Things to do in Prahova Valley
Discover the best attractions and experiences Prahova Valley has to offer
Historic Monuments
Prahova Valley is home to royal palaces and mountain-set estates that reflect Romania's hushed aristocratic era.
Peleș Castle
A royal, Neo-Renaissance palace near Sinaia, famed for its lavish interiors and mountain backdrop.
Cantacuzino Castle
A picturesque early 20th-century castle in Bușteni with elegant architecture and scenic views.
Pelișor Palace
A smaller royal residence adjacent to Peleș, known for its ornate interiors and royal history.
Museums
Quiet chambers and family-era halls capture local lore and royal heritage of the Prahova Valley.
Peleș Castle Museum
The palace houses a museum collection of royal furnishings and period rooms.
Muzeul Orașului Sinaia (Sinaia Town Museum)
Exhibits on local history, culture, and the development of the valley.
Cantacuzino Castle Museum
Art and period furnishings within the castle, reflecting early 20th-century aristocracy.
Religious Monuments
Historic churches and monasteries dot the valley, offering a sense of spiritual history amid the mountains.
Sinaia Monastery
A historic Orthodox monastery founded in 1695, set among pine forests above Sinaia.
Bran Church ( Bran area)
A traditional church forming part of the Bran region’s medieval religious heritage.
National & Theme Parks
Majestic peaks, alpine meadows and famous rock formations define the region’s natural parks and landscapes.
Bucegi National Park
Carpathian parkland home to alpine meadows, Sphinx and Babele rock formations.
Sphinx of Bucegi
Iconic limestone rock formation in the Bucegi Mountains, a hallmark of the plateau.
Babele rock formations
Distinctive weathered rocks and ancient-looking formations on the Bucegi plateau.
Neighborhoods
The valley is stitched together by charming towns and resort centers, each with its own mountain character.
Sinaia
Elegant resort town with royal palaces, parks and a walkable center.
Bușteni
Gateway to the Bucegi Mountains, with mountain views and outdoor trails.
Azuga
Small town known for wine and alpine scenery between slopes.
Predeal
High-altitude village offering scenic panoramas and easy access to trails.
Free Things to Do
Many of the valley’s natural experiences are free and accessible for great outdoor days.
Hike to Sphinx and Babele (Bucegi plateau)
A classic Bucegi hike with sweeping views and unique rock formations.
Picnic by Bolboci Lake
Relaxing lakeside spots with easy trails and forest views.
Promenade along Sinaia lakes and parks
Stroll through pine-scented gardens and lakeside paths in Sinaia.
Scenic drive along DN1A (Prahova Valley road)
Curve-laden routes with viewpoints over the valley.
Gastronomy
Mountain cuisine celebrates hearty, rustic flavors and simple ingredients from the region.
Bulz (cornmeal with cheese)
A mountain staple, baked until the cheese stretches and the edges crisp.
Păstrăv afumat (smoked trout)
Smoked trout from local streams, served with rustic sides.
Papanași
Fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam, a sweet mountain treat.
Nightlife
Evenings in the valley combine historic venues and cozy pubs with mountain character.
Casino Sinaia
Historic venue offering occasional performances and a refined evening ambiance.
Evening stroll through Sinaia’s center
Casual night walks along tree-lined streets with cafes and views.
Entertainment
Indoor and outdoor activities add variety to mountain holidays, from cable cars to stage venues.
Telecabina Sinaia (cable car to the Cota 1400 area)
Scenic ascent providing panoramic valley views.
Skiing in Sinaia and Bușteni
Winter slopes for beginners and experienced skiers alike.
Evening events at mountain inns (folk music nights)
Rustic evenings with traditional songs and warmth.
Sports
Active travelers can hit the slopes, trails, and lookout points across the valley.
Skiing and Snowboarding in Sinaia
Well-developed slopes ideal for family-friendly winter sports.
Hiking and mountaineering in Bucegi Mountains
Seasonal trails ranging from easy walks to high-altitude climbs.
Snowshoeing in Bucegi
Scenic winter treks across snowy plateaus and forests.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the obvious with scenic routes and lesser-known viewpoints.
TransBucegi scenic route (Bușteni to the plateau)
A panoramic mountain drive with photo-worthy stops.
Bolboci region exploration
Less crowded trails and lake scenery off the main routes.
Sinaia’s hidden viewpoints over the town and valley
Quiet overlooks offering surprising angles on the mountains.