Aurel Vlaicu International Airport serves Bucharest, Romania’s main gateway to the country. The airport handles flights from across Europe and beyond. Modern facilities include shops, restaurants and lounges for travelers. It connects passengers to major cities like London, Paris, Frankfurt and Istanbul. The terminal provides clear signage and straightforward security checks. Public transport links connect the airport to central Bucharest within 30 minutes by bus or taxi. The airport operates daily with schedules tailored to both business and leisure trips.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Romanian Leu (RON) £1 ≈ RON 6.39 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payment is widely accepted in cities, though cash is often required in rural areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Romania. 10-15% in restaurants is standard, and small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are common. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not widely accepted, though it is tolerated in some festive events. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and transport, with designated areas available. |
| Unification Day (December) |
Expect closures and parades. |
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| Easter (March/April) |
Religious and cultural activities dominate. |
| Christmas (December) |
Markets and festive celebrations occur. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Bolt, Uber, Clever |
| Other: | Romania is famous for its castles, including Dracula’s Castle, and its beautiful Carpathian landscapes. |
Aurel Vlaicu International Airport holds a special place as Romania’s second-largest airport historically, named after a pioneering Romanian aviator. Since March 2012, it has shifted focus solely to business and charter flights, with most low-cost and scheduled flights transferring to the larger Henri Coandă International Airport (Otopeni).
The airport’s terminal is compact but equipped with modern facilities, including VIP lounges offering privacy and comfort for business travelers. The facility underwent a major renovation in 2011-2012, improving its infrastructure and passenger amenities. Despite this, the airport lacks scale and regular commercial flight services, so it’s best suited for specialized travel.
Transportation is convenient, with multiple buses and trams connecting to Bucharest’s public transport network. The airport is easily reachable from the city via bus lines 131, 335, 148, 112 and 301 and tram 5, as well as the 100 Express line, making it accessible for passengers who plan in advance. However, the small size means services like extensive dining and shopping are limited.
Overall, Aurel Vlaicu International Airport offers a focused, business-class travel experience in close proximity to Bucharest’s center, combining historical significance with modern amenities.
A modern VIP lounge offering comfortable seating, refreshments, free Wi-Fi, and business services. It provides an exclusive environment for business travellers and charter passengers with access by invitation or pre-booking.
Accommodation near Băneasa Airport includes a selection of mid‑range hotels and guesthouses in northern Bucharest neighborhoods. Most travelers prefer to stay in central Bucharest for a wider range of options, cultural attractions and nightlife.
To Bucharest city centre:
Multiple public bus lines (131, 335, 148, 112, 301) connect the airport with central Bucharest, with journey times around 30-45 minutes. Tram 5 and the 100 Express line also link the airport to the city, offering affordable alternatives. Taxi and rideshare services are available for quicker and more direct transit.
To Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP):
Transfers between Aurel Vlaicu and Henri Coandă airports can be made by taxi or private car, generally taking 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Public bus connections between the two airports are limited and complex, so private transport is preferred.
To Northern Bucharest districts:
Local taxis and public buses facilitate travel to northern residential and business districts, making the airport convenient for business travellers based in these areas.
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