Things To Do
in Bala
Bala is a small town in Ankara Province, perched at the edge of central Anatolia and surrounded by fertile plains. It blends historic charm with rural scenery, featuring stone houses, mosques, and a relaxed pace of life. The town serves as a tranquil base for exploring the nearby hills, countryside markets, and easy day trips to Ankara.
Visitors are welcomed by friendly locals, traditional eateries, and a sense of timeless Anatolian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Bala's historic center, where traditional stone houses and local shops beckon. Visit the Bala Castle, perched on a hill, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Immerse yourself in the local culture by stopping at a quaint café for a traditional Turkish breakfast of menemen and fresh bread.
In the afternoon, explore the intriguing Bala Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region's rich history. Take a stroll along the riverbank, where you can appreciate the natural beauty and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife. As the sun begins to lower, consider joining a guided walking tour to learn more about the town's unique architecture and historical significance.
As evening falls, dine at a local restaurant that serves authentic Anatolian cuisine, savoring dishes such as kebabs and gözleme. After dinner, take a relaxing walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. End your night with a cup of Turkish tea at a cozy café, where you can reflect on the day's adventures.
Rise early and head to Soğuksu National Park, a short drive from Bala, where lush greenery and serene landscapes await. Begin your hike on one of the well-marked trails, breathing in the fresh mountain air and listening to the sounds of nature surrounding you. Keep your eyes peeled for local flora and fauna as you make your way through this picturesque park.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the park's scenic picnic areas, surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sound of a nearby stream. Continue your exploration by visiting the park's hidden waterfalls, taking the time to appreciate the tranquil beauty of the area. For the more adventurous, consider a short climbing session on the park's rock formations, testing your skills against nature's canvas.
Return to Bala in the evening for a refreshing meal at a local tavern, where you can indulge in fresh fish caught from the nearby lakes. After dinner, enjoy a stroll through the town's vibrant market, where you can browse handmade crafts and sample local delicacies. Conclude your day by enjoying the starry sky, perhaps at a local viewpoint overlooking the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚖Taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two | $15-25 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Ankara with easy access to major sights
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Charming historic streets and rural scenery
- Peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxed travel
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Smaller selection of international cuisine
- Some services may be seasonal or weather dependent
- Transit to more distant attractions can require a car or taxi
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Neredeyim?" - Where am I?
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Bala
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow cobbled lanes, traditional stone houses, and local life captured in golden hour light.
Central square with the mosque silhouette against the horizon, ideal for sunrise or blue hour shots.
Serene farmlands and rolling hills offering wide panorama shots and dramatic skies.
Quiet waterway with rows of vines and reflections at sunset, perfect for tranquil compositions.
Food in Bala
Bala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat, topped with yogurt and garlic oil; commonly found in Bala’s traditional lokantas.
Must-Try!
Fresh shepherd’s salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, olive oil, and lemon—an essential accompaniment to many meals.
Grilled or sautéed meat dishes that showcase regional flavors; look for these at local eateries in Bala.
Sesame-coated bread ring enjoyed with strong Turkish tea, widely available around town markets and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Saturday market offering breads, cheeses, olives, dairy, and seasonal produce; great for sampling local flavors.
Street-food stalls around town square serving hot borek and simit, perfect for a quick bite.
Sweet fried dough bites with hot tea near market areas; convenient for a light snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello: Merhaba. A handshake is common among adults; some people may prefer a nod.
In mosques and religious sites, modest clothing is expected; remove shoes where required; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Bala
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is good; many places include a service charge; you can round up.
Turkish Lira is preferred; cards are accepted in many places in Bala, but some small shops may be cash-only. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool mornings and mild days; wildflowers and markets come alive. Layered clothing is practical for variable temperatures.
Hot days with dry heat; carry water and seek shade or hillside breezes. Evenings are pleasant and suitable for outdoor dining.
Harvest season brings cooler days and warm light; ideal for outdoor photography and village strolls.
Cold with potential snowfall; some rural roads may be slower. Pack warm clothing and check local conditions.
Bala at Night
Hiking in Bala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate loop through pine forests with scenic outlooks over Bala and the surrounding plains.
Easy riverside trail along local streams; good for birdwatching and photography.
Airports
How to reach Bala by plane.
Primary airport serving Bala and the Ankara region. Regular domestic and international flights; about 60-70 km drive to Bala depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Turkish families and senior residents in Bala, with a growing number of university students from Ankara.
Nearby universities bring a younger demographic to Bala for day trips and learning visits.
Tourists seeking a quieter base near Ankara.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and informal games are common in towns and villages.
Traditional folk wrestling and regional athletic events are part of cultural festivals.
Rural roads and hills make for enjoyable cycling routes around Bala.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer vegetarian dishes like pide, çoban salatası, grilled vegetables; ask for ayran to accompany meals.