Things To Do
in Chitila

Chitila is a suburban town located just north of Bucharest, Romania, known for its blend of residential life and proximity to the capital. It features a mix of modern developments and traditional Romanian architecture, offering a unique insight into local life. The town is surrounded by greenery, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

With convenient access to Bucharest, Chitila serves as a quiet retreat for visitors seeking to explore the bustling capital and its surroundings.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Chitila
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chitila Park for a morning walk amidst nature and enjoy a coffee at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to experience the culture and try some traditional Romanian snacks such as covrigi (pretzels).

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a traditional Romanian restaurant, sampling local dishes and enjoying live music.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Bucharest
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Bucharest and begin exploring the city's historic center, including the Old Town.

afternoon
:

Visit the Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world, followed by lunch at a local bistro.

evening
:

Return to Chitila for a relaxed dinner at a family-run eatery, enjoying a quiet evening away from the hustle of the capital.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-15
Coffee$1.50-3
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel per night$30-60
🛒Groceries for a week$40-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Bucharest for easy day trips.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Rich local culture and traditions.
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities.
  • Fewer tourist attractions directly in Chitila.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • "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 Chitila

Visit one of these nice places.

Chitila Park

A scenic park filled with greenery, perfect for nature photography, especially during spring and summer.

Local Market

The vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere of the market provide a great backdrop for candid shots.

Palace of the Parliament (in Bucharest)

A short trip away, this grand structure is a must-capture for any architecture enthusiast.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chitila

Chitila offers a delightful mix of traditional Romanian cuisine and modern culinary options, making it a food lover's paradise.

Chitila Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls filled with spiced minced meat and rice, often served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A polenta-like dish made from cornmeal, typically served as a side to various meats and stews.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chitila Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, homemade goods, and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chitila experiences a temperate-continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures averaging between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F), and snowfall is common. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) have mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

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

Respect for Tradition

Showing respect for local customs and traditions, especially during holidays and festivities, is important.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you do, and it's polite to try a bit of every dish offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chitila is generally a safe area, with low crime rates. However, typical precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. It is advisable to be cautious in crowded places and to stay informed about local issues.

Tipping in Chitila

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used in restaurants and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

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

Summer

Summer can be quite warm, perfect for enjoying parks and outdoor dining, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, providing stunning views and pleasant temperatures for exploring.

Winter

Winter can be cold with occasional snow, transforming the town into a winter wonderland, perfect for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Chitila at Night

Chitila's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to Bucharest. However, there are a few bars and pubs where locals gather to socialize. Many establishments offer live music on weekends, creating a vibrant atmosphere. For a more lively scene, a short trip to Bucharest’s Old Town provides a plethora of clubs and bars that cater to all tastes.

Hiking in Chitila

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bucegi Mountains

Located about an hour's drive from Chitila, these mountains offer stunning views and various hiking trails for all levels.

Muntele Rosu Trail

This trail is accessible from nearby parks and provides a moderate hike with beautiful scenery and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Chitila by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)

Located about 25 km from Chitila, this is the main international airport serving Bucharest, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chitila is relatively walkable, with pedestrian-friendly areas, especially around parks and the local market. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many amenities are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some residential areas may require a bit more effort to navigate.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanian Nationals

The majority of Chitila's population consists of Romanian nationals, who maintain rich cultural traditions and customs.

Expat Community

There is a growing expat community in the area due to its proximity to Bucharest, adding diversity to the local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Romania, with many local clubs and a passionate fan base.

Handball

Handball enjoys a significant following in Romania, with local teams competing in national leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chitila is generally light compared to Bucharest, making it easier to navigate the town by car or bicycle. Public transportation is available, including buses and trains that connect to Bucharest and surrounding areas. However, during peak hours, road congestion can occur, especially near main thoroughfares.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chitila.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it’s advisable to check for meat stocks in soups.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; however, many places can cater to allergies with prior notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Chitila is adequate, with several clinics and pharmacies available. For more serious medical needs, hospitals in nearby Bucharest provide comprehensive services. It is recommended to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facility.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide