After Four Months in Bucharest, a Ukrainian Blogger Reveals the City’s Biggest Drawbacks

Rostyslav Mykhailyshyn’s Impressions of Bucharest

According to УНІАН — Туризм: Rostyslav Mykhailyshyn, a Ukrainian content creator, spent four months living in Bucharest-a city often dubbed 'Little Paris' for its French-inspired architecture and own Arc de Triomphe. He praised the abundance of green spaces, noting that the city center feels 'literally submerged in trees,' with small squares and cozy corners resembling mini-parks that create a relaxing atmosphere.

But life in the Romanian capital wasn’t without frustrations. Mykhailyshyn faced major headaches from severe traffic congestion that derailed his plans. He recalled one incident where he hailed a taxi an hour before his train departure, only to get stuck in gridlock. For context, Bucharest is notorious for its traffic jams, which often rival those of larger European cities.

“I took a taxi an hour before the train... we got caught in such heavy traffic that I just got out, missed my train, walked to the bus station, and bought another ticket,” the blogger recounted.

He added that 'planning anything early in the morning or in the evening is nearly impossible,' as the constant traffic makes getting around a real challenge.

Cost of Living and Language Barriers

The price of food and drinks in Bucharest also caught Mykhailyshyn off guard. For instance, at Café Van Gogh, a cup of coffee runs $5–$6, and pancakes cost $15–$20. Despite the steep prices at tourist spots, he highlighted the well-maintained, separate bike lanes in the city center and the availability of outdoor gym equipment like pull-up bars and parallel bars in parks.

Language was another key factor. According to Mykhailyshyn, about 80% of young Romanians understand English, making communication much easier for visitors. This is particularly helpful for travelers who don’t speak Romanian.

“If you approach a young person and speak English, there’s an 80% chance they’ll understand you, and you can get the information you need,” the blogger noted.

Mykhailyshyn also advised finding accommodation closer to the city center to fully soak in Bucharest’s authentic vibe. He stressed that 'picking the wrong neighborhood can easily ruin the cozy atmosphere that makes Bucharest so beloved.'

His experience highlights both the perks and pitfalls of living in Romania’s capital. On one hand, the city offers lush greenery and easy communication; on the other, its traffic jams and high costs can pose real obstacles for newcomers. These insights could prove valuable for Ukrainians considering a trip or relocation to Bucharest, as knowing what to expect can greatly improve their stay.