We discovered why this city makes the perfect low-cost city break (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)Taking a holiday is a real treat for the mind, body and soul, but nowadays it can be hard to find a getaway that doesn’t break the bank. It can be done, though. The Romanian capital, Bucharest, is perfect for a cost-effective mini-break, whether you’re craving the tranquillity of time spent in a spa or the adventure of exploring a new city. We booked our weekend trip through TUI, taking a three-and-a-half-hour flight from London. And once we arrived, we quickly realised there’s lots to love about this captivating part of the world. From spending a day at the famous Therme Bucuresti spa to exploring the fabled region of Transylvania, you won’t struggle to make memories here.
There’s plenty to discover in Bucharest
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Where to stay in Bucharest For comfortable rooms with a luxurious feel at a reasonable price, you can’t beat the four-star Novotel Bucharest City Centre. It’s in an ideal location just a stone’s throw from the nightlife hub in the Old Town, and is also close to museums, theatres, parks, shopping centres and other tourist attractions. Europe’s largest spa If you’re a TikTok user, you’ve probably seen the Therme Bucuresti. It’s Europe’s largest thermal spa, it opens 365 days a year and it’s just a five-minute drive from Bucharest’s airport. Some people are so keen to visit, they’ll even fly out to Romania in the morning and return the same evening after a day of relaxation. The spa welcomes more than 3,500 visitors a day on average and it’s easy to see why. It boasts an impressive 10 indoor and outdoor pools, a beach area to soak up the sun and the largest botanical garden in Romania. It also has some rather unusual spa experiences on offer, including a cinema sauna where you can watch David Attenborough shows projected onto the big screen while you relax! And if all that chilling out makes you peckish, there are plenty of food options, from Asian cuisine to tasty regional dishes. Prices start from around £10 and you can also buy skip-the-line tickets through TUI.
Europe’s largest thermal spa
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What to do in Bucharest Bucharest has the nickname ‘Little Paris’ because some parts of the city resemble the French capital. TUI offers a selection of guided tours starting from £29 per person, including a four-hour city tour during which you’ll see the Palace of Parliament, the second largest administrative building in the world (after the Pentagon). You’ll also learn about the city’s fascinating history, including the Romanian Revolution, and pass by Bucharest’s version of the Arc de Triomphe. As day turns to night, head to one of Bucharest’s most popular restaurants, Caru’ Cu Bere. With a rich history spanning more than 130 years, it’s a much-loved spot that has been frequented by VIPs such as The Rolling Stones, the Emperor of Japan and the late US senator Ted Kennedy. Not only does it deliver traditional Romanian cuisine, but guests are entertained with live dancing and folk music performances while they eat.
Bucharest’s Palace of Parliament is the world’s second largest administrative building
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Visit Transylvania If you have time to venture out of the city, be sure to visit Transylvania. It’s home to Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, making it a must-see for fans of the supernatural. It’s been claimed that Romanian ruler Vlad the Impaler was held prisoner here – and he is said to have been the real-life inspiration behind the story of Dracula. But Transylvania is also known for its breathtaking scenery. The countryside is scattered with Baroque buildings and colourful churches – in fact, its villages with fortified churches are one of the country’s nine UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Take a trip to ‘Dracula’s Castle’ in Transylvania
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The stunning landscape is also a big hit with our very own King Charles, who has frequently visited the estate he owns in the region. He purchased his first property there in 2006, an 18th-century Saxon house in Viscri. How to book TUI offers a three-night break at the 4T Novotel Bucharest City Centre on a room-only basis from £455 per person. This is based on two adults sharing a double room with flights departing from London Heathrow on 9 November 2024 and including 23kg of luggage. Book via the TUI website, visit your local travel agent or download the TUI app. Price correct as of 26 June 2024.Story SavedYou can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.Follow OK! MagazineFacebookTwitterMore OnTravel
