A country estate shaped by the Știrbey family

The estate’s story reaches back to 1845, when the property at Buftea-Flămânzeni entered the Știrbey family’s holdings. Prince Barbu Dimitrie Știrbey began building the palace in 1850; his son Alexandru B. Știrbey completed and developed the residence. The result is an evocative example of nineteenth-century romantic architecture, with Gothic touches set within a wooded landscape.

It was a family residence and a setting for political and social life, and it is associated with visits by Queen Marie. The grounds have changed ownership and use over time. Following restoration, the palace now hosts a restaurant in its historic salons, while the estate functions as a contemporary destination for dining, cultural programming and private events. Its present-day operation means that visitor access should be confirmed directly rather than assumed.

The estate’s historic landmarks include the palace, Holy Trinity Chapel, the Anghel Saligny water tower, the gatehouse and Știrbey Park. Together they make the site more than a palace stop: it is a compact architectural and landscape ensemble.

What to see at the Știrbey estate

Știrbey Palace

Look for the palace’s romantic nineteenth-century profile and restrained Gothic details. The building has been restored and its salons are used by the estate’s à la carte restaurant. If you hope to see the interior, contact the venue first and ask whether a restaurant booking or a specific public event is required. Do not assume that dining areas or event rooms are open for casual sightseeing.

Holy Trinity Chapel

The family chapel stands near the lake at the end of the fir-lined avenue. The estate describes it as a protected historic monument, built at the end of the nineteenth century at Alexandru Știrbey’s initiative and associated with architect Theophil von Hansen. Its design blends romantic, Neo-Byzantine and Neo-Gothic elements. The chapel contains family tombs, including that of Prince Barbu Dimitrie Știrbey. As a place of worship and remembrance, it should be approached quietly; interior access may be limited.

Știrbey Park and lake

The romantic park was laid out in the second half of the nineteenth century and extends across roughly 24 hectares, according to the estate. Mature trees, long paths and water views create a calm contrast with the busy capital. The landscape is best enjoyed at an unhurried pace, but confirm that the grounds are open on your chosen date and follow any marked visitor routes.

Anghel Saligny Water Tower

In the north-eastern part of the park, the historic water tower is a reminder of the estate’s practical infrastructure. The estate attributes its 1920s design to engineer Anghel Saligny and says it supplied water to the family grounds and nearby industrial facilities. Its utilitarian purpose and monumental styling make it an unusual point of interest. View it only from permitted public areas.

The gatehouse

The gatehouse marks the historic entrance to the property. Its square brick tower and pale walls make a distinctive threshold between Buftea and the landscaped estate. It is an atmospheric detail to notice on arrival, subject to the current access route.

How to plan a visit

Check access first. The estate’s official website currently presents the palace restaurant, park and historic landmarks as part of a working venue and promotes visits, dining and events. Availability can differ by day and event schedule. Before setting out, use the official contact page to confirm whether individual visitors can enter, which areas are open, whether a booking is required, and any fees, opening hours or photography rules. Contact details and arrangements can change.

Location: Strada Știrbei Vodă 36, Buftea, Ilfov County. The official visitor information lists a customer-parking entrance on Strada Eroilor 29; verify that this entrance is available for your visit.

From Bucharest: The estate is approximately 20 km from the capital by road. The official site lists approaches via DN1A through Mogoșoaia, DN7 through Chitila, or DN1 via Corbeanca. Travel times depend heavily on traffic, so allow extra time.

Public transport: The venue lists buses 436, 462 and 466, with the “Tribunal Buftea” stop about two minutes’ walk away. Buftea railway station is the nearest train station; the official page estimates around a 20-minute walk from the station to the estate. Check current routes, timetables and service changes before travel.

How long to allow: Set aside two to three hours if access is confirmed and you plan to explore the grounds and landmarks; allow longer if you have a restaurant booking or attend an event. If access is restricted, enjoy the surroundings only where legally and safely permitted.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes for park paths, weather-appropriate clothing and a charged phone for transport and booking details. Ask in advance about step-free access and facilities if needed; historic buildings and park paths may present uneven surfaces or steps.

Respect the venue: This is a managed estate with restaurant and event operations, not an unrestricted public park. Stay on authorised paths, respect ceremonies and private functions, and follow staff instructions. Do not enter closed buildings or grounds.

Places to combine with Buftea

For another historic estate north-west of Bucharest, pair Buftea with Mogoșoaia Palace, known for its Brâncovenesc architecture and lakeside setting. With an early start and current access confirmed, you could also plan a separate excursion to Snagov Monastery; it is a distinct destination and should not be treated as a quick walk from Buftea.

Browse our Romania destinations directory for more places to plan your trip. Accommodation, tour and transport recommendations can be added when suitable approved partners are available.

Official information and sources

• Domeniul Știrbey Vodă: historic landmarks — palace, chapel, water tower and park descriptions.
• Domeniul Știrbey Vodă: contact and access information — address, transport and current enquiry details.

Visitor information checked in October 2026. Opening, access, transport services and event arrangements can change; confirm directly with the estate before travelling.