Quick Answer
- Bucharest is generally safe for tourists. Violent crime against visitors is extremely rare.
- Watch for pickpockets in Old Town, on public transport, and near Gara de Nord.
- Emergency number: 112 (works for police, ambulance, fire). English-speaking operators available.
- Avoid unlicensed taxis and currency exchange offices on the street. Use Bolt/Uber and bank ATMs instead.
Overall Safety
Bucharest is one of the safer European capitals for tourists. Romania consistently ranks well in global safety indices, and violent crime targeting visitors is extremely rare. The main risks are petty theft and scams — the same things you’d watch for in any major city.
That said, common sense applies. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid flashing expensive belongings in crowded areas.
Safe Neighborhoods
Most areas tourists visit are safe, including:
- Centrul Vechi (Old Town) — Well-lit and heavily policed. Main risk is overpriced drinks at tourist-trap bars.
- Victoriei / Piata Romana — Busy commercial area, safe day and night.
- Herastrau / Floreasca / Dorobanti — Upscale residential neighborhoods, very safe.
- Cotroceni — Quiet, residential, near the Botanical Garden. Very safe.
- Universitate — Student area, lively and generally safe.
Areas requiring more caution at night:
- Gara de Nord (main train station) — Can feel sketchy after dark, stick to main streets.
- Ferentari — Working-class area far from tourist sights, no reason to visit.
- Rahova — Similar to Ferentari, off the tourist trail.
Common Scams
Taxi scams: Unlicensed taxis or drivers who “forget” to turn on the meter. Always use Bolt or Uber, or order taxis through the Star Taxi app. If you must take a taxi from the street, check the rate displayed on the door — the legal maximum is clearly posted.
Currency exchange: Street-level exchange offices near Gara de Nord and Old Town often have terrible rates or hidden fees. Use bank ATMs (Banca Transilvania, BRD, Raiffeisen) or exchange at bank branches.
Overcharging in Old Town: Some bars in Centrul Vechi don’t display prices and charge outrageous sums for drinks. Always ask for a menu with prices before ordering. Avoid places with aggressive touts outside.
ATM skimming: Rare but possible. Use ATMs attached to bank branches rather than standalone machines. Cover your PIN.
Fake police: Extremely rare, but if someone in plain clothes claims to be police and asks to see your wallet, decline and walk to the nearest police station.
Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| General Emergency | 112 |
| Police | 112 |
| Ambulance | 112 |
| Fire | 112 |
112 is the universal emergency number and works from any phone. English-speaking operators are generally available.
Hospitals with English-Speaking Staff
- MedLife — Private hospital chain with modern facilities. Multiple locations. English-speaking doctors.
- Regina Maria — Another well-regarded private hospital network. English spoken.
- Fundeni Clinical Institute — Major public hospital for emergencies.
Pharmacies are abundant. Look for the green cross sign. Chain pharmacies like Catena, Sensiblu, and Help Net are everywhere and some staff speak English.
General Safety Tips
- Keep your phone and wallet in front pockets or a cross-body bag in crowded areas
- Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night
- Don’t leave drinks unattended in bars or clubs
- Use official taxi apps (Bolt, Uber, Star Taxi) instead of hailing taxis on the street
- Keep a digital copy of your passport (photo on your phone)
- Romania’s EU membership means your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) works here
- Tap water in Bucharest is technically safe but most people prefer bottled water
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they speak English in Bucharest?
Yes -- English is widely spoken in Bucharest, particularly in tourist areas, restaurants, hotels, and shops. Most Romanians under 40 speak at least conversational English. In less touristy neighborhoods and among older residents, knowledge varies, but you can navigate the city comfortably in English.
Is tap water safe to drink in Bucharest?
Yes, tap water in Bucharest meets EU safety standards and is safe to drink. Most locals drink it daily without issue. The water is sourced from surface reservoirs and treated to European standards. Bottled water is widely available if you prefer it, typically costing 2-5 RON.
Is Bucharest safe for solo female travelers?
Yes. Bucharest is generally safe for solo female travelers. The main precautions are the same as in any European capital: avoid poorly lit streets at night, watch your belongings in crowded areas, and use reputable taxi services (Bolt or Uber rather than flagging cabs on the street). The city center and tourist areas are well-patrolled.
