As the summer heatwaves of August set in, I found myself drawn to Bucharest, Romania. It was a spontaneous decision that I did not regret, as the city, with its intriguing blend of history, culture, and modernity, offered the perfect destination for a relaxing yet adventurous escape. However, like any traveler, my first concern was always the accommodation. Where would I stay, and how would it impact my experience? In this post, I’m sharing my personal experience of finding a place to stay in Bucharest, with a focus on some of the challenges and surprises I encountered, along with a truthful review of the hotels and rental properties I experienced.

First Impressions of Bucharest

I arrived in Bucharest during the first week of August, a time when the city is at its warmest, with temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F) during the day. Despite the heat, the city was alive with energy, as locals and visitors alike embraced the summer vibes. The streets were bustling with people walking along the tree-lined boulevards, sipping coffee at outdoor cafés, and enjoying the occasional street performance. The mood was contagious, and it immediately set the tone for what promised to be an exciting visit.

Before arriving, I had done some research to find the best place to stay, and I quickly realized that Bucharest offered a wide range of accommodation options. From quaint boutique hotels nestled in the heart of the Old Town to luxurious five-star resorts located on the city’s outskirts, there was something for every type of traveler. I had specific expectations for my stay, and choosing the right place was no easy task. I wanted to be centrally located, yet also find a peaceful retreat away from the noise after a full day of sightseeing.

After much deliberation, I decided on two different places to stay. The first was a charming boutique hotel right in the middle of the Old Town, where I could immerse myself in the historic heart of the city. I thought it would be the perfect way to experience Bucharest’s vibrant atmosphere and walk to all the major attractions. The second option was a modern, minimalist apartment located a bit farther out. It was in a quieter, more residential area, providing me with a peaceful environment to rest, away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowds. I was hoping to find a good balance between history, culture, and some much-needed relaxation.

First Stay: Boutique Hotel in the Old Town

My first accommodation in Bucharest was a charming boutique hotel located just a few steps away from the iconic Lipscani Street, the beating heart of the Old Town. The hotel’s location was absolutely perfect. I could walk to most of the major attractions—like the National Museum of Romanian History, Stavropoleos Monastery, and the beautiful Romanian Athenaeum—in just a few minutes.

When I arrived, I was immediately taken by the hotel’s aesthetics. The exterior had a classical design, while the interior combined modern luxury with historical details. The lobby had an inviting atmosphere with soft lighting and vintage furnishings, making it a cozy retreat from the city’s bustling streets.

Check-in was smooth, and the receptionist gave me a brief overview of the city and recommended a few nearby restaurants. I was in room 203, which offered a view of the quaint cobblestone streets below. The room itself was small, but it had all the comforts I needed. The bed was comfortable, the bathroom had a rainfall shower, and the décor blended modern and traditional elements, creating an inviting and relaxing environment.

However, while the hotel had a lot going for it, there were a few things I wasn’t thrilled about. One issue was the noise. As the hotel was located in the heart of the Old Town, the area tends to get quite lively in the evenings, with bars and restaurants playing music and street performers attracting crowds. The windows, though double-glazed, didn’t block out the sound as much as I would have liked. So, if you’re someone who needs complete silence for a good night’s sleep, you might want to reconsider staying here.

Additionally, the air conditioning in the room wasn’t as efficient as I had hoped. While the room was comfortable enough, during the hottest days of my stay, the AC struggled to keep the room cool. Given that it was August, I expected better performance. That said, I found that leaving the window slightly open helped, though it did come with the downside of noise.

On the positive side, the breakfast spread was excellent, with a variety of fresh pastries, local cheeses, and meats, as well as freshly brewed coffee. It was a good start to each day before heading out for a full day of sightseeing. Overall, the boutique hotel was a good choice for those looking to experience the vibrant energy of Bucharest’s Old Town, but it may not be the ideal option for light sleepers.

Second Stay: Modern Apartment in a Quieter District

After a few days of enjoying the chaos and charm of the Old Town, I decided to switch things up and try something more tranquil. I booked a modern apartment located in a quieter residential area, about a 15-minute drive from the center of the city. The apartment was located in a sleek new building, and the minimalist design was exactly what I was looking for.

The apartment was spacious, with a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area, and a balcony overlooking a small park. The large windows flooded the space with natural light, and the clean, modern lines of the furniture gave the space a calm and serene atmosphere. It was the perfect retreat after a busy day of exploration.

One of the standout features of this apartment was the air conditioning. Unlike the boutique hotel, the AC in this apartment worked perfectly, and the cool, crisp air was a welcome relief from the outside heat. I could easily relax and unwind in the comfort of my own space without being disturbed by the hustle and bustle of the city.

Another highlight was the location. The neighborhood was quiet and residential, which gave me a sense of being more “local” compared to the Old Town. I enjoyed leisurely walks to nearby cafes, and I found that it was a great base for exploring some of the city’s lesser-known attractions. The apartment was a short tram ride away from the city center, so I had the best of both worlds: peace and quiet at night, and easy access to the lively city during the day.

The only downside was the lack of staff on-site. While the apartment was well-maintained, there wasn’t the same personal touch you get from staying in a hotel. I missed having someone available to offer local recommendations or assist with any questions. However, the convenience of having a full kitchen and the ability to cook my own meals made up for this minor inconvenience.

Accommodation Comparison

In comparing the two accommodations, I realized that both options had their pros and cons, and the choice ultimately comes down to what kind of experience you’re looking for.

• The Boutique Hotel was perfect for those who want to be right in the middle of the action. Its prime location in the Old Town meant I was close to all the top tourist sites, restaurants, and nightlife. However, the noise and air conditioning issues made it less ideal for those looking for a peaceful and cool night’s sleep. It’s great for short stays or if you plan to be out and about during the evenings.
• The Modern Apartment was ideal for those seeking peace and a bit more space. It was quieter, with better air conditioning, and offered a more homely feel. If you enjoy cooking your own meals or prefer a more private experience, this would be a great choice. However, the lack of on-site staff might be a dealbreaker for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to hospitality.

Bucharest, in August, is an exciting and vibrant destination, but it’s also a city that can get quite hot and busy, especially in the Old Town. Your choice of accommodation can greatly influence your experience, so it’s important to think about what kind of atmosphere you prefer. Whether it’s the lively, buzzing heart of the city or the quiet, serene residential areas, Bucharest offers something for everyone.

For my next visit to the city, I would likely lean towards staying in a more residential area, like the one I chose for my second stay. The quieter environment, combined with modern amenities, provided a perfect balance for me. But for those looking to immerse themselves in Bucharest’s vibrant culture, a stay in the Old Town might be the best way to go.

Overall, both accommodations served their purpose well, and I had a wonderful stay in Bucharest. It’s a city I would highly recommend visiting, and with so many options for lodging, it’s easy to find something that fits your needs.