How to travel from Bucharest airport to the city centre

Bucharest’s Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) is just outside Bucharest, but getting into the city itself is straightforward once you know the options.

There are several easy ways to travel from Bucharest airport to the city centre: public transport via train or bus, ride-hailing apps, licensed taxis or a private transfer. The best choice depends on whether you care more about cost, convenience, predictability or comfort.

This guide pulls together everything you need in one place, including real-world tips, expected journey times, and useful details such as where each option drops you and what to avoid.

Quick comparison

Taking the bus from Bucharest airport – our recommended option

The 100 express bus is the main airport-city route and runs day and night. Its one of the easiest ways to reach central Bucharest and is our preferred way of getting to the city centre. It was formerly known the 783 line.

You’ll find the bus stop directly outside the terminal. It’s well signposted in arrivals, so just follow the signs and you’ll get find it easily.

Buses run every 15 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night. The route takes you along some of Bucharest’s key boulevards before finishing at Piața Unirii, right next to the Old Town where most people stay.

It’s cheap, easy, and reliable – although you should expect stops to be busy and your journey to be slower at peak times.

Tickets and payment

Tickets costs 3 lei (about £0.50 or €0.60) each way per adult. It’s valid for 90 minutes, so useful if you’re breaking your journey.

You can pay in several ways:

• Contactless bank card – this is the easiest way and how we paid. Just tap on with your contactless card or phone when you get on the bus – there’s no fuss and you don’t need to get a specific ticket. Remember to do this as you get on the bus.
• STB transport card from the kiosks – you’ll need to buy a magnetic top-up card for 70p (€0.80) from the kiosk at the bus terminal, and then top it up with credit. It then works the same way as a contactless card, and you’ll need to tap in when you get on the bus. It added an extra step for us so we just used Contactless, but it’s useful if you don’t have a contactless card.
• SMS ticket – this is a slightly confusing way and best suited for people with a Romanian mobile number.
• Tourist travel cards – these give you unlimited travel within Bucharest (including to the airport) for 24 hours (20 lei) or 72 hours (40 lei). Useful if you’ll be travelling a lot. You can buy one at the kiosk or any ticket machine.

When it’s good

The bus drops you near the Old Town, where most people stay. It’s perfect if you’re staying here or near Piața Victoriei, Piața Romană, University Square or Piața Unirii.

It’s also ideal if you’re arriving during a quiet time of day or want the cheapest route into the centre.

Public transport is also more sustainable than taxis or private transfers.

Read next: the best things to do in Bucharest.

Drawbacks

Morning and evening rush hours can drag the journey out to nearly an hour. The buses themselves are modern but can fill up quickly (you should get a seat as you’re at the beginning of the route).

Taking the train from Bucharest airport to the city centre

This is the fastest, most predictable public transport option – and usually the best choice if you’re landing at a busy time of day. The train runs from the airport to Gara de Nord, Bucharest’s main train station, and it avoids all road traffic.

It takes about 25 minutes, and trains run every 30–40 minutes, 24 hours a day. You can see the schedule on the CFR Trains website.

Tickets

After leaving the arrivals area, follow the signs for “Trains”. Right before the platform entrance, you’ll find touchscreen ticket machines with an English-language option.

Tickets cost 6 lei (£1/€1.20) and you can pay by card or cash. You’ll get a small paper slip with a QR code that you scan at the barriers.

If the machine is busy, there’s usually a staffed kiosk, but the machines are faster. Trains run frequently enough that it’s worth buying the ticket once you’re at the station rather than worrying about it inside the terminal.

When it’s ideal

The train is excellent if you’re on a budget and want a predictable arrival time, or are travelling during rush hour.

It’s also good if you are staying near Gara de Nord or a metro station (as Gara de Nord links to metro lines M1 and M4, making onward journeys easy). It’s also useful if you’re heading to Brasov rather than Bucharest, as trains for Brasov depart from here.

If you have a lot of luggage then there’s a bit more space on the train compared to the bus too.

When it’s less convenient

If your accommodation isn’t anywhere near a metro or you’re arriving late at night, the train may not be the best option. Gara de Nord is functional but not the most welcoming station after dark.

We’d probably just get the bus if you land late.

Using a ride-hailing apps from Bucharest airport

Most Bucharest residents rely on Bolt first, Uber second, and sometimes FreeNow. They’re useful for airport runs because they remove the guessing game around pricing, language, and routes.

The pickup zone for ride-hailing is outside the main terminal. Again, follow signposts and you’ll find it easily. Cars tend to be newer than many standard taxis, and the apps give you a fare estimate before you confirm.

The journey into the centre takes 25–45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Tickets and payment

Expect to pay around 70–130 lei depending on traffic, time of day and availability. You’ll need to download the app to order, so make sure you have data when you arrive or download it before you leave (or buy this cheap e-sim card).

Prices can spike when several flights land at once. We found that the app’s estimate of how long the car will get to you is also a bit optimistic, so be prepared to wait a bit longer.

Why people prefer it

Going through the app can be easier if you’re concerned about a language barrier or you’re arriving late at night. The pickup point is clear and the driver will take you direct to your accommodation, so there’s no wandering around trying to find it. It’s normally quicker than bus too. It’s the least sustainable option though.

Drawbacks

Prices can surge significantly so be prepared to pay more than you thought, or have a back up option if they increase too much. Cars don’t queue like taxis so you’ll have to wait for them to drive to the airport, which means you can sometimes wait up to 15 minutes. You’ll also need mobile data (try this cheap e-sim from Yesim).

However, this is probably the best option if you didn’t want to get the train or bus.

Read next: the best cafes, bars and restaurants in Bucharest.

Taking a taxi from Bucharest airport

Taxis from the airport are absolutely fine as long as you use the official ordering machines inside the terminal. Follow signs to the taxi rank. The machines allow you to choose a taxi company and show the rate per kilometre. You’ll receive a ticket with your driver’s details.

Taxis charge by the kilometre, and the rate is clearly displayed on the door. They are all obliged to run the meter and they print out a receipt automatically at the end of the journey. If you prefer not to hunt for the bus or train after a long flight, a taxi offers easy, door-to-door transport directly from the airport to your accommodation.

Tip: Ignore anyone who approaches you inside the terminal offering a taxi. These are not legitimate drivers. As long as you’re using the official taxi request machines located inside the terminal, taxis are completely fine.

Pricing

Prices vary slightly between companies but are generally 2.3–3.5 lei per km.

The trip into the centre usually ends up similar to ride-hailing costs.

When to use taxis

If your phone is dead or you don’t have mobile data, a taxi is easier over a ride hailing app (you can purchase a cheap e-sim from Yesim). They’ll take you direct to your accommodation and are fast, so might be more convenient if you’re not staying near a drop off point for the bus or train.

Getting a private airport transfer to the city centre

For groups, couples with luggage, late-night arrivals, or anyone wanting completely stress-free travel, a pre-booked transfer can be worth the money. Most companies meet you in arrivals with a sign and handle all luggage.

We use Welcome Pickups for airport transfers as they’re always reliable and cheaper than other companies. You can book direct with the widget below.

Cost and timing

Expect to pay €30–€40 for a standard car (Welcome Pickups are around €27), with the journey taking 25–40 minutes depending on traffic.

When it’s ideal

If you want zero faff, don’t want to queue, or you’re unfamiliar with Bucharest, this is the most predictable option. It’s always nice to get off your plane and have somewhere waiting there holding a card with your name.

Drawbacks

The main drawback is cost – they’re easily the most expensive option, especially if you’re travelling on your own. You’ll need to book in advance but most companies will track your flight in case it’s delayed. Check that they won’t charge additional fees for this (Welcome Pickups won’t).

Where each option drops you

Here’s a quick overview to help you match your transport choice to your accommodation:

Safety and common pitfalls

Bucharest is generally safe, including around the airport and city centre. The only consistent issue is unlicensed taxi drivers who approach passengers inside the terminal. Using the machines or an app avoids this entirely.

Otherwise, it’s a normal European city environment where basic awareness is enough.

Read next: our guide to the best things to do in Bucharest.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get from Bucharest Airport to the city centre?

Most journeys take 25–45 minutes depending on traffic. The airport train is usually the quickest and most consistent at 20–25 minutes to Gara de Nord. Buses and cars can take longer during peak hours.

What’s the cheapest way to get into Bucharest?

The Express 100 bus is the cheapest option at 3 lei, followed by the airport train at 6 lei. Both are reliable and run throughout the day.

Is the train from Bucharest Airport reliable?

Yes. It runs frequently, doesn’t get stuck in traffic, and is easy to use even if it’s your first time in the city. You can buy tickets at machines in the airport or on the station platform. You cannot buy them on the train.

Can I use Uber, Bolt or taxis easily at the airport?

Yes. Ride-hailing apps are widely used in Bucharest. Pick-up areas are clearly marked outside arrivals. Licensed airport taxis are available via the official machines inside the terminal. Avoid anyone approaching you directly.

What’s the safest option late at night?

Bolt/Uber or a pre-booked transfer would be safest. Bucharest is a safe city and we don’t think you’d have a problem taking a bus (the train would be fine, but be a bit careful round Gare de Nord).

Can I buy bus tickets with a contactless bank card?

Yes. You can tap your card directly on the bus validation machine. SMS tickets and physical travel cards are also available if you prefer those.

What’s the best option if I have lots of luggage?

The train is the easiest option for luggage. There’s plenty of space on board, and the connection from the airport terminal is straightforward. Ride-hailing apps and private transfers are also suitable.

Final thoughts on travelling from Bucharest Airport to the city centre

Getting from Bucharest Airport into the city centre is far easier than it first appears, and each option has its own strengths depending on what you value most.

If you want predictable timings and the lowest cost, the train and the bus are both solid choices.

If you prefer door-to-door convenience, the taxi, ride-hailing apps and airport transfers work well and are widely used.

Bucharest is an easy city to navigate once you get your bearings, so your first journey from the airport doesn’t need to be stressful or confusing.

Read next:

🏰 Check out our guide to the best things to do in Bucharest
🏰 Read about our favourite bars, cafes and restaurants in Bucharest
🏰 Or decide where to go on your next holiday

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