Fast, Easy Transfers

Otopeni Airport → Old Town

The best ways to reach Lipscani from Henri Coandă Airport — with practical steps and stress-saving tips.

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The simplest plan: bus to Unirii or train to Gara de Nord

Henri Coandă (Otopeni) Airport sits north of the city. For most travelers, the easiest public route is the express bus to Piața Unirii (then a short walk into Lipscani). For a more predictable trip during heavy traffic, the airport train to Gara de Nord can be a great option.

Pick the best option for your arrival

Fastest when traffic is heavy

Train to Gara de Nord + metro/ride-share

Easiest with minimal thinking

Bus 100 to Unirii

Best late-night comfort

Ride-share or official taxi

Best with heavy luggage

Ride-share (door-to-door)

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Bus 100 (direct to Piața Unirii)

Best for: Most convenient public option (no transfers)

~35–75 min (traffic dependent)Low-cost, pay by card/SMS/ticket

Steps

✦From Arrivals/Departures, go to the public bus stops right outside the terminals.
✦Take the 100 express bus toward Piața Unirii.
✦At Unirii, walk into the Old Town (Lipscani) or take a short ride-share if luggage is heavy.

Tips

→Runs 24/7 with lower frequency at night.
→Traffic can be slow in peak hours — build buffer time if catching a tour or train.

Train to Gara de Nord + metro/walk

Best for: Fast and predictable when traffic is bad

Train ~20–25 min + transfer timeBudget-friendly; tickets can be bought online, at kiosks, or onboard (contactless)

Steps

✦Take the airport train from the Henri Coandă Airport rail station to București Nord (Gara de Nord).
✦From Gara de Nord, use the metro or a quick ride-share to Universitate or Unirii.
✦Walk into Lipscani from Universitate/Unirii depending on your exact accommodation.

Tips

→Check the train schedule for your arrival time and allow a buffer for getting from the terminal to the station.
→If a train interruption happens, replacement bus services can run temporarily.

Ride-share (Uber / Bolt)

Best for: Door-to-door convenience

~25–60+ min (traffic dependent)Mid-range (varies by demand/time)

Steps

✦Request a ride from the app and follow airport pick-up instructions.
✦Confirm the drop-off point: Old Town has pedestrian streets, so some addresses require a short walk.

Tips

→Great late-night option if arriving tired or with lots of luggage.
→Expect slow approach and drop-off in peak Old Town hours.

Official taxi

Best for: Simple option when apps are not ideal

~25–60+ min (traffic dependent)Varies; ensure a metered, official taxi process

Steps

✦Use the official airport taxi ordering system/queue (avoid unsolicited offers).
✦Confirm the meter is used and the destination is clear (Old Town / Lipscani area).

Tips

→Avoid negotiating with drivers inside the terminal; stick to official channels.
→Keep cash as a backup, though many taxis accept cards.

Old Town arrival tips (small details that save frustration)

→Old Town streets can be pedestrian-only. A “perfect” pin is not always a perfect drop-off point.

→If staying inside Lipscani, plan for a short final walk (cobblestones + luggage wheels are a real combo).

→Choose accommodation on the Old Town edges for easier arrivals and calmer nights.

→If arriving Friday or Saturday night, expect slower drop-offs near the center — walking the last 5–10 minutes can be faster.

Transport schedules and fares can change. For the latest bus/train details, check the official airport and public transport/train websites on your travel date.