Things To Do
in Buftea
Buftea is a small town in Ilfov County, just northwest of Bucharest. It sits beside Buftea Lake and offers a calm mix of residential streets, local farms, and historic landmarks. The town serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby Bucharest attractions while retaining a relaxed pace.
Visitors can enjoy lakeside walks, traditional Romanian cuisine, and easy day-trips to the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Buftea and check into your charming accommodation. Take some time to freshen up and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Gather information about your itinerary and plan your adventures for the days to come.
Stroll through the picturesque town center, admiring the traditional architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Buftea Palace, known for its exquisite gardens and serene lakeside views. Stop by a quaint restaurant for a light lunch and soak in the local ambiance.
Enjoy a relaxing evening by the lakeside, perfect for unwinding after your travels. You might want to dine at a local restaurant, sampling Romanian cuisine while enjoying the sunset. Conclude your day with a nice walk under the stars.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast and head to Buftea Park, a perfect spot for a morning walk. The park is known for its beautiful landscapes, offering several trails and areas to explore. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the tranquility before the day's activities begin.
After your nature stroll, indulge in a picnic lunch surrounded by the lush greens of the park. Spend some time unwinding, or perhaps rent a paddle boat to enjoy on the serene lake. Observe the local wildlife and savor the beauty of nature.
As dusk approaches, head to a nearby restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy regional dishes rich in flavor. Afterward, consider visiting a local bar or café to experience the nightlife and mingle with friendly locals. Reflect on your day while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🏨1-night in a mid-range hotel | $50-100 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍺Local beer at a bar | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Bucharest with easy day trips
- Lakeside scenery and calm pace
- Good value for money and authentic cuisine
- Friendly locals and safe neighborhoods
- Limited nightlife within Buftea itself
- Can be quiet in evenings, requiring travel to Bucharest for more activities
- Smaller healthcare facilities compared to Bucharest
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Buftea
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft light over the lake with silhouettes of fishermen and water reflections.
Historic architecture and quiet streets ideal for candid and architectural shots.
Wooded paths and seasonal flora offering framing opportunities.
Food in Buftea
Buftea Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy tripe soup seasoned with sour cream and vinegar, commonly found in traditional eateries.
Must-Try!
Cabbage rolls stuffed with pork and rice, often served with mămăligă (polenta).
Polenta topped with cheese and sour cream, a classic accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where you can buy fresh vegetables, cheeses, bread, and seasonal specialties.
Casual spots offering quick Romanian snacks like mici (grilled minced meat rolls) and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake and eye contact; greet with 'Bună ziua' (Good day) or 'Bună dimineața' (Good morning).
When visiting churches, dress modestly and remove hats indoors; speak softly in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Buftea
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is satisfactory; casual cafes may not expect it.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; ideal for city walks and cherry blossoms around the lake.
Warm days with outdoor activities; afternoons may bring thunderstorms; carry water and sunscreen.
Colorful foliage and cooler days; great for landscapes and quiet strolls.
Cold with occasional frost; some outdoor spots may be less accessible but cozy indoor dining is available.
Buftea at Night
Hiking in Buftea
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails near Buftea offering shaded paths and wildlife viewing.
Paved and dirt trails around lakes and the Snagov forest with scenic views and monastery nearby.
Airports
How to reach Buftea by plane.
Located in Otopeni, about 25-40 km from Buftea depending on route; well-connected by road and rail to Bucharest and surrounding towns.
Smaller airport serving regional and charter flights; closer to northern Bucharest; limited international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Romanian with small communities of other European residents and Roma; families and commuters are common.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Romania, with local amateur clubs and community facilities nearby.
Flat roads around the lake and countryside make for enjoyable recreational cycling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buftea.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options like mămăligă with mushrooms, seasonal vegetables, salads, and dairy dishes; ask for soured cream-free preparations or olive oil-based recipes.