Nobody gets surprised anymore.
Serious blunders made history from Michael Jackson to UEFA or famous newspapers. Bucharest (capital of Romania) was innocently confused with Budapest (capital of Hungary) so many times people already lost count. Matches were missed by supporters travelling not only to the wrong stadium, but country. Famous bands yelled from the stage the wrong city name with enthusiasm, embittering the audience.
Why do people confuse Bucharest and Budapest so easily? Are there many resemblances between the two? Let’s see what these capitals have to offer in a comparison travel guide!
Similarities between Bucharest and Budapest
Quick overview of Bucharest and Budapest
Infographic on Bucharest and Budapest
Travel guide of Bucharest and Budapest
Bucharest travel guide
Relaxation in Bucharest
Bucharest museums at a glance
Communist Bucharest
Nightlife in Bucharest
Romanian food highlights
Best places to eat in Bucharest
Budapest travel guide
Relaxation in Budapest
Budapest museums at a glance
Jewish Budapest
Nightlife in Budapest
Hungarian food highlights
Best places to eat in Budapest
Price overview of Bucharest and Budapest
Conclusion on Bucharest and Budapest
Similarities between Bucharest and Budapest
- First of all, both capital names begin with the same two letters and end in -est.
- Secondly, the two countries are neighbors, both are situated in Eastern-Central Europe. The distance between them is a bit over 800 km.
- Budapest is cut in two by the Danube, but Europe’s second longest river crosses a considerable part of Romania and forms the Danube Delta.
- Western and central Romania (a region called Transylvania) used to be under Austro-Hungarian domination (around 18-19th centuries). Therefore, there are lots of buildings and dishes of Magyar influence in western and central Romania mainly. I can totally confirm it as I was born in the Romanian city of Oradea, close to the Hungarian border.
- After WWII, both countries underwent communist regimes. In Romania, it was more severe and ruled by infamous dictator Ceaușescu, while Hungary’s communist regime was lighter, but also left a fingerprint.
- There are still today some political tensions between the two countries. Given the Hungarian minority in Transylvania (Romania), it is sometimes a hot topic.
Quick overview of Bucharest and Budapest
- The Romanian currency is the Romanian leu (pl. lei), often abbreviated as RON. 1 euro = 5 RON
- The Hungarian currency is the Hungarian forint, often abbreviated as HUF. 1 euro = 400 HUF
- In many places you can pay in euro/dollar, but usually the shops have a disadvantageous exchange rate and charge more (valid for Bucharest and Budapest).
- In Romania, they speak Romanian, a Latin language, quite close to Italian and to some extent with French. Lots of Romanians (especially the young generation in the city) speak good English.
- Hungarian is a distinct language. They say it is quite like Finnish, as they have identical roots. Usually, young Hungarians can speak good English.
- Romania is geographically blessed with plains, hills, mountains, the Danube Delta and the Black Sea (2-and-a-half-hour drive). Hungary has mainly plains and hills. Their most important lake is called Balaton (1 hour and a half drive).
- Both capitals are considered safe both at day and night. However, there can be pickpockets, especially in crowded areas, so be cautious!
Infographic on Bucharest and Budapest
Travel guide of Bucharest and Budapest
What’s there to see and do?
No need to scratch your head. I’ve been to both capitals several times. Let’s unveil the best and must-see in each of the two cities.
Objectively.
Bucharest travel guide
For an extensive guide on Bucharest, check out 18 reasons it’s worth it and More reasons to visit Bucharest + lots of tips for a delicious and relaxed dinner.
The Romanian capital is a modern city full of frenzy. You don’t have to scratch the surface too much to observe some of its layers: refined buildings, communist blocks and modern glass architecture. All in all, Bucharest changed a lot, from little Paris to Eastern Europe’s capital of fun.
You can spend 1-4 days in Bucharest according to your interests and time. If you only have one day, take a walk in the Old Town and Victoriei Avenue, relax in a park and spend the evening in one of the nice restaurants.
