Book cheap flights to Bucharest

Bucharest has a comfortable and moderate climate, and enjoys hot summers and cold winters. Summer (June – August) sees average temperatures ranging between 24 – 29 degrees Celsius. Record highs have recently topped the charts at an astounding 40 degrees Celsius – so make sure you pack lots of lotion with a high sun protection factor and light clothing to suit the season. The streets are crowded, and the atmosphere is humid and sticky. Beaches are packed with holidaymakers wanting to make the most of the sunny days. Autumn (September – November) is dry and cool. It is a superb time to watch the transformation of trees and fields, which produce colourful foliage. Winters (December – Mid March) are cold, especially in the mountains, where temperatures can drop to a freezing low of minus 10 – 15 degrees Celsius. Not necessarily a rule-of-thumb, but ample snowfall can occur throughout the country. It is a unique time for spectacular, snow-white, picturesque views – for those who aren’t afraid of the cold, of course.

South African passport holders do need a visa to visit Bucharest, Romania.

• Allow enough time for visa processing

• Ensure your passport has a validity period of at least six months

• Ensure your passport has 3 blank pages available for entry stamps.

• The application confirmation page from your online visa application.

• A copy of the barcoded confirmation document showing proof of payment and appointment.

• A recent photo (50mm x 50mm).

• Contact the Romanian Embassy of South Africa for more details (situated in Cape Town).

• The South African Embassy to Romania is situated on 2nd Floor, 26-28 Stirbei Voda, Union International Business Centre, and Bucharest. Telephone: 40 21 313 3725.

There are vaccination requirements if you are travelling from a country outside of the US. There are no real health risks within Bucharest, Romania.

• Vaccinations for Diphtheria, typhoid, hepatitis A, tetanus and rabies are recommended.

• Acquire comprehensive travel insurance.

• Ensure to travel in well maintained vehicles.

• Drink and eat safely

• Watch your beverages at all times when going to nightclubs.

• Always be vigilant, as crime occurs in any country, and watch your personal belongings.

• Do not be too flashy with money and expensive jewellery.

• Make copies of bank and credit cards, and other important documentation in case they are lost or stolen.

• Secure valuable personal belongings within the hotel safe.

• Avoid public or local demonstrations.

• Remain alert when walking around at night, and abide by the local government laws.

• Bring plenty of sunblock of a high sun protection factor, and try not to spend too much time in the sun.

The area possesses hotels, lodges, villas, apartments and business hotels.

Bucharest has a number of mid-range hotels, and lodging that will suit literally any pocket. Low accommodation tariffs can be found here, and are generally better than in the Western European parts of the city. The district has beautiful views of the Danube River and the gleaming city below. Convenient transport connections to get to the city are available, and a few great restaurants to choose from.

The south-end offers a more upmarket and livelier experience. Bucharest’s popular attractions are known for their colour and energetic atmosphere. If you are out on business in the region, make use of the many hotels which offer facilities for business, seminar and conference bookings.

The public transportation system in Bucharest has a unique ticketing method. A golden strip plastic ticket needs to be purchased for rides on the trolley-buses, buses, and trams. It is a prepaid card which can be loaded with credits. Tickets for riding the metro can be purchased at the metro stations marked with an `M’.

• Taxi: Always opt for a meter taxi, this way confrontation with regards to pricing is avoided. It is best to call a taxi from a reputable company in advance, or have the hotel call one for you.

• Car: Any city is best explored on foot. However, cars are great for getting around the city outskirts. Street parking has metres, so always make sure you have coins when travelling. All the major car rental agencies have station desks at the city airport, however, it is best to book in advance.