The Magic of Bucharest's Christmas Markets: Your Guide to Romania's Festive Wonderland!
- Alanna Gabbett
- Dec 6, 2024
- 21 min read
Updated: Dec 21, 2024
As December casts a chilly spell over Bucharest, the city flourishes into a vibrant winter wonderland. Twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the inviting glow of stalls create a warm embrace for locals and travelers alike. Bucharest's Christmas market (also called Bucharest Christmas Fair) pulses with life, blending rich traditions, delicious cuisine, and unique gifts, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
Prepare for an enchanting journey through Romania's lively capital. This guide is brimming with engaging insights and practical tips to enhance your visit to Bucharest’s Christmas market.
The 2024 season was held from November 29th, 2024, until December 26th, 2024. For 2025 opening dates, consult the official website here.
For more information on events and festivities in Bucharest, check out their Facebook page here.
In this guide, we'll explore the festive areas across the city and provide insider advice. We'll be sharing important information on accessibility, pricing, events, and foods.
Table of Contents
a. Family Fun
b. Gastronomy
c. Important Information
a. Family Fun
b. Gastronomy
c. Important Information
a. Family Fun
b. Gastronomy
c. Important Information
Read about other Christmas Markets in Romania:
A Complete Insider's Guide to the Enchanting Christmas Markets in Timisoara, Romania
Brasov, Romania: The Enchanting Christmas Market in the Heart of Transylvania
Holiday Magic in Sibiu, Romania: The Christmas Market Guide You Need to Have
Complete Christmas Market Guide to Cluj-Napoca: Activities, Food, and Festive Areas
Uncovering the Magic of Oradea: A Guide to Romania's Festive Market
Constitution Square
Grand Piata Constitutiei, where Bucharest’s largest Christmas market unfolds, is surrounded by majestic architecture, including the vast Palace of the Parliament. The square serves as a breathtaking backdrop for the festivities with over 130 wooden stalls selling everything from unique handmade products to delicious local foods.
Stroll through a variety of stalls offering an array of winter clothing, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats. The towering Christmas tree, adorned with shimmering ornaments, stands as a central feature, dazzling all who pass. Families can enjoy entertainment like merry-go-rounds, while adults can sip on mulled wine, relishing the lively atmosphere.
Special notes about this square are that there is a noticeable security presence, even early in the day. There are only 4 entrances to the square, with the rest being blocked by temporary walls. Therefore, the square is almost completely enclosed and secure.
Family Fun:
House of Santa
Here you'll find a fairytale-like setting filled with elves, reindeer, and Santa himself! Enjoy themed activities, interactive games, and crafts here.
The area features around 100 square meters of hand-painted and decorated magic, designed to emulate a magical Santa world.
In the beginning weeks of the market, children will enjoy many crafts here, including ornament decorating and writing letters to Santa.
Starting on December 15th, Santa will arrive daily to greet the children and tell stories.
The House of Santa schedule for 2024
Rides
The Square features a towering Ferris Wheel and a fun carousel for the kids. There are also two themed train rides towards the center of the square, poised to take children on a magical journey.
Ferris wheel and carousel in the center of Constitution Square
Price for the Ferris Wheel in 2024: 25 lei for 8 minutes (under age 3 is free). Special deal: 250 lei for 4 people, including 30 minutes and a glass of prosecco.
Price for the carousel in 2024: 15 lei. Price for "fairytale train" in 2024: 15 lei.
Decorations and Lights
Visitors of all ages will delight at the 30-meter-tall Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling lights stars, and marvel at the string lights surrounding them overhead.
Check out the "Bucuresti" sign in front of the tree for the perfect photo backdrop.
An Array of Unique Craft Goods
Craftsmen from all over the country come together in over 130 stalls to sell everything from traditional Romanian costumes to hand-painted snow globes. Other products you can find here include wreaths, ceramic bells, handcrafted ornaments, homemade candles, wooden icons and carvings, unique jewelry, children's toys, and natural cosmetics.
Gastronomy:
In addition to the vast array of craft goods, you'll also find a selection of international and local cuisine, treats, and drinks. Homemade baked goods are common, including gingerbread cookies (turta dulce), candies, lollipops, pies, jams, muffins, cakes, and gogosi or papanasi (Romanian donuts). You'll also find specialty foods and Romanian delicacies alongside hot drinks such as vin fiert (mulled wine) and hot chocolate.
On our visit, we noticed a large variety of foods, including food trucks featuring burgers, bratwurst, hot dogs, and macaroni and cheese.
You can also find gozleme, baklava, crepes, cozonac, langos, chimney cakes, bubble tea, and deli-style meats, cheese, and bread to take home.
There was even a Domino's pizza stand here.
Average prices in 2024:
Vin fiert (mulled wine): 12 lei
Soft drink: 10 - 15 lei
Tea: 8 lei
Beer: 15 - 20 lei
Hot chocolate: 15 lei
Bubble tea: 27 lei
Traditional food (sarmale and mamaliga plate): 35 lei
Mac and cheese: 39 - 45 lei
Langos: 15 - 25 lei
Turta Dulce (gingerbread cookie): 10 - 15 lei
Bubble waffle: 25 - 40 lei
Themed lollipop: 15 lei
Gogosi: 30 lei
Music and Concerts
Constitution Square has two different areas where guests will enjoy festive music and performances. On opening day, December 1st, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and on the weekends, the stages will come to life with concerts and performances. There will be bands, Christmas carols, children's choirs, musical ensembles, and other renowned artists and performances.
One music area is the traditional area, which will host traditional caroling, choirs, and the like. The other area will feature a DJ, mixing up famous songs and international rhythms.
The weekends will also feature plays designed for little ones, starting at 12:00 noon.
Other Entertainment
The Square also features various mascots and entertainers on stilts, dressed in exciting costumes and ready to take photos with guests.
There were multiple gingerbread men and reindeer parading around the square, interacting with little ones and ready for a photo.
Our 4-year-old hugging the reindeer character!
Christmas Donations
To help those in need, a donation point is located at the entrance of Santa's House, where toys and books can be given. These items will be distributed to underprivileged children during the holiday period.
Important Information:
Seating: There is no seating in this square so keep that in mind when traveling with anyone who cannot stand for long periods of time. Near the gastronomic areas are standing tables, which during busy periods will be quite full or otherwise not available. During our visit on a weekday afternoon, there were plenty of tables available to use. It's common at these markets to share the table with strangers so keep this in mind when someone sets their plate down inches from you.
Accessibility: The market was both stroller and wheelchair friendly, offering flat surfaces to enter all areas of the market.
Restrooms: The market features port-a-potty-style restrooms on either side of the market area. This area is partly fenced, making it semi-private. Restrooms are free to the public.
Parking: Parking around Constitution Square can be difficult and parking options are limited. Driving in the center of the city is not recommended. Try walking or taking public transportation to reach the market.
Try using Parkopedia to find parking lots and garages near the square.
Payments: We noticed that most stalls accepted card as well as cash, however most local vendors will prefer cash. You'll notice signs on almost every stall indicating whether they take a card. We had no issues using American credit cards here.
Location: Constitution Square - C3GR+WJ Bucharest Admission: Free Operating hours: 12:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. (weekdays), 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. (weekends) Christmas Day: 12:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Stroller accessible: Yes Ice skating: No Lights: Yes Santa: Yes - after December 15th. Reason to visit: Live performances, unique artisan goods, traditional food, children's workshops and rides, and Santa visits.
Photos from the Constitution Square Christmas market in Bucharest
West Side Christmas Market
Located in Drumul Taberei Park, this market has around 90 vendors this year (2024). Featuring an 8-meter-high Christmas tree, tons of lights and decorations, and special activities and events, your family is bound to have a magical time here.
Family fun:
Lights and Decorations
This market features light installations of different characters and objects, perfect for a family photo shoot. Located in the East end of the part, these light installations come alive at night, displaying options from Santa Claus, a snowman, and even a hot air balloon.
Some of the light installations at Drumul Taberei Park
In addition to these light installations, the park features thousands of string lights throughout the market areas, along with an 8-meter-high Christmas tree adorned with decorations and lights.
Workshops and Santa
The market has two spaces set up for children and adults to partake in crafts and other holiday-themed activities, in addition to visits from Santa. One area is located at the East entrance to the park, with the other located inside the main market area of the park.
