Located in southern Romania, Bucharest is a great place for digital nomads. With a rich history and deep culture, this city promises an authentic way of life. Digital nomads can settle down here and set up shop while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
If you are thinking about packing your bags and moving here, make sure to learn some basic essentials first. This ultimate guide delves into the digital nomad lifestyle in Bucharest, Romania, and evaluates different aspects. Keep reading to learn more.
Where is Bucharest located?
Located in the River Dâmbovița, south-eastern Romania, Bucharest is the capital city of Romania. It also happens to be the largest city in the country.
Fact: Did you know that The Palace Of The Parliament in Bucharest Is The Heaviest Building In The World?
Why Choose Bucharest as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
Much like any other place this great city also has its fair share of pros and cons. While some may find it a perfect place, others may face difficulty getting over the cons. Let’s delve into each and see if Bucharest is the right place for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Rich cultural heritage | Relatively higher rents |
| Vibrant city | Traffic congestions |
| High-speed internet | Noise pollution |
| Friendly locals | |
| Natural beauty | |
| Affordable cost of living | |
| Safe city | |
| Rich culture | |
| Good food |
Despite having some flaws, we like to believe that Bucharest makes up for it by offering other benefits. For instance, the affordable cost of living certainly attracts more nomads to come and settle here. Other than that, the stunning architecture and landscapes also serve as an incentive.
If the natural beauty and historical masterpieces aren’t enough to compel you then the low cost of living will certainly work in your favour. All in all, this cosmopolitan city has a lot to offer to those who are willing to look past its flaws.
How to Get to Bucharest?
If you are travelling from abroad, your main focus should be on landing at the Bucharest Otopeni airport. Here are some of the ways you can travel.
Buses
you can access Bucharest public bus 780 or 783 to get to the city center from the airport. Buses are not only well-developed and maintained but affordable as well. They depart every 15-30 minutes and each ride takes 40 minutes on average (not taking traffic congestion into consideration)
Car rentals
You can drive your rental car to the city as well. It’ll give you freedom of movement and allow you to travel at your desired pace.
Taxis
taxis are readily available and easily accessible in this city which makes them a suitable option for travelling from the airport. You can hail a local yellow taxi after landing and travel comfortably. However, be aware of fraudulent taxi drivers who charge more from foreigners.
Transportation and How to Get Around Bucharest?
Once you have made it to the city successfully, here’s how you can get around daily.
Cycling
Cycling is one of the best options as it offers a feasible and reliable form of traveling. It might just be the most affordable option! You can travel at your own pace and have freedom of movement without having to spend large amounts. They can be rented through various bicycle rentals all over the city but the most reliable one is L’Velo Urban. They allow you to pick up and drop off bicycles at 17 stations all over the city.
Buses
Buses are also a viable way of getting around daily. The public transport system in Bucharest is not only reliable and efficient but well-connected as well. Buses are certainly
Trams
With well-developed lines available in the city, the tram system is also a great option. While they are slower than buses, they offer reliability and convenience.
Taxis
Since traffic is not half as bad in Bucharest as in Ho Chi Min, Chiang Mai, or other major cities, taxis are a great way of traveling here. Not only are they reliable but comfortable as well. In addition to the local yellow taxis, several reputable companies, such as Uber and Bolt, also operate in the city.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Bucharest
When it comes to accommodation in Bucharest, there are plenty of good options. This beautiful place has something to offer for everyone. Hence, you can find suitable housing quite easily.
Cotroceni
Cotroceni is one of the best residential neighborhoods in the city. If you want to be located in a quiet and traditional area then this is the best option. This is a great neighborhood for digital nomads and it houses various facilities.
Universitate
Universitate is another good place for digital nomads that offers numerous benefits and modern amenities. It’s also a good option for those of you who are looking for an affordable alternative. You’ll find a vast majority of students here and experience a creative vibe.
Old town
If you’re someone who wants to experience the ultimate Bucharest lifestyle, seek accommodation in the old town region. With the historical buildings and tourist attractions located within walking distance, this place is a perfect place for first-time visitors. If you’re willing to deal with the relatively higher prices and noisy crowds, Old Town is a great place.
Internet Connectivity in Bucharest
One of the best things about Bucharest is its fast internet. Remote workers would be happy to learn that the city experiences high internet speeds. As per estimations, the fixed broadband speed is 257 Mbps (which is considered extraordinary). Fibre internet is fast and reliable in most parts of the city.
Other than that, coworking spaces and coffee shops offer fast and free WiFi as well. You can take your work with you and meet those deadlines! If you want additional reliability, consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival. There are a bunch of good providers in the city that offer affordable and efficient data plans.
E sim
If you want an extra reliable internet connection, consider opting for an E SIM. They allow you to digitalize SIMs and avoid the trouble of a physical SIM card. Here are some packages.
