Cheap flights from Madrid to Bucarest

When your flight from Madrid touches down at Henri Coandă International Airport (Otopeni), you'll find yourself just 16 kilometres north of Bucharest's city centre. Several transport options make the journey straightforward and affordable.

The Airport Express bus provides a convenient direct service to the city, taking around 45 minutes and costing approximately €2–3. For those preferring comfort, licensed taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, with journeys to the centre typically costing €15–25 and taking 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.

Once in the city, a modern metro system with multiple lines serves most neighbourhoods, making onward travel economical and efficient. The network expands continuously, connecting cultural sites, shopping districts, and residential areas throughout Bucharest.

After settling in from your Madrid flight, Bucharest reveals itself as a fascinating blend of grand architecture and bohemian neighbourhoods. The historic heart around the Civic Centre showcases monumental buildings from various eras, whilst areas like Lipscani (the Old Town) buzz with restored medieval streets, cafés, and galleries.

East meets West in these districts, with Byzantine Orthodox churches standing alongside Austro-Hungarian facades and contemporary street art. Take time to explore the leafy residential quarters and waterfront areas that many visitors overlook.

• Palace of Parliament — the world's second-largest building
• Lipscani (Old Town) — medieval streets, restaurants, and nightlife
• Herastrau Park — expansive green space with museums and cafés
• Cotroceni Palace — royal residence with gardens
• Piața Revoluției — historic square with cultural significance
• Dorobanți neighbourhood — trendy area with boutiques and galleries

Romanian cuisine, which you'll discover differs pleasantly from what you might have sampled in Madrid, centres on hearty, flavourful dishes reflecting centuries of Eastern European and Ottoman influence. The dining culture here is social and welcoming, with many establishments honouring traditional recipes passed through generations.

From cosy taverns to modern restaurants, Bucharest's food scene offers excellent value and authentic flavours. Local wines from Romanian vineyards pair beautifully with traditional mains, and don't miss the opportunity to sample traditional pastries and desserts in the city's numerous cafés.

• Ciorba de burtă — tripe soup with garlic and vinegar
• Mici — grilled minced meat rolls, typically served as an appetiser
• Ciorbă de peștele — fish soup with fresh river fish
• Mamaliga — polenta-based dish, often topped with cheese and sour cream
• Papanasi — fried dough pastries dusted with sugar and served with sour cream
• Tuica — traditional plum brandy, a national spirit