Christmas vacation in Bucharest
A guide for travelers in the winter wonderland of Eastern Europe
In the heart of Eastern Europe lies a magnificent gem in the form of the capital city of Romania, the city of Bucharest. The vibrant city invites visitors from all over the world all year round, but in the winter months the city reawakens as a winter wonderland. Imagine a cityscape where the crisp, chilled air carries the melodies of Christmas carols and mingles with the rich aroma of mulled wine and seasonal spices, a place where the twinkling lights seem to dance on the historic buildings, casting a warm glow on the snowy streets.
Bucharest, often maligned by its Western European counterparts, emerges in December as a festive paradise, one that offers a unique blend of traditional charm and contemporary edge, all at great prices. Bucharest at Christmas brings with it warmth and peace into the coldest time of the year, and its streets become a living museum of lights and sparkles. From the colorful bars through the casinos to the historic streets of the old town, Bucharest puts on a holiday and invites everyone to fall in love.
So we have prepared a comprehensive guide for you to experience the magic of Christmas in Bucharest. We will delve into the heart of the city's Christmas celebrations, uncover the secrets of its festive markets, savor its culinary delights, and explore the traditions that make this season in Bucharest an unforgettable experience. Join us and we will explore together the magic of Bucharest, the winter wonderland of Eastern Europe.
Bucharest at Christmas - what's all the fuss about?
Magical atmosphere and festive decorations
As the Christmas season approaches, already in the middle of November, the first buds of light and joy begin to appear around the city, spreading like wildfire, or rather like the colorful cherry blossoms. The atmosphere in the city becomes charged with joy and contagious anticipation, the streets and public spaces are filled with glittering lights and decorations, turning the city into the setting of a fairy tale book. Landmarks such as the Palace of Parliament and the Arc de Triomphe become focal points of celebration, illuminated by thousands of lights that illuminate the night sky.
A combination of tradition and progress
Bucharest's Christmas celebration is a unique blend of old and new. Traditional Romanian customs and folklore intertwined with modern celebrations, offer a rich and varied cultural experience. You will meet choirs singing colindas (traditional Romanian Christmas carols) in the streets, and at the same time, contemporary music and entertainment filling the public squares and ancient markets.
During Christmas, Bucharest's architectural magnificence is cleverly and tastefully highlighted, with the historic buildings, with their varied architecture ranging from neoclassical to baroque, illuminated with color and interest, creating a striking contrast between the ancient buildings and the twinkling lights.
A symphony of lights and colors
One of the most amazing aspects of Christmas in Bucharest is the light displays. The city becomes an art canvas of a dazzling variety of colors and designs. From intricate patterns on buildings to streets with twinkling lights, the city becomes a visual feast. In central squares and important landmarks in the city, light shows are held, attracting the local crowd and tourists in the city and adding to the festive atmosphere.
Community spirit and festive activities
And if you're a community person or someone who wants to mingle with the locals, the Christmas season is probably the best time to do so. During the holiday, there is a sense of community and togetherness in the city, a kind of warmth that permeates everywhere in the city. The public spaces become meeting points for families and friends, and the city is full of edifying and enjoyable attractions - from open-air ice skating rinks, Christmas-themed workshops and concerts that bring people together and foster a sense of community celebration.
The magic of Christmas in Bucharest is a symphony of twinkling lights, festive sounds and communal joy. This is a time when the city not only displays its historical beauty and cultural wealth, but also cultivates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the season. Christmas is a time of light in the darkness of the winter months, a time of community, a time of color and interest, and this is exactly what the Bucharest Christmas celebrations look like.
Bucharest's Christmas celebrations - from a religious holiday to a cultural event
While a significant portion of Romanian residents define themselves as devout Christians, the city of Bucharest today presents a colorful and diverse Christmas celebration - from strict religious events to secular and cultural traditions that have developed over centuries. Let's dive into the evolution of the Romanian Christmas in the country's capital - Bucharest.
Historically, Romania's dominant Orthodox Christian faith has played a significant role in shaping its Christmas customs. Bucharest's early Christmas celebrations were mainly religious, centered on church services and spiritual observances. This focus on the religious aspect of Christmas is still evident in many of the city's traditions.
The Romanian folklore alongside ancient pagan rituals have significantly influenced the city's Christmas celebrations, and practices such as decorating houses with green branches to singing Kolind (traditional Romanian carols) originate from pagan celebrations that were rooted in the area even before Christianity, by the pagans. The pagans celebrated the 'holiday of the winter solstice', which symbolizes the celebrations of the shortest long day of the year, after which the days begin to lengthen again. These elements were combined with Christian traditions, creating a unique combination of sacred and folklore.
