A long layover at Bucharest Henri Coandă Airport (OTP) doesn’t have to feel endless, but it’s best to set realistic expectations. This is a functional, compact airport with limited amenities compared to major European hubs. Still, there are a few simple ways to pass the time, grab a decent meal, rest, or—if your connection is long enough—head into the city for a change of scenery. Whether you’re overnighting or just waiting out a few hours, here are some practical things to do during a layover at Bucharest Airport.
1. Grab a bite to eat
Food options at Bucharest Airport are limited but serviceable, with a mix of cafés, fast food, and casual sit-down spots. You’ll mainly find coffee counters, sandwiches, pizza, pastries, and hot meals designed for quick turnover rather than long dining sessions. Several outlets operate 24 hours or late into the night, both landside and airside, which is useful if you’re arriving late or departing early.
In addition to familiar international chains like Burger King and Brioche Dorée, keep an eye out for cafés and counters offering Romanian-style baked goods and snacks. Local treats to try include covrigi (soft pretzel rings), plăcinte (filled pastries), and sweet pastries made with cheese or apples. You may also spot packaged Romanian chocolates, wafers, and bottled juices.
There are small convenience or mini-market style shops in the Arrivals area where you can pick up snacks, drinks, and simple takeaway items—handy if you’d rather eat lightly or save money.
2. Relax in a lounge
Looking for a quieter, more comfortable place to wait? The airport has a few lounges, offering WiFi, seating, refreshments, and a calmer atmosphere than the main terminal. Access is available via lounge membership programs, eligible credit cards, or by paying an entry fee, subject to availability. Details on locations, hours, and access options are listed in our Bucharest Henri Coandă Airport Guide. [ read more ]
3. Shop
Shopping at Bucharest Airport is modest and focused on travel essentials, but there are a few spots worth browsing if you want a small souvenir or local product. Along with duty-free shops, you’ll find newsstands, convenience stores, and gift shops selling snacks, electronics accessories, and last-minute travel items.
For something distinctly Romanian, look for shops carrying local wines, traditional sweets, honey, jams, or packaged delicacies. Some gift shops also sell handcrafted items, folk-inspired souvenirs, and small decorative pieces that make easy gifts without taking up much luggage space. Romanian chocolate bars, wafers, and plum-based products are popular edible souvenirs if you don’t want to commit to a full bottle.
Overall, selection is limited, but it’s enough to pick up a taste of Romania or something to pass the time before boarding.
4. Get your hair done
Pop into the hair salon before Security for a haircut or blowout to ensure a stylish arrival at your next destination.
5. Go sightseeing
If your layover is long enough and you’re eager to leave the terminal, heading into Bucharest is possible—we recommend at least 8 hours to do this comfortably. The airport is connected to the city by direct train service to Gara de Nord (the main railway station), offering a predictable and traffic-free option. Travel time is typically around 25 minutes. Public buses also run between the airport and the city, but journey times can vary depending on traffic.
For convenience, licensed taxis can be arranged using the touchscreen kiosks in the Arrivals Hall. These issue a receipt and assign a regulated taxi, helping avoid common overcharging issues.
Once downtown, travellers often focus on highlights such as the Palace of Parliament, the historic Old Town, or a short café stop before heading back.
If a full city trip feels rushed, consider a short visit to Otopeni town, located just minutes from the airport. While it’s not a major sightseeing destination, it offers a quieter change of pace with local cafés, parks, and restaurants—sometimes a more relaxing option than navigating central Bucharest during a tight layover.
Keep your eye on the time! Return to the airport and pass through Security for that next flight; otherwise, your layover will be even longer. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Bucharest.
6. WiFi
Surf the net to your heart’s content thanks to free, unlimited WiFi.
7. Sleep
Sleeping in the terminal is possible but not especially comfortable. Seating with movable armrests is limited, and benches inside the secure areas fill up quickly. Some travellers rest in or near smoking lounges, where the only couch-style seating is typically found. Many overnight sleepers choose to lie on the floor, so bringing extra layers or a travel mat can help. [ read more ]
If you prefer a proper bed, several airport hotels are located nearby, with some offering shuttle service. See our Bucharest Henri Coandă Airport Guide for details and locations. [ read more ]
Updated 17 December 2025
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Bucharest Airport. Visit our Bucharest Airport Guide for more information about services and facilities, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.