If your trip to Bucharest is all locked in but your itinerary is looking a bit empty, we can give you a few hints and tips.Soak up the best of what this place has to offer by adding Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral and National Museum of Romanian History to your travel itinerary. If you have an extra day or two to spare, take a look at Palace of the Parliament and Cismigiu Garden as well.Stop by National Arena. It’s one attraction you’ll find on most visitors’ must-do lists. If you still have some space on your travel itinerary, Herastrau Park and Bucharest City Hall will keep you occupied as well.

If you have a bit of spare time and you’re willing to travel 35 miles, take a look at Ploiesti. This vibrant destination offers plenty to see and do. Ilie Oana Stadium, Central Market Hall and Clock Museum alone make the drive out worthwhile. Locals will also likely point you toward Targoviste, 45 miles away. If you can only see one attraction here, make sure it’s Zoo. (But we’d also highly recommend Princely Court and Military Barracks.)

Having your own car in Bucharest will give you more freedom to go wherever you want at your own pace. Maybe you’re in the mood to skip town, hit the country roads, and see where the wind takes you. If that’s the case, pick up the keys to one of our full-size or mid-size SUVs and discover the sandy shores in the surrounding area. If you’re all about city life, something small will be a better fit. Navigating bustling streets and heavy traffic will be much less stressful with a compact or mini car.

There’s plenty of choice when it comes to rental cars in Bucharest. From swish SUVs with loads of space for luggage to economy rides that are a snap to park, you’ll find it all here. Selecting your perfect match depends on your budget and what you intend to do. Some road trips are just begging you to splurge on your dream ride, whereas others don’t need much more than four wheels and a gas pedal.

You shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a space for your car in central Bucharest. However, like in any busy city, there are rules you’ll need to observe. Before you leave your vehicle, check the signs carefully. Staying over the permitted time limit may earn you a substantial fine.

Bucharest has a population of about 1,877,200, so expect some traffic congestion. The roads are busy before and after work, especially in the city center.

One of two things will happen. Your car rental company may bill the fined amount to your credit card. This is the most common practice. Alternatively, it may forward your contact details to the relevant local agency so the fine is sent to you directly.