Arriving at Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) marks the start of your Romanian adventure. Getting to the city center, or your hotel, is usually straightforward, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. This guide will help you understand your choices, from quick taxis to more economical public transport, and what to expect in terms of time and cost.
Official taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminals. Follow the signs for ‘Taxi’ or ‘Transport’ – these will lead you to the designated taxi stands. It’s generally best to join the queue and take the next available taxi. Be sure the driver uses the meter, or agree on a price *before* starting your journey. A trip to the city center typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic, and will likely cost around 20 to 40 USD. During peak hours, or if traveling to a more distant location, expect the price to be higher.
Pre-booked private transfers offer a comfortable and reliable option. Drivers usually meet you inside the arrivals hall, often holding a sign with your name. When booking, confirm the meeting point details clearly. Prices are typically fixed when you book, giving you peace of mind. Expect to pay between 40 to 70 USD for a private transfer to the city center, depending on the vehicle type and distance. This is a good choice if you have a lot of luggage, are traveling with a group, or simply prefer a hassle-free experience.
Shared shuttles and minibuses are a more budget-friendly option, but they involve multiple stops to drop off other passengers. They are usually available for pre-booking, or sometimes on arrival. A shared shuttle to the city center might take 60 to 90 minutes and cost around 15 to 30 USD. For the most economical option, consider the train or metro. The airport is connected to the city by a train line, and a metro line is also accessible with a short bus connection. These options are significantly cheaper, costing just a few dollars, but will take longer – potentially 60 to 120 minutes or more – and require navigating public transport with your luggage.
Traveling to nearby cities like Ploiești, Pitești, or Brașov is also possible. Taxis and private transfers are available, but will be considerably more expensive than a trip to Bucharest. For longer distances, consider train or bus services from Bucharest’s main stations.
| Option | Time to City (approx.) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30-60 minutes | 20-40 |
| Private Transfer | 30-60 minutes | 40-70 |
| Shared Shuttle | 60-90 minutes | 15-30 |
| Train/Metro | 60-120+ minutes | 2-5 |
| Bus | 60-120+ minutes | 2-10 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Follow the signs for 'Taxi' or 'Transport' from the arrivals hall. They are located at designated stands outside the terminals.
Yes, using the official taxi stands is generally safe. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a price beforehand.
A pre-booked car service where a driver meets you in the arrivals hall and takes you directly to your destination.
Confirm the exact meeting point with your transfer company when you book. They usually wait inside the arrivals hall with a sign.
Yes, shared shuttles are usually more affordable, but they take longer due to multiple stops.
Yes, the airport has a train station with connections to Bucharest. It’s a budget-friendly option, but takes longer.
Typically 30 to 60 minutes, but this can vary significantly depending on traffic.
Expect to pay around 20 to 40 USD, depending on traffic and the exact location.
It can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Consider a taxi or transfer if you have a lot of luggage.
While you can't pre-book with the airport taxis directly, you can book a private transfer in advance.
Private transfer companies usually track flights and adjust pickup times accordingly. Check their policy when booking.