Airalo
| Data Package | Availability | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7.00$ |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ |
| 5 GB | 30 days | 13.00$ |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 21.00$ |
Holafly
| Data Package | Availability | Price |
| unlimited | 7 days | 29.00$ |
| unlimited | 10 days | 37.00$ |
| unlimited | 15 days | 51.00$ |
| unlimited | 20 days | 62.00$ |
| unlimited | 30 days | 75.00$ |
4 Best Places to Work from in Bucharest
The good news for remote workers is that Bucharest has a rich variety of coworking spaces. You can find a suitable one and delve into work for hours.
Impact hub
Impact Hub is one of the best coworking spaces in Bucharest with two accessible locations and various amenities. Remote workers will be able to thrive in a productive work environment and enjoy the contemporary interior. They offer options including but not limited to meeting rooms and private desks. It’s a great place to network with like-minded individuals.
Hotspot work hub
Every Digital Nomad prefers a different type of working space. If you are looking for a space with an office-style layout and atmosphere, then the hotspot work hub is the best option for you. They have a funky office interior that is more professional and formal than a typical coworking space. You can also participate in their networking events and socialize with entrepreneurs.
Common Romana
Common Romana is one of the best coworking spaces in the city. You can work here comfortably while enjoying the relaxed and social environment. This is a good option for new visitors who want to meet up with their fellow Digital Nomad community and form connections. They also offer great memberships.
Cafes
If you are someone who prefers working from Cafes rather than coworking spaces then take a look at the following options.
- Twenty-eight
- Saint Roastery Specialty Coffee
- Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop
Cost of Living in Bucharest
Luckily for remote workers, this city experiences an affordable cost of living that is suitable for tight budgets. While it is not the cheapest digital nomad destination out there, it’s certainly budget-friendly. A digital nomad can access various facilities and modern amenities at a cheap rate. Here is a rough breakdown of general expenses there.
| Meal | 8.00$ |
| Coffee | 2.29$ |
| Beer | 2.29$ |
| Rent in the city centre (one-bedroom apartment) | 495$ |
| fitness club | 40.25$ |
| Utilities | 115$ |
| Local Transport (one-way ticket) | 0.69$ |
| Internet | 9.65$ |
As you can see, Bucharest is not all that expensive. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle. If you follow a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll find these estimates to be quite accurate.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Bucharest
Romania has a vibrant culture that is a concoction of various elements. Thanks to its rich history, you will see Hungarian, German, and even Jewish influence. Romania is a lively tapestry that depicts its local culture in various forms including but not limited to Music, Art, Literature, cultural events, and Folklore.
Located in southern Romania, Bucharest is a haven for nature lovers. There are a bunch of stunning hiking trails, Green spaces, green areas, and parks located all over the city. Other than that, you’ll be sure to find the lush greenery quite refreshing!
Romanian cuisine is pretty decent, depending on your personal preference. However, if you do like European food, you’ll find Bucharest to be a perfect place for food touring and cafe hopping. There are lots of restaurants, coffee shops, and street vendors in the city who follow traditional recipes and offer delicious food. Make sure to try the infamous cabbage rolls and meat rolls.
Best Time to Visit Bucharest
The best time to visit Bucharest can be determined by an individual’s weather preferences and personal taste. If you are a tourist who wants to explore the city and engage in outdoor activities then visit the city during the summer months. July is the hottest month while June is the wettest. You can walk around on sunny days and enjoy warm afternoons during July – August.
However, winter months are very cold, and the temperature drops as low as -1.5 degrees Celsius. Bucharest offers stunning snowy scenes but the only way to enjoy them is by dressing properly.
12 Best Things to Do in Bucharest
One thing about Bucharest is that you’ll never be bored here. There is plenty to do in the city but here are some of our favourites.
1. Enjoy a city tour
Bucharest is a city that has a lot to offer. If you happen to find yourself in this mesmerizing place, take advantage of the situation and explore it properly! We recommend you take one of the many guided tours and learn more about the place. City tours are also recommended because you get a chance to learn essential details.
2. Go hiking
If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity, consider going hiking and spending some time in refreshing nature. Since this city is mountainous, there are plenty of good hiking spots in the west of the city. You can go to
- Herastrau Park Loop
- Baneasa Forest Loop
- Tunari Forest
- Mill Lake
Hiking also allows you to see beautiful and scenic views once you have reached the top.
3. Take a food tour
Bucharest has a foodie culture and the only way to experience the best of it is by joining a food tour. You can meet other foodies, interact with the Romanian people, and enjoy amazing Colombian food all at the same time. While it is possible to explore the best food on your own, a professional guide will make it so much more interesting and easier.
