Moldova, a small landlocked country nestled between Romania and Ukraine, remains one of Europe’s least-visited destinations. Yet this hidden gem offers travelers a fascinating blend of historical sites, picturesque landscapes, world-class wineries, and unique cultural experiences without the crowds and high prices of Western Europe. If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path European adventure, Moldova deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. Before planning your journey, check out these deals on flights and hotels to make your Moldova exploration both memorable and affordable.
1. Chisinau – Moldova’s Vibrant Capital
Cathedral Park in Chisinau, the heart of Moldova’s capital
Chisinau (pronounced kee-shee-NOW) serves as the perfect introduction to Moldova. This walkable city blends Soviet-era architecture with modern developments and plenty of green spaces. Most visitors begin their exploration at Cathedral Park, where you’ll find the impressive Nativity Cathedral and the Triumphal Arch, built in 1840 to commemorate Russia’s victory over the Ottoman Empire.
Adjacent to Cathedral Park is Stefan cel Mare Central Park, Moldova’s oldest park named after the national hero Stephen the Great. The park features manicured gardens, ornate fountains, and a prominent statue of the 15th-century prince who defended Moldova against Ottoman invasions.
For history enthusiasts, the National Museum of History of Moldova houses over 250,000 exhibits detailing the country’s complex past. The National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History is equally fascinating, with its distinctive Moorish-style architecture making it a standout landmark.
Where to Eat in Chisinau
Chisinau offers excellent dining options for all budgets. Try traditional Moldovan cuisine at La Placinte, a popular local chain serving hearty dishes like placinte (stuffed pastries), mamaliga (polenta), and sarmale (cabbage rolls). For a unique experience, visit Propaganda Cafe, decorated like a Soviet-era apartment complete with vintage Lenin posters and USSR memorabilia.
2. Cricova Winery – Underground Wine City
The extensive underground tunnels of Cricova Winery
Just 15 kilometers north of Chisinau lies Cricova, home to the world’s second-largest underground winery. What began as limestone mines in the 15th century has transformed into an underground wine city with over 120 kilometers of tunnels. The streets within this subterranean labyrinth are named after wine varieties: Cabernet Street, Chardonnay Street, and so on.
Cricova is particularly famous for its sparkling wines produced using the traditional Champagne method. During a guided tour, you’ll witness the fascinating process where bottles are rotated 45 degrees every two days by skilled workers. The winery also houses an impressive collection of rare wines, with the oldest bottle dating back to 1902.
Many world leaders and celebrities store their private wine collections here, including Angela Merkel and Jill Biden. Tours typically conclude with a wine tasting in one of the elaborately decorated underground halls. Expect to pay around 175-350 MDL (approximately $10-20 USD) for a tour with samples.
Travel Tip: Stay Connected During Your Trip
While exploring Moldova’s underground wineries and remote monasteries, having reliable internet access is essential for navigation and sharing your experiences. Remember to arrange connectivity before your international travels.
3. Milestii Mici – World’s Largest Wine Collection
The impressive wine collection at Milestii Mici
If Cricova impressed you, prepare to be astounded by Milestii Mici, holder of the Guinness World Record for the largest wine collection. With over 200 kilometers of underground tunnels and more than 2 million bottles, this former limestone mine dwarfs its neighbor. The tunnels are so vast that visitors tour them by car, stopping at various points to learn about the winemaking process.
Milestii Mici is particularly known for its red wines, which benefit from the constant temperature (12-14°C) and humidity (85-95%) maintained naturally in the underground galleries. The winery’s collection includes wines dating back decades, with some bottles valued at thousands of euros.
A highlight of any visit is the iconic wine fountain near the entrance, which makes for a perfect photo opportunity. Tours typically include a tasting of several wines accompanied by traditional Moldovan snacks. For a truly memorable experience, book the comprehensive tour with a full Moldovan meal in one of the underground dining halls.
4. Orheiul Vechi – Ancient Cave Monastery
The breathtaking landscape of Orheiul Vechi
Located 60 kilometers north of Chisinau, Orheiul Vechi (Old Orhei) is Moldova’s most impressive historical and archaeological complex. This open-air museum complex sits on a promontory formed by the Raut River, creating a stunning natural amphitheater surrounded by limestone cliffs.
The site’s main attraction is the cave monastery carved into the limestone cliff in the 13th century. Orthodox monks inhabited these caves until the 18th century when an earthquake forced them to relocate. Inside, you’ll find a small chapel illuminated by candles and narrow windows carved into the rock. The monastery reopened after Moldova gained independence and is now home to a small number of monks.
Above the cave monastery stands the Ascension of St. Mary Church, a small wooden church recently restored after years of neglect. The panoramic views of the river valley from this vantage point are absolutely breathtaking and worth the climb.
The surrounding villages of Butuceni and Trebujeni offer authentic rural Moldovan experiences. Consider staying overnight at one of the traditional guesthouses (pensiuni) to fully appreciate the area’s tranquility and sample homemade Moldovan cuisine.
5. Transnistria – The Country That Doesn’t Exist
Soviet-era architecture and monuments in Tiraspol, Transnistria
Perhaps Moldova’s most intriguing destination is Transnistria, a self-proclaimed independent republic that broke away from Moldova following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Despite having its own government, currency, police, and even passport, Transnistria isn’t recognized by any UN member state, existing in a geopolitical limbo.
The capital, Tiraspol, feels like a living museum of the Soviet era. Lenin statues still stand proudly, streets bear names like October 25th Street (commemorating the October Revolution), and Soviet symbols adorn government buildings. The main boulevard is impressively wide, typical of Soviet urban planning.
Key sites include the House of Soviets (city hall), the imposing Presidential Palace, and the T-34 tank monument commemorating World War II. For souvenirs, visit Dom Knigi (House of Books), which sells Transnistrian memorabilia alongside books.
Nearby Bender offers additional attractions, including the impressive Ottoman-era Bender Fortress overlooking the Dniester River and the beautiful Noul Neamt Monastery with its distinctive blue domes.
Visiting Transnistria is straightforward and safe. Regular marshrutkas (minibuses) run from Chisinau’s central bus station to Tiraspol for about 37 MDL ($2 USD). At the border, you’ll receive a registration slip valid for 10 hours – sufficient time to explore Tiraspol and Bender. Just remember to keep this paper safe for your return journey.
6. Soroca – Fortress and Roma Capital
The medieval Soroca Fortress overlooking the Dniester River
In Moldova’s northeastern corner sits Soroca, a city with two distinct claims to fame. First is the impressive 16th-century Soroca Fortress, built by Moldovan ruler Petru Rareș between 1543 and 1546. This perfectly circular stone fortress with its five towers was strategically positioned on the Dniester River to defend Moldova’s borders for over 200 years.
What makes Soroca’s fortress unique is its Western European architectural style, with pointed roofs resembling witches’ hats – unusual for this region. The fortress walls are an astounding three meters thick, demonstrating the defensive priorities of the era.
Soroca’s second claim to fame is its status as the unofficial Roma capital of Moldova. The city is home to a significant Roma population, and “Gypsy Hill” features elaborate mansions built by wealthy Roma families. These eclectic buildings blend various architectural styles, from Roman columns to Orthodox domes, creating a truly unique streetscape.
Another notable site is the “Candle of Gratitude,” a monument honoring Moldovan cultural heritage that offers panoramic views of the city and the Dniester River.
7. Saharna – Monastery and Waterfalls
The Holy Trinity Monastery and one of Saharna’s 22 waterfalls
Saharna combines natural beauty with spiritual significance, making it one of Moldova’s most enchanting destinations. This small village is home to the Holy Trinity Monastery, an important pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians. According to legend, a monk once saw the Virgin Mary standing on a rock here, and her footprint is said to be embedded in the stone – drawing thousands of pilgrims annually.
The monastery complex features several churches with colorful exteriors and richly decorated interiors. The main church, painted in pastel yellow, creates a striking contrast against the lush green surroundings.
What truly sets Saharna apart is its natural landscape. The Saharna River forms 22 waterfalls as it cascades through the rocky terrain, with the most famous being “Gipsy Hole.” Hiking trails wind through the area, offering spectacular views of the waterfalls and surrounding countryside.
For the best experience, follow the trail that leads up to “Saharna’s Cliff” for panoramic views of the monastery complex and river valley below. The combination of spiritual heritage and natural beauty makes Saharna a must-visit destination in Moldova.
8. Manastirea Curchi – Moldova’s Most Beautiful Monastery
The striking pink baroque facade of Curchi Monastery
Often described as Moldova’s most beautiful monastery, Manastirea Curchi dazzles visitors with its distinctive pink baroque facade and verdant surroundings. Founded in 1773, this monastery complex comprises five churches, several abbeys, monk cells, and a refectory, all set within the picturesque Orhei Forest.
