Bucharest: City at risk? Which neighborhoods to avoid, which ones to stay in

Bucharest, capital of Romania, is renowned for its architecture, nightlife and cultural richness. But behind these tourist attractions is there a dark side?

In this article we will study the statistics to find out if Bucharest is a city at risk in terms of crime.

And for those looking for accommodation in Bucharest, you will also find the list of neighborhoods to avoid and neighborhoods to favor.

Is Bucharest dangerous for tourists?

Security in Bucharest, as in many capitals, raises concerns for tourists who travel there.

However, Bucharest has a relatively low level of crime compared to other major European cities.

Indeed, with a fairly low overall crime index (28.15), statistics show that violent crime is rare.

If we compare to the last Numbeo ranking of the most criminal European cities, Bucharest is one of the least dangerous cities. The city has a similar crime index to other capital cities such as Krakow, Lisbon ou Madrid.

Bucharest crime map — Map published by the site Numbeo.com

Also note that the most frequent crimes against tourists are thefts and scams, very rarely violent crimes.

Neighborhoods to avoid in Bucharest

Statistics on the level of insecurity vary considerably from one neighborhood to another in Bucharest.

Here are the few areas of Bucharest with the highest crime rates that tourists should avoid or approach with caution:

Neighborhood Ferentaries is considered the most dangerous in Bucharest.
Pantelimon et Rahova : These neighborhoods are also perceived as less safe by Bucharest residents, according to a study carried out by the municipality.
Berceni is a neighborhood that has a bad reputation due to delinquency and difficult living conditions.
Little tourist areas at night and all around the North Station.
Finally Strada Mătăsari which is the red light district of Bucharest (unofficial) is also an area to avoid late at night.

Which areas to stay for a tourist stay?

Now, let's see which are the 2 best areas to stay during your tourist stay in Bucharest:

The historic center of Bucharest

The historic center of Bucharest, known as the district of Lipscani, is undoubtedly the most popular area for tourists. Located in the heart of the city, this picturesque neighborhood offers insight into the history and architecture of Bucharest.

With its cobbled streets, ancient monuments and bars, restaurants and shops, the Lipscani district is the ideal place for visitors.

One of the main points of interest in the Lipscani district is the Old Court which houses museums, art galleries and artisan shops.

Visitors can also visit the impressive Stavropoleos Church, a gem of Byzantine architecture or the Palace of Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world.

Which hotel in the historic center of Bucharest?

In the heart of the old town, the hotel I recommend is a must: The Marmorosch Bucharest.

Indeed, its location is perfect close to the Stavropoleos Church, the Cismigiu Gardens and the National Art Museum of Romania. In addition, the hotel is beautiful in a historical monument of Bucharest.

See this hotel on Booking

The Piata Romana district

Neighborhood Piata Romana, located in the heart of Bucharest, is an artistic and cultural crossroads. Around the eponymous square, visitors will be able to discover a multitude of museums, art galleries and theaters which make this district an essential hub for art and culture lovers.

One of the main points of interest in the neighborhood is undoubtedly the National Art Museum of Romania, which houses an impressive collection of Romanian and international works of art.

Near the National Art Museum, there is also the National Theater of Bucharest, one of the most important cultural centers in the capital. Visitors will be able to attend theater, dance or opera performances and discover the dynamism of the Romanian artistic scene.

What hotel in Piata Romana?

Here is another hotel conveniently located in the heart of Bucharest, allowing easy access to the city's main attractions and areas of interest: Mercure Bucharest City Center