Things To Do
in Balş

Balş is a charming town located in Romania's Olt County, known for its rich history and beautiful countryside. It is a small yet vibrant community, where traditional Romanian culture thrives alongside modern influences. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the residents.

The surrounding natural beauty offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Balş
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Balş Monastery, a serene place of worship with beautiful architecture.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce and homemade goods.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Romanian restaurant and enjoy live folk music performances.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a half-day trip to the nearby Sarbatoarea Hill for panoramic views and a peaceful hike.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about Balş's history and cultural heritage.

evening
:

Relax at a local café and enjoy a dessert while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$8
Coffee$2
🚍Public Transport Ticket$1
🍺Local Beer$3
🛒Grocery Shopping$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • Language barrier for non-Romanian speakers
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Balş

Visit one of these nice places.

Balş Monastery

A stunning architectural landmark surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing serene moments.

Sarbatoarea Hill

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside, ideal for sunset photography.

Local Market

A vibrant setting filled with colorful stalls, people, and local produce, great for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Balş

Balş offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Romanian dishes and modern flavors.

Balş Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

Cornmeal porridge often served as a side dish, similar to polenta.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Balş Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Balş experiences a temperate-continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winters can be quite cold, averaging -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Spring and autumn are mild and beautiful, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches and religious sites.

Respect for Tradition

Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Balş is generally a safe town, but standard precautions should be observed. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas, and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. It's also wise to stay informed about local emergency contacts and procedures.

Tipping in Balş

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes if service is satisfactory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in most establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to explore outdoor attractions.

Summer

Warm weather invites plenty of outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

The changing leaves create stunning landscapes, and it's an excellent time for hiking and outdoor photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures can be expected, with the possibility of snow, perfect for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Balş at Night

Balş has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few bars and cafes where locals gather to socialize. While not bustling like larger cities, you can find live music on weekends and enjoy a drink with friends in a casual setting. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to mingle with locals.

Hiking in Balş

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerna Valley Trail

A scenic hiking trail that follows the beautiful Cerna River, suitable for all skill levels.

Buila-Vânturarița National Park

Offers challenging hiking routes with stunning views, rich flora, and fauna, ideal for adventure seekers.

Airports

How to reach Balş by plane.

Craiova International Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Balş, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the nearest accessible airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Balş is quite walkable, with many attractions located close to each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, although some areas may have uneven surfaces, so be cautious.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

The majority demographic group, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Roma Community

A smaller demographic group that contributes to the diversity of the town, often engaged in traditional crafts and trades.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Balş, with local teams playing in regional leagues and locals often gathering to watch matches.

Handball

Handball has a strong following, with clubs and teams representing the town in various competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Balş is generally light, with few congested areas. Public transportation includes buses that connect Balş with nearby towns, but schedules may vary. It's advisable to check local timetables for accurate travel planning.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Balş.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check with staff when ordering.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so consider bringing snacks or meals if you have strict dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Balş is available through local clinics and hospitals, providing basic medical services. For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger cities nearby. It's advisable for travelers to carry health insurance and a basic first-aid kit.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide