Ilfov
Ilfov is a STATE in Romania, Europe.
Ilfov County, the leafy green belt encircling Romania’s bustling capital Bucharest, offers a refreshing blend of rural tranquility and historic intrigue just minutes from city energy. This compact region is dotted with serene lakes like Snagov—where Vlad the Impaler is said to be entombed at the island monastery—and Mogoșoaia Palace, a stunning 17th-century Brâncovenesc architectural gem set in manicured gardens. Cycle through ancient forests in Băneasa, explore the ethnographic charm of the Village Museum’s open-air exhibits, or unwind at Therme București, one of Europe’s largest wellness and spa complexes. Ilfov’s rolling countryside reveals picturesque villages, wineries, and farm-to-table restaurants serving hearty Romanian cuisine. It’s an ideal base for day-trippers who want to pair Bucharest’s vibrant nightlife and cultural scene with peaceful lakeside retreats and authentic rural experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or family seeking a laid-back escape, Ilfov’s proximity to the capital and its rich cultural tapestry make it a surprisingly versatile destination.
Best time to visit Ilfov
Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists than peak summer. Summers are hot and lively, ideal for lake activities, while winters bring a festive charm with Christmas markets but can be cold and snowy.
October
NowTypical for October
- Weather
- Cool 7 to 17°C, crisp days
Travel notes
- Crowds
- Low
- Prices
- Low
Fall foliage, atmospheric visits to palaces
Know before you go
Getting there
Henri Coandă International Airport
International
0 km away
Bucharest Băneasa Airport
Domestic
0 km away
Getting around
Stay connected
WiFi speed
32 Mbps
Mobile data
Good
WiFi
Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces
Local SIM
Local SIM available at OTP airport from $5
Stay safe
Overall
8/10Watch for taxi overcharging and pickpocketing near crowded bus/train stations.
Night safety
7/10Watch for taxi overcharging and pickpocketing near crowded bus/train stations.
Transport
8/10Scam risk
6/10Entry and health
Health information
Culture
Local customs
Costs and practicals
Cost level
Meals
Hotels
Local transport
Cost notes
Timezone
Local time 20:00
More facts
Population
542,000
ISO code
RO-43
Frequently Asked Questions
Also known as: Cetatea Voluntareasca, Cetatea Voluntărească, Parcu Voluntarilor, Stefanestii Noi, Stefăneştii Noi, Voluntari, Волунтари, Илфов, RO-IF

