10 Things To Experience In Bli

Usually called “the northern capital”, this is a city that is certainly worth a visit. From endless green hills to stunning fields of sunflowers, Bălți represents the country’s natural beauty. Also a major cultural hub, it has a number of important monuments as well as several places where you can have fun for few leus. If you don’t want to miss anything exciting, check out our guide with the best things to experience in the city.

National Theatre “Vasile Alecsandri” from Bălți, 2011

Visit the theater

Theater, Theatre

A plate of Romanian food: Sarma and Mamaliga.

Founded in 1957, this was the first national theater in Moldova. Named after the renowned Romanian playwright and poet Vasile Alescandri, it has hosted over 200 performances, national and universal, classical and modern dramatic art shows. If you’re an art lover, this should be your first stop. Address & telephone number: 1, Bălți,-25166

Taste the tradition

Moldovan cuisine is well known for its diversity, able to satisfy every need. Prepared from corn flour, mămăligă is probably the most famous dish served in every local restaurant. While you are wandering the city’s streets, take some time to enjoy a delightful meal at one of Bălți’s numerous restaurants. If you’re a vegetarian or simply like healthy food, grab some fresh fruits and vegetables from an open-air market before continuing sightseeing.

Hug a tree at the royal forest

Forest

It is always a relief to spend some time close to nature. Fifty kilometers west of the city you will find Moldova‘s largest nature reserve called Pădurea Domnească or royal forest. Visit the zimbru (bison) farm, walk through the old oak forest, take a picnic at some of the organized areas, bird watch, or just breathe the fresh air. Whatever you may choose to do, you shouldn’t miss the amazing landscape of hills and knolls called “one hundred hills.” Address & telephone number: Cuhnesti village, Bălți,

Take a history lesson

Established in 1960, the Museum of History and Ethnography is the place to learn about the material and spiritual life of local people. Its archaeological and numismatic collections along with some ancient documents and ethnographic exhibits will offer you an enlightening trip through Moldova’s past.

Search for the holy drink

Wine holds a special place in local culture. Although not as popular as in southern regions, there are several wineries located close to the city specializing in the production of white wines and brandy. Among the main grape varieties that grow in the area, you can find aligoté, pinot and fetească. While you are in Bălți, take the chance to taste some of the finest wine. You can find it anywhere and it will surely be one of your favorite experiences in the city.

Find your true self

Whether you are religious or not, churches offer the perfect setting for some peace of mind. Saint Nicolas is an orthodox church with Catholic influences and probably the best place to meditate in the peaceful atmosphere and under the dim candlelight.

Feel young at the amusement park

If the weather is nice, the amusement park can be really fun. Located just a few blocks away from the central walking area, it is always filled with children, young couples holding hands, and groups of students. Even if you don’t want to take a ride, get a balloon and some ice cream, go for a stroll, or have a rooftop beer at one of the several bars of the area.

Explore the nightlife

It is a crime to leave Bălți without getting a taste of it by night; you’ll definitely be impressed by the friendliness of local people who are always happy to share some drinks and talk with you. If you feel young and wild, Daquiri club will be a spot to remember. Otherwise, you might as well relax with some friends at one of the city’s cozy bars. Address & telephone number: Nicolae Iorga 11/3, Bălți, +373 603 34 404 Moldova Grunge Flag | © Nicolas Raymond/Flickr

Discover the Jewish past

Although less known, not only to visitors but also to locals, there is a long history of Judaism in Bălți still surviving through the small Jewish population and the synagogue. Spend some hours in the Jewish cemetery, take a deeper look into the city’s past, and enjoy the awesome view.

Celebrate all day long

Will you be in Bălți on the 22nd of May? Then you will certainly notice the festive atmosphere spread throughout the city. Bălți Hram, meaning the day of the village, is the ideal way to get familiar with the city’s cultural heritage. Listen to traditional music played by local artists, taste some gastronomic delights, and enjoy the big parade and the brilliant evening fireworks. All you need to say is ‘La multi ani Bălți!‘ (Happy birthday Bălți!).By Maria Menegaki

About the author

Maria Menegaki

Maria Menegaki was born in Crete in 1991 and is an MA student of Social and Historical Anthropology at the University of the Aegean. She holds a BA in Geography and is constantly looking for ways to combine her academic interests with her passion for travelling and exploring. When she is not planning her next trip, she enjoys spending time with her cats, reading poetry or treehugging. She loves music and cinema and is determined never to grow up.