July 22, 2025 
5 mins to read You probably haven’t thought about spending your gap year in Bucharest and that’s exactly why it’s such a great idea. Romania’s capital is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets for young people who want to combine travel, work, and new experiences. If you’re considering working in Bucharest, or looking for a job abroad that values your native language, this guide is for you.
Here’s everything you need to know to turn your gap year into a life-changing experience.
Why Bucharest is a smart choice for your gap year
Working abroad doesn’t have to mean unpaid internships or volunteer work. In Bucharest, you’ll find real paid jobs that match your skills and language. It’s a chance to make your gap year both meaningful and fun.
Top reasons to choose Bucharest:
- Affordable cost of living
- Growing job market for international workers
- Plenty of roles in customer service, content moderation and game presenting
- Easy access to other parts of Europe
- Active international community
- Exciting nightlife and culture
Want a quick overview of life in Bucharest? Check out this helpful local guide from Nomad List for real-time stats on cost of living, safety, internet speed and more.
What it’s like to live and work in Bucharest
Bucharest is a city full of contrast and charm. Grand boulevards and historical buildings stand alongside vibrant bars, art galleries and hidden coffee shops. There’s always something to discover, whether you’re into history, nightlife or quiet walks in the park.
Most young people live in shared flats near the centre. You’ll find a mix of locals and expats, which makes it easy to build a community. Many internationals who come for a few months end up staying longer because life here is affordable, social and full of opportunity. It’s an ideal environment for a gap year if you want real experiences without breaking the bank.
Even if you don’t speak Romanian, you can get by with basic English, especially in international workplaces. There are plenty of roles for native speakers in customer support or content-related jobs, which makes it easy to earn a salary and cover your lifestyle while you’re here. One exciting option is working as a game presenter, a fun and social job that helps you build strong communication skills and can even open doors in media or entertainment later on.
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee before work or heading out for a Friday night with new friends, life in Bucharest has a relaxed rhythm and a friendly energy that’s easy to fall in love with.
Cost of living: save money while living well
One of the best parts of spending your gap year in Bucharest is how far your salary can take you.
| Expense | Approximate Monthly Cost |
| Rent (1-bed city centre) | €500 |
| Rent (1-bed outside) | €350 |
| Public transport pass | €25 |
| Utilities | €100 |
| Groceries | €200 |
| Gym or sports club | €30 |
| Eating out (meal) | €7-10 |
With these prices, you can enjoy daily life, go out, travel and still save money. Romania also has some of the fastest internet in the world, perfect for gaming, streaming or remote work. That makes it even easier to make the most of your gap year.
Meet people and feel at home fast
Bucharest has a welcoming expat scene. You’ll meet people through work, shared flats, or in online communities.
Where to meet others:
- Facebook groups (“Expats in Bucharest”)
- Language exchange meetups
- Social sports teams and gym classes
- Cafés and co-working spaces in the city centre
Locals are friendly and curious. Most young Romanians speak English well and love meeting new people. That makes your gap year more enjoyable and social from day one.
What to do in your free time
When you’re not working, there’s plenty to explore.
In the city:
- Discover the Old Town with its cafés and nightlife
- Visit museums, parks and historical sites
- Try traditional Romanian food like sarmale and mici
- Go to concerts, open-air events and festivals
Weekend trips from Bucharest:
- Brașov and the Carpathian Mountains (3 hours by train)
- Bran Castle (aka “Dracula’s Castle”)
- Black Sea coast for sun and beach bars
- Transylvania for hiking and medieval towns
Bucharest is also well-connected to other countries. Cheap flights and buses make it easy to travel across Europe during your gap year.
Climate and lifestyle
Bucharest has four seasons, with warm summers and cold but cosy winters.
| Season | Temperature Range | Activities |
| Spring | 10 – 20°C | Park walks, markets |
| Summer | 25 – 35°C | Festivals, outdoor bars |
| Autumn | 10 – 20°C | Day trips, hiking |
| Winter | -5 – 5°C | Christmas markets, cafés |
Life in Bucharest is lively but balanced. After work, people relax in parks, meet friends or enjoy the city’s social life. It’s the kind of city where a gap year feels like a year of freedom.
Work-life balance and personal growth
Most jobs abroad in Bucharest come with fixed hours, weekends off and paid holidays. This means you can build real skills while still having plenty of time for travel and fun.
What you’ll gain:
- Professional work experience
- Independence and confidence
- A strong international CV
- Friends and memories from all over Europe
This kind of gap year gives you more than just a break. It gives you a story you’ll tell for years.
Ready to start your gap year in Bucharest?
Moving abroad is a big step. That’s why Job Squad helps you with:
- Finding the right job for your language
- Preparing your CV and interview
- Sorting out relocation and accommodation
- Staying in touch after you arrive
Whether you’re into surf, sunshine or just something new, Job Squad is here to help. Get in touch with one of our recruiters, explore current job openings and take the first step towards your next adventure.
