Things To Do
in Busteni

Busteni is a picturesque mountain resort town located in the Prahova Valley of Romania. It is surrounded by the stunning Bucegi Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a plethora of outdoor activities. Busteni is known for its rich history, including its historical landmarks and vibrant local culture.

Visitors can enjoy both winter sports and summer hiking adventures in this charming town.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Busteni
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Cantacuzino Castle, where you can explore its beautiful architecture and gardens.

afternoon
:

Take a cable car ride to the Bucegi Mountains and enjoy a hike to Babele and the Sphinx rock formations.

evening
:

Dine at the local favorite, Casa Taraneasca, where you can savor traditional Romanian dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe, then visit the Heroes' Cross on Caraiman Peak for stunning panoramic views.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the local market, sampling fresh produce and artisan goods.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely walk in the town and grab dinner at the Bistro La Cuptor, known for its cozy atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-20
Coffee$2-4
🚍Local bus ticket$1
🏨Hotel night$30-100
🍺Local beer$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Peaceful atmosphere away from larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • English may not be widely spoken in rural areas.
  • Some tourist areas can be crowded during peak seasons.
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Busteni

Visit one of these nice places.

Cantacuzino Castle

The castle's stunning architecture and surrounding gardens provide a perfect backdrop for photos.

Babele and Sphinx

These natural rock formations are iconic and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Heroes' Cross

Perched on Caraiman Peak, the cross provides a magnificent view of the Prahova Valley.

Culinary Guide

Food in Busteni

Busteni offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases traditional Romanian flavors, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Busteni Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls filled with a mix of pork and rice, served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

Cornmeal porridge often served as a side dish, similar to polenta.

Ciorbă de burtă

A hearty tripe soup flavored with vinegar and served with sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Busteni Market

A charming local market where you can find fresh produce, homemade cheeses, and local crafts.

Street Vendors

Various vendors offer snacks such as covrigi (Romanian pretzels) and roasted chestnuts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Busteni experiences a temperate continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm and pleasant, averaging 25°C (77°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are mild, with spring blooming flowers and autumn's colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is customary when greeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.

Respecting Traditions

Be polite and respectful towards local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Busteni is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being cautious when hiking in remote areas. Emergency services are accessible, and it's wise to have travel insurance.

Tipping in Busteni

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for hiking.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists for outdoor activities, with temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F).

Autumn

Fall foliage creates stunning landscapes, perfect for photography and nature walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snowfall turn Busteni into a winter wonderland, ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

Nightlife Guide

Busteni at Night

Busteni offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and cafes where locals and tourists gather. While not as vibrant as larger cities, you can find live music, traditional dances, and friendly atmospheres. Many establishments close early, around midnight, but some may stay open later during peak tourist seasons.

Hiking in Busteni

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bucegi Natural Park

Offers numerous trails with varying difficulty, ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Path to Moldoveanu Peak

Challenging hike leading to Romania's highest peak, rewarding climbers with stunning vistas.

Airports

How to reach Busteni by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport

Located about 100 km away from Busteni, this is the nearest major airport, providing both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Busteni is a walkable town, especially in the central area where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many visitors enjoy strolling through the scenic streets. However, some hilly areas may require more physical effort.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tourists

Busteni attracts a diverse group of tourists, ranging from families to adventure seekers.

Local Residents

The local population is primarily engaged in tourism-related activities, agriculture, and small businesses.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

A popular winter sport in Busteni, attracting enthusiasts from all over Romania.

Hiking

Hiking is a favorite activity during the warmer months, with trails suitable for all levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Busteni is generally light, with most visitors opting to walk or use local buses. The town is well-connected by roads, but during peak tourist seasons, traffic can become congested, especially near popular attractions. Public transportation options include buses that connect Busteni to nearby towns and cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Busteni.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Options may be limited; be sure to ask if dishes can be made gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Busteni are basic, with a local clinic available for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, larger hospitals are located in nearby towns like Sinaia. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide