Taxis and Ride-Sharing in Bucharest: What You Need to Know

Getting around Bucharest is relatively easy, especially with the variety of taxi and ride-sharing options available. Whether you're heading to the airport, running late for a meeting, or simply want a quick ride across town, you’ll find plenty of choices—but also a few things to be careful about.

1. Taxi Services in Bucharest

Taxis are widely available in Bucharest and are relatively affordable compared to other European capitals. You can find taxis at major intersections, train stations, shopping malls, and especially at Henri Coandă Airport. However, quality and pricing can vary, so it's important to choose wisely.

What to Look For:

• Licensed taxis are yellow and display the fare per kilometer on the door (usually 2.29–2.99 lei/km).
• They must have a working meter, company name, and identification number displayed visibly.
• Drivers are required to issue receipts upon request.

Tip:

Avoid getting into unmarked or random taxis near tourist spots and train stations. Some may overcharge or not use the meter.

2. How to Order a Taxi Safely

The safest way to get a taxi is by ordering through a taxi app or calling a reliable company:

Popular Taxi Apps:

• Speed Taxi
• Meridian Taxi
• Cristaxi
• Clever (now part of Free Now) – allows you to order both taxis and private cars.
• Star Taxi – offers card payment options and driver ratings.

These apps often show estimated prices, driver info, and arrival time.

3. Ride-Sharing Apps in Bucharest

For more comfort, consistent pricing, and better vehicle quality, many people in Bucharest choose ride-sharing services.

Popular Ride-Sharing Apps:

• Uber
• Bolt
• Free Now (also shows official taxis)

Pros:

• Upfront pricing and no surprises.
• Card payment in-app, no cash needed.
• Real-time tracking, vehicle info, and driver ratings.
• Better car conditions and more professional service.

Cons:

• Prices can vary with dynamic pricing (especially in peak hours or during rain).
• Availability may be limited in suburban areas during off-hours.

4. Airport Transfers: What to Know

From Henri Coandă International Airport, you have several options:

• Taxi stands with self-service ordering kiosks (inside the arrivals hall).
• Ride-sharing pickups are allowed—just choose the “airport” option in your app and follow directions to the pickup area.
• Private airport shuttles or hotel transfer services.

Tip: Avoid people inside the terminal offering “taxi” services directly—they are usually unofficial and overpriced.

5. Price Comparisons

Service Type Base Fare Price/km (approx.) 
| Licensed Taxi  | ~2.50 lei  | 2.29–2.99 lei/km  | May charge extra for luggage or night trips
| Uber/Bolt  | Variable  | 2.00–2.50 lei/km  | Dynamic pricing may apply
| Free Now Taxi  | Same as licensed taxi  | Depends on partner taxi company  | App adds transparency

6. Safety & Tips

• Always check the license plate before getting into the car (match it to the app).
• Sit in the back seat and share your ride if you're alone at night.
• For cash-only taxis, try to carry small bills.
• If the meter is missing or not running—get out.

7. Final Thoughts

Bucharest offers a wide range of taxi and ride-sharing options for every budget and preference. Whether you want a traditional taxi or prefer the comfort and transparency of a ride-sharing app, getting around is simple—as long as you stay alert and use official platforms.