Bucharest - Getting Around
Airport Transfers
There are two airports servicing the city of Bucharest the busier of these being the Henri Coandă International Airport. The best way of getting to and from the international airport is by using the Henri Coandă Express train that carries passengers to the central train station in Bucharest, Gara De Nord. A shuttle bus to get from the terminal to the train station is included in the 6.00 lei ticket. Bus service 780 also goes direct to the train station, whilst bus 783 direct to downtown Bucharest. Taxis and car hire are also available at the airport and during the night (after 11pm) the only method of transport from the airport is by taxi. Beware of taking a trip with one of the drivers hustling for business inside the terminal as they will often charge far more than the journey should actually cost.
top ↑Bus
There are hundreds of bus routes in and around Bucharest and the system can be very confusing to those unfamiliar with it. The buses are modern and comfortable however are prone to overcrowding and the heavy traffic on the road often means that travel is quite slow. Using ID pick up a contactless smart card, load it up with credit and swipe it in front of a small orange box near the driver to ride.
top ↑Subway
By far the best way to travel around the city, the four metro lines cover practically the entire city and are much more reliable than surface forms of transport. The trains run frequently and the metro is the safest way to travel around Bucharest thanks to heavy investment in new tracks and trains. Tickets are bought from metro stations in 2 or 10 ride strips for 2 and 7 lei respectively.
top ↑Taxi
There are many taxis in Bucharest both licensed and unlicensed. Spot the difference by looking at the doors, they should have the pick up fee and cost per mile displayed. If you know you are going to need a taxi it is best to book one in advance from one of the big taxi companies as this will help avoid the chance of being picked up by a much more expensive independent cab.
top ↑Tram and Trolleybus
Any surface method of transport in Bucharest is slow and trams and trolleybuses are no exception, although between them and the buses most of the city is covered by one route or another. Purchasing a ticket is straightforward with most machines and kiosks located near the stops. Once on board the passengers must validate their tickets on the on board punching machine. Inspectors regularly check tickets and a fine of 50 lei can be imposed if travelling without, or without a validated ticket.
top ↑Transport Times
All public transport stops running at 11pm in Bucharest, every day of the week, so if planning to stay out after this time then an alternative mode of transport is a must.
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