Bucharest becomes particularly charming in the cold season, when temperatures rarely dip below 0 degrees Celsius, transforming the city into a delightful winter wonderland. Parks such as Herăstrău, Cișmigiu and Carol are covered in snow, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for romantic walks or family activities. Christmas markets and winter markets open their doors, offering a variety of culinary delights, handicrafts and unique gifts. From the skating rink in the city center to the museums and art galleries that remain open, Bucharest invites visitors to explore and enjoy its winter charm in an authentic and captivating way.

Bucharest in winter. 

Festive holiday atmosphere

In winter, Bucharest dresses up in festive garb, with bright lights and Christmas decorations adorning the streets and squares. Christmas fairs, such as the one in Constitution Square, bring a fairy-tale atmosphere, with wooden houses, traditional products, delicious food and activities for all ages.

Outdoor ice rinks

Outdoor skating, surrounded by lights and festive music, is an invigorating and joyful activity. Outdoor skating rinks appear in various locations around the city, including in parks and in the center of Bucharest: the AFI Rink (Cotroceni On Ice), the West Side Christmas Market Rink (Drumul Taberei Park) and the Veranda Mall Ice Rink are some of the city's liveliest skating rinks.

Winter landscapes in the parks

Bucharest's parks, such as Herăstrău Park, Cișmigiu Park and Carol Park, dress up in charming winter images when they're enveloped in snow. A stroll through the alleyways of these parks can bring moments of tranquillity and reveal a special natural beauty. In addition, the playgrounds and ice rinks in these parks become favorite destinations for children and adults alike, bringing a touch of playfulness and activity to the tranquil winter landscape.

Seasonal gastronomy

Winter brings a variety of traditional dishes worth savoring. Local restaurants and markets offer seasonal delicacies such as sarmalele, smoked sausages, caltaboșii and cozonacii. Mulled wine, flavored with cinnamon and cloves, is a popular drink that will warm not just your hands but your whole heart on cold days.

Cultural events and shows

The winter season is rich in cultural events, including Christmas concerts, ballet and theater performances, as well as various exhibitions and art fairs. The Romanian Athenaeum and the National Opera are places where you can enjoy special performances that combine classical music and dance with the festive spirit.

Holiday shopping

Bucharest abounds in holiday shopping opportunities, offering a diverse and magical experience. Shopping malls and Christmas markets are festively decorated and full of special offers, from unique gifts and luxury products to attractive discounts for the whole family. In addition, the city's craft shops offer a varied selection of hand-made products, from personalized jewelry and decorations to clothing and accessories, which can make perfect gifts for loved ones. These markets and shops not only make holiday shopping easy, but also bring a warm and festive atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the Christmas spirit.

Relax at spas and wellness centers

After a day spent exploring the city in the cold, you can relax at one of the many spas and wellness centers in Bucharest. We definitely recommend Therme - the largest relaxation and wellness complex not only in Romania, but in Europe. The relaxing treatments, saunas and hot baths are perfect for warming up and rejuvenating. 

Museums and art galleries

Bucharest offers an impressive variety of museums and art galleries that can be explored all year round, whatever the weather. Among these, the National Art Museum of Romania impresses with its collections of European and Romanian art, offering a fascinating insight into the history of art. The National Museum of Romanian History is a place where you can discover the country's rich history, from antiquity to the contemporary period, through varied and detailed exhibits. The National Museum of the Romanian Peasant offers an authentic insight into Romanian rural culture and traditions through its collections of handicrafts, traditional costumes and other ethnographic artifacts. These cultural institutions are ideal places to spend an educational and engaging day exploring Romania's rich cultural and artistic heritage.

Cosy accommodation

In winter, many hotels and hostels in Bucharest offer special packages and discounts for visitors. Comfortable and warm accommodation completes the pleasant experience of a winter vacation in the capital.
Bucharest in winter is a place where you can experience magical moments, filled with the spirit of the holidays and the beauty of the cold season. Whether you're looking for festive activities, picturesque landscapes or cultural experiences, Bucharest has something to offer for everyone in winter.