Start your tour from the Old Town.
Carturesti Carusel on Lipscani is a place you’ll want to explore. A posh bookstore, but so much more, Carturesti is a spot where you can read a good book, socialize, have a tea, or enjoy the view, as this concept store is the biggest bookstore in Romania placed on 5 floors!!!
Stavropoleos monastery is an iconic church built in brancovenesc style. The place is an Eastern Orthodox monastery for nuns.
The Beer Cart (Caru’ cu Bere) is a fabulous restaurant focused mainly on traditional dishes. Architecturally, it is a must for any visitor who crosses Bucharest. The beer cellar is richly decorated and looks more like a church than a pub. Must visit even if you don’t eat here!
Insider tip!: Although it has a generous terrace in summer, it is best to book in advance.
Walking on the fancy Calea Victoriei, (Victoriei Avenue), all you have to do is raise your head high and imagine the aristocracy in its years of glory. CEC Palace (Romanian Savings Bank) is a wonderful neoclassical construction and the first bank in the country.
The Macca-Vilacrosse passage features an unusual horseshoe shape. Today it houses many bars, restaurants and some shops.
Today’s Marmorosch Bucharest Hotel was initially a bank founded by two Jewish gentlemen, Marmorosch and Blank. It is fabulous that Marmorosch still preserves the grandeur of old times, thanks to the architects.
Insider tip!: Spend a few hours in the bar and enjoy a drink living like a bougeois from the Belle Epoque!
The Palace of the National Military Circle had the role to collect under the same roof the main representatives of the Army. Strolling along the avenue, look up to see Capsa House a pub, cake shop and later, ballroom.
Grand Hotel du Boulevard and Grand Hotel Continental are just some of the luxurious hotels that attract the attention.
Insider tip!: If you visit in winter, the Calea Victoriei and Marmorosch hotels have the most exquisite Christmas decorations! It is worth the treat!
Victoria Passage is another flagship of old Bucharest, as well as new due to the colorful umbrellas.
Just two steps away, the English Passage seems from a different world right in the middle of French Bucharest. The place looks deserted now, but it has a rich history, having been a hotel and later brothel.
The Central University Library was built on the land bought by King Carol I who considered education a necessary investment, hence the name Carol I University Foundation (and statue).
The Romanian Athenaeum (majestic philharmonic hall) soaks up the spotlight. If you have time to visit only one building on the inside, make sure it’s the Athenaeum. We hardly managed to see it, it was our last day in Bucharest and unfortunately, they don’t take reservations. But this is how it works: you go there, if there is no rehearsal, you are lucky. If there is a rehearsal going on, you head someplace else. Or you buy a ticket for a concert, then it’s a sure thing! It is simply stunning on the inside!
Mița Biciclista House is called after the beautiful courtesan who stole many hearts in interwar Bucharest. The recently renovated building contains a bookstore, while their iconic bar with a select menu of drinks and pastry is a treat for the weekend.
Enescu Museum (also called Cantacuzino Palace) is considered one of the most beautiful buildings from the capital. You can visit it, but just entering the garden is enough to observe the refinement and elegance.
Insider tip!: Enescu is the most important Romanian musician: composer, violinist, conductor and pianist.
Relaxation in Bucharest (+ restaurant tips)
Looking for a jolt of fresh air? Like any capital city, Bucharest has its share of green. Cismigiu Park is a downtown oasis of relaxation where you can find some peace and quiet. You can rent a boat, relax at the shadow of century-old trees, or admire the works of art from Cismigiu Gardens. Herastrau Park, now called Park King Michael I, is a huge surface of calm and relaxation. The largest park in Europe to be found within a city, it has a lake and even a forest, so keep this in mind if you want to hide from the stubborn summer sun. The park also contains the Museum of the Village, a synthesis of Romanian villages.
There are lots of possibilities to grab a snack or have a treat by the lake. Watch out! Prices are not wallet-friendly! You can grab a burger at La Biblioteca or try Baraka, Beraria H or Trattoria Il Calcio. Cherhanaua Ancora serves fish specialties, while Biutiful by the Lake is noticed by its excellent location also, not just good food.
