Bucharest has come a long way for a city which was once the center of one of history’s most gruesome communist regimes. Times have certainly changed and, above all else, this European capital is nowadays greatly appreciated for its spicy and energetic Bucharest nightlife. Once the sun sets, this dynamic city transforms and is able to offer a multitude of opportunities for leisure and entertainment to suit all tastes and preferences.

Of course, it is practically impossible to list all the bars and clubs this city has nestled in its vibrant streets. Make no mistake, spending a cultural evening at the opera or theater does not disappoint. However, Bucharest is becoming a hub for newer generations eager to experience the nighttime chills and thrills. Fresh bars and clubs are popping everywhere these days. Whether you want to party until dawn, listen to live music, celebrate your stag do holiday like royalty or just have a decent drink to soothe your soul, head to Bucharest Downtown where all the hustle and bustle happens. Under the cover of darkness, this area becomes a magnet for party-goers and its nocturnal vibe is nothing short of contagious.

What makes Bucharest so magnetic?

Besides being fashionable, sexy, and open-hearted, a great thing about Bucharest is that it is available for all budgets. Clubs, bars, and restaurants are not that expensive compared to western standards, regardless of the fact that tourists are priced slightly above the average mark. If you plan on going on a lavish stag do trip to Romania, you’ll be amazed at just how affordable everything is as you immerse yourself in the festive spirit of the nation’s capital. These people sure know how to celebrate life, there are no two ways about it.

Another major trump of Bucharest are the women. It is hard not to notice them! Romanian girls have a reputation for beauty and willingness to meet and greet foreigners. Also, weekends are on fire in this city! Its historic center hosts many bars and clubs where guests are spoilt for choice. If you want to find the most popular sites, check out the city center, especially between Unirii Square and Gabroveni, Selari, and Lipscani streets. Everything is a walking distance from each other and most of the establishments are open day and night at your convenience.

On the other hand, if you’ve got the charisma and like to meet new people, you can always tag along with the locals and discover entertainment spots hidden from tourist maps. Bucharest is brimming with hidden gems and rewards those who are adventurous and prefer to explore outside of touristically designated areas.

Some clubs require paying an entrance fee while others have a free-entry policy for girls. However, as mentioned before, prices are not that high so the fee is usually less than 5 Euros (unless there is a trending Romanian pop star or band performing). Still, do not forget to change your cash into the Romanian currency known as LEI or RON.

Drinks are also fairly inexpensive. A pint of beer will usually cost you somewhere between 2 to 4 Euros whereas a proper cocktail will entail spending 4 or 6 Euros depending on your choice. Also, if you don’t know any local Bucaresti folks to take you out dancing and drinking, stick to the historic center, as it is, after all, the safest place for tourists not to get lost.

Of course, no evening outing in Bucharest would be complete without an ample choice of restaurants to wine and dine like royalty. If there is one thing Romanians are proud of, it is their cuisine. You can find lots of quality places to try out the traditional cuisine for relatively cheap prices. The city is also well-known for its theaters, concert halls, and the famous Therme Spa - Eastern Europe’s biggest indoor spa center where you can enjoy saunas, hydro baths, and all kinds of relaxing massages.

Estimated party time

The best after-dark action of Bucharest doesn’t even begin until 10 PM. Bars and clubs can stay open deep into the night because there are no licensing hours. In fact, true clubbing starts after midnight and lasts until the sun is up (and then some). Demands are high for established restaurants and eateries so make sure to reserve your table in advance, especially if you are coming as a group.

Frankly, Bucharest is modernising at a rapid pace but you can still see its historic remnants in its diverse architecture. Some streets are quite eclectic and posh, such as those from the Enlightenment era, while some distinctly reflect the nation’s communist past with its brutalist concrete structures and tree-lined boulevards. Still, as Nicolae Ceaușescu’s reign has ended after the revolution, the city has turned to its capitalist future. Nowadays, all sorts of themed bars and clubs popping out of nowhere throughout the city, attracting stags, hens, backpackers, and students from around the world. This is the place where East and West meet and the clash between the Balkans and the Middle East has brought phenomenal dishes and drinks to the table. So without further ado, here are some of the best clubs and bars you should definitely visit during your vacation in Bucharest...

Discos, clubs, and places to dance in Bucharest

FACE CLUB

(Piata Presei Libere 3-5) - open Fridays and Saturdays from 11 PM to 6 AM

This is the brand new hip place for clubbers who love to party until dawn. Located in the north area of Bucharest, the enormous locale boasts amazing decor, certain aspects of the club are specially tailored to each event, and the expert staff is polite, good-looking, and ready to help. The repertoire is filled with live acts and DJ bashes so be prepared to bust some grooves the moment you enter this luxurious place. The stage and lights are extraordinary, technical production is very high-end, and the atmosphere is perfect for bachelor parties and youthful crowds eager to have a blast during weekends.

Kristal Glam Club

(Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta 34) - open Friday and Saturday from 11 PM to 6 AM

Hailed as the electronic music party giant, Kristal Glam is located in the northeastern part of the city and is known for its crazy events. The club is named after a crystal chandelier found in the locale. With six titles as the best club in the whole of Romania and ranking at 28th of the top 50 DJ clubs in Europe, this place is hot among the young folks. By no means should you miss a chance to visit this club if you ever get the opportunity to visit Bucharest.

Fire Club

(Strada Gabroveni 12) - open from Sunday to Wednesday from 10 PM to 4 AM and on Friday and Saturday from 10 PM to 5 AM

Nestled within the historical city center, this disco/pub has been entertaining generations of people with its diverse choice of music and drinks. The repertoire includes all sorts of themed evenings and parties, although the accent is put primarily on rock music. This is an excellent place if you want to absorb the underground scene of Bucharest and its authentic nightlife essence.

Old City

(Strada Șelari 14) - open each day from 9 PM to 5 AM

As the name suggests, this locale can be found in the city center and it represents the hedonistic side of Bucharest, which is becoming increasingly popular even outside of Romania’s borders. It is usually swarming with both local and foreign guests and offers everything you need for an unforgettable evening: music, savory cocktails, and enticing events.

Expirat Club

(Strada Doctor Constantin Istrati 1) - open each day from 6 PM to 6 AM

A flagship venue for all things underground, this club is considered one of the oldest and most significant clubs in Bucharest. Opened in 2002, it started as a live music spot where a lot of bands started their careers and has evolved into an open-format club. Expirat also has a beautiful terrace, an open bar, and a massive dance-floor for dancing until late hours.

Control Club

(Strada Constantin Mille 4) - open from Tuesday to Thursday from 1 PM to 5 AM, Fridays from 1 PM to 6 AM, Saturdays from 2 PM to 6 AM, and Sundays and Mondays from 1 PM to 4 AM

This club started as an indie spot for live music concerts and has quickly transformed into the hub of quality electronic music parties. The owners are passionate and dedicated to their business, which is why they have earned a loyal audience and a substantial following. The diverse crowd is free from pretentious clubbing and the club also hosts laboratories and workshops for experimenting with local bands, DJs, and music producers. By the way, on Wednesdays, all drinks are 50% off!

Mojo Music Club

(Strada Gabroveni 14) - open from Sunday to Thursday from 1 PM to 3 AM, and Fridays and Saturdays from 1 PM to 5 AM

Also located in the Old Town of Bucharest, Mojo is more of a pub rather than a club but you can still catch people dancing and grooving to live music and DJ tunes. It is a three-story locale, which offers various music genres and entertainment to suit everyone's tastes and preferences. At the top, you can find a the Bucharest karaoke bar to test your singing skills, while downstairs is a low-cost pub packed with huge TV screens showing sports games. And in the vast cellar below you can enjoy live shows ranging from rock to dance music.

Fratelli Social Club

(Glodeni nr. 1-3) - open Fridays and Saturdays from 11 PM to 4 AM

If you desire excellence, this is definitely the place to be. Fratelli gathers the wealthy class of Bucharest due to its exclusive choice of top Romanian and international DJs. Performances are usually backed with dancers, the ambience is top-notch, and drink prices are fairly cheap, as long as you stick to beer and avoid sitting at tables.

