Bucharest holidays

Romania’s almost landlocked, with just one of its sides spared for coastline. The Black Sea coast is a lengthy drive from the capital, but there’s a cluster of seaside towns and villages well worth a visit if you’ve got a day to spare.

Corbu Beach is a two-and-a-half hour drive from the capital. It stretches for more than seven kilometres, and it’s lined by bars restaurants and seaside cabanas perfect for beachside days.

Gostinu Beach sits on the shores of the Danube River. Crowds tend to flock to the Black Sea Coast, whereas this spot tends to stay on the quieter side of things. It’s around a 90-minute drive from the centre of the city.

Bucharest is no stranger to a bargain and has its fair share of markets across the city. Obor Market is the city’s oldest, and while most of its stock comes in the shape of fresh produce, it’s fitted with a separate section which sells low-cost clothing and household goods.

Victory Avenue is one of Bucharest’s oldest streets, its been in the history books since the 16th century. It’s the place to head for familiar faces from the high street, as well as local brands.

Magheru Boulevard is the place to be if you’re up for splashing some cash. The street snakes off into smaller avenues which play host to boutique outlets and designer brands like Gucci and Prada. It’s also home to Carturesti Carusel – dubbed as the most beautiful bookshop in the world.

Wine bars are a winner for low-key nights out. The menus are fitted with homegrown flavours from across Romania’s countryside. If cocktails are more your calling, then rooftop bars with lengthy lists of drinks are also on hand for chilled-out evenings.

The Old Town is the best place to head for dancing sessions that can last until dawn. The capital’s got a newly found spot on Europe’s nightlife scene and big-name DJs take to the decks most weekends.

These grilled skinless sausages are a big hit during barbecue season. They’re made with ground beef, pork, a heavy hit of paprika, thyme, and garlic seasoning. A dollop of mustard tops things off.

A popular dessert across the country, these deep-fried doughnuts are topped with soft cheese, sour cream, and sour blueberry jam.

Romania’s best-known wine, Feteasca neagra is made using a dark-skinned grape grown in the regions of Moldavia and Muntenia. It’s ruby-red in colour and comes with a blend of smoky and fruity flavours.

This dish is a cert on the Christmas dinner plate for locals, but it’s a firm favourite all year round, too. It can be eaten as a starter or a side, and it’s made by stuffing cabbage leaves with ground pork, tomatoes, bacon, tomatoes, and dill.

Thanks to its freezing winters, soups are a big hit during the capital’s coldest months. This version uses slow-cooked white beans, seasonal vegetables and a sprinkle of dill and parsley.