Buzău Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, cultural attractions, hiking and biking routes, and local food scene of Buzău, Romania with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Buzău

Buzău is a city in the Wallachian Plain region of Muntenia, Romania, located in the Balkans in Europe. It is a fascinating destination for travelers who want to explore the beautiful landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures of Romania. The city is surrounded by mountains, forests, and rivers, making it a great place for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Buzău

Here is a list of the must-see attractions in Buzău:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Buzău County Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Buzău and its surrounding areas, including archaeological artifacts, traditional costumes, and old photographs.

  • The Royal Court: A historical site that dates back to the 15th century, which was the residence of the Walachian princes. It features a tower and a chapel, and it is surrounded by gardens and orchards.

  • Ciolanu Monastery: A monastery that was built in the 16th century and features traditional Byzantine-style architecture. It is located in a scenic area surrounded by forests and is a popular destination for people who want to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Natural Attractions of Buzău: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Buzău Mountains: The mountains surrounding the city offer numerous hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and camping opportunities. The scenery is breathtaking, with forested slopes, meadows, and streams.

  • Colțea Cliff: A natural landmark that offers scenic views of the Buzău River and the surrounding mountains.

  • Vulturul Carpathian Natural Park: A protected area that preserves the traditional Carpathian flora and fauna. It is a great destination for hiking, wildlife watching, and nature photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Buzău

Buzău is a popular destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Buzău Mountains Hiking Route: This hiking route takes you through the beautiful landscape of Buzău Mountains, passing through forests, meadows, and mountain streams. It is a challenging route, but it is worth the effort.

  • Buzău Biking Route: This biking route takes you through the city and the surrounding countryside, passing through quaint villages, vineyards, and orchards. It is a great way to explore the local culture and enjoy the beautiful landscape.

Best Things to Do in Buzău: Activities and Tours

There are several fun activities and tours you can do in Buzău:

  • Wine Tasting Tour: Buzău is a famous wine-producing region, and there are several vineyards and wineries you can visit to taste the local wines.

  • Traditional Crafts Tour: Buzău is also known for its traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. You can take a tour of local workshops to learn about these crafts and even try your hand at making something yourself.

  • Hot Air Balloon Tour: One of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful landscape of Buzău is from the air. You can take a hot air balloon tour to admire the mountains, forests, and rivers from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Buzău

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in Buzău:

Day 1: Explore the city center, visit the County Museum, and have dinner at a traditional Romanian restaurant.

Day 2: Hike in Buzău Mountains and have a picnic in a scenic location.

Day 3: Visit Ciolanu Monastery and enjoy the beautiful scenery around it.

Day 4: Take a wine-tasting tour of the local vineyards and wineries.

Day 5: Spend the day relaxing in Vulturul Carpathian Natural Park or take a hot air balloon tour of the area.

Day 6: Visit the Royal Court and enjoy a traditional Romanian meal in one of the nearby restaurants.

Day 7: Take a craft tour of the city and learn about traditional Romanian crafts.

Food and Drink Scene of Buzău

Buzău is known for its traditional Romanian cuisine, which includes hearty meat dishes, flavorful soups, and delicious desserts. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sarmale: A traditional Romanian dish made of cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices.

  • Mici: Small grilled meat rolls made of beef, lamb, or pork, served with mustard and bread.

  • Ciorbă de burtă: A sour soup made of beef tripe, vegetables, and sour cream.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Buzău is a famous wine-producing region, and there are several local wineries that produce high-quality wines, such as Fetească Neagră, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

  • Tuică: A traditional Romanian fruit brandy made of plums or other fruits. It has a strong flavor and is usually served as a digestive after a meal.

Where to Stay in Buzău: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Buzău offers several accommodation options for travelers, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Hotel Buzău City: A modern hotel located in the city center, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.

  • Pensiunea Verde: A guesthouse located in a scenic area surrounded by forests and mountains, offering cozy rooms and a traditional Romanian restaurant.

  • Hostel Humor: A budget-friendly hostel located in the city center, offering shared and private rooms, a common kitchen, and a lounge area.

What to Buy in Buzău: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Buzău offers several souvenirs and local products that you can bring home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some of the best options:

  • Pottery: Buzău is famous for its traditional pottery, which is handmade and decorated with traditional motifs.

  • Honey: Buzău is a great place to buy high-quality honey made from local flowers and herbs.

  • Wine: Buzău’s wineries produce high-quality wines that you can bring home as a gift or for your personal collection.

Local Culture and Customs of Buzău

Romania has a rich cultural heritage, and Buzău is no exception. Here are some of the local customs and traditions you should know:

  • Romanian Orthodox Church: The majority of the population in Buzău is part of the Romanian Orthodox Church, which is an important part of the local culture.

  • Traditional Festivals: Buzău hosts several traditional festivals throughout the year, such as the Buzău City Days and the Buzău Wine Festival.

Best Time to Visit Buzău

The best time to visit Buzău is between May and October, when the weather is mild, and the outdoor activities are at their best. The peak season is in July and August, so if you want to avoid the crowds, you should plan your trip outside of these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Buzău

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts you should keep in mind when visiting Buzău:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local food and wine.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Romanian.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting churches or monasteries.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Use offensive language or gestures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Buzău

Buzău is a relatively safe city for travelers, but it is always a good idea to take precautions to avoid petty theft and pickpocketing. You should also be careful when hiking or biking in the mountains and follow the safety guidelines.

Health in Buzău

Buzău has several medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Travelers should be up-to-date on their routine vaccinations and consult their doctor before traveling to Romania.

Getting to Buzău: Transportation Options and Logistics

Buzău is located about 140 km (87 miles) north of Bucharest, the capital of Romania. Here are some transportation options to reach Buzău:

Airports Near Buzău

The closest airport to Buzău is Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest, which is about 125 km (78 miles) away.

Bus Stations Near Buzău

There are several bus stations in Bucharest that offer direct routes to Buzău, such as the Bucharest Autogara Obor and the Bucharest Autogara Militari.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or take a taxi from Bucharest to Buzău, which takes about two hours.

How to Get Around in Buzău

Buzău is a small city, and most of the attractions are within walking distance from the city center. You can also take a taxi or a bus to reach the more distant locations.

Where to Go Next from Buzău: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Buzău is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding areas of Romania. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Brasov: A beautiful medieval city located in the Carpathian Mountains, which is a great destination for hiking, skiing, and exploring the local culture.

  • Prahova Valley: A scenic valley located about 50 km (31 miles) north of Buzău, which offers numerous hiking trails, biking routes, and skiing opportunities.

Conclusion

Buzău is a hidden gem in Romania, offering travelers an authentic glimpse into the country’s culture, heritage, and natural beauty. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Buzău has something to offer for everyone. We hope that this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to plan your next adventure in Buzău.