Children's workshop at the entrance to Drumul Taberei Park
Children's workshop inside the main market area
Ferris Wheel and Rides
This Christmas market features a panoramic Ferris Wheel, a themed children's train, and a carousel.
You can also find a virtual reality sleigh ride offered for 40 - 50 lei. Carousel price: 20 lei
Children's rides featured here
Shows and Concerts
One of the main features of this market is the large stage, located at the park's amphitheater. There is plenty of seating and the market features concerts, performances, and caroling here throughout the advent season. These events are usually reserved for weekends and evenings.
The main stage area
Ice Skating
Glide around the market's large ice rink here, that's open 10:00 - 10:00 every day of the week. We noticed that even before the market had opened at 2:00, children were ice-skating around noon.
Cost is 30 lei per hour, including skates.
Other Fun
Don't miss out on carnival games! We noticed one stand by the entrance that had a carnival game to win giant stuffed animals. A great opportunity for something a little bit different.
Carnival-type stand at West Side Christmas Market Also, walk around and explore some of the Christmas prop sets, perfect for a family photo op. Or take a stroll over the walking bridge, which has beautiful views down over the market area.
View from the walking bridge 
One of the prop sets at West Side Christmas Market And if the kids need to let off a bit more energy, there is a wonderful playground just next to the market (our kids enjoyed this when we got to the market before opening time).
Gastronomy:
This market features a large variety of food stalls and trucks, guaranteed to feed even the pickiest eater.
Food trucks: funnel cakes, gyros, waffle sandwiches, pizza, hot dogs, burgers, chocolate croissants, fries, churros.
Our lunch at the West Side Christmas Market
Other food and treats available: papanasi, gogosi, balkava, bubble tea, langos, lollipops and sweets, gingerbread cookies, chimney cakes, boiled corn.
And of course there was a section selling traditional Romanian food.
Local food stall with price menu Drinks available: mulled wine, beer, hot chocolate, tea, espresso, lattes, frappes, other specialty coffees, hard liquor and cocktails.
Average prices in 2024:
Mulled wine: 12 - 15 lei for 330 ml
Soft drink: 15 lei
Tea: 10 lei
Beer: 15 - 20 lei
Hot chocolate: 15 lei for 330 ml
Bubble tea: 27 lei
Gyros: 35 - 40 lei
Burger and fries: 61 lei
Langos: 15 - 25 lei
Chimney cake: 30 lei
Churros: 25 lei
Gogosi: 20 lei, 5 per topping
Papanasi: 25 lei
Gingerbread cookie: 10 - 15 lei
Waffle sandwiches: 28 lei
Themed lollipop: 10 - 15 lei
Baklava: 8 - 12 lei per 100 grams
Important Information:
Seating: Picnic-style tables are available throughout the market in designated areas. We visited in the afternoon on a Thursday and there were plenty of open tables. In addition, the large stage has amphitheater seating, although during busy periods it may be difficult to find a seat. You could also walk outside the main market area to find plenty of benches scattered throughout the park.
Accessibility: The main market area does have a wheelchair and stroller accessible ramp, and all market areas are accessible by flat and easy to navigate paths.
Restrooms: The restrooms in the main market area are port-a potty style. I would suggest avoiding these unless it's an emergency. We had to take our 4-year-old, and she was traumatized by how dirty they were. It appears humans regularly defecate anywhere but inside the toilet and the staff do not clean them. However, there were plenty of toilet paper rolls inside (although some were covered in dirt and feces) and a hand washing station outside (no soap, just running water). They do in a pinch; however, I do not recommend. An alternative would be the McDonald's restroom across the street from the park.
Parking: There is free and paid public parking surrounding the park area and streets leading up to it, however even in the middle of a Thursday there were no open spaces. It's common to see cars parked up on sidewalks and we even saw many cars double-parked, blocking others in their spots.
Luckily, we found a great parking lot a block from the park that had plenty of open spaces and only cost 5 lei per hour.
The parking lot is called Parcare cu plata Piața Drumul Taberei and it can be found here.
With that said, we do recommend taking public transport instead, as driving inside the city is not easy and you'll frequently hit traffic, no matter the time of day.
Payments: We noticed that most stalls accepted card as well as cash, however most local vendors will prefer cash. You'll notice signs on almost every stall indicating whether they take card. We had no issues using American credit cards here.
