A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tallinn vs. Bucharest for Old Town, Backpackers, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Tallinn or Bucharest?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Bucharest, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a quaint, whimsical, and historical city. The famous beauty of Tallinn is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Tallinn travel costs.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a historical, less touristy, and undiscovered city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Bucharest travel costs.

Tallinn and Bucharest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tallinn or Bucharest?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bucharest than Tallinn. Bucharest is bigger than Tallinn, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bucharest is better known for its big city activities, while Tallinn is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Tallinn is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. Also, Bucharest is famous for The Palace of Parliament.

How is Tallinn different from Bucharest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bucharest and Tallinn. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tallinn or Bucharest?

Tallinn is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Tallinn. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

Is the Food Better in Tallinn or Bucharest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Tallinn and Bucharest offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Tallinn has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bucharest area. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Tallinn or Bucharest Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Tallinn is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Tallinn or Bucharest Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Tallinn is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Bucharest?

Tallinn is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Tallinn is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Tallinn or Bucharest More Beautiful?

Tallinn is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Bucharest is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Tallinn is one of the main draws. The beautiful architecture and impressive old town makes this a top tourist destination in Eastern Europe.

Bucharest is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tallinn or Bucharest Better for Families?

Tallinn is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Tallinn. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Tallinn or Bucharest Better for Couples?

Tallinn is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Tallinn frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Tallinn or Bucharest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn is renowned for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Tallinn. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Tallinn or Bucharest Better for Students?

Tallinn is a good destination for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Tallinn is popular with students. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

Is Tallinn or Bucharest Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find great public transit in both Tallinn and Bucharest.

Tallinn has some very good public transit options. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you to most places easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Is Tallinn or Bucharest a more walkable city?

Tallinn is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Tallinn on foot is easy. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Tallinn Worth Visiting? and Is Bucharest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bucharest or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Bucharest?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallinn and Bucharest. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tallinn than in Bucharest. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bucharest.

Families should spend more time in Tallinn than Bucharest. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tallinn, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Tallinn than Bucharest. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tallinn that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tallinn than Bucharest if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tallinn.

One day in Tallinn or Bucharest?

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint city of Tallinn. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Bucharest, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Tallinn or Bucharest?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the whimsical destination of Tallinn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Bucharest, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bucharest has to offer.

Five days in Tallinn or Bucharest?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the whimsical city of Tallinn. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bucharest is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Tallinn or Bucharest?

Tallinn is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bucharest. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tallinn and Bucharest, we can see that Bucharest is more expensive. And not only is Tallinn much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tallinn would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tallinn and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bucharest would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bucharest than you might in Tallinn.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tallinn Expensive? and Is Bucharest Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Bucharest?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Tallinn. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn and Bucharest, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Tallinn or Bucharest?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tallinn or Bucharest in the Summer?

Both Bucharest and Tallinn during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tallinn for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bucharest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Tallinn is cooler than Bucharest in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Bucharest fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Bucharest, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tallinn. In the summer, Tallinn often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bucharest. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bucharest receives 289 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets more rain in July than Bucharest. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tallinn or Bucharest in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Bucharest. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Tallinn is much colder than Bucharest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallinn in October average around 7°C (44°F), and Bucharest averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Tallinn usually receives less sunshine than Bucharest during autumn. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Bucharest receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tallinn usually receives more rain than Bucharest. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tallinn or Bucharest in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Bucharest. Most visitors come to Tallinn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bucharest can be very cold. Tallinn can be very cold during winter. In January, Tallinn is generally much colder than Bucharest. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around -5°C (22°F), and Bucharest fluctuates around -1°C (29°F).

In the winter, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Bucharest. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bucharest receives 71 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets more rain in January than Bucharest. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tallinn or Bucharest in the Spring?

Both Bucharest and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year.

The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. Tallinn is much colder than Bucharest in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 4°C (39°F) in April, and Bucharest fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bucharest during spring. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Bucharest receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Bucharest. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bucharest and Tallinn