If your relaxation aims further, try a day at Therme, a huge wellness center at the outskirts of Bucharest. Designed as an exotic destination, Therme has many pools, slides and relaxation areas in a tropical atmosphere.
Bucharest museums at a glance
The Museum of Recent Art, (MARe) is the first private art museum in the country. It showcases Romanian contemporary art both in permanent and temporary collections, but also rising artists from the world.
Cotroceni National Museum is a former royal palace taken over by communists. The full tour comprises besides the royal salons and apartments, the church and cellars. The museum is luxurious and will help you form an idea about the Royal family. It reminded me of Peles Castle, my favorite castle in the country.
Insider tip!: Because Romania’s presidency is at Cotroceni also, security level at entrance is high. Make sure to reserve ahead and have an ID on you.
Antipa Museum of Natural Sciences is an excellent family activity, also useful if you plan to find out something new about animals. Museum of Senses wasn’t something we had planned, but headed there because of heavy pouring rain. And never regretted. We had a lot of fun and felt like kids again.
The Little Paris Museum invites the visitor to a timeless journey with focus on the objects and atmosphere of what used to be the French era of Bucharest. Located right in the historical centre, the museum is a fine incursion in the history of a luxurious bygone era.
Communist Bucharest
No trip to Bucharest is complete without the exploration of the Palace of Parliament. The ugly colossal building, second largest administrative structure in the world, also named House of the People, was constructed to gather the country’s central management and the apartments of the presidential couple, Ceausescu spouses, under one roof. Nowadays, this impressive construction hosts the Chamber of Deputies, the Senate, three museums (among which the National Museum of Contemporary Art) and an international conference center. However, almost 70% of the Palace is still unoccupied!
Curious to know more? Here’s more information on the Palace of Parliament.
Besides the massive House of the People, Ceausescu remodelled the city according to his whim, demolished parts of the city to reshape the capital and create the new Civic Centre. It contained whole neighborhoods of grey, austere, communist blocks.
While the population was starving and underwent serious shortage, the dictator couple were living the life in their dreamlike residence. You should pay a visit to Ceausescu Palace to see the luxury that surrounded the couple who made a country starve.
Here’s more about the villa and interesting info on Ceausescu.
Nightlife in Bucharest
If you plan a night out in Bucharest, there are many options. Centrul Vechi (Old Town) boasts sky bars, classic pubs and lively bars to keep you entertained. Lipscani neighborhood or Herastrau lake are also good starting points.
Sky bars have become mandatory for every tourist destination. Check out Interbelic, Nomad, Pura Vida, Linea Closer to the Moon or Balkon. If you are out for a drink, try Shoteria, Mojo Pub (karaoke also) or Sera Eden (chill place known for cocktails).
Sure bets for a good night are the fresh Face Club, NUBA Summervibes, Fratelli, Control or Oxya by Bamboo.
Romanian food highlights
We are specialists in sarmale (sour cabbage rolls with minced meat), mămăligă cu brânză și smântână (polenta with cheese and cream), mici/mititei (grilled minced meat rolls), ciorbă de burtă (beef tripe soup), iahnie cu ciolan (beans with hocks), ciorbă rădăuțeană (soup from Rădăuți), piftie (traditional meat jelly dish), pickles or roasted eggplant salad Romanian style.
If these dishes aren’t to your liking, there are lots of places where you can eat internationally, mainly Mediterranean, Arabic or Chinese food. The trend of fast food is common in Romania as well.
Best places to eat in Bucharest
Curious about Romanian cuisine? Try Taverna Covaci or Lacrimi si Sfinti; both take pride in Romanian dishes and live music. La Copac, Vatra and La Mama offer authentic dishes in a rustic décor, while Caru’ cu Bere or Hanu’ lui Manuc are a complex experience due to the historic location as well. Dreaming of traditional cuisine with a twist? Soro Lume and Noua reinterpret the authentic, placing a high emphasis on quality and experience.