The centerpiece is the Naşterea Domnului Cathedral, built in 1872, which boasts the highest dome in Moldova at 57 meters. Its striking pink exterior and ornate decoration make it instantly recognizable. Inside, the cathedral features a magnificent gilded iconostasis and beautiful frescoes that were painstakingly restored after suffering damage during World War I and the Soviet period.
During the Soviet era, the monastery was repurposed as a psychiatric hospital – a common fate for religious buildings under communist rule. It wasn’t until after Moldova’s independence that restoration efforts began, returning the complex to its former glory and to its original religious purpose.
After touring the churches, take time to stroll through the monastery’s orchards and gardens, which provide a peaceful setting for reflection. The contrast between the vibrant pink buildings and the surrounding greenery creates perfect photo opportunities.
9. Gagauzia – Cultural Autonomy
In southern Moldova lies the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia, home to the Gagauz people – a Turkic ethnic group who practice Orthodox Christianity. This unique cultural blend makes Gagauzia one of Moldova’s most fascinating regions to explore.
The capital, Comrat, serves as the cultural and administrative center of Gagauzia. Visit the National Gagauz History Museum and Ethnographic Museum to learn about the region’s distinctive heritage and how this autonomous territory came to be. The museums showcase traditional costumes, crafts, and historical artifacts that tell the story of the Gagauz people.
Gagauzia is also known for its winemaking tradition, with some of Moldova’s oldest and largest wineries located in the region. Many offer tours and tastings, providing insight into local viticulture practices that blend traditional methods with modern technology.
While in Gagauzia, sample traditional cuisine that reflects both Turkish and Moldovan influences. Specialties include kavurma (meat stew), shorpa (soup), and various stuffed pastries that differ slightly from those found in the rest of Moldova.
10. Tipova Monastery – Cliff-Side Spiritual Retreat
The cave monastery of Tipova carved into limestone cliffs
Carved into steep limestone cliffs overlooking the Dniester River, Tipova Monastery offers one of Moldova’s most dramatic settings. This cave monastery complex consists of three main sections: the Church of the Feast of the Holy Cross, the Church of St. Nicholas, and Horodiste, dating from the 11th to 14th centuries.
The oldest chamber, the Church of the Elevation of the Holy Cross, dates back to the 11th century and features rock-carved altars and living quarters. Although the caves could accommodate up to 700 monks, today only about 20 monks reside here, maintaining this ancient spiritual site.
The monastery’s remote location adds to its mystical atmosphere. Visitors must hike along paths that wind through forests before reaching the cliff-side complex. Beyond the monastery, a trail leads to a beautiful unnamed waterfall – a perfect reward after exploring the caves.
Legend has it that Stephen the Great’s first wife, Maria Voichița, retreated to Tipova Monastery after his death, adding a layer of historical intrigue to this already fascinating site.
11. Padurea Domneasca Natural Reservation
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Padurea Domneasca (Royal Forest), Moldova’s largest natural reserve. Located in Glodeni district, this ecological treasure was officially established in 1993, though the forest itself is ancient – some oak trees here are over 500 years old.
The reserve encompasses diverse ecosystems including forests, meadows, and wetlands along the Prut River. It’s a haven for biodiversity, providing habitat for numerous plant and animal species. Birdwatchers will be particularly delighted by the opportunity to observe herons nesting in colonies along the river.
One of the reserve’s most intriguing features is “One Hundred Hills,” a mysterious landscape of rolling knolls whose formation remains unexplained. These uniform mounds create an unusual topography that has puzzled scientists and visitors alike.
Guided tours are available and recommended to fully appreciate the ecological significance of the area. The best time to visit is spring through early autumn when the forest is lush and wildlife is most active.
12. Taul Park and Pommer Manor
The beautifully landscaped Taul Park, Moldova’s largest park
In the northern village of Taul lies Moldova’s largest park, a masterpiece of landscape architecture surrounding the elegant Pommer Manor. Created in the early 20th century, this 46-hectare park showcases approximately 150 tree species from various geographical regions, making it a living botanical collection.
The park was designed to highlight different landscape styles, with sections inspired by French formal gardens and English natural landscapes. Walking paths wind through the diverse plantings, creating a peaceful retreat for nature appreciation.
