Useful Information

Currency & Payment

  • Currency: Romanian leu (RON)
  • Payment cards: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and to a lesser extent American Express) are widely accepted. Keep some cash for markets and small shops.

Country Code

When calling a Romanian number from abroad, dial: +40 [area code] [local number].

Emergency Numbers

112 – general emergencies, police, medical assistance, and fire department.

Time Zone

Bucharest follows Eastern European Time (EET, UTC +2) and switches to Eastern European Summer Time (EEST, UTC +3) from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October. RIPE 91 takes place during EEST (UTC+3).

Electricity

Romania uses a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency.

Plugs are of types C and F (European type with two round pins), so travellers from other regions may need adapters.

Language

Romanian is the official language. Many people in Bucharest speak English, especially younger people and in tourist areas.

Safety

Bucharest is reasonably safe for travellers. Usual precautions apply: watch out for pickpockets (especially in crowded places or public transport), avoid poorly lit or deserted areas at night, and keep valuables secure.

Business Hours

  • Shops: Most small shops are open Monday to Saturday, 09:00 – 18:00. Larger department stores and shopping malls often stay open until 21:00–22:00.
  • Restaurants: Many open for lunch around 12:00 and stay open through the evening, sometimes until 23:00 or midnight.

Public Transport and Getting Around

Bucharest has an extensive public transport system including buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a metro (subway). The metro is fast and reliable, especially during peak hours. One can check-in and out of the metro using a debit/credit card (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted). Rideshare apps like Bolt and Uber are widely used and inexpensive. Walking in central areas is possible and often pleasant.

Public Transport App: The Bucharest's public transport company STB SA has a useful app called "Info Transport Bucharest" available for both iOS and Android phones, which also allows you to buy tickets. You can also refer to their website.

Week Pass: If you plan on using public transport during the RIPE Meeting week, you might also consider buying a week-long integrated Metropolitan and Metro pass that costs approximately 50 RON (roughly €10).

What to Bring / Dress

  • Comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Layers, especially in spring and fall.
  • Rain gear, as weather can change quickly.
  • Modest clothing for visiting religious sites.