The best places to live in Bucharest
When it comes to deciding which of the areas and suburbs in Bucharest best suit their needs, expats must consider which factors are most important to them. With six distinct administrative districts, expats will be spoilt for choice.
Newcomers living in the city centre have greater access to Romanian culture and modern life, but living here tends to be more expensive, and the demand for housing is generally higher. Conversely, expats who appreciate quiet neighbourhoods often find themselves in Bucharest's northern suburbs.
Expats who want to be able to travel freely between home and the office while being able to access other sites of interest should consider areas that are well-connected to the metro network. Public transport in Bucharest is efficient and well-developed, giving expats various options.
Family-friendly areas in Bucharest
Expats in search of leafy suburban living can choose from the beautiful neighbourhoods around King Michael I Park (formerly Herăstrău Park), Kiseleff Park or Floreasca Park in northern Bucharest. These areas are popular with expats for their proximity to the city's international schools and are well-connected to the city centre.
Domenii
A neighbourhood historically catering to expats, Domenii remains one of the most popular suburbs for expat families in Bucharest thanks to its proximity to Kind Michael I Park and the international schools in Pipera. Although there are some apartment buildings, expats moving here will likely live in villas. Some attractions include a selection of vibrant restaurants and a farmer's market selling some of the best fresh produce in the city.
Primăverii
Located in north Bucharest, Primăverii is one of the city's most affluent neighbourhoods. Fashionistas and foodies will enjoy the international designer boutiques and wide range of restaurants catering for all budgets and palates. Expat families can also access the picturesque Lake Floreasca and Primăverii Palace. The area is also served by metro and bus links, making for easy commutes.
Kiseleff and Dorobanți
Kiseleff and Dorobanți are among the city's older and more exclusive neighbourhoods that are teeming with chic cafés. Most of the city's embassies are found here. Expats who can afford it will find plenty of charming and stylish old villas with gardens and red brick and glass buildings in these areas. New arrivals looking to commute into the city centre will be delighted to find that Dorobanți is home to four metro stations, a tram line and several bus lines.
Areas for young and single expats in Bucharest
Bucharest's downtown neighbourhoods offer all the benefits of restaurants, galleries, theatres and the energetic atmosphere that comes from living in the middle of the city. As such, the central area is the perfect choice for couples with small or no children and singles who would like to mix with locals and discover Romanian culture.
Old Town Lipscani
Situated in the heart of Bucharest, Old Town is one of the most popular areas among expats, locals and tourists. Lipscani is a tourist hub located within the Old Town that is bustling with restaurants, clubs and bars, making it the perfect home for party-loving expats looking to get their groove on. Although the prices are often some of the most expensive in Bucharest, many expats rent in Old Town Lipscani.
Icoanei
Home to stunning authentically Romanian architecture and a fair few embassies, Icoanei is one of the safest neighbourhoods in Bucharest's centre. Expats will have the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors at the nearby Gradina Icoanei Park as well as a range of fantastic restaurants sprinkled throughout the neighbourhood.
Piața Romană
Piața Romană is a trendy neighbourhood perched just outside the city centre. The area is a beautiful meeting point for the old and contemporary, as it boasts exquisite pre-war mansions and classic villas alongside Bucharest's most fashionable cafés, bars and boutiques.