Things To Do
in Balş
Balș is a small town in southern Romania situated along the Olt River. It blends agricultural traditions with a compact, walkable town center and a friendly, relaxed pace. The town features a few historic churches, a leafy park, and local markets that showcase rural life.
The surrounding Getic Plateau countryside offers easy day trips to nearby villages and scenic viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historical center of Balş, where you can admire the architecture of the old buildings and enjoy a coffee in a local café. Take a leisurely stroll through the main square and soak in the vibrant atmosphere, filled with local vendors and artisans. Don't forget to take photos of the beautiful landmarks that reflect the town's rich heritage.
After a quick lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to the Balş Museum to delve into the town's history and culture. The museum offers intriguing exhibits that showcase the traditional arts and crafts of the region. Spend some time walking through the picturesque streets of Balş, exploring hidden gems and enjoying the local art.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy restaurant to savor traditional Romanian cuisine. Try the mămăligă and sarmale while enjoying the vibrant local nightlife. Wrap up the evening with a leisurely walk by the river, taking in the serene beauty of the surroundings.
Kick off your day by hiking in the nearby forests of Balş, where the fresh air and beautiful scenery provide a refreshing escape. Look out for local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature as you explore the trails. A packed breakfast can be enjoyed amidst the natural beauty, making it a perfect start.
After your morning hike, have a picnic in a scenic spot, enjoying local delicacies while surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby lakes where you can take part in activities like kayaking or fishing. The peaceful ambiance allows for relaxation and a connection with the picturesque environment.
As dusk falls, return to Balş and dine at an outdoor terrace restaurant, basking in the warm evening atmosphere. Sample local wines paired with a variety of dishes while sharing stories of your adventures. End the night with a visit to a local bar for some traditional folk music to really immerse yourself in the culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥖Local bread or groceries | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Basic hotel room (per night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, small-town Romanian experience
- Walkable town center with market life and parks
- Gateway to rural scenery and easy day trips
- Affordable prices and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Public transport can be infrequent outside town center
- Fewer tourist services compared to larger cities
- Some services may have limited English-speaking staff
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "CâtCostă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ajutor" - Help
- "Nu înțeleg" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Balş
Visit one of these nice places.
Aphotogenic mix of the historic church spire, colorful market activity, and surrounding buildings in the town center.
Riverside paths and open views at sunset, with reflections on the water and calm rural backdrops.
A leafy oasis with mature trees, paths, and quiet corners ideal for portrait and nature photography.
Food in Balş
Balş Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cabbage leaves stuffed with seasoned minced pork and rice, often served with polenta and sour cream at traditional eateries.
Must-Try!
Cornmeal porridge (polenta) topped with salty cheese and a dollop of sour cream; a classic accompaniment to stews and grilled meat.
A sour tripe soup that is a regional staple for many locals, typically enjoyed with garlic and vinegar on the side.
Grilled spiced minced-meat rolls, often served with mustard and bread, popular as street or casual restaurant fare.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, dairy, bread, and seasonal specialties from nearby farms.
Casual stalls in the town center offering grilled meats, mici, and quick Romanian snacks ideal for a quick lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with direct eye contact is common when meeting someone; greet elders with a respectful tone and address using formal language.
Polite language, modest behavior, and a calm, friendly demeanor are valued in social settings; remove hats indoors and avoid loud discussions in quiet venues.
Accept invitations graciously, wait for everyone to be served before eating, and say thank you (multumesc) after meals.
Safety
Tipping in Balş
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but modest in Balș. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a tip of about 5-10% is common if service is good. In cafes, small tips or rounding up the change are appreciated.
Cash in Romanian lei (RON) is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller shops. Cards are increasingly accepted in larger restaurants and some shops, with contactless payments becoming common. ATMs are available in town, and many places also accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming fields make walking pleasant; expect frequent showers and fresh, green landscapes.
Warm to hot days; bring sun protection and water for outdoor exploration; occasional thunderstorms in the late afternoon.
Harvest season brings rich colors; comfortable temperatures and quieter streets, great for photography and leisurely strolls.
Cold with potential frosts and occasional snow; some outdoor activities may be limited, but indoor cultural sites are cozy and inviting.
Balş at Night
Hiking in Balş
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, easy trail along the river with fields and occasional woodland, suitable for a gentle morning hike.
A moderate loop through rolling hills northwest of town, offering viewpoints over farmland and distant ridges.
A short hike to a lookout point on the Getic Plateau, providing expansive countryside panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Balş by plane.
The closest major airport, about 75-100 km north; long-distance connections and domestic flights available.
Major hub about 250-260 km northeast; many international and domestic options.
Approximately 180-210 km north; regional flights and connections to many cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Romanian with small Roma communities in some neighborhoods.
Orthodox Christianity is the main faith; several churches serve the community.
A mix of families, working-age adults, and a growing number of retirees in the town and surrounding villages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular team and recreational sport in the region; local matches and clubs are common.
Used in school and community clubs; casual courts and local leagues exist.
Common in parks and recreation centers; suitable for families and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balş.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include dairy-rich dishes, bean or lentil stews, grilled vegetables, and polenta with cheese. Many restaurants can adapt meals by substituting meat with vegetables or cheese; ask for soups, salads, and side dishes without meat.