BAMBOO CLUB / OXYA

(Strada Tuzla 50) - open Friday and Saturday from 23 PM to 5 AM

This is considered one of the most popular places to bust some grooves in Bucharest. It looks chic, stylish, and it’s always busy at the weekends. If you love house, techno, and electronic music in general, this place will get you tapping to the beat! You can dance from dusk to dawn while listening to international DJs as they spin some wicked tunes and smash hits. The locale also features a large disco area, a lovely chillout terrace, and a swimming pool.

Bear in mind that the selection at the entrance can be a bit stiff but as soon as you enter, you will notice that a lot of wealthy people from Bucharest like to hang out here. With a surreal atmosphere, modern interior design, live shows, and gorgeous women, this is definitely a must-visit place on your Bucharest nightlife itinerary.

BOA Beat of Angels

(Șoseaua Pavel Dimitrievici Kiseleff 32) - open Fridays and Sundays from 11 PM to 6 AM

You can’t judge a book by its cover, right? Well, on the outside, this club looks like a regular warehouse but inside it is teeming with luxury and great music. The club hosts two resident DJs who really know how to turn on a classy crowd. Bust some moves on the regularly crowded dance-floor, enjoy the numerous shows, and performances by talented local dancers.

Gaia Boutique Club

(Calea Floreasca 111-113) - opening time depends on the venue

Nicely dressed people get here to go wild and party. This fancy place hosts various themed events, it brings a lot of new people together, and is a great place to make conversation. Music, ranging from disco to rap, is regularly banging through the speakers and things always get heated up here on weekends. Interestingly enough, there is a pay point where you purchase tokens with which you get your drinks so the whole place can feel like you are visiting a music festival.

Fabrica Club

(Strada 11 Iunie 50) - open from Monday to Thursday from 11 AM to 2 AM, Friday to Sunday from 11 AM to 5 AM

Students, backpackers, and nightlife enthusiasts will love this alternative clubbing spot because it’s not only cool but also quite inexpensive. Situated close to an old abandoned factory, Fabrica boasts dining, shopping, and entertainment facilities, which are popular for visitors of all ages and interests. This club is excellent to go wild, party, meet all sorts of people, and enjoy some of top DJ names headlining the evening events.

Silver Church Club

(Calea Plevnei 61) - open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 PM to 5 AM

This is not just a place where people go to dance but also a place to listen to some good concerts. Silver Church Club is a get-together place for many locals so you might even meet some new people here. With affordable prices and a diverse programme, you might have an unexpected blast.

Bars and pubs in Bucharest

Caru’ Cu Bere

(Strada Stavropoleos 5) - open from Sunday to Wednesday 8 AM to 12 AM, Friday and Saturday from 8 AM to 2 AM

The Caru ' Cu Bere is the oldest Brewery in Bucharest and it has been opened since 1875! The iconic Gothic style architecture of the brewery even resembles Dracula’s Castle a bit. Tourist regard it as one of the most famous attractions in Bucharest because it symbolizes the Old Town. And with art nouveau decorations, you are bound to snap a few photos while waiting for your drinks.

Bordello Bar

(Strada Șelari 9-11) - open from Sunday to Wednesday 4 PM to 2 AM, from Thursday to Saturday from 4 PM to 5 AM

With cabaret shows, all kinds of different beers and fruity drinks - this is definitely a must-visit spot on your Bucharest map. Situated in a former XIX century red light district, Bordello Bar is especially known for its burlesque nights happening every Friday. This place is ideal for a dinner and a warm-up party since they have great food and hold live music events to get the fire started.

Freddo Bar & Lounge

(Strada Smârdan 24) - open daily from 10 PM to 5 AM

If you want great vibes, fresh club music, and quality parties - then you’re in the right place. Freddo Bar & Lounge is an elegant spot with a vibrant atmosphere, which is known for bringing some of the most beautiful girls in the centre. Featured on every clubbers list, the bar hosts some wicked events, from best DJs to live music gigs.

