Things To Do
in Buzău
Buzău is a historic city in southern Romania that sits along the Buzău River, blending industrial heritage with green spaces. It serves as a gateway to the Buzaului Mountains and nearby natural wonders such as limestone gorges and caves. The city’s compact center is walkable, with parks, markets, and a relaxed pace that invites thoughtful exploration.
Visitors can enjoy traditional cuisine, local markets, and easy day trips to the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Buzău City Hall, a stunning architectural gem that showcases the city's rich history. Take a leisurely stroll along the nearby streets, admiring the blend of traditional and modern buildings. Don’t forget to stop by the local bakery for a taste of freshly baked 'cozonac', a traditional Romanian sweet bread.
After lunch at a quaint bistro, spend your afternoon exploring the Buzău Museum, where you can learn about the region's prehistoric artifacts and local culture. Next, make your way to the beautiful St. Nicholas Church, renowned for its intricate frescoes. Enjoy some time in the nearby park, soaking in the serene atmosphere and perhaps enjoying a book.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor traditional Romanian dishes like 'sarmale' and 'mămăligă'. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the Buzău River, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and reflections of the city lights on the water. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local café for a warm cup of 'cafea românească', a true Romanian coffee experience.
Begin your day with an early breakfast at your hotel, then set off towards the scenic Buzău Mountains for a day of hiking. The fresh mountain air will invigorate you as you traverse well-marked trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique flora as you embark on this adventure.
After a few hours of hiking, take a break at a picturesque spot for a packed lunch, surrounded by nature's beauty. Post-lunch, explore the stunning geological formations known as the 'Buzău Mud Volcanoes', a fascinating natural phenomenon that you won't want to miss. Capture some memorable photos of this otherworldly landscape before continuing your exploration.
Return to Buzău in the evening, where you can unwind at a local tavern, enjoying hearty Romanian dishes. Engage in conversation with locals who might share stories about the mountains and their adventures. As the night settles in, take a leisurely stroll through the city center, experiencing the vibrant nightlife and perhaps enjoying some live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚆Public transport (one ride) | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🧀Local cheese and groceries | $3-6 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture in the city center
- Gateway to the Buzaului Mountains with easy day trips
- Affordable lodging and meals
- Relaxed pace ideal for slow travel
- Limited international flight access nearby
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Fewer high-end dining options in some areas
- Public transport outside the city can be limited
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mă poate ajutați?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Buzău
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic urban park by the Buzău River with lakes, tree-lined paths, and reflective shots at sunrise or golden hour.
Historic facades, churches, and the riverwalk offer charming street photography opportunities.
Walkways along the river create opportunities for sunset silhouettes and people-scene photography.
Limestone cliffs and dramatic landscapes just outside the city make for dramatic landscape shots.
Food in Buzău
Buzău Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cabbage rolls filled with seasoned pork or beef, served with polenta and sour cream.
Must-Try!
Hearty pork stew often served with mămăligă and a fried egg on top.
Sour tripe soup flavored with vinegar and garlic, a Romanian comfort classic.
Mămăligă topped with salty cheese and sour cream, a staple accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, preserves, and street snacks.
Casual spots for quick bites like traditional soups, pastries, and grilled skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with eye contact; greet with 'Bună ziua' (Good day) or 'Bună seara' (Good evening).
Dress neatly when visiting religious sites; wait for the host to start in homes; it’s polite to say 'Poftă bună' before meals.
Be punctual for arranged meetings; avoid overly loud conversations in quiet public places.
Safety
Tipping in Buzău
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest: 5-10% for good service in restaurants; rounding up bills at cafes is common. Cash and cards are widely accepted in most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot, sunny days with occasional thunderstorms; carry water and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; a great time for hikes and outdoor photography in forested areas.
Cold weather with possible snowfall; dress in layers, some outdoor trails may be icy, indoor attractions are popular.
Warmer days with blooming trees and spreading greenery; ideal for market visits and park strolls.
Buzău at Night
Hiking in Buzău
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic limestone cliffs and forested trails just outside Buzău, ideal for day hikes and photography.
Scenic ridges and forest trails offering panoramic views and easy to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Buzău by plane.
Bucharest’s main international gateway; about a 100–150 km drive/train ride from Buzău depending on route.
Relatively close by car/train; serves regional flights and connects to major hubs.
Constanța airport on the coast; further away but reachable for longer trips; good to combine with a southern Romania visit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The vast majority of residents with a smaller Roma community and other minorities.
A portion of the population includes university students and workers who commute for work and study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and clubs provide community sports events.
Common in schools and local clubs; community leagues and occasional matches.
Public courts and clubs offer amateur play and lessons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buzău.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Buzău, vegetarian options exist in most cafes and some restaurants; ask for mămăligă, cheese plates, bean dishes, or vegetable stews; many places can adapt meat dishes to be meat-free.