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Bucharest, the vibrant capital of Romania, has become a sought-after destination for expats, international teachers, and professionals from around the globe. Whether you’re seeking a fulfilling career, a family-friendly lifestyle, or the perfect European base, Bucharest offers a unique blend of modern convenience, cultural richness, and affordability.
Cost of Living: Affordable Comfort
Compared to other European capitals, Bucharest stands out for its cost-effective living. Housing and utilities are significantly cheaper, with a variety of options from modern apartments in the city centre to family homes in the suburbs. The city has an array of restaurants offering everything from traditional Romanian dishes to global cuisine at reasonable prices. There is something to do every weekend, and the city offers a wide variety of concerts, galleries, and attractions at an affordable cost. Transport and groceries are also wallet-friendly, making Bucharest an attractive choice for those looking to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
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Gateway to Europe: Flights and Connectivity
Bucharest is a prime location for exploring Europe and beyond. Henri Coandă International Airport and Baneasa Airport offers frequent flights to major cities across the continent, often at competitive prices thanks to the presence of budget airlines, such as Wizz Air and Ryanair. The city’s position in Eastern Europe also provides convenient access to neighbouring countries like Hungary, Bulgaria, Serbia and Greece by car, plane, or train. Weekend getaways to iconic destinations are not just possible but practical, with low-cost flights to France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Greece, and Turkey, to name a few.
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Safe and Welcoming
Safety is a key concern for anyone moving to a new city, and Bucharest outperforms several European capitals in terms of safety, with low crime rates in most areas. Romanians are known for their hospitality, and the friendly demeanour of locals ensures that newcomers feel welcomed. English is widely spoken, especially among younger generations and professionals, easing the transition for expats.
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Exploring Romania: Mountains, Beaches, and Charming City-Breaks
Romania’s diverse landscape is one of its greatest treasures. Bucharest is a few hours away by train or car from the Carpathian Mountains, perfect for hiking, skiing, and reconnecting with nature. In Spring and Summer, there are many hiking trails for beginners or more advanced hikers, with picturesque scenery and waterfalls.
There are endless opportunities for a weekend city break, with beautiful towns filled with culture and tradition, such as Brasov, Cluj, Sibiu, Timisoara, Sighisoara, Iasi, Oradea, Hunedoara, and Suceava, which are reachable by train, car, or short flights. A must-visit is the Danube Delta, which offers a chance to experience its rich biodiversity and traditional local culture. Visitors can take boat tours through the intricate network of waterways, visit remote villages accessible only by water, and enjoy traditional fish dishes prepared by local communities.
In the Summer, the Black Sea coastline, with its sandy beaches and vibrant resorts, is just a few hours’ drive away. There are many different resorts, such as Mamaia, Venus, Neptun, Eforie, Mangalia, or Vama Veche, each offering a different atmosphere, whether you’re looking for a luxury destination, or a more family friendly atmosphere.
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Endless Activities: Fun and Entertainment
Bucharest offers a vibrant array of activities for all ages. The historic Old Town is bustling with bars, restaurants, and cafes, serving as the epicentre of the city’s nightlife Cultural enthusiasts can explore numerous museums, theatres, and art galleries. For families, the city has family-friendly attractions such as Therme, Edenland, Kiddo, Hype Arena, and Destiny Park, to name a few. Bucharest has many parks, such as Herăstrău or Cismigiu, which has playgrounds, beautiful lakes and nature, as well as historic landmarks. If you’re into shopping, there are a variety of high-end boutiques, as well as large shopping centres that are more budget-friendly. The city also has traditional markets like Obor, known for its local crafts and produce.
Seasonal events further enrich the city’s entertainment landscape. During spring and summer, Calea Victoriei transforms into a pedestrian-only zone, creating a lively atmosphere filled with art, music, and cultural events. Street Delivery, typically held in early October, transforms Arthur Verona Street into a hub of creativity and public space innovation. The Bucharest Street Food Festival, often organised in September, gathers food trucks offering diverse cuisines, accompanied by live music and performances.
Whether you’re interested in cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, or vibrant nightlife, Bucharest has something to offer everyone.
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A Culinary Delight: Restaurants and Nightlife
Bucharest is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse culinary landscape that reflects Romania’s rich regional flavours. Traditional Romanian restaurants such as Zexe, Caru’ cu Bere, Lacrimi si Sfinti, or Hanul lui Manuc serve authentic dishes in historic settings, providing a taste of the country’s heritage. Beyond local cuisine, the city has embraced international gastronomy, with a variety of restaurants and fast-food venues offering American, Asian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern flavours.
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Moving with Children
For those with children, Bucharest is surprisingly family-oriented. The city features numerous parks with playgrounds, educational attractions, and a range of extracurricular activities tailored for young ones. Romanians have a strong cultural affinity for children, making it easy to feel supported as a family. International schools offer excellent education options, with institutions like Cambridge School of Bucharest providing top-tier programmes for students of all ages.
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Infrastructure and Transport
Bucharest has a reliable public transport system, including buses, trams, and an expanding metro network. There are yellow taxis, as well as ride-sharing services such as Uber, Bolt, or BlackCab. For those who prefer to drive, the city’s road network connects easily to major highways leading out of town. However, it is important when looking at accommodation and schools to consider the traffic during rush hour, particularly in the city-centre and condensed areas.
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Clean Water and Health Services
In Bucharest, tap water is generally considered safe to drink, meeting European Union water quality standards. However, due to its chlorinated taste and occasional concerns about aging infrastructure, many residents prefer bottled or filtered water, especially in older apartment buildings.
Romania’s healthcare system comprises both public and private sectors. As an expat employed in Romania, you’re likely to have access to private medical insurance through your employer, offering more comprehensive coverage and shorter waiting times compared to public services.
Upon arrival, it’s essential to register with a family doctor (General Practitioner). This registration is necessary for obtaining medical documentation such as sick leave certificates and prescriptions. While public healthcare services are funded through mandatory contributions, many expats opt for private healthcare to ensure higher quality services and English-speaking providers.
Emergency medical services in Romania are generally of high quality and are covered under the national health insurance system for employed individuals. It’s worth noting that while many healthcare professionals in Bucharest speak English, this may not be the case in more rural areas. Therefore, having private health insurance can provide additional peace of mind, ensuring access to preferred facilities and specialists.
A Friendly and Inclusive Community
Perhaps one of Bucharest’s most endearing qualities is its people. Warm, friendly, and eager to share their culture, Romanians make it easy for newcomers to integrate. The city’s expat community is thriving, offering ample opportunities for networking and forming meaningful connections.
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Why Bucharest?
Bucharest is more than just a place to live—it’s a dynamic city that embraces modernity while cherishing its history and traditions. Its affordability, accessibility, and family-friendly vibe make it an excellent choice for expats, international teachers, and anyone seeking a rewarding life abroad. Whether you’re drawn by career opportunities, a vibrant cultural scene, or the prospect of raising a family in a welcoming environment, Bucharest has something special to offer.
If you’re considering relocating, Cambridge School of Bucharest is here to support families by providing world-class education and a strong community for children to thrive. Visit our website to learn more about life in Bucharest and the opportunities waiting for you.