Location: Parcul Drumul Taberei - Bucharest 061359 Admission: Free Dates: November 28th, 2024, to December 27th, 2024 Operating hours: 2:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. (weekdays), 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. (weekends) Stroller accessible: Yes Ice skating: Yes Lights: Yes Santa: Yes, select dates and times. Reason to visit: Ice skating, Ferris wheel and children's rides, wida e variety of food options.
Laminor Winter Wonderland
The largest indoor and outdoor fair in all of Romania, located in Laminor hall, this venue hosts various events throughout the year. During the advent season, the area transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring rides, workshops, and performances.
The event location has underground parking with 1,700 spaces, costing 10 lei per day. Or it can be reached by trams (36 and 46) and buses (406, 452, 454, 457, 458, 509, 103, N109, and N125).
Family Fun:
Themed Zones
In 2024, the event hall features 5 thematic zones: North Pole, Magic Forest, Tropical Xmas, Circus Xmas, and Iceland. Each area was decorated accordingly and featured lots of prop that made perfect photo opportunities for families.
The entrances to the themed zones at Laminor Hall
Ferris Wheel
The outdoor portion of the event venue features a 33-meter-tall Ferris wheel.
The Ferris Wheel at Laminor Winter Wonderland
Ice Rink
Although the main market at Constitution Square doesn't feature an ice rink, you'll find a rather large one available here. For just 30 lei per hour, you and your family can glide around the rink and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
The ice rink at Laminor Winter Wonderland
Creative Workshops for Children
Explore creative workshops for kids available throughout the venue, including an arts and crafts station location in Tropical Xmas land. Note that these activities are not free.
One of the kids craft areas, located in Tropical Xmas zone
Concerts and Events
Throughout the advent season, Laminor hall's indoor stage features a variety of concerts and Christmas themed events. These events typically occur on weekends and holidays.
The Laminor Winter Wonderland Stage
Decorations and Lights
The hall is beautifully decorated, with thousands of string lights and light installments. You'll find plenty of photo props and winter themed decor, perfect for family photos. They even have a 9-meter-tall Santa statue.
Some of the incredible decoration and photo props
Rides
Inside the hall, you can find a carousel, themed train, bumper cars, baby bumper cars, bounce castle, and inflatable slides. Outside the venue, you'll find their 33-meter-high Ferris wheel and large ice rink.
Prices in 2024:
Ferris wheel: 30 lei
Carousel: 25 lei
Themed train: 25 lei for 3 minutes
Inflatables: 20 lei for 15 minutes
Photos with Santa
Walking around the venue you'll see multiple Santa impersonators ringing their bells, beckoning children to take a photo with him. In total, on our visit, we noticed 5 different Santas, some are even located across from each other. This was fun to explain to our 4-year-old!
Price for 1 photo with Santa in 2024 was 25 lei.
Other Fun
There are other options for fun and unique activities located around the venue, including caricatures, a shooting range, 360 photo booths, and photo prop setups with professional photographers.
Gastronomy:
The fair hosts over 150 stalls featuring traditional and international food dishes as well as a variety of hot and cold beverages. Inside the hall features mostly snack items and treats, such as cookies, lollipops, and other baked goods. The main food trucks and stalls are located outside. The traditional Romanian food section is located past the Ferris wheel next to the ice rink.
Food options:
Bubble tea, langos, chimney cakes, bubble waffles, lokma, baklava, churros, coffee, cocktails, sushi, french toast, lollipops, gingerbread cookies, traditional Romanian food, variety of food trucks.
Food trucks:
Mexican tacos and burritos (and tequila shots)
German wurst truck
American hot dog and fry truck
Kebab truck
Greek donuts
Turkish lokma
Burgers and fries
Pide
Belgian fries
Chimney cakes
Average prices in 2024:
Mulled wine: 12 - 15 lei
Soft drink: 15 lei
Tea: 10 lei
Hot chocolate: 10 lei
Gingerbread cookie: 5 - 15 lei
Langos: 25 lei
Bubble waffles: 15 lei
Chimney cake: 30 lei
Themed lollipop: 10 - 15 lei
Important Information:
Seating: There are plenty of seating options inside the hall, from benches to table and chair setups. The outside part of the event has much more seating, featuring a few dozen picnic tables.
Accessibility: The event is stroller and wheelchair accessible. Just note that from the parking garage, we did not find an elevator and had to carry the stroller up a flight of stairs to reach the venue. The alternative is to exit the parking garage and walk around the block to the main entrance, which is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Restrooms: The event features a large area for men's and women's restrooms. The restrooms are wheelchair accessible and clean. There are a few dozen stalls in each restroom area, so you'll never have to stand in line to use the bathroom. The restrooms are free to use.
Parking: The venue has its own parking garage, located here. Grab a ticket on your way in, park in one of the 1,700 spaces, and pay at the machines before getting back in your car.
The cost is 10 lei per day.
With that said, we do recommend taking public transport instead, as driving inside the city is not easy and you'll frequently hit traffic, no matter the time of day. Public transport is cheap and easy to navigate.
Payments: We noticed that most stalls accepted card as well as cash, how,ever most local vendors will prefer cash. You'll notice signs on almost every stall indicating whether they take card. We had no issues using American credit cards here.
Location: Laminor Wonderland - Bulevardul Basarabia 256, București 030352 Admission: Free Dates: November 29th, 2024 -January 6, 2024 Operating hours: Monday - Wednesday: 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Thursday - Sunday: 12:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. Stroller accessible: Yes Ice skating: Yes Lights: Yes Santa: Yes Reason to visit: Festive holiday vibes, concerts, kids rides and activities, decorations and props, photos with Santa, large Ferris Wheel, and ice skating.
Other Festive Areas
Beyond the main markets, Bucharest offers delightful festive spots that radiate holiday spirit.
Dimitrie Brandza Botanical Garden
From October 25th, 2024, to March 2nd, 2025, let kids wander through the city's botanical garden, which boasts an exhibition called "Garden of Lights." Featuring a Beauty and the Beast theme, the gardens transform with twinkling light installments, guaranteed to mesmerize children and adults alike.
Bucharest features twinkling streetlights and installations throughout the city. Smaller markets can be found in local parks and small squares.
Explore the city for yourself and comment below any hidden gems you find!
Must-Try Cuisine
A visit to Bucharest's Christmas markets is incomplete without indulging in the tastiest local cuisine and seasonal specialties.
Sarmale
A trip to Romanian Christmas markets is incomplete without trying sarmale, the beloved cabbage rolls that are a staple of Romanian cuisine. Each roll is filled with a delicious blend of minced pork, rice, and spices, then slow cooked in rich tomato sauce. This cooking method enhances the flavors and results in a dish that warms your spirit. Typically, sarmale is served with a generous dollop of sour cream.
Mici
Grilled sausages known as mici are a must-try. Made from a blend of seasoned meats and spices, these savory bites are perfect for a quick bite amidst the festivities. Locals typically pair this with a side of mustard.
Mămăligă
Another beloved staple you'll find at the market is mămăligă, a warm, hearty polenta dish that's perfect during chilly winter days. Made from cornmeal and water, it can be served creamy or allowed to firm up before being sliced. It's often topped with cheese and sour cream, making it a rich side for meats or stews.
At the market, you can sample different interpretations of this dish, which varies widely throughout Romania but always promises comfort and flavor.
Zacusca
Zacusca is a roasted eggplant and red pepper spread similar to ajvar that can be found in other Balkan countries. Food lovers should try Zacusca on fresh bread, paired with hot spiced cider for the ultimate cozy experience.
Langos
Do not miss the chance to try Langos, a popular deep-fried flatbread topped with creamy sour cream, cheese, and garlic. This savory delight features a crispy exterior and a fluffy inside, making it hard to resist as you stroll through the market. It’s a quick snack that satisfies your hunger while enhancing the festive experience.
Langos is actually a typical Hungarian food but can be found at Christmas markets in many cities and countries throughout Europe.
Papanasi
After enjoying savory dishes, save room for papanasi, a delightful dessert loved by many. These fried or boiled cheese doughnuts are generously served with sour cream and luscious fruit preserves, often blueberry or cherry. Their lightness, combined with the rich flavors, makes papanasi a perfect way to conclude your culinary adventure at the market.
A similar treat is gogosi, which can be seen throughout the market. These small donut holes come with a variety of toppings, and you can even order them as "papanasi" which we did.
Cozonac
This sweet bread, often filled with nuts or chocolate, can be found throughout the Christmas Markets, representing warmth and holiday tradition. This soft, delicious bread is braided and has a rich, buttery flavor that makes it perfect for sharing. At the market, you can enjoy a slice with your favorite seasonal drink, creating a delightful combination of flavors. Statistics show that Romanian families make nearly 2 million cozonaci during the Christmas season, showcasing its importance in holiday traditions.
Kürtőskalács
Also known as chimney cakes, this sweet pastry consists of yeast dough, rolled around a spit and baked to perfection over an open flame. After baking, it is coated in sugar, cinnamon, or crushed nuts, producing a crunchy outside and soft, warm center. The enticing aroma wafting through the market is sure to capture your attention and entice you to treat yourself.
Although originating in Transylvania, these are known as the oldest pastry in Hungary and can be found in Christmas markets in multiple countries.
Vin fiert
As temperatures drop, warm yourself with a steaming mug of glühwein—a spiced, mulled wine that has become a hallmark of holiday markets across Europe. Typically crafted from red wine, sugar, and an array of spices like cinnamon and cloves, glühwein delights your senses. Each stall at the market may offer its unique twist, allowing you to explore various flavors and styles as you sip on this comforting drink. A perfect drink for chilly nights, various vendors serve homemade versions in festive mugs, becoming a favorite for many visitors.
Beer and Craft Brews
Bucharest's craft beer scene makes a notable appearance at the Christmas market, showcasing local brewers and their unique offerings. Sample a variety of craft beers, from rich stouts to hoppy IPAs. Exploring the local tastes can refresh your palate between bites of hearty Romanian dishes. This allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity of Romanian artisans, which is reflected in every bottle.
Hot Chocolate
Of course, if you don't like vin fiert or beer, or are looking for a kid-friendly alternative to warm yourself in the holiday spirit, many stalls also sell cups of hot chocolate, with or without whipped cream.
Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
To ensure your visit to Bucharest's Christmas markets is enjoyable, keep these practical tips in mind:
Plan Your Visit
The markets usually start in late November and continue until the end of December. Visiting during weekdays might help you avoid larger crowds, providing a more relaxed atmosphere. The weekends tend to be crowded and chaotic and may be less enjoyable when traveling with small children.
Dress Warmly
Winter in Bucharest can be quite chilly. Wear layers and a warm coat to enjoy the outdoor festivities comfortably. Don't forget your hat, gloves, and scarf, but if you do, you'll be able to find some hand-knitted ones at the market stalls!
Make sure to bundle up, especially the kiddos.
Cash is Preferred
Card payments seem to be accepted widely at most markets in Romania, however you may still run into cash-only stalls. Carrying cash ensures seamless transactions at vendor stalls. Make sure to exchange your home currency for Romanian Leu (RON) either at your bank or at a local currency exchange in Romania. Avoid cash withdrawals from ATMs as bank fees can be as much as 3%.
Take Your Time
The market can get busy, so enjoy exploring stalls, tasting food, and savoring entertainment without rushing. You'll find that wandering around without rushing will allow you to find the best hidden gems and discover your favorite local stalls.
Engage with Locals
Don’t hesitate to chat with vendors and locals; they can offer valuable insights into hidden gems and must-try treats. When it's not busy, vendors may appreciate a quick chat or compliment on their food or product.
Accessibility and Surroundings
Public Transportation
The main market areas are centrally located and easily walkable. Well-connected by public transport, they are easy to reach, whether you're staying in Bucharest or surrounding areas.
Efficient public transportation, including buses and trams, makes getting to the markets convenient. Taxis and ridesharing services are also readily available for smooth travel.
Bucharest's transportation service is called STB and involves a network of buses, trolleybuses, street cars, and night lines.
Tickets must be purchased prior to boarding and validated on entry. You can purchase an electronic wallet card online or at PayPoint payment stations and refill as necessary. These can be loaded with a minimum of 15 lei ($3.18) and maximum of 80 lei ($16.98) at any time.
Each ride costs 3 lei * ($0.64) and is valid for up to 90 minutes (from the moment of validation), including transfers.
*Children under 7 years are free.