Over the centuries, Bucharest's Christmas celebrations have evolved and grown, incorporating different cultural influences from neighboring regions of the country and Europe as a whole. During periods of foreign rule and influence, such as the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires, new elements were introduced to the city's Christmas celebrations, ones that enriched the local traditions.
In the 20th century, especially during the communist era, Christmas celebrations in Bucharest underwent significant changes. Religious customs were abandoned, and the focus shifted towards secular and family celebrations. However, the fall of communism in 1989 marked the resurgence of religious and traditional Christmas customs.
Today, Christmas in Bucharest is a lively mix of old and new. The city respects its historical roots by maintaining some of the traditional customs such as attending the midnight mass in the church, performing carols and religious folklore and other religious ceremonies. At the same time, the modern influences of the holiday are evident in the elaborate light displays, the Christmas markets and a variety of entertainment options that cater to the city's diverse and cosmopolitan population.
Important dates and information that is important to know
The beginning of the decorations in the city: Bucharest starts to decorate and become a winter wonderland at the end of November. This is the time when the streets, buildings and public spaces of the city begin to be decorated with festive lights and colorful decorations.
Key dates and celebrations - what is open? What is closed?
1 In December - Romania's National Day: This day marks the beginning of the holiday season with national pride. Although not a Christmas event per se, the festive mood sets the stage for the festivities to come. Expect military parades and cultural events.
December 24 – Christmas Eve: Traditionally, this is a family and community evening, when during the day the businesses and shops are usually open in the morning, but close early in the afternoon or afternoon. In the evening, the city is almost empty, but you can book a place for restaurants that offer Christmas events, festive meals with holiday edition menus.
December 25 – Christmas: A holiday in Romania, a day when families gather to celebrate. Most businesses, shops and restaurants are closed, but some tourist attractions may remain open.
December 26 – the second day of Christmas: It is also a public holiday in Romania. As with Christmas, expect sites to be closed, but some tourist sites in the city may be open.
December 31 - New Year's Eve: On this festive evening, the city of Bucharest hosts public celebrations and fireworks displays. Many restaurants and clubs offer special events, although reservations are often required.
January 1 - Civil New Year: A significant part of the tourist sites, attractions and services will be closed. The restaurants and cafes are usually open.
It is important to know
lodging: It is advisable to book accommodation well in advance, as the Christmas season is a popular period and is considered the peak of the winter tourism season in the city.
transportation: Public transport operates on a holiday schedule during Christmas and New Year, with reduced services in and out of the city. Taxi services are readily available, but be aware that rates may be higher during the holiday season.
Weather: As befits a classic Eastern European city, the winter months in Bucharest are characterized by intense cold and snow. The Christmas period, which falls between the end of November and the beginning of January, is characterized by fluctuating temperatures that range from 0 to 5 degrees Celsius on average during the day, and at night the temperatures often drop below 0. Cold waves are typical of the Romanian winter, with temperatures dropping well below zero, especially at night.
And if you expect to land in a white wonderland, chances are high that it will happen, as snow is of course a common phenomenon in the city during the winter months, including during the Christmas season. The city is often covered in a white blanket of snow, which adds to the festive atmosphere. However, the amount of snow obviously varies from year to year, and there are winters where the snow remains for a short period.
Besides snow, rains may also appear in the city during this period. The amount of precipitation in winter is not particularly high, but cloudy and gray days are commonplace.
It is important to take into account that winter in Bucharest can be stormy, with prolonged rain or snow days and storms and winds. Given these conditions, you should be prepared for cold weather. It is recommended to pack warm clothes - coats, woolen hats, scarves, gloves and waterproof boots so that you can enjoy the outdoor tourist sites and the magical Christmas markets of the city.
Visiting the city of Bucharest during Christmas is an amazing experience, and if you dress well, even the cold will not be able to overshadow the warm and decorated city at Christmas.
What not to miss when visiting the city of Bucharest during the Christmas season
A visit to Bucharest during the Christmas season offers a wonderful mix of festive activities, cultural experiences and opportunities to explore the city's rich history and vibrant contemporary life. Here are some recommended things to see and do during your visit:
Explore the city's Christmas markets
Constitution Square Christmas Market - Piața Constituției
When locals and tourists alike ask what for them is the highlight of the Christmas celebrations in the city, most of them testify that it is the central Christmas market of the city, the market in Constitution Square (Piața Constituției). It is a huge and magnificent market, located in the Constitution Square, near some of the most significant landmarks of Bucharest, the star among which is of course the Parliament Palace.
