How is Bucharest as a city for expats?

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a fascinating city for expats. Located in the heart of Romania, Bucharest has plenty of cultural attractions, excellent transportation links, and a vibrant economy. Whether you’re looking for work or a new home, the city has plenty to offer. Here is a closer look at what you can expect from life as an expat in Bucharest.

Pros and Cons of Living in Bucharest

When looking at relocating to Bucharest, it’s important to consider both the pros and cons of life in this vibrant city. On the plus side, Bucharest boasts exceptional public transportation infrastructure and varied job opportunities. The city also has something for everyone, from stunning parks and cultural attractions to bustling nightlife and an eclectic culinary scene. But the city does have some shortcomings, including air pollution, a lack of foreign communities, and higher costs than other parts of the country.

Cost of Living in Bucharest

The cost of living in Bucharest can be higher than in other parts of Romania, especially if you’re looking for housing in prime locations. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is approximately 945€ per month. Prices tend to be lower in more remote areas. In terms of food and entertainment, expenses can also add up. Eating out for dinner can cost anywhere from 15€ to 40€ per person, depending on the restaurant.

Public Transportation and Connectivity

One of the biggest advantages to living in Bucharest is its excellent public transportation network. The metro system is fast and efficient, with easy-to-use ticket machines located throughout the city. You can also hop on one of the trams or buses for simple access around the city. Plus, Bucharest is well connected to the rest of Romania by train or bus, making it easy to travel to other destinations in the country.

Socializing and Leisure Activities

When it comes to socializing and leisure activities, Bucharest has plenty on offer. Local parks are great places to relax and hang out onSundays afternoons. The city also hosts plenty of cultural events throughout the year, including outdoor festivals such as Summer Well and outdoor markets in local parks. There are also plenty of fine-dining and casual restaurants all around the city, along with cafés, bars, and nightlife hotspots such as Old Town.

Work Opportunities

Bucharest has plenty of opportunities for those looking for work, from IT to professional services and more. According to The Career Project, some of the most popular industries in Bucharest are IT – particularly software development – finance and banking, legal services, media production, HR services, and automotive engineering. All in all, Bucharest is a great option for those in search of a new home or job abroad. The city offers plenty of job opportunities and cultural attractions, along with excellent public transportation links and an interesting new culture to explore. Even with its downsides like air pollutionand higher costs than other parts of Romania, it’s still an enticing option for any expat looking to explore a new place.

Insider’s Guide to Bucharest: A City for Expats

If you’re planning to move to Bucharest as an expat or just visiting the city for a brief period, you might be wondering what this Romanian capital has to offer. Bucharest boasts of fascinating nightlife, extensive green spaces, rich architectural heritage, and a mix of cultures which makes the city stand out.

With that said, let’s dive into the insider’s guide to Bucharest.

Attractions

Bucharest offers a wide range of attractions that cater to both locals and visitors. A few places to visit include the following:

– Palace of the Parliament: This iconic structure is the most significant parliament building in the world. Guided tours to this place are readily available.
– National Museum of Art of Romania: Located in the former Royal Palace, the museum houses collections of medieval and modern Romanian art.
– Herastrau Park: This is the largest of Bucharest’s parks, extending over an area of approximately 110 hectares where visitors can rent boats, bikes, and enjoy some delicious food.
– Revolution Square: This is the historic place where an anti-communist revolution started and which resulted in the fall of the Romanian communist regime. The square offers an opportunity to learn about the cou that brought change to the country.

Dining Spots

Bucharest is home to an array of top-rated restaurants that offer diverse menus and dining experiences. Romanian cuisine is best explored through traditional restaurants, while international fusion food is also on offer. Some places to grab a bite include:

– Caru’ cu Bere: One of the oldest restaurants in the city, this place serves traditional Romanian dishes in a lively atmosphere.
– La Belle Epoque: This is a French restaurant that offers an authentic taste of French cuisine, located in the heart of the city, and suitable for couples and family gatherings.
– Shift Pub: This place is known for its outdoor terraces which offer an enchanting view of the city. Craft beers, burgers, and other culinary treats are available here.

Cultural Experiences

Bucharest is known for its cultural experiences, and here are some things to experience in the city:

– National Museum of Romanian History: This museum covers the country’s history right from prehistoric times until the modern era, covering topics such as the age of kingdoms, Ottoman rule, and the communist period.
– Romanian Athenaeum: This iconic concert hall exhibits classic architecture and serves as a venue for classical music concerts.
– Jewish Heritage Museum: Located in the Jewish district, this museum provides information on the Jewish community in Romania and Jewish life in the country.

Local History

Bucharest has a rich and fascinating history which can be explored by visiting the following places:

– The Old Court: This place is a historical landmark that dates back to the 15th century and served as the residence of Vlad Tepes, the Romanian ruler known as Dracula.
– The Museum of the Municipality of Bucharest: This museum houses exhibitions, photographs, and artifacts depicting the city’s history.
– The Royal Palace: Located in Revolution Square, this palace served as the residence of the Romanian royal family until 1947.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore Bucharest beyond the mainstream attractions, here are some great ideas:

– Bellu Cemetery: This is a grand cemetery that contains the graves of many famous Romanians, including writers, musicians, and wartime heroes.
– Mitropoliei Hill: This hill offers a great view of Bucharest, especially at sunset, and is a perfect picnic spot.
– Tineretului Park: This park is a great place to relax and has a beautiful lake where visitors can rent boats.

Conclusion

Bucharest has a lot to offer as a city, making it an ideal destination for tourists and expats. From cultural experiences to dining experiences, the city offers a wide array of attractions that cater to different tastes and preferences. Be sure to add Bucharest to your travel list, and you won’t be disappointed.