For more information on using public transportation in Bucharest, contact their official transportation website here.
Facility Locations
The main market at Constitution features two separate areas (on each end of the square) with multiple port-a-potty portable restrooms. The areas are fenced in providing a bit of privacy for the area.
West Side Christmas market at Drumul Taberei Park features port-a-potty style restrooms as well and they are quite dirty. Instead, you can find a McDonald's across the street from the park that is a bit cleaner.
Laminor Winter Wonderland has large bathrooms with dozens of stalls located inside the event hall. The bathrooms are clean, spacious, and free to use.
Nearby Attractions
While in Bucharest, take advantage of your time by visiting nearby attractions. Bucharest offers a mix of history and modernity with must-see attractions like the Grand Palace of the Parliament, the charming Old Town (Lipscani District), and the beautiful Romanian Athenaeum.
Also make sure to check out Revolution Square, which marks a key site in the 1989 uprising, while the Cismigiu Gardens provide a peaceful retreat. For a view of traditional Romanian life, make sure to head over to the Village Museum, and for art lovers, the National Museum of Art of Romania displays an impressive collection of Romanian and European art.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the Christmas markets in Bucharest open?
While official opening dates for the Bucharest Christmas Markets are typically announced around October, you can confirm dates for the 2025 season and beyond on the official city website and check market-specific events on their Instagram, or TikTok pages.
Typically, the Christmas markets start in late November and run until Christmas Eve. Exact dates may vary each year, so check in advance for specifics.
Past dates:
The 2022 season was held from December 1st, 2022, to January 2nd, 2023.
The 2023 season was held from November 26th, 2023, to January 7th, 2024.
The 2024 season was held from November 29th, 2024, to December 26th, 2024.
For 2025 opening dates, consult the official website here.
Are the Christmas markets family-friendly?
Definitely! Bucharest’s Christmas markets feature countless activities for all ages, including attractions for children and a range of food options that appeal to families. From macaroni and cheese, hot dogs and burgers, to crepes, bubble waffles, and donuts, everyone is bound to find a food option that suits them.
The markets feature Ferris wheels, carousels, themed trains, ice skating, performances, letter writing and other workshops, and visits with Santa. In addition, around the city, you will find various light displays, guaranteed to enchant those of all ages.
Can I find souvenirs and gifts at the markets?
Absolutely! Expect a treasure trove of handcrafted items, jewelry, and local art—a perfect way to find gifts for loved ones or unique keepsakes for yourself.
At the markets, we noticed traditional clothing, hand-painted snow globes, ornaments, religious icons, natural cosmetics, hand-made jewelry, sweets and baked goods, honey and jams, leather goods such as wallets and bags, handmade ceramics and pottery, wood carvings, and metalwork.
What are the operating hours of the markets?
Most markets open in the early afternoon and stay active until late evening, particularly on weekends. To ensure you get the most out of your visit, keep an eye on posted schedules. In Bucharest, the main market opens at 12:00 noon on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. on weekends, staying open until 10:00 p.m. The other markets have their own operating schedules, but in generally all markets will be open after 2:00 p.m. every day of the week.
Keep in mind that it's best to visit earlier in the day or on weekdays to avoid the crowds, however, most performances and events will be held nights and weekends. We advise you check event schedules so you don't miss events that may be important to you and your family.
Is it safe to visit the Christmas markets?
Bucharest’s Christmas markets are usually safe and well-patrolled. As in any tourist area, it’s wise to stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure. We noticed a larger-than-normal security presence at the Christmas markets in Bucharest this year (2024), with officers at each entrance and continually patrolling the square.
Pickpockets are found in cities across the world, however crowded Christmas markets may be a ripe opportunity to nab your things so be aware of your surroundings and keep wallets, phones, and keys close at all times.
Bucharest’s Christmas markets offer a delightful and immersive experience, welcoming the holiday spirit like no other. With vibrant stalls presenting traditional crafts, a variety of delicious foods, and a joyful atmosphere, this city transforms into a festive paradise.
From exploring the grandeur of Piata Constitutiei, to soaking in the relaxed vibes of Drumul Taberei Park, every corner sparkles with the magic of the season.
So, bundle up, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to create unforgettable memories in Bucharest’s enchanting Christmas markets. Happy holidays!
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