Things To Do
in Măgurele

Măgurele is a small town located just southwest of Bucharest, Romania, primarily known for its scientific and academic institutions, particularly the National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics. The town has a population of around 12,000 residents and is characterized by its tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital. Măgurele features a mix of modern infrastructure and traditional Romanian architecture, with parks and green spaces contributing to its charm.

Visitors can enjoy a glimpse of local life, along with easy access to the vibrant culture and history of nearby Bucharest.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Măgurele
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics for a guided tour.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a stroll through the local park, where you can relax and enjoy the greenery, before heading to the nearby town of Buftea to visit the Buftea Film Studios.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Romanian restaurant in Măgurele, enjoying local dishes, and take a walk in the evening to experience the town's serenity.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Bucharest
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Bucharest and start your exploration at the iconic Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world.

afternoon
:

Visit the Old Town (Lipscani) area, filled with historical sites, shops, and cafés, where you can grab lunch and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

evening
:

Return to Măgurele for dinner and consider visiting a local bar for a drink to wind down your trip.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel night stay$50
🍺Local beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Bucharest, allowing easy access to urban attractions.
  • Rich in scientific and educational institutions.
  • Tranquil environment perfect for relaxation.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer tourist attractions within the town itself.
  • Public transport options may be limited.
  • "Bună ziua" - Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
  • "La revedere" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Măgurele

Visit one of these nice places.

National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics

A modern architectural marvel, perfect for capturing innovative designs and scientific spirit.

Local Parks

Beautiful green spaces that provide serene settings for nature photography, especially during spring.

Buftea Film Studios

Capture the essence of Romanian cinema in this famous film location just a short drive from Măgurele.

Culinary Guide

Food in Măgurele

Măgurele offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect Romanian tradition and flavor.

Măgurele Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, a staple dish in Romanian cuisine.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A traditional cornmeal porridge often served as a side dish, similar to polenta.

Ciorbă de burtă

A sour tripe soup flavored with vinegar and egg yolk, known for its unique taste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Măgurele Market

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

Climate Guide

Weather

Măgurele experiences a temperate continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is common in late spring and throughout summer, while winters can bring snow.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is a common greeting in Romania, and it’s polite to greet everyone in a group.

Dining Etiquette

It's customary to wait until the host starts eating before you begin, showcasing respect for local customs.

Dress Code

While casual attire is acceptable, it’s best to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Măgurele is generally a safe place for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuables. Emergency services are available, and it's wise to know the local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Măgurele

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather with occasional rain, ideal for exploring parks and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage, offering picturesque views for photography enthusiasts.

Winter

Cold weather with potential snowfall, perfect for experiencing a quieter, more serene Măgurele.

Nightlife Guide

Măgurele at Night

Măgurele has a quiet nightlife compared to larger cities. Most activities revolve around local bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy a drink or two. For a more vibrant scene, many locals head into nearby Bucharest, which offers a wide range of clubs, lounges, and live music venues.

Hiking in Măgurele

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cernica Forest Trail

A scenic trail located about 20 km from Măgurele, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Siriu Mountains Trail

Located approximately 50 km away, this trail offers challenging hikes with stunning views and diverse landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Măgurele by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)

Located approximately 20 km from Măgurele, this airport serves as the main international gateway to Romania, offering flights to and from various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Măgurele is quite walkable, with many amenities located within a short distance. The town features sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some locations may require a short drive or public transport to reach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Măgurele has a significant student population due to its scientific institutions, contributing to a vibrant young community.

Families

Many families reside in Măgurele, attracted by its peaceful environment and proximity to Bucharest.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a beloved sport in the region, with local teams and clubs actively participating in leagues.

Basketball

Basketball has gained popularity among the youth, with various local clubs promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Măgurele is generally light, especially compared to Bucharest. Public transportation options include buses that connect Măgurele with nearby towns and Bucharest. Local taxis and rideshare services are also available for easy travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Măgurele.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Romanian cuisine includes a lot of meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as stuffed peppers and various salads.

Gluten-Free Options

Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets, but it’s advisable to communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Măgurele is accessible, with several clinics and a local hospital providing basic medical services. For more specialized care, residents often visit larger hospitals in nearby Bucharest. 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