If you have a sweet tooth, go to French Revolution for the most delicious and varied range of éclairs you have ever tasted. Eden Garden is a secret (no longer so secret) beer garden full of good vibes and atmosphere.
Sharkia claims to serve the best falafel in town, Frog is wallet-friendly and comes with neat service and food, while Bucatarasul is good value for money in a no-frills location. Le Bab is an exquisite restaurant that celebrates Middle Eastern flavors. 18th Lounge by the Embassy is a fine dining rooftop restaurant.
Bon appetit!
Budapest travel guide
For an extensive guide on Budapest, check out How to get the maximum of Budapest on a minimum budget!
One of Europe’s gems, the Hungarian capital has it all. Spectacular buildings, majestic Danube, steamy thermal baths, vibrant nightlife, rich history or amazing food are some trademarks. Experience Budapest, a friendly city full of surprises!
You can spend 1-5 days in Budapest according to your interests and time. If you only have one day, take a walk in the Castle District, stroll along the Danube, relax in a park and spend the evening in one of the nice restaurants.
Start your tour from Buda side, the green and hilly area.
Matthias Church is a place you cannot miss. It is an impressive church with colorful roof tiles that stands for an immersion in multiculturalism, being at a time Catholic church, mosque, Franciscan and Jesuit church. The graceful architecture and stunningly rich, all-embracing wall paintings of the majestic building will leave you speechless.
The Fisherman’s Bastion is a mock fortification that looks like a fairytale castle. With a spectacular view over the Danube, it is not only a landmark of the city, but also one of Budapest’s favorite visits. Explore the Buda Castle District! It covers a large area, so you either take a free guided tour with explanations, or you just stroll around!
If you aim going higher, there’s the Gellért Hill reachable on foot or by public transport. But it isn’t a boring hill with nothing to do. The main landmarks are St. Gerard Sagredo Statue, the hidden Cave Church, and from the top, admire the Liberty Statue. Before I forget, the place offers some of the best panoramic views of Budapest!
Moving to Pest, I suggest you begin with the elegant Andrássy Avenue! The Opera House is one of the iconic buildings here. It is such a stunning piece of culture and architecture, that it would be a pity not to admire its foyer (at least!). It is said to have the third best acoustics in Europe. On the same avenue you’ll run into the House of Terror, a memorable building that commemorates the victims of the two main oppressive regimes in Hungary, fascism and communism. It is a monument to the memory of those held captive, tortured and killed in this very building.
A walk along Andrássy Avenue is an encounter with spectacular Neo-renaissance villas and townhouses, luxury shops and some cafés. At the end of the boulevard, the Heroes’ Square, a monument showcasing Hungary’s history opens up to you. In the proximity of the square lies the City Park (Városliget), an excellent place to relax, as well as the Széchényi Thermal Baths (see relaxation in Budapest), another opportunity to let off steam.
Every city has its own landmark. For Budapest, it is the Hungarian Parliament. Headquarters of the country’s decisions, symbol of Neo-Gothic perfection, the Parliament is totally worth a visit. On the Danube bank, close to the Parliament, a powerful composition named Shoes on the Danube Bank was created to honour the Jews massacred by country’s fascist, antisemitic party during the Second World War. The memorial showcases many shoe statues belonging to Jewish men, women and children.
Saint Stephen basilica is an impressive Catholic church: marble, paintings and statues, but is most famous for a relic – the Holy Right of Saint Stephen.
The outstanding Postal Savings Bank was one of my favorite buildings in Budapest. Designed by Ödön Lechner, nicknamed Hungarian Gaudi, the exceptional Art Nouveau building is decorated with colorful tiles and folk motifs.
Insider tip!: Take a distance and go to Hotel President’s rooftop terrace (Intermezzo) to fully embrace the building with your eyes. They are used to visitors and have a special place designated to just marvel at.
A cruise on the Danube is part of those experiences that add to the charm of Budapest. Best enjoyed at sunset, cruises come in various forms: on boats operated by Budapest’s local transport authority (summer only) or basic cruise/with dinner and lots of facilities. A cruise starts at 10 euros.
The Great Market Hall is Budapest’s oldest and largest food market. The building doesn’t live you passive with the outside decorated in fine earthy shades. On the inside however, you can buy souvenirs and on the top floor, whet your appetite with traditional dishes.
The top-notch Parisian Court is another spellbinding building (former luxury mall turned into luxury hotel today). You can have something in their café/restaurant, or just kindly ask the staff to take a look. The inside, just like the outside are jaw-dropping.
Relaxation in Budapest
Budapest is king when it comes to relaxation. The main source of loosening up are the thermal baths, which Budapest has plenty of. Soak at the huge Széchényi thermal Baths with its 18 pools and stunning architecture. This is the most famous, but also most crowded one. The Széchényi Baths are located in a huge park (City park/Városliget), which offers plenty of relaxation opportunities.
Gellért Baths are famous for their art nouveau style, complete with stained-glass windows, colorful porcelain tiles, and Roman-style columns. Just visiting the Baths is an architectural experience in itself. Rudas Baths are maybe the best spa in Budapest. Watch out! They have women’s day and men’s days only. The Turkish bath there features a stunning dome surrounded by four smaller pools. This is the highlight of the bath, do not miss it!
Lukács Baths are less touristy than the previous one. Located close to Margaret Island, these baths offer both indoor and outdoor pools, as well as thermal water fountains. If you are here, enjoy the evening watching the Musical Fountain from the Island.
Budapest museums at a glance
The Parliament of Hungary is one architectural masterpiece. Absolutely worth a visit, the Gothic Revival building’s inside is just as spectacular as the outside. The guided visit takes you to the Grand Stairway, walks through historic rooms and inspects the Holy Crown. Must-do!
Museum of Fine Arts boasts important works of art and holds the most spectacular collection of old masters’ paintings in Central Europe. The collection of Spanish masters enjoys a special recognition.
The Hungarian National Gallery showcases Hungary’s top artworks from the Middle Ages through the current day. You can also admire the former royal palace featuring a socialist modern interior from the 1970s. The Money Museum is the most modern exhibition in all of Budapest. Dedicated to providing a basic understanding of the world of finance, the interactive museum, popular both among adults and children is free. However, due to the large number of demands, you need to register on their site.
Hospital in the Rock has an interesting history. It was built to house an air raid hospital and provide care for the wounded during WWII. During the communist era, the place was transformed into a nuclear bunker. Today, the hospital shelters one of the biggest Hungarian waxwork exhibitions, numerous original machinery and furniture that are still in working conditions. Do not visit if you suffer from claustrophobia!
Jewish Budapest
If you want a true exploration of Budapest, you must include Jewish Budapest, found mainly in District 7 (today also the district of fun). Here you’ll find the Great Synagogue (Dohány street), the biggest in Europe. It can seat up to 3000 people, testifying not only for the huge number of Jews but also the cultural standards and significance at the time of its opening, in 1859. The memory of the Holocaust is strongly connected to the old Jewish quarter where the Synagogue is situated. A ticket to the Synagogue includes the complex consisting of the Heroes’ Temple, the cemetery, the Memorial and the Jewish Museum. It is a hi/story of the Jewish community in Budapest.
Shoes on the Danube Bank was created to honor the Jews massacred by country’s fascist, antisemitic party during the Second World War. The memorial showcases many shoe statues belonging to Jewish men, women and children.
Nightlife in Budapest
For a night out in Budapest, you have many options. District 7 and the Danube bank are some good ideas to start, but also keep the party going.
The Jewish district (number 7) has many iconic bars and is famous for its nightlife. Szimpla is the mother of all ruin pubs in Budapest and a great party starter. Instant/Fogas has many different dance floors on different levels. Vibe rooms offer great karaoke rooms and atmosphere, while Doboz is another stunning party place.
If you are on Danube riverside looking for a good bar or party, do not hesitate! Go to Pontoon (multi-levelled boat located on the Pest side), the chill Bálna, Kabin or boat A38.
Here to soak in Budapest skyline at night? Check out 360 Bar, High Note Sky bar, LEO and Intermezzo!
Hungarian food highlights
Hungarian food is hearty, delicious and not for diet. The main dishes are the famous gulyás (hearty beef soup with paprika and vegetables), paprikás (creamy chicken stew with paprika and sour cream), marha pörkölt (hearty dish featuring chunks of beef braised in a rich sauce, often served with dumplings or noodles), töltött káposzta (sour cabbage rolls with minced meat), lángos (deep-fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese).
One of the most appreciated desserts is kürtőskalács (chimney cake, a sweet pastry baked around a wooden spindle).
Should you consider that Hungarian cuisine is too much/spicy for you, Budapest is full of all sorts of international restaurants which can be your inspiration for the visiting days!
Best places to eat in Budapest
Where test the Hungarian cuisine? Try Gettó Gulyás or Menza, both very popular with good food. They require mandatory reservation. Tüköry Restaurant, Róma, Retro Lángos or Pozsonyi Kisvendéglö have a pleasant no-frills atmosphere where they serve classic dishes that are unlikely to disappoint. Watch out as in Hungary some places are lunch-only!
Hungaricum Bistro is close to the Parliament and very much recommended if you want to eat in a traditional Hungarian restaurant. Parasztkonyha is more commercial but also comes with traditional palatable dishes.
Gozsdu udvar courtyard is a collection of heterogenous eateries, pubs and bars, popular among locals and tourists alike, situated in the 7th district. This is the place if you want to eat international.
Gundel restaurant is so famous that it’s basically an institution. They take pride in an elegant dining experience in a stunning venue and a charming oasis, not far from Szechenyi Baths in the city park.
Restaurant 26 (same street as Gozsdu) is an exotic and elegant jungle in the city with dishes mainly based on the European and Mediterranean concept. The restaurant’s concept is special, with lots of plants and outstanding dishes and service. Booking is mandatory!
If you want to refine your fine dining experience, try one of the Michelin-starred restaurants: Costes, Borkonyha, Babel or Rumour by Rácz Jenö.
Bon appetit!
Price overview of Bucharest and Budapest
Lately, prices went up in both capitals. The average living cost is comparable in Budapest and Bucharest. The Romanian capital is slightly more affordable in terms of open-air market (fruits, vegetables), public or taxi/uber transportation and internet utilities. Budapest is more expensive when it comes to medical services and rent. Hotel prices are comparable. Same is valid for restaurants and tourist attractions. If you consider the average daily cost in the capitals, Budapest is slightly cheaper. So, all in all, Budapest is somewhat more wallet-friendly, but it all hangs on the choices you make.
Conclusion on Bucharest and Budapest
To dot the i’s and cross the t’s, both Bucharest and Budapest have a lot to offer for travelers seeking an unforgettable and enriching experience. Each capital has its unique culture, history, food and numerous attractions.
Bucharest is somewhat less explored, which makes it less crowded with tourists. Renowned as a fun place, it has many historic buildings and nice places, which will probably promote the Romanian capital higher in the Eastern European must-visit cities.
Geographically, Budapest enjoys a privileged position. Attraction-wise, Budapest is more captivating with a wider range of things to do and see. Being in the tourist circuit for a longer time, the customer service is better.
When it comes to prices, the two capitals have pretty much similar cost of living/spending, with a very slight increase for Bucharest. However, both capitals are worth a visit.
Are Bucharest and Budapest so similar after all? To convince yourself, why not pay a visit to form your own opinion?
Have you been to Bucharest or Budapest before? How did you like it? Which was your favorite? Do you have any further visiting tips or suggestions? I look forward to reading your experiences!
