Follow The Amazing Race to Bucharest
Did season 38, episode 8 encourage you to put Bucharest on your travel bucket list? Follow teams through Romania’s capital. Bucharest is a city of striking contrasts, where ornate 19th-century facades stand alongside brutalist Communist architecture, and historic neighborhoods are decorated with vibrant street art.
Warning: this guide contains Amazing Race season 38 spoilers.
The race leg began in King Michael I Park, Bucharest’s biggest park, known for its unobstructed views of the city skyline. But the teams didn’t have time to linger, instead dashing off to their first challenge—an Romanian Easter egg hunt turned into a matching game, conducted under the supervision of an oversized chicken character. (“Oh egg where art tho?” Eric cracked while searching for a match.)
Once teams delivered the right egg to the chicken, it was off to the detour. One side “find the beat,” and perform a traditional Romanian dance—which Jas and Jag nailed. The other side had teams “hit the note” by constructing a traditional pan flute and playing a short tune, much to the delight of Izzy, a professional flutist. (“Watch me play!” she joked at the news, miming a rock-star level solo.)
But before the teams could meet Phil on the mat, they had to cross off one final challenge at the Green Hours Jazz Café, where they had to shape ten perfect mici–a traditional grilled meat sausage. And then, before they could receive their clue they had to eat one, mustard optional.
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To make the most out of your time in Bucharest, plan on visiting during the shoulder seasons, April – May or September – October, when the weather is mild and the crowds are lighter. You’ll need at least two days to soak in the city, but be sure to make it a long weekend and take a beat to enjoy the café culture.
Ready to explore Bucharest’s grand boulevards, admire its mix of Belle Époque and post-war landmarks, and dive into hearty food scene? Romania’s capital city is a destination that rewards curiosity. So, read on to learn how you can plan your own The Amazing Race-themed vacation.
Eat
Green Hours Jazz Cafe Bucharest’s first jazz club and cultural café is as popular for its live performances as for its menu, which includes both vegetarian and local specialties. Step into Caru’ cu Bere, where ornate interiors pair with classic Romanian dishes. For a more intimate experience, Lacrimi și Sfinți reimagines local recipes with a modern flair. Travelers who love coffee with a side of history will appreciate Cafeneaua Veche 9, Bucharest’s oldest café. And for the best breakfast in town, locals swear by Fior di Latte, where freshly baked pastries and rich coffee kick off the day in style.
Stay
History buffs will appreciate The Marmorosch Bucharest, an art deco-property set in a former bank. Looking to get the most out of your budget? Travelers rave about Hotel Christina’s unfussy charm and exceptional location near the Palace of the Parliament. For a touch of luxury stay at the InterContinental Athénée Palace, a property noted for its Belle Époque interiors and views of Revolution Square. Likewise, Scala Boutique Hotel stands out for combining its opulent 19th-century architecture with modern comforts. Or go for a tranquil get-away at Nobel Boutique, which offers a guest garden and an on-site sauna.
Do
Teams ran through Romania’s stunning capital—but with a guided walking tour you can see Bucharest’s storied highlights at a much more comfortable pace. Or, lean into vacation indulgence with an “unhealthy” food crawl, where you’ll absorb the local history through donuts, meats, and decadent drinks. Or save your appetite and join a guide for Old Town pub and bar hop. Then, regroup with a little self-care and a day of full-body rejuvenation, at Therme București, Europe’s largest wellness center. Get out of the city for a day to learn about nature and storytelling—two powerful forces in Romanian culture—with a trip that includes both Dracula’s Castle, and a stop to watch the bears at the Libearty Sanctuary.
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Find new episodes of The Amazing Race on Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m./8:30 p.m. Central on CBS/Paramount+
Laura Studarus is a Los Angeles-based writer, traveler and tea drinker who has contributed to Lonely Planet, Wired, and The Daily Beast among others. Sometimes she can go for several hours without a cup of tea.
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