AFI Cotroceni, Bucharest

AFI Cotroceni is Romania’s largest and most impressive shopping mall, nestled in the western part of Bucharest’s illustrious Cotroceni district. With an expansive gross leasable area of around 90,000 square meters (nearly 970,000 square feet), it houses over 300 stores-from high‑street fashion to local boutiques-making it a premier destination for serious shoppers and leisure seekers alike. Opened in October 2009 by AFI Europe, the architectural layout combines modern, airy atriums with innovative touches like the striking spherical entrance that’s instantly Instagram‑worthy.

But AFI Cotroceni is more than just about shopping. It’s a self‑contained entertainment powerhouse. Families flock here for the year‑round ice-skating rink, kids’ indoor playground, and even a small indoor roller coaster. The cinema complex includes an IMAX screen and Luxury halls-perfect for a break from exploring Bucharest or escaping the rain and summer heat. Visitors can also discover the quirky Museum of Senses inside, an interactive exhibition filled with optical illusions, upside-down rooms, and kaleidoscopic mirrors-ideal for a fun and mind-bending detour.

In addition to the fun, AFI Cotroceni offers a diverse gastronomic scene. Over 40 dining outlets range from casual fast food to international cuisines and Romanian specialities, catering to all tastes and budgets. Coffee lovers can linger at cafés, while those seeking a sit-down meal have plenty of bistro‑style and ethnic restaurant choices.

Easily accessible by public transit-with nearby metro stations like Eroilor and Politehnica-and ample parking, it’s an ideal stop for tourists weaving Cotroceni’s charm into their city itinerary. Whether you're in for fashion, food, film, or fun, AFI Cotroceni promises a full‑day escape, a taste of modern Bucharest living, and a vibrant hub that reflects Romania’s dynamic urban culture.