4. Visit the art galleries.
Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, make sure to visit the popular art galleries in Bucharest. This city is a creative hub filled with unique talent and innovation! You can visit the art galleries to appreciate art, support artists, and see some of the best exhibitions. Here are some great options:
- Muzeul Naţional al Satului “Dimitrie Gusti”
- Rotenberg-Uzunov
- Urban Collectors
- Theodor Pallady Museum
- Future Museum
- Athenee Gallery
- Elite Art Gallery
- H`art Gallery
5. Visit the museums
If you want to learn about Bucharest’s rich history, make sure to visit the historical museums in the city. They are a great way to appreciate the heritage and understand the city. Some of the best options include:
- Muzeul Naţional al Satului “Dimitrie Gusti”
- Muzeul Micul Paris (The Little Paris Museum)
- Ceaușescu Mansion
- Muzeul National de Istorie a Romaniei.
6. Attend the cultural festivals
For those of you who want to experience Bucharest’s rich culture to its very core, attend the local events and participate in the cultural festivities. This city houses friendly locals and welcoming people who make you feel right at home. You can blend in with them at such events. Some of the best ones include the following.
- Harvest Fair
- Bucharest of Old
- Maiden’s Fair
- The National Easter Egg Festival
- National Trout Festival
7. Visit the markets
Bucharest’s markets are popular tourist areas and something else entirely. With a bustling environment and colorful aura, the local markets are simply vibrant. Some markets offer delicious street food, fresh produce, and clothing while others are known for their architecture. The popular options include Obor market, Amzei market, and Matache market.
8. Enjoy the nightlife
Bucharest is somewhat famous for its vibrant nightlife so make sure to enjoy that during your time here! You can find amazing bars, tons of nightlife activities, and live music in this city. Romania’s bustling environment and cultural diversity make nightlife so much more interesting. Make sure to visit popular spots such as nightclubs, beer craftings, and rooftop bars.
9. Go cafe hopping
Another great thing to do in Bucharest is go cafe hopping. Almost every Digital Nomad and remote worker has a special inclination and liking towards coffee shops. You’ll be happy to learn that this city houses tons of them. The cafe culture is pretty big around here and offers a variety of options.
- Ganesha Caffe
- First coffee
- Mabo
- Papsh Cafe
10. Go bar hopping
An interesting thing to do in Bucharest is go bar hopping. There are tons of good cocktail bars, wine bars, and breweries in the city and each offers a good experience. For a fun night out, consider visiting them and enjoying the lively environment!
11. Connect with the digital nomad community.
One of the best things you can do in any destination is to connect with fellow digital nomads. They can provide a sense of community and companionship, making your trip much more fulfilling. You can meet digital nomads the old-school way (at coworking spaces and cafes) or you can also join Facebook groups.
12. Take a day trip
When you are done exploring the beautiful city of Bucharest, take advantage of your convenient location and visit nearby cities. There is no doubt that Romania is a stunning country that has a lot to offer. Hence, consider taking a day trip and exploring as much of it as you can. You can go to Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle), Brasov, and Peles Castle from Bucharest.
Is Bucharest safe?
Yes, Bucharest is one of the safest European cities out there with a very low crime rate. It is a guarded place to visit for digital nomads and it promises a secure time.
While petty crimes are not unheard of, the crime rate is very low and they are even less likely to occur against tourists. Visitors can travel with ease of mind and enjoy a peaceful time here. Furthermore, the locals are very friendly, hospitable, and helpful. You’ll be able to settle easily and call this city your home.
As safe as it is, digital nomads in a foreign country are recommended to follow some general safety tips.
- Look out for tourist scams
- Trust reputable companies
- Stay away from isolated areas
- Stay on your guard
- Stay away from shady neighborhoods
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash on hand
- Don’t carry flashy items
Visa Requirements in Bucharest
Since Romania is a European country and is a part of EU (European Union), EU citizens can enter the country without a visa and stay. However, the EU/Schengen zone agreement terms don’t apply here, and only the former can enjoy Visa-free entry.
Much like most countries, Romania has specific and distinct visa requirements for different countries and nationalities. Hence, it’s best to contact a Romanian embassy or consulate in your home country and learn properly. They can guide you about the general visa options, application process, and application forms.
Either way, some of the basic visa requirements include the following.
- Valid passport
- 2 recent pictures
- filled out the application form
- proof of minimum income
Conclusion
Conclusively, we can say that Bucharest, Romania is one of the best digital nomad destinations out there. This ideal location is packed with opportunities and amenities. Digital nomads and remote workers can expect to have a fulfilling time here, thanks to all the modern amenities. Everything from its natural beauty and internet connection to architectural history and culture is splendid. You can settle here for an extended period of time and experience the ultimate digital nomad lifestyle.
We hope this article helped you get a complete insight into what it’s like living in Bucharest. If you have any further questions or doubts, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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