Things To Do
in Balş
Balş is a charming town located in the Olt County of Romania. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant cultural scene. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
Balş is also home to several parks, museums, and traditional restaurants where tourists can experience the authentic Romanian culture.
- "Bună ziua" - Good afternoon
- "Ce mai faci?" - How are you?
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Te rog" - Please
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.60 - $1.20
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Balş Castle, a beautiful structure that showcases the region's history. Don’t forget to take a stroll in the surrounding park to enjoy the fresh air.
Head to the local market to experience Romanian culture and taste some delicious traditional foods. Afterward, take a short walk along the Olt River for some scenic views.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant where you can savor regional dishes. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk around Balş to soak in the evening atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a hike in the nearby forests, exploring the natural beauty and wildlife. Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
After your hike, visit the local museum to learn about Balş’s heritage and history. Interact with local guides to get insider tips on the best spots in the area.
Relish dinner at an outdoor café while enjoying the cool evening breeze. Spend the night reflecting on the day's adventures under the starry sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Beautiful natural landscapes and surroundings
- Friendly and welcoming community
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Access to local festivals and traditions
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Potential language barrier for non-Romanian speakers
- Infrastructure may be less developed than in larger cities
- Public transport options can be limited
- Access to certain amenities and services may be restricted
Best Activities in Balş
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of the Apuseni Mountains, known for their stunning landscapes, caves, and diverse flora and fauna.
Discover the stunning Răchițele Waterfall, a picturesque natural site ideal for photography and enjoying nature.
Enjoy cycling through the scenic rural areas surrounding Balş, taking in the views of fields, forests, and traditional Romanian villages.
Try your hand at fishing in the Olt River, known for its diverse fish species and tranquil environment.
Camp near Lake Brădișor, where you can enjoy various outdoor activities such as swimming, paddle boating, or simply relaxing by the water.
Places to Visit in Balş
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning underground views and unique photo opportunities.
Provides beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Boasts picturesque architecture and a serene setting for photography.
Food in Balş
Balş Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Also known as 'mititei', these are grilled ground meat rolls, typically made from a blend of beef, lamb, and pork, seasoned with a mix of spices. These can be found at traditional local markets and specialized grill restaurants like 'La Piaţă' and 'La Mititelu'.
Must-Try!
Sarmale are cabbage rolls filled with a savory mix of minced meat, rice, and herbs, often accompanied by sour cream. These are commonly served in family-run eateries such as 'Restaurant Casa Ardeleană' and 'Hanul Haiducilor'.
Papanași are a beloved Romanian dessert consisting of fried or boiled dough, topped with sour cream and jam. For an authentic taste, visit pastry shops like 'Dolce Vita' and 'Patiseria La Carmen'.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling food market is a treasure trove of local produce, meats, dairy, and artisanal goods. Visitors can sample freshly baked bread, pickles, and a variety of street food snacks like covrigi (pretzels) and langos (deep-fried dough).
Street food enthusiasts can explore this vibrant area lined with stalls and food vendors offering an array of ready-to-eat delights such as mici, grilled corn, crepes, and kürtőskalács (chimney cake) – perfect for a quick and flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Balş, it is customary to greet with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Using titles such as 'Domnul' for Mr. and 'Doamna' for Mrs. followed by their last name is a sign of respect.
If invited to someone's home for a meal, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or sweets. Wait for the host to indicate when to start eating, and it is considered respectful to keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.
In Balş, dressing neatly and appropriately is important, especially during social gatherings and formal occasions. Conservative attire is preferred, and showing excessive skin in public or formal settings may be viewed as disrespectful.
Safety
Tipping in Balş
Ensure a smooth experience
In Balş, Romania, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is generally expected to give a tip of around 10% of the total bill in restaurants and cafés. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or adding a small amount is appreciated. Tipping is seen as a way to express gratitude for good service.
Payment methods in Balş typically include cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Most establishments accept cards, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller shops or markets. Mobile payment options are also gaining popularity, but traditional methods remain widely used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
Enjoy beautiful fall foliage and harvest festivals.
Opportunity for winter sports and experiencing traditional holiday markets.
Balş at Night
Hiking in Balş
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent peak offering scenic views, suitable for experienced hikers looking for a challenging trek.
A forested area near Balş with well-marked trails, perfect for casual hikers and nature walks.
A gorge offering breathtaking landscapes and various hiking routes, ideal for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
A national park featuring rich biodiversity, with numerous trails that cater to different skill levels, including some challenging routes.
A mountain with diverse trails and stunning views of the Olt River, great for a day hike.
Aiports
How to reach Balş by plane.
Located in Otopeni, approximately 50 kilometers from Balş, it is the main international airport serving Bucharest, Romania.
Located in Timișoara, about 150 kilometers from Balş, it serves as a hub for flights to various European destinations.
Located in Cluj-Napoca, around 180 kilometers from Balş, it is one of the busiest airports in Romania.
Located in Iași, roughly 350 kilometers from Balş, it is a key airport serving the northeastern region of Romania.
Located in Sibiu, about 190 kilometers from Balş, it handles both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Balş, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A notable minority group in Balş, part of Romania's diverse ethnic composition.
An ethnic group present in Balş, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Includes various smaller communities that contribute to the town's demographics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Balş, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball has a growing popularity among the youth in Balş, with several teams participating in local leagues.
Handball is also practiced in Balş, with local clubs and competitions attracting many players and fans.
Volleyball enjoys popularity, especially among schools and community sports events.
Running and athletics are popular among locals, with various events held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balş.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Romanian cuisine leans heavily on meat-based dishes, many restaurants in Balş are adapting to dietary preferences. Look for eateries that offer alternatives like stuffed bell peppers, grilled vegetables, polenta, and various dairy-free and plant-based options to accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free dishes like grilled fish, salads, traditional bean stews, and specific gluten-free desserts in some local restaurants and cafes. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs to ensure the best dining experience.