Things To Do
in Măgurele

Măgurele is a town just southwest of Bucharest, offering easy access to the capital while retaining a small-town atmosphere. It hosts a growing science park and research institutions that attract visitors and students. Historic churches, leafy streets, and nearby green spaces give the town a relaxed pace, especially compared to the bustle of nearby Bucharest.

With convenient transit, cafés, and parks, Măgurele makes a practical base for exploring the capital region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Măgurele and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the local parks and enjoy the fresh air. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the small town as you familiarize yourself with the surroundings.

afternoon
:

Explore the local attractions, including the picturesque streets and small shops. Stop for lunch at a quaint café to taste traditional Romanian cuisine. Capture stunning photographs of the scenic landscapes and architecture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes. Engage with friendly locals who can share stories about the town. Wind down with a relaxed walk through the town center, soaking in the evening ambiance.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the nearby Bucharest, taking a short trip to explore its rich history and vibrant culture. Start with a guided tour of the Romanian Athenaeum, a beautiful concert hall. Engage with the cultural offerings that the capital has to offer.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local bistro in Bucharest, trying out local specialties. Afterward, visit the National Museum of Romanian History to dive deeper into Romania's past. Take time to reflect in the serene environment of the Herăstrău Park.

evening
:

Return to Măgurele and enjoy a quiet dinner at your accommodation. Consider a short visit to local cafes for a relaxed evening drink. Spend time chatting with fellow travelers to share experiences and recommendations.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant$15-25
🏨One-night hotel stay$50-100
Coffee or espresso$2-4
🚆Monthly local transit pass$20-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Bucharest and easy transit
  • Growing science and tech hub with modern facilities
  • Limited local tourist infrastructure compared to Bucharest
  • Smaller town amenities outside peak travel times
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Vă rog" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Măgurele

Visit one of these nice places.

Magurele Hill Overlook

A gentle elevation with views over the town and the Bucharest metropolitan area, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.

Town Center Square

Historic-looking streets and a central square with the parish church and traditional facades for street photography.

Industrial Park Viewpoints

Modern architectural lines and the campus-like layouts of research facilities offer contemporary photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Măgurele

Romanian cuisine blends hearty stews, grilled meats, soups, and seasonal produce. In Măgurele you’ll find classic Romanian dishes alongside modern cafés and bistros that serve light meals and pastries.

Măgurele Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup)

A creamy, tangy soup often served with sour cream and vinegar; commonly found in traditional restaurants.

Must-Try!

Sarmale (cabbage rolls)

Meat-filled cabbage rolls cooked in tomato sauce and served with polenta or sour cream.

Mici (grill or mititei)

Grilled minced meat rolls seasoned with garlic and spices, a staple at Romanian grills and eateries.

Mămăligă cu brânză și smântână

Polenta served with cheese and sour cream; a comforting accompaniment to meat dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local farmers' market

Weekend markets where you can buy fresh vegetables, dairy, bread, and homemade products from nearby farms.

Street food stalls near town center

Casual spots offering quick Romanian bites like pastries, pastries and coffee.

Climate Guide

Weather

Măgurele has a temperate-continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Rain is possible year-round, with spring and autumn offering mild conditions, and summer often featuring daily highs around 28-32°C. Winters can see temperatures near or below freezing, with snowy periods possible. Overall, the climate mirrors the Bucharest region with distinct seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and formality

A firm handshake is common when meeting; address people with titles and last names unless invited to use first names.

Respect for tradition

Show politeness at churches and in local settings; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments is appreciated, though social events may start a bit later.

Safety Guide

Safety

Măgurele is generally safe for visitors. Standard urban safety precautions apply: stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid poorly lit areas at night. If you plan to travel at night, use registered taxis or rideshare options from reputable providers. In case of emergencies, dial local emergency numbers and know the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Măgurele

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Romania, tipping around 5-10% in casual places and 10-15% in nicer restaurants is common if service is not included. Cash and cards are widely accepted; small merchants may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming trees; great for outdoor strolling and photography before hot weather sets in.

Summer

Warm days with longer daylight; stay hydrated and plan indoor breaks during peak sun hours.

Autumn

Crisp air and fall colors; ideal for walks and nature photography as leaves change color.

Winter

Cold with occasional snow; some outdoor spots may be less accessible, but city lights and interiors offer photography opportunities.

Nightlife Guide

Măgurele at Night

Măgurele’s nightlife centers around Bucharest’s broader scene, with casual bars and cafés in town and nearby areas. Expect relaxed evenings with coffee, craft beers, and chats with locals, plus occasional live music at some venues in the region.

Hiking in Măgurele

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ilfov Nature Trails

Short-distance trails and nature walks in Ilfov County near Magurele, suitable for easy hikes.

Protected Green Spaces (regional parks)

Parks and green spaces with walking routes and seasonal scenery.

Airports

How to reach Măgurele by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)

OTP is Bucharest's main international airport, about 20-25 km north of Măgurele; easy to reach by car, taxi, or rail/bus connections.

Aurel Vlaicu International (Băneasa Airport, BBU)

Smaller airport closer to central Bucharest; mainly charter and domestic flights, reachable by car or taxi.

Getting Around

Walkability

Măgurele is reasonably walkable within the town center with quiet, shaded streets. A walk to nearby parks and the science park area is feasible, but for longer trips or to reach Bucharest, public transit or a short drive is more practical. Sidewalks and pedestrian paths exist, though some areas may have limited shade in summer.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

Predominant ethnicity with a mix of locals and commuters from Bucharest and nearby Ilfov County.

Students and researchers

Proximity to universities and research institutions attracts students and professionals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and public courts are common.

Tennis

Public and private courts exist around the city for both recreational and competitive play.

Basketball

Played in schools and community centers; suitable for fans and players of all ages.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Măgurele is typically light to moderate, with more congestion during peak hours when people commute to Bucharest. Public transport options are available, including bus connections to central Bucharest and rail links. For convenience, a car or taxi can be helpful for day trips to nearby parks or to Bucharest; rideshares are increasingly available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Măgurele.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Rely on vegetables, dairy, and egg dishes; many restaurants offer vegetarian options like salads, cheese plates, and bean-based meals. Look for mâncare gătită without meat and ask for cheese or eggs as protein.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Măgurele relies on local clinics and Bucharest-based hospitals for specialized care. For emergencies, numerous public hospitals in Bucharest are accessible via quick transit. International travelers may rely on private clinics in or near Bucharest for English-speaking staff.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide