Once known as Little Paris, Bucharest is filled with tree-lined boulevards and Belle Epoque buildings. Today the capital of Romania is a city of extremes, where modern meets ancient, rich meets poor and East meets West.
Know that the city is still recovering from years of communist rule. Bucharest is slowly returning to its former glory, like most of Eastern Europe.
Travel on a budget. The capital of Romania is one of the best destinations for travelers looking for inexpensive accommodations and plenty of culture.
Visit in the autumn for the best temperatures and little rain. Winters get cold and icy, summers can be quite hot and spring brings rain.
Clarify if prices are in old Lei or new Lei, the official currency of Romania, so that you don't end up spending more than you wanted to spend.
Fly on most major commercial airlines to Henri Coanda Airport, formerly Otopeni International, which is a 30-minute drive from most accommodations in the city.
Pay attention when hailing a taxi, as many are unsafe and take advantage of tourists. Avoid cabs that do not state both the company they belong to and the tariffs in both new and old Lei.
Ride the Metro, which is the safest, most reliable way around Bucharest.
To book accommodations, contact Romanian National Tourist Office at (212) 545 8484 or visit their Web site (see Resources below).
Check the major hotel chains for safe accommodations and Western amenities at a decent price.
Rent an apartment for extended stays or groups. Average rates come in at under $300 a week.
Live like the Romanians at one of the many bed and breakfasts that can found on the outskirts of the city.
Remember Romania's communist years with a visit the 12-story Palace of Parliament, the world's second largest building after the U.S. Pentagon. Twelve churches, three monasteries, two synagogues and 7,000 homes were demolished to build it. Locals still refer to it only as "it" or the "thing."
Gamble your night away in one of Bucharest's glamorous casinos. Many accommodations offer casinos along with nightclubs and all-night buffets.
Remember that prostitution is illegal. Bucharest has more brothels and massage parlors than most countries in Eastern Europe, but only erotic massage is legal.