Nomad Skybar

(Strada Smârdan 30) - open Sunday from 4 PM to 12 AM, Monday through Thursday from 4 PM to 2 AM, and Friday and Saturday from 4 PM to 6 AM.

You’ll definitely feel there’s a different vibe to The Nomad Skybar, and it’s not only because of the stylish interior. With excellent service and ambience, this place is great to have pure unadulterated fun and enjoy a view of the Old Town from the secluded rooftop. From Sunday to Thursday the bar has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, perfect to enjoy with some drinks with friends and chat. On weekends, however, you can enjoy a late-night menu, creative cocktails, and, you’ve guessed it - wild parties! Also, their food is amazing and famous across town so you should definitely try something from the menu.

St. Patrick

(Strada Smârdan 23-25) - open each day from 11 AM to 2 PM

If you’re an avid fan of Irish beer, then have we got some good news for you! St. Patrick is a pub and a restaurant, set on two levels, serving Guinness and Kilkenny on tap! Aside from the obvious Irish trademark, you’ll find a lot of decent beers and snacks here. Their staff is known to be very friendly with the customers, so you won’t wait long for another pint of beer.

Jack’s Pub

(Strada Lipscani 45) - open from 11 AM to 5 AM on work days, and from 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays

Located in one of the bustling streets of Bucharest Old Town, this pub is all about tasting quality beers and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of both traditional and international dishes, including the mouthwatering ribs, which are immensely popular among the locals. During the evening, this place become a hub of celebration, hosting well-visited DJ shows and live performances. Keep calm and join the Jack’s Pub.

Linea Closer to the Moon

(Strada Lipscani 17) - open each day from 6 PM to 2 AM

At the top of Victoria department store rests Linea Closer to the Moon - Bucharest’s famous go-to rooftop bar that offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city. This place is perfect for sipping on a cocktail and eating good food while watching the setting sun. The menu is simple yet packed with tasty dishes. However, when the restaurant kitchen closes, this place transforms into an urban hotspot as trendy and cool people gather here to drink and enjoy the vibrant weekend nights.

Interbelic Cocktail Bar

(Calea Victoriei 17) - open from Sunday to Thursday 5 PM to 6 AM, Friday and Saturday from 5 PM to 2 AM

The Interbelic is a very popular cocktail bar in Bucharest. They host live music events that are always well attended but they are even more famous for their cocktails. How so? Well, the ones they make are different from what you'd normally get, but that's what you should expect when going to Interbelic. They do mixes of flavors to surprise you and put your taste buds to the test. Try to determine what is that secret ingredient that you just can't wrap your head around when you take a sip of their famous cocktails.

Fix Mad

(Palatul Universul, Strada Ion Brezoianu 23) - open Sunday and Tuesday to Thursday from 5 PM to 1 AM, Friday and Saturday from 5 PM to 2 AM

Hailed as the new bar in town with unique tasty drinks, The Fix Mad has quickly become a famous and well visited nighttime spot. The Fix Mad (Fix Me-A-Drink) is described as “The Botanical bar”. Their cocktail menu is all about quality ingredients, whether it’s an alcoholic or non-alcoholic cocktail. This place is a recommendation for all the people who want to discover new flavors.

Shift Pub

(Strada General Eremia Grigorescu 1) - open from Sunday to Thursday 12 PM to 1 AM, Friday and Saturday from 12 PM to 2 AM.

Since Bucharest is a city rich with options, you can rely on local opinions and suggestions. Shift Pub is definitely high on the top-places list for hip Bucharesters that appreciate great dining. The outdoor garden dining area under a canopy of vines is so beautiful, you’ll definitely want to take pictures. On a hot summer day, it becomes a welcoming brunch oasis. Its stylishly decorated interior is equally charming and the service and prices ensure many return visits. A must try for locals and tourists alike.

