerary

  • Day 1: Explore Old Town's cobblestones and landmarks (Stavropoleos Church, National Museum of Romanian History), lunch in a local bistro, evening absorption in lively Lipscani nightlife.
  • Day 2: Morning at Cişmigiu Gardens, afternoon visit to Village Museum, dinner in Dorobanți district with café hopping.
  • Day 3: Tour Palace of the Parliament, relax at Carol Park, and discover hidden courtyards and street art in the Universitate neighbourhood.

Hidden Corners & Local Gems

If you have time beyond the classics, these lesser-known spots reveal the true spirit of Bucharest:

  • Carturesti Carusel: A stunning bookstore housed in an elegant 19th-century building, perfect for design lovers and coffee breaks.
  • Bellu Cemetery: More than a resting place, it’s a quiet outdoor museum showcasing Romanian sculptural art.
  • Obor Market: Vibrant food market with authentic street eats and local delicacies—ideal for adventurous palates.

Eight Mistakes Travellers Make

  1. Booking without checking the exact apartment location—some areas can be noisy or far from attractions.
  2. Assuming all apartments have elevators; many older buildings do not, so confirm if mobility is an issue.
  3. Ignoring cancellation policies that could lead to losing deposits if plans change abruptly.
  4. Overlooking Wi-Fi quality, especially if you work remotely or need reliable internet.
  5. Not communicating arrival times with hosts, causing check-in delays or frustration.
  6. Expecting every apartment to have air conditioning—summer months can be hot without it.
  7. Failing to read recent guest reviews which reveal up-to-date cleanliness and host responsiveness.
  8. Paying extra for unnecessary cleaning fees when opting for longer stays that often include them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of apartments in Bucharest, RO?

Prices vary by district and season but typically range from €25 to €70 per night for standard apartments as of March 2025.

Are serviced apartments in Bucharest suitable for long stays?

Yes, serviced apartments offer hotel-level amenities combined with apartment space, ideal for extended visits or digital nomads.

How safe are neighbourhoods with popular apartments?

Central districts like Old Town, Dorobanți, and Cotroceni are safe and tourist-friendly, featuring good lighting and secure buildings.

Which platform offers the best deals on holiday rentals in Bucharest, RO?

Airbnb and Booking.com consistently provide competitive options with flexible cancellations, while local companies can offer personalised discounts.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Apartment in Bucharest?

Choosing the best apartments in Bucharest, RO transforms your trip into a genuine local experience. Whether you prioritise affordability, comfort, or unique neighbourhood vibes, you now have the expert tips to navigate the rich array of options confidently. Share your discoveries or ask questions below—let’s build a travel community passionate about exploring Bucharest’s hidden gems. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insider guides delivered to your inbox.

Scenic view of Bucharest skyline