Discover our locals' 88 hidden gems in Bucharest

Hai să mergem! Experience Bucharest like a local with Spotted by Locals! From hidden architectural gems to vibrant local markets, our Spotters guide you through the city’s lively streets and quiet corners.

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City guides by those who know Bucharest best!

Get to know our Spotters from Bucharest

Check out our latest hidden gems in Bucharest

Things to do in Bucharest

Pho-thin

Pho thin – The jolly vietnamese spot

I highly recommend the Pho - it's the best I've had in ages! The broth is rich and savory, and the noodles are cooked to perfection...

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Restaurants

By

Codrut

Paduraru

Jan 22, 2025
Bacania-Fermierului

Băcănia Fermierului – Local food and drinks

"Băcănia Fermierului" is a grocery shop in Bucharest with local products, esp. from Vrancea. You can also have breakfast made just with their own produce!

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Shopping

By

Daniela

Bratu

Jan 20, 2025
Zissou-Coffee-Shop

Zissou Coffee Shop – My morning coffee

"Zissou Coffee Shop" is probably the smallest coffee shop in Bucharest, but it gathers big-hearted people. I recommend their chai latte in winter!

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Coffee & tea

By

Daniela

Bratu

Jan 20, 2025
La-Petite-Bouffe-Cotroceni

La Petite Bouffe Cotroceni – Books, pastry & coffee

"La Petite Bouffe Cotroceni" in Bucharest is a cross between a French-style boulangerie, a coffee shop & a bookstore. One of my favorite lonely-time spots.

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Coffee & tea
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Shopping
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Snacks

By

Daniela

Bratu

Jan 20, 2025
Cofetaria-Alice

Cofetăria Alice – Traditional desserts

"Cofetăria Alice" in Bucharest take me back to the old days. I recommend the Tortul Jeni. Preorder it online to skip the (quite long) queues!

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Snacks

By

Daniela

Bratu

Jan 20, 2025
The-Owl

The Owl – Bucharest finest cocktail bar

The cocktails are not only delicious but visually stunning as well, served in exquisite glassware that enhances the experience...

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Bars

By

Diana

Nanciu

Jan 5, 2025
Parcul-Circului

Parcul Circului – A breath of fresh air

I also come here when I just wanna sit on a bench (there are plenty of those here) and have a snack, read a book, or even have a picnic with my loved ones.

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Relaxing
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Snacks

By

Codrut

Paduraru

Jan 4, 2025
Marios-Osteria

Mario's Osteria – Best smash burgers in town

The options are limited (and I absolutely love that) & every burger has ingredients matched to perfection from the thyme and garlic toasted sourdough bun.

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Restaurants
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Snacks

By

Codrut

Paduraru

Jan 4, 2025
Pastrami-and-more

Pastrami and more – New York deli in Bucharest

Every sandwich on the menu comes with a pickle so you just have to order some fries for a full menu (my go-to is the pastrami poutine version)...

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Restaurants
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Snacks

By

Codrut

Paduraru

Jan 4, 2025
Terasa-Obor

Terasa Obor – Eat "mici" like a Romanian

Both young and old now gather here for a cheap beer and the best mici in town! Be prepared for LONG waiting lines, especially on festive days and weekends.

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Bars
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Music
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Restaurants
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Snacks

By

Codrut

Paduraru

Jan 4, 2025
Edessa

Edessa – Food for everyone

Their head waiter Catalin is the perfect guide for this culinary experience. He knows the menu by heart and always has some menu tweaks/hacks to offer.

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Restaurants

By

Codrut

Paduraru

Jan 4, 2025
Casa-de-tacos

Casa de tacos – A real taqueria

Everything is done taqueria style: there are 5-6 tables inside, everything you order is served in less than 5 minutes, and you're gonna eat it even faster.

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Bars
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Restaurants
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Snacks

By

Codrut

Paduraru

Jan 4, 2025

Heading to Bucharest?

88 Places only Locals know

Authentic Stories

Escape the Crowds

Full Access to the Bucharest City Blog & App!

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Going to Bucharest?

88 Hidden Gems only Locals know

✓ Escape the Crowds

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✓ Authentic Stories

✓ Full Access to the Bucharest City Blog & App!

What to expect?

Authentic & Unbiased Content

Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!

Go off the Beaten Path Gems

We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.

Responsible Travel

By visiting our locals’ favorites and lesser-known places, you contribute to a more sustainable way of traveling. You support the local economy and reduce the pressure on popular tourist spots. And in the end, those are the best places right?

Our Bucharest Cityguide - Made by Locals

Instantly know your way in Bucharest like a local!

Discover the hidden treasures of Bucharest with Spotted by Locals. Explore historic neighborhoods such as Lipscani, the leafy Cotroceni, and the vibrant Piata Romana. Our app offers insider tips on local attractions, dining spots, and nightlife venues, allowing you to experience the authentic charm of Romania’s capital city like a true local. Download now and start uncovering Bucharest’s secrets!

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We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.

Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.

With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.

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