The Drunken Lords

(Intrarea Nicolae Șelari 3-5, Bucharest) - open Monday to Friday from 12 PM to 5 AM, Saturday and Sunday from 4 PM to 5 AM

If you’re looking for an unique experience, head to The Drunken Lords! Located in the heart of the old town, this place is regularly packed with wonderful people, has an amazing atmosphere, and a very friendly staff. On most nights, the bar hosts live music events, along with sport nights and cultural events. During the day, an entire side wall is opened, allowing people to enjoy warm daylight, while having a drink and a nice chat.

Biutiful by the Lake

(Șoseaua Nordului 3) - open from May to October

Located on the shores of the serene Herastrau Lake, Biutiful is a quaint bar combining industrial elements to an otherwise classy locale. Food from the menu comes at reasonable prices, and there is also a great selection of quality wines and cocktails. This is a great place to start your evening before you go all-out clubbing.

Hard Rock Cafe

(Șoseaua Pavel Dimitrievici Kiseleff 32) - open from Sunday to Thursday 12 PM to 12 AM, Friday and Saturday from 12 PM to 1 AM

Nestled on the edge of the famous Herastrau Park, the Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest is one of the largest locales in Europe this iconic establishment has to offer. It offers quality burgers and some of the best ribs in the city. The service is always ready to help and the drink of menu is so long you are bound to ask for a recommendation. During the day, the Hard Rock Cafe is also a place for families and kids, whereas the night brings music lovers and crowds of young people ready to party until late hours.

Beraria H

(Șoseaua Pavel Dimitrievici Kiseleff 32) - open from Sunday to Thursday 10 AM to 3 AM, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 AM

Owners claim this is now the largest brewery in the whole of Eastern Europe. Located in a former exhibition hall in Herastrau Park, the inside of this place is huge! There are various tables scattered all over yet they never seem empty. Order your freshly made beer, enjoy an evening of live music, maybe order some grub on the side, and just sit back and soak in the lively atmosphere Bucharest has to offer.

The Harp Irish Pub & Restaurant

(Strada Bibescu Vodă 1) - open each day from 8 AM to 4 AM

Hailed as one of the most popular Irish joints in Bucharest, this was the first pub of its kind to be opened in the whole of Romania. With three large bars set on two levels, this locale can service a lot of guests. People usually come here to drink Guinness and grab some good food but on weekends, crowds swarm the place just to listen to some good live music. Just make sure you find a free table or better yet - book one in advance!

Bazaar Bar

(Strada Covaci 10) - open each day from 10 AM to 4 AM, except for Sundays when they close at midnight

Opting for some quality pasta? This place will satisfy your taste buds 100%! After a long day of exploring Bucharest, this bar is perfect to just unwind, enjoy quality international dishes, and recuperate your energy. The staff is attentive, you can choose to wine and dine both indoors and outdoors, and feel free to take advantage of the free WiFi they offer.

Pura Vida Sky Bar

(Strada Smârdan 7, Bucharest) - open 24/7

Located on the fifth floor of the Pura Vida hostel, this bar is nestled in the heart of Bucharest’s Old Town. It boasts fantastic lively crowds, a relaxed atmosphere, and provides an all-round experience for ever guest. Lots of events are being held here regularly, including the collective dance every Saturday at 7 PM so bring your dancing shoes.

Shoteria

(Strada Șelari 17) - open from Thursday to Saturday from 9 PM to 5 AM

Covered in Romanian train tickets and being no bigger than a train wagon, this bar offers an ample choice of cocktails, juice bars, hangover cures, and whatnot. Menus look like arrival and departure billboards usually found in railway stations so just take your pick from the counter and enjoy some quality shots before you hit the town.

Vintage Bar

(Strada Smârdan 43) - open each day from 3 PM to 5:30 AM

This place has that rock and roll vibe, which you just can’t miss. Nestled deep within the city center, Vintage Bar is usually swarmed with tourists and locals, especially during the weekends, so maybe make a reservation in advance if you want your own table. Enjoy a cool drink or two in an awesome contrasting ambience and feel free to have a chat with one of the professional staff members. They are friendly and eager to help you enjoy Bucharest to the fullest.