The market is famous for its spectacular decorations, including the city's largest Christmas tree, beautifully lit against the backdrop of the vast and magnificent palace. The entire square becomes a festive wonderland with lights, decorations and displays, inviting countless visitors, locals and tourists alike.
In the market you will find over 70 stalls that sell a wide variety of items, from traditional Romanian handicrafts to Christmas decorations. This is a great place to buy unique gifts and souvenirs for loved ones waiting at home.
The market also offers a wide variety of traditional Romanian festive foods and drinks. You can enjoy mulled wine, sweet treats like kuzonak (a type of sweet bread), and various local dishes. Live music, singing and dancing performances are part of the entertainment system of the market, and in the evening hours you will almost always find some local artist who keeps the visitors of the lively market busy.
Location: Constitution Square - Piața Constituției, next to the Bucharest Parliament Palace.
Dates (as of 2023): 30.11-26.12
Activity time: Sunday to Friday between 12:00 and 23:00. On the weekends, the festivities start at 10:00 and end by 23:00 p.m.
Drumul Taberei Park Christmas Market
The Christmas market in Bucharest's Drumul Taberei Park is another delightful seasonal attraction in the city, and while it may not be as big or well-known as the one in Constitution Square, it offers a unique and charming experience, especially for those looking to enjoy a more local and less crowded environment.
The market is located in Dermol Tabri Park, a large and popular park in the Dermol Tabri neighborhood in the west of Bucharest. The park provides a more relaxed and natural environment for the market, surrounded by vegetation and beautiful paths.
The market boasts a pleasant and family atmosphere, with festive decorations and lights that illuminate the park and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Visitors can find a variety of stalls offering traditional Romanian art, handmade items and Christmas decorations, and like other Christmas markets, the market offers a variety of traditional Romanian foods and hot drinks. You can expect to find seasonal treats, mulled wine and various local delicacies.
The market often features live music, entertainment and kid-friendly activities. The relaxed setting of the park makes it a comfortable place for families to enjoy the festivities.
Location: Parcul Drumul Taberei park in the west of the city.
Dates (as of 2023): 20.11-26.12
Wander among the lights and decorations of the city
During the Christmas season, Bucharest becomes a kingdom of lights and festive decorations, offering many places where you can enjoy the festive atmosphere. Here are some of the main places to soak up the festive atmosphere in the city:
University Square (Piața Universității): This central square features elaborate light displays and decorations during the Christmas season, making it a lively place to soak up the festive atmosphere.
Constitution Square (Piața Constituției): Home to one of the city's largest Christmas markets, the square is beautifully lit and decorated with festive decorations, including a magnificent Christmas tree that you shouldn't miss.
The Old Town (Centrul Vechi): Bucharest's historic Old Town is a must-see all year round, and especially during the Christmas season, when its charming expanses are filled with colorful lights and picturesque decorations. Do not miss a visit both during the day and during the night, and you will get to meet two different and amazing worlds.
Calea Victoriei: This iconic avenue is known for its elegant decorations during the Christmas season. The magnificent buildings along the boulevard are lit and decorated, all with taste and interest.
Cișmigiu Garden (Grădina Cișmigiu): the oldest public garden in the city receives a special and colorful transformation during the holiday months with lights and decorations that turn it into a magical kingdom that combines beautiful nature and a royal atmosphere.
Shopping Malls and Malls: Many of Bucharest's malls and malls, such as Băneasa Shopping City and AFI Cotroceni, display impressive Christmas decorations and have their own indoor light displays and fun holiday activities.
From the bustling markets to the peaceful parks, all are beautifully lit and decorated for the Christmas season in the city. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the festive spirit of the city, enjoy the holiday lights, and maybe even take some unforgettable photos. Remember, every year brings with it new themes and decorations, so it's always a refreshing experience!.
Watch a concert or show
Catch a classical concert at the city's ornately decorated concert hall, the Ateneul Român, and look for special Christmas ballet performances at the Bucharest National Opera (Opera Națională București). During the month of December, many performances take place every night in the city's cultural institutions, from children's shows through jazz and ballet shows to classical music concerts.
