Things To Do
in Buftea

Buftea, Romania is a picturesque town located just north of Bucharest, known for its beautiful lakes and lush greenery. It is a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital while enjoying a serene environment. The town is rich in history and culture, with several historical landmarks and local traditions.

Buftea is also famous for its film studio, where numerous Romanian films and series are produced.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Buftea
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Buftea Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore or have a picnic in the surrounding park.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Buftea Palace and its gardens, which showcase stunning architecture and offer a glimpse into the town's royal history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely stroll through the town center, soaking in the ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Leisure
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local market to taste fresh produce and traditional pastries.

afternoon
:

Head to the Buftea Film Studio for a guided tour, where you can learn about the Romanian film industry and see some iconic film sets.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a dinner at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the sunset views over the water.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-20
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$30-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and lakes.
  • Rich in history and culture.
  • Close proximity to Bucharest for easy access.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Fewer tourist facilities compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options may be limited.
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
  • "La revedere" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Buftea

Visit one of these nice places.

Buftea Lake

A serene spot perfect for capturing the reflections of the surrounding nature, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Buftea Palace

The stunning architecture of this historical landmark provides a great backdrop for photography.

Local Markets

The vibrant colors and hustle of the local markets offer excellent opportunities to capture the essence of Romanian culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Buftea

Buftea offers a delightful array of traditional Romanian dishes and local specialties that reflect the region's culinary heritage.

Buftea Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, simmered in a savory tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A traditional cornmeal porridge often served with cheese and sour cream.

Ciorbă de burtă

A tangy tripe soup, flavored with vinegar and served with sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Buftea Farmers Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade Romanian specialties.

Street Food Stalls

Look out for food stalls offering grilled meats and traditional pastries, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Buftea experiences a temperate continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm to hot, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Winters (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal seasons for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are customary when greeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating; it's polite to try a bit of everything offered.

Respect for Tradition

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during religious or cultural events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Buftea is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and public transport. It's advisable to keep valuables secured and avoid displaying expensive items to minimize the risk of petty theft.

Tipping in Buftea

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash (Romanian Leu) and credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for enjoying the lakes, though be prepared for occasional heat waves.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage and is a great time for hiking and outdoor festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cold, with occasional snow, offering a charming winter landscape, but be sure to dress warmly.

Nightlife Guide

Buftea at Night

Buftea's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger Romanian cities, with a few local bars and cafes offering live music and a cozy atmosphere. During weekends, some venues may host events and parties, attracting both locals and visitors. The lakeside area is a popular spot for evening strolls and small gatherings with friends.

Hiking in Buftea

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mogoșoaia Park Trails

Located near Buftea, these trails offer picturesque routes through lush forests and scenic views of Mogoșoaia Palace.

Snagov Forest Trails

A short drive from Buftea, Snagov offers various hiking trails amidst dense woods, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Buftea by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport

Located about 30 km from Buftea, this is the main international airport serving Bucharest, with connections to various global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Buftea is a walkable town, with many attractions and amenities located within a short distance from each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require a short drive or public transport to access more remote attractions like the lakes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Buftea's population consists of local Romanians, who are known for their hospitality and rich cultural heritage.

Commuters from Bucharest

Many residents of Bucharest commute to Buftea for a quieter lifestyle, contributing to the town's diverse demographic.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Romania, with many local teams and enthusiasts engaging in both playing and watching matches.

Tennis

Tennis has gained popularity in Romania, and Buftea has several courts for both recreational and competitive play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Buftea is generally manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are available for getting around town. However, having a car can be beneficial for exploring surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Buftea.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Buftea offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff for specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited; however, some restaurants can accommodate dietary restrictions if informed in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Buftea is primarily served by local clinics and hospitals. While basic healthcare services are available, serious medical issues may require travel to Bucharest for specialized care. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide