People pack for Bucharest like it's a mild European capital. It swings hard. January lows average -1°C (30°F), then July hits 33°C (91°F), so you either need real winter gear or real summer gear, rarely both. And the pavements are uneven, so shoes matter.
Bucharest weather by month
Daily high and low (°C), and days with rainSee the numbers
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | 8°C46°F | 8°C46°F | 14°C57°F | 18°C64°F | 21°C70°F | 30°C86°F | 33°C91°F | 32°C90°F | 26°C79°F | 19°C66°F | 12°C54°F | 7°C45°F |
| Low | -1°C30°F | -1°C30°F | 4°C39°F | 7°C45°F | 11°C52°F | 18°C64°F | 20°C68°F | 20°C68°F | 15°C59°F | 9°C48°F | 4°C39°F | 1°C34°F |
| Rain days | 7 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 11 | 5 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 12 | 6 |
Season by season
Winter
December–FebruaryHighs are only 7°C (45°F) to 8°C (46°F) and lows sit at -1°C (30°F) to 1°C (34°F). It's fairly dry, with 4 to 7 rain days a month. Bring a warm coat, gloves and a hat, plus shoes with grip for icy patches.
Spring
March–MayIt warms fast, from 14°C (57°F) in March to 21°C (70°F) in May. April is one of the wettest months with 12 rain days. Pack layers and a light rain jacket for walks in Cișmigiu Gardens.
Summer
June–AugustHot and dry. Highs are 30°C (86°F) to 33°C (91°F) and lows 18°C (64°F) to 20°C (68°F), with only 5 to 7 rain days. The Old Town terraces fill up at night. Pack light breathable clothes and carry water.
Autumn
September–NovemberSeptember is warm at 26°C (79°F), October cools to 19°C (66°F), and November drops to 12°C (54°F) with 12 rain days. Pack layers early in the season and a warm jacket and rain shell by November.
What to bring to Bucharest
0 of 23 packed- Bearwind S40 Portable Handheld Turbo FanTech & Power
July and August in Bucharest run 32°C (90°F) to 33°C (91°F), and the walk around the Palace of the Parliament has little shade. A handheld fan makes the afternoon bearable.
- Hydro Flask 24 oz Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Straw CapWater Bottles & Hydration
Long, hot walks between the Old Town and the parks call for cold water all day. This keeps it cold for 24 hours. Fill it and go.
- Allbirds Women's Tree Dasher 2Footwear & Shoe Care
Bucharest summers are hot and fairly dry, which is when this light, washable sneaker shines. The cushioning helps on uneven pavements. Leave it home for rainy November.
- Allbirds Men's Tree Dasher 2Footwear & Shoe Care
For men, the same light walking sneaker. Breathable for 33°C (91°F) days, and you can wash it at the end of the trip.
- Pacsafe GO Anti-Theft Tech CrossbodyDocuments & Security
Crowded metro rides and Old Town nights out are where you want your phone and cards in a secure bag. Reinforced strap, lockable zips, one bag.
Romania uses type C and F, and this adapter's EU plug covers it. It charges your phone and a few small devices at once.
Clothing
- Warm winter coat · 1January lows average -1°C
- Gloves and warm hatDec–Feb highs are only 7–8°C
- Light breathable clothes · 5 setsJuly averages a 33°C high
- Layers and a light jacketOctober averages a 19°C high and 9°C low
- Light rain jacketApril and November have 12 rain days each
- Light layer for shoulders and kneesOrthodox churches expect modest dress
- Smart-casual outfit · 1People make an effort for Old Town nights out
Footwear
- Winter shoes with grip · 1 pairIcy patches Dec–Feb
- Supportive walking socks · 5 pairsLong distances between sights on uneven pavements
Gear
- Compact umbrellaWetter months are April, May and November
- SunglassesLittle shade around the Palace of the Parliament
Health and toiletries
- SunscreenSummer highs of 30–33°C
- Lip balm and hand creamCold, dry winter air
Documents and money
- Passport or national ID
- Card and some local cash
Tech
- Portable power bank
- Dual-voltage chargersCheck they say 100-240V for Romania's 230V
What shoes should you pack for Bucharest?
Supportive walking shoes. Pavements around the Old Town and side streets are uneven and patched, and distances between sights like the Palace of the Parliament and Victory Avenue are longer than they look. Skip thin sandals.
What do people wear in Bucharest?
Locals dress smart casual, and people make an effort for a night out in the Old Town. Jeans and a nice top are fine almost anywhere. Orthodox churches expect modest dress, so cover shoulders and knees.
What plugs does Bucharest use?
Romania uses type C and F plugs at 230V. A universal adapter with a European plug works fine, and check your chargers say 100-240V.
Tours and things to do in Bucharest
Packed and ready? Browse guided tours, day trips and tickets for Bucharest.
What should you leave at home for Bucharest?
Leave the heavy winter gear at home in summer and the shorts at home in winter. The seasons really are that different. You don't need hiking boots in the city either. Good walking shoes are enough.
Packing for Bucharest: questions people ask
What should I wear in Bucharest in summer?
Light, breathable clothes and comfortable walking shoes. July averages a 33°C (91°F) high with only 7 rain days.
How cold is Bucharest in winter?
Cold. January and February lows average -1°C (30°F), with highs of 8°C (46°F). Bring a warm coat, gloves and a hat.
What should I wear in Bucharest in October?
Layers and a light jacket. October averages a 19°C (66°F) high and 9°C (48°F) low.
Do I need to cover up in Bucharest churches?
Yes, cover your shoulders and knees in Orthodox churches. A light layer in your bag makes it easy.
When does it rain most in Bucharest?
April and November, with 12 rain days each. Summer is fairly dry.
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