Visit historical landmarks
Palace of the Parliament: Take a tour of one of the largest buildings in the world.
The Arch of Triumph: See this iconic monument beautifully illuminated during the holiday season.
Historic churches: Visit the Stavropoleos Monastery and the Patriarchal Cathedral for their architectural beauty and religious significance.
Enjoy ice skating
In the Big Market of Bucharest, the market in the Constitution Square, every year a huge ice skating rink opens, inviting everyone - locals and tourists alike, to enjoy an hour of fun skating. Whether you've tried it before or not, it's a wonderful experience.
Discover more Romanian cities
Go discover other cities in the country that decorate for Christmas, including the city of Sibiu, which hosts a lively and huge Christmas market, or the city of Brasov, which also turns into a colorful winter wonderland during the Christmas season.
Go on a shopping trip
Whether you're looking for unique local art, designer clothes or festive decorations, Bucharest's shopping scene has something for everyone this holiday season. Here are the recommended places:
AFI Cotroceni and Băneasa Shopping City: These large malls offer a wide variety of stores, from international brands to local boutiques, and during the holiday season are full of sales and surprises.
Calea Victoriei and Dorobanți area: For luxury shopping, these areas are full of designer stores and high-end boutiques, offering everything from fashion to custom jewelry.
The old city (Centrul Vechi): Wander the streets of the old town to discover small shops and galleries selling local art, antiques and handmade goods.
tips
Opening hours: Check the opening hours of the markets and shops as they may have different opening hours during the festive season, especially around Christmas and New Year's Eve.
Cash and cards: While most shops and malls accept credit cards, some cash is always handy for small markets and stalls.
Tax refunds: remember that there are tax refunds for purchases above a certain amount, so for large purchases it is recommended to check for a tax refund.
And what about sales?
In Bucharest, as in many European cities, the winter sales usually start after the Christmas season, with the most significant discounts starting in early January. These discounts usually last until the end of February or even the beginning of March, depending on the network.
Some stores may start offering sales right after Christmas, around December 27th. These early discounts are a great opportunity to find discounts on winter clothing and holiday items. The traditional winter sales period usually starts at the beginning of January. This is the time when you will find more extensive discounts in a wide variety of stores, from street brands to luxury boutiques.
The local foods you should not miss
- Sarmal (cabbage rolls)
Sarmale are traditional Romanian cabbage rolls, usually stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, rice and spices, then slowly cooked in a savory sauce.
Where to find: Widely enjoyed in Christmas markets, in traditional Romanian restaurants, and often served as a special dish in local restaurants during the holiday season.
- Kuzonak (sweet bread)
Brioche-like sweet bread, the Cozonac is usually filled with walnuts or poppy seeds. It is a main ingredient during various celebrations in Romania, especially during Christmas.
Where to find: bakeries, cafes and Christmas markets. Many families also prepare it at home, so it is mostly common in traditional family-run restaurants.
- hot wine
Warm and spicy wine, served hot, perfect for cold winter days.
Where to find: In almost every Christmas market, also in bars and restaurants around the city during the winter season.
- Mămăligă (polenta)
A cornmeal dish, the famous mamaliga is a simple but beloved dish in Romania, often served with cheese, sour cream, or as a side dish to main dishes.
Where to find: traditional Romanian restaurants and Christmas market stalls.
- Pipti (meat jelly)
Piftie is a traditional dish made from pig parts, such as legs, ears and tail, embedded in gelatin made from the natural collagen in the meat. Not everyone connects to the dish, but brave and culinary lovers like to try it.
Where to find: in traditional Romanian restaurants.
- Kurtosklax
Although of Hungarian origin, this spiral-shaped sweet pastry became popular in Romania. The hot pastry is baked over coals, and is usually covered with sugar, cinnamon, chocolate or nuts.
Where to find: Common at Christmas markets and street food stalls around the city.
So as we wrap up our festive foray into the heart of Romania, we hope you've already booked your flight ticket to Bucharest, the wonderful winter kingdom of Eastern Europe. The food is delicious, the air is cold and wintry, the decorated city is decorated in the white of snow and the atmosphere is simply wonderful, so how can you miss the best time of the year in the city of Bucharest? Because where else can you sing along to hymns you probably don't know the words to, get lost in a maze of twinkling lights, and eat enough junk food to make you consider adopting cabbage as your favorite vegetable? Bucharest in December is like stepping into a snow globe, minus the shivering part - it's full of charm, history and enough mulled wine to keep you warm and drunk.
