Buzău
România
Explore the Untamed Beauty of Buzău County
Nestled in the southeastern Carpathians, Buzău County is a Romanian gem where wild nature meets fascinating history. The region is renowned for its volcanic landscapes, including the famous Berca Mud Volcanoes, and sweeping hills lined with vineyards producing some of Romania’s best wines. From the picturesque city of Buzău to rural villages, visitors are treated to a mosaic of monasteries, ancient forests, and unique geological wonders. Culturally, Buzău is a crossroads of tradition and folklore, where age-old crafts are still practiced and local festivals bring communities together. The area’s remote mountain settlements, such as those in the Siriu Mountains, preserve customs and wood-carving arts passed down through generations. Whether you're an outdoor adventurer or a seeker of authenticity, Buzău offers a rewarding escape into Romania’s lesser-known heartland.
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Safety
Buzău is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of crime and welcoming locals. Take standard precautions in urban areas and exercise care when hiking or exploring remote natural sites.
Visas
Buzău follows Romanian visa policies; EU citizens may enter visa-free, while others may need to apply for a Schengen visa depending on their nationality.
Customs regulations
Respect local customs by greeting people politely and dressing modestly, especially when visiting churches or monasteries. Tipping is customary in restaurants (around 10%). Always ask permission before photographing people in rural villages.
Prices
Travel in Buzău is budget-friendly, with affordable guesthouses, local bistros, and public transport. Expect lower prices than in larger Romanian cities, especially for accommodation and meals in rural areas.
People and nationalities
Buzău’s population is predominantly Romanian, with vibrant rural communities known for their hospitality and strong traditions. Folk music, dance, and religious festivals are important cultural events, especially in villages.
Weather
Buzău experiences a temperate-continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May–September) for pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Winters can be harsh in mountainous areas, making them suitable for snow sports.
Health
Buzău has hospitals and pharmacies in the city and larger towns, but medical facilities are limited in remote areas. Bring any necessary medications and consider travel insurance.
Food
Babic de Buzău
A spicy, smoked sausage made from pork and beef, seasoned with paprika and garlic, traditionally prepared by local butchers and enjoyed as a cold appetizer or snack.
Piftie
A savory pork jelly made from boiled pork shank, garlic, and spices, cooled until set and served cold, especially popular during winter holidays.
Covrig de Buzău
A distinctive pretzel-shaped bread, crispy on the outside and soft inside, often sprinkled with poppy or sesame seeds and sold at bakeries throughout the county.
Plăcintă cu brânză
A baked pastry filled with salty local cheese, sometimes sweetened and flavored with dill or raisins, commonly found at local markets and fairs.
Sarmale
Cabbage rolls filled with minced pork, rice, and herbs, slowly simmered in tomato sauce, a staple at family gatherings and festive occasions in Buzău.
Transport
Regional trains
Regular trains connect Buzău city with Bucharest and other major towns, making rail travel convenient for intercity journeys.
Bus and minibus network
Local and regional buses link Buzău city with surrounding villages and attractions, though schedules can be limited, especially in remote areas.
Car rental
Renting a car provides flexibility to explore the countryside, mountain areas, and natural sites not easily reached by public transport.
Taxi services
Taxis are available in Buzău city and can be used for short trips or transfers to nearby towns and attractions.
Regions
Alba
Department
DetailArad
Department
DetailArgeş
Department
DetailBacău
Department
DetailBihor
Department
DetailBistriţa-Năsăud
Department
DetailBotoşani
Department
DetailBrăila
Department
DetailBraşov
Department
DetailBucureşti
Municipality
DetailBuzău
Department
DetailCălăraşi
Department
DetailCaraş-Severin
Department
DetailCluj
Department
DetailConstanţa
Department
DetailCovasna
Department
DetailDâmboviţa
Department
DetailDolj
Department
DetailGalaţi
Department
DetailGiurgiu
Department
DetailGorj
Department
DetailHarghita
Department
DetailHunedoara
Department
DetailIalomiţa
Department
DetailIaşi
Department
DetailIlfov
Department
DetailMaramureş
Department
DetailMehedinţi
Department
DetailMureş
Department
DetailNeamţ
Department
DetailOlt
Department
DetailPrahova
Department
DetailSălaj
Department
DetailSatu Mare
Department
DetailSibiu
Department
DetailSuceava
Department
DetailTeleorman
Department
DetailTimiş
Department
DetailTulcea
Department
DetailVâlcea
Department
DetailVaslui
Department
DetailVrancea
Department
DetailNord-Vest
DetailNord-Est
DetailSud-Est
DetailSud-Muntenia
DetailSud-Vest Oltenia
DetailVest
DetailCentru
DetailBucurești-Ilfov
DetailWhat to visit?
History
Geto-Dacian tribes established settlements in the Buzău area, leaving behind archaeological traces and burial mounds.
The region was affected by the migration of the Goths, marking the beginning of the great migrations through the Carpathians.
Buzău is first documented as an important market town, serving as a trade link between Transylvania and Wallachia.
Buzău played a role in Michael the Brave’s short-lived union of Romanian principalities, providing resources and troops.
The city of Buzău became the capital of Buzău County under the Wallachian administrative reform.
Railway links reached Buzău, connecting it more closely to Bucharest and the Black Sea, spurring economic growth.
A major earthquake struck the Vrancea region, affecting Buzău and prompting improvements in disaster preparedness.
The Berca Mud Volcanoes were declared a protected natural reserve, highlighting Buzău’s unique geological heritage.
Activities
Visit the Berca Mud Volcanoes
Explore the otherworldly landscape of bubbling mud and lunar-like terrain at this famous natural reserve, a must-see geological attraction.
Wine Tasting in Dealu Mare
Tour the renowned vineyards of Dealu Mare, sample award-winning Romanian wines, and learn about local winemaking traditions.
Hiking in the Siriu Mountains
Trek scenic trails through dense forests and rocky peaks, discovering waterfalls, wildlife, and panoramic views over Buzău.
Explore Ciolanu Monastery
Visit this historic 16th-century Orthodox monastery, surrounded by peaceful woods and known for its impressive frescoes and wood-carvings.
Discover the Living Fires of Lopătari
Witness the mysterious 'focurile vii,' natural gas flames that emerge from the ground near Lopătari village, a rare and intriguing natural wonder.