At the heart of the park stands Pommer Manor, the former residence of landowner Ivan Pommer. The manor house represents Moldova’s architectural heritage and provides historical context to the surrounding landscape. Though the building has weathered various historical periods, it remains an impressive example of early 20th-century design.
The best time to visit is spring when many trees are in bloom, or autumn when the foliage transforms into vibrant colors. The park’s size means you can easily spend several hours exploring its various sections and admiring the diverse plant collection.
13. Capriana Monastery – Historical Spiritual Center
Capriana Monastery holds the distinction of being one of Moldova’s oldest and most historically significant religious establishments. Founded in the 15th century by Alexander the Good, it served as the residence of the Moldovan bishop and housed one of the first Moldovan poets, Chiprian.
The monastery complex includes several churches built in different periods, reflecting various architectural styles. The main church, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, features beautiful frescoes and an impressive iconostasis. Capriana is also home to the largest convent library in Moldova, preserving valuable religious texts and historical documents.
Set amid lush forests, the monastery offers a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation. The surrounding woodland provided natural protection throughout history, helping the monastery survive numerous conflicts that affected the region.
Many important figures from Moldovan history are buried in the monastery grounds, making it not just a religious site but also a place of national heritage. Visitors can explore the churches, cemetery, and beautiful gardens that make up this historic complex.
14. Kvint Factory – Legendary Cognac Production
The famous Kvint cognac distillery in Tiraspol
For spirits enthusiasts, a visit to the Kvint factory in Tiraspol (Transnistria) offers insight into one of Eastern Europe’s most respected cognac producers. Operating since 1897, Kvint has become a national symbol and produces approximately ten million liters of cognac annually.
The factory offers daily tasting tours where visitors can learn about the production process and sample various cognacs of different ages. The tour takes you through the distillery, aging cellars, and bottling facilities, providing a comprehensive understanding of cognac production.
Kvint’s premium cognacs have won numerous international awards and are considered among the finest in the region. The brand gained fame during the Soviet era and has maintained its reputation for quality in the post-Soviet period.
An interesting piece of trivia: a bottle of Kvint cognac reportedly accompanied Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space, during his historic journey. This connection to space exploration has become part of the brand’s folklore.
The factory store offers an excellent opportunity to purchase authentic Kvint products at prices significantly lower than you’ll find elsewhere, making it a popular stop for visitors seeking quality souvenirs.
Essential Travel Tips for Moldova
Best Time to Visit
The ideal times to visit Moldova are late spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the countryside is either in bloom or displaying beautiful fall colors. Wine enthusiasts should consider visiting in October during the annual National Wine Day festival when wineries across the country host special events.
Getting Around
Chisinau is surprisingly walkable, with most attractions within easy reach of the center. For longer distances within the city, trolleybuses and minibuses (marshrutkas) are inexpensive and frequent. When traveling between cities, intercity buses are the most practical option, offering frequent departures at very affordable prices. For example, the journey from Chisinau to Tiraspol costs around 50 MDL ($3 USD).
Currency and Costs
Moldova uses the Moldovan Leu (MDL). It’s one of Europe’s most affordable destinations, with budget travelers able to get by on $25-35 per day. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around 80-100 MDL ($5-6 USD), while a local beer is about 25-40 MDL ($1.5-2.5 USD). Most establishments in Chisinau accept credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns and rural areas.
Language
The official language is Romanian (called Moldovan locally), but Russian is widely spoken. In tourist areas and among younger people in Chisinau, you’ll find some English speakers, but having a translation app handy is recommended, especially when venturing outside the capital.
Plan Your Moldova Adventure
Moldova may be small in size, but it offers travelers a wealth of unique experiences that can’t be found elsewhere in Europe. From world-class underground wineries and ancient cave monasteries to Soviet time capsules and picturesque countryside, this underrated destination rewards those willing to venture off the typical European tourist trail.
The country’s compact size means you can experience its highlights in just a week, though a longer stay allows for a deeper appreciation of its rural charms and unhurried pace of life. The warm hospitality of Moldovans, combined with the country’s affordability, makes it an especially appealing destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences without breaking the bank.
Ready to Discover Moldova?
Start planning your journey to Europe’s hidden gem today. With affordable flights, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable experiences awaiting, there’s never been a better time to visit Moldova.
