Minerva Hotel, Bucharest

Advantages: Bang in the middle of the Airport and the main city
Disadvantages: Hard to get taxis in the winter

...When I first saw this place it seemed to stand out like a sore thumb. It was middle of January and vey dull but this place seemed to light up the area quite nicely. I spent alot of time here between January and May and as time went by got to know the surrounding area very well. Its an ideal place to stay in the summer as you've got a very nice lake nearby. Here they have alot of bars/restaraunts open during the summer and its makes it a pleasent place to be. But.......... During the winter it was hideous the food at the hotel is mediocre so really it was best to eat out. Getting a Taxi into Bucharest costs around 2 quid but its worth it to eat properly. Getting one there is no problem but getting one back when theres a foot of snow around is an absolute nightmare!!! It took me almost 2 hours one evening (ok I waited in the Irish bar... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: A very different experience, cheap prices, glorious history
Disadvantages: Poverty, re-building, poor road conditions

...After visiting Romania six times I have picked up some survival tips along the way. I hope this advice helps anyone planning to travel to Bucharest (Romania)? After the initial shock of arriving in this new country and not knowing whether the natives are friendly, I started to discover some of the cities best kept secrets. These secrets have made my time here surprising, enjoyable, and unforgettable. Firstly the things you need to know; Romania is in the Eastern European time zone (GMT +2hours). When you arrive in Bucharest do not catch a taxi on the side of the road always order on the phone or ask a receptionist/waiter to order for you, they will probably rip you off if you don't. Never keep your belongings in a place which is easily accessible, there are many pick-pockets here always be overly cautious! You may see outside... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Relatively cheap for capital city, looks nice from outside, interesting history
Disadvantages: Poor service, grubby rooms, needs updating

...When you are traveling for a longer period of time without any concrete plans, arriving in a capital city without any pre-booked accommodation can be a daunting prospect. A few days before we were due to travel to Bucharest we met Unrest (actually Ernest, a charming Swiss) traveling in the opposite direction to us who recommended we try Hanul Lui Manuc. We recognized the name having seen it as particularly recommended in our Lonely Planet and we tried to make a reservation via the hotel’s website but this function appeared not to be available. When we arrived in Bucharest we headed straight for Hanul Lui Manuc and found it quite easily, tucked away behind Piata Unirii, not far from the Palace of Parliament. It is less than a minute from a Metro station and close to a shopping plaza. We were instantly charmed; the timbered building... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful