The Essential Guide to Bucharest

Welcome to Bucharest! If you're planning to move to Bucharest, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Bucharest has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Bucharest.

Bucharest is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for tourists and locals alike. One of the most popular sites is the Palace of Parliament, the world’s second-largest administrative building. The palace is a stunning example of Communist-era architecture and is home to the Romanian Parliament. Other popular sites include the Romanian Athenaeum, a concert hall and landmark of the city, and the National Museum of Art, which houses a vast collection of Romanian and European art. The Old Town is also a must-see, with its cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and colorful buildings.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Bucharest is bustling and diverse. For traditional Romanian cuisine, Caru’ cu Bere is a popular spot, serving up hearty dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mamaliga (polenta). For a more modern take on Romanian cuisine, try La Mama, which serves up creative dishes like pork belly with polenta and truffle sauce. For a taste of international cuisine, try Bistro de l’Arte, which serves up French-inspired dishes like steak tartare and duck confit. For a night out, head to the Old Town, where you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs. One of the most popular spots is Control Club, a hip music venue with live DJs and a lively atmosphere.

Bucharest is also home to plenty of recreational activities. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of parks and green spaces to explore, such as Herastrau Park and Cismigiu Gardens. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of sports facilities, such as the National Stadium, the National Tennis Center, and the National Swimming Pool. For a more cultural experience, there are plenty of museums and galleries to explore, such as the National Museum of Art and the National Museum of Natural History.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Bucharest: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"The International Women's Association is a great place to meet female expats from all walks of life, including from the host country. IWA is extremely involved in charity work and hosts an annual bazaar in December, which is the highlight of the organization's year. Moms with small children have several baby groups from which to choose, both in the suburbs by the American school and in the city," said one expat living in Bucharest.

"There are plenty of ways to meet people in Bucharest! You can start by joining local groups or clubs in the area that focus on activities you are interested in. Taking a class or signing up for a group activity can also help you meet new people. If you're interested in exploring the nightlife, attending events or joining a pub or bar crawl can offer a great opportunity to socialize. Attending festivals, exploring parks and public spaces, or taking a walking tour are also great ways to meet people. Making a profile on sites such as Meetup or Couchsurfing can also help you connect with locals and other people who came to the city," wrote a member in Bucharest.

"Expats in Bucharest can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural clubs. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups dedicated to expats living in Bucharest. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and learn more about the city," commented one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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"Expats are here because of work, period. I don't know anyone who comes to Bucharest because they love the city. Having said that, most people here have good travel schedules. While travel in Romania is difficult because of the poor condition of the infrastructure, Romania is a short and relatively inexpensive plane ride from nearly all of Europe. Direct flights are available to nearly every European capital, as well as some of the larger Asian and North African capitals as well. On weekends, Bucharest's clubs are full of young people who love to stay out dancing until 4 a.m. The restaurants continue to open and improve by the week. There are a lot of good ones from which to choose, and that are not too expensive," commented an expat living in Bucharest.

"Bucharest is an increasingly popular destination for expats and digital nomads, offering a vibrant and diverse culture, a low cost of living, and a great quality of life. The city is home to a large international community, with many expats and digital nomads taking advantage of the city's excellent infrastructure, including reliable public transportation, high-speed internet, and a wide range of coworking spaces. Expats and digital nomads in Bucharest can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the city's many parks and museums to sampling the local cuisine. The city also offers a variety of cultural events, from music festivals to art exhibitions, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a new culture," said an expat in Bucharest.

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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

Cigna Global Health

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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