Are you looking to venture off the beaten path and discover the charm of a lesser-known European country? Moldova, nestled between Romania and Ukraine, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is waiting to be explored. In this in-depth guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the 15 best places to visit in Moldova, from bustling cities to serene monasteries and lush natural reserves. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, Moldova has something to offer for everyone.
1. Chisinau: The Vibrant Capital City of Moldova
Chisinau, the bustling capital city of Moldova, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With its green spaces, historical buildings, and vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this modern and friendly city. From Pushkin Park to the Nativity Cathedral, Chisinau offers a blend of history, art, and entertainment that will captivate visitors of all ages.
- Discover the marvellous frescoes in the Nativity Cathedral
- Explore the art market and interact with local modern artists
- Enjoy the nightlife scene with a visit to one of the city’s many nightclubs and casinos
2. Orheiul Vechi: A Journey Through Moldova’s Rich History
Just an hour outside of Chisinau lies Orheiul Vechi, a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Moldova’s rich cultural and historical heritage. This archaeological complex overlooks the Raut River and features ancient fortifications, monasteries, and caves dating back to the Dacian tribes of 2000 years ago. Explore the fascinating history of this unique site and immerse yourself in its stunning natural beauty.
- Visit the Orheiul Vechi museum for a deeper understanding of the site’s significance
- Explore the various complexes, including fortifications, ruins, and monasteries
- Take in the breathtaking views of the Raut River from this open-air complex
3. Cricova Winery: A Taste of Moldova’s Wine Culture
Moldova is known for its growing wine-tourism industry, and a visit to Cricova Winery is a must for wine enthusiasts. Explore the second-largest underground winery in the world, with 120 kilometers of complex roadways and 1.25 million bottles of wine stored underground. Take a guided tour of the tunnels, taste some of Europe’s best wines, and experience the unique charm of this historic winery.
- Learn about the history of winemaking in Moldova
- Take a stroll through the underground tasting rooms and warehouses
- Purchase a bottle of locally produced wine to take home as a souvenir
4. Tipova Monastery: A Spiritual Journey Through Moldova’s Countryside
Located in a remote and beautiful part of Moldova, Tipova Monastery offers a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking spiritual enlightenment and natural beauty. Explore the monk’s cells carved into the rocks, hike to the nearby waterfall, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this ancient complex.
- Visit the Church of the Feast of the Holy Cross, the oldest complex at the monastery
- Explore the Horodiste complex and the Church of St Nicholas
- Enjoy a nature hike along the banks of the Dniestr River
5. Manastirea Curchi: A Gem of Bessarabia Architectural Style
Manastirea Curchi is often hailed as the most beautiful monastery in all of Moldova, thanks to its stunning Bessarabia architectural style. Explore the complex, which includes five churches, a refectory, abbeys, and monk cells, and learn about the unique history of this historic site. Take a leisurely stroll through the orchards and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of this hidden gem.
- Visit the Mother of God Church, the centrepiece of the monastery complex
- Learn about the monastery’s fascinating history, including its time as a psychiatric hospital
- Explore the surrounding countryside and enjoy the tranquility of the orchards
6. Saharna: A Hidden Oasis of Natural Beauty
Saharna, a small village in Moldova, is a place of breathtaking natural beauty and spiritual significance. Visit the Holy Trinity Monastery, known for its stunning waterfall and serene atmosphere. Explore the River Saharna with its 22 waterfalls and enjoy hiking opportunities that offer incredible views of the surrounding area.
- Discover the footprint on a rock believed to be the Virgin Mary’s
- Explore the Gipsy Hole waterfall and the serene surroundings of Saharna
- Experience the tranquility and calmness of this picturesque village
7. Transdniestr: A Quirky and Unique Destination
Transdniestr, a narrow strip of land on the Dniestr River, is one of the oddest places in Eastern Europe. Explore the capital city of Tiraspol and immerse yourself in the region’s unique culture and history. Discover Lenin busts, Soviet-era aesthetics, and a sense of independence that defines this fascinating destination.
- Wander through Tiraspol and admire the Soviet-era architecture
- Learn about the region’s complex history and political situation
- Experience the charm of a destination that exists in its own reality
8. Bendery: A Historic City with So Much to Offer
Bendery, one of Transdniestr’s three cities, is a historic destination with a rich past and vibrant present. Explore the city’s medieval fortress, built in the 16th century, and learn about its role in the region’s turbulent history. Take a stroll through the friendly and welcoming city and immerse yourself in its unique charm.
- Visit the Bendery Fortress and learn about its storied past
- Explore the city’s green spaces, picturesque streets, and historic architecture
- Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and immerse yourself in Bendery’s rich culture
9. Gagauzia: A Taste of Turkey in Moldova
Gagauzia, an autonomous region in Moldova, offers a fascinating blend of Turkish and Moldovan culture. Visit the towns and villages of this unique region and learn about its history and heritage. Explore the Comrat Regional History Museum and gain insight into the daily life and traditions of the Gagauz people.
- Discover the unique culture and heritage of Gagauzia
- Visit the Comrat Regional History Museum and learn about the region’s history
- Explore the towns and villages of Gagauzia and immerse yourself in its rich cultural tapestry
10. Soroca: A Historic Gem on the Dniestr River
Soroca, a picturesque city located on the Dniestr River, is a historic destination with a rich past and vibrant present. Explore Soroca Fortress, one of the country’s oldest military strongholds, and learn about its role in defending Moldova against invaders. Take a stroll through the city centre and admire the mansions of the Roma elite that line the streets.
- Visit Soroca Fortress and learn about its significance in Moldova’s history
- Explore the city’s vibrant streets, charming architecture, and warm atmosphere
- Discover the rich cultural heritage of Soroca and immerse yourself in its unique charm
11. Padurea Domneasca: A Natural Paradise in Moldova
Discover Padurea Domneasca, the largest natural reserve in Moldova, and immerse yourself in the beauty of its old-growth oak trees and diverse wildlife. Explore the “One Hundred Hills” landscape, home to a variety of bird species, and enjoy a day of hiking and nature exploration in this pristine natural paradise.
- Visit the country’s oldest stand of old-growth oak trees in Padurea Domneasca
- Explore the diverse bird species and wildlife that call the reserve home
- Discover the unique landscape of “One Hundred Hills” and immerse yourself in nature
12. Capriana: A Tranquil Retreat in Moldova’s Forests
Capriana Monastery, located in a lush green forest in Capriana, is one of the oldest monasteries in Moldova. Explore the monastery complex, home to the largest convent library in the country, and learn about its fascinating history and heritage. Take a stroll through the surrounding forest and visit nearby attractions such as the oak tree of Stefan the Great and Codru, the oldest nature reserve in Moldova.
- Visit Capriana Monastery and learn about its storied past
- Explore the forested surroundings and immerse yourself in nature
- Discover nearby attractions such as the oak tree of Stefan the Great and Codru nature reserve
13. Codru Natural Reservation: A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Explore Codru Natural Reservation, the oldest and most popular reserve in Moldova, and discover its diverse plant and animal species. Take a guided hike through the reserve’s ravines and valleys, and learn about the unique ecosystems that thrive in this protected area. Visit the natural history museum on site and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich biodiversity.
- Explore the diverse plant and animal species that call Codru home
- Take a guided hike through the reserve and discover its hidden gems
- Visit the natural history museum and learn about the reserve’s unique ecosystems
14. Kvint: A Taste of Europe’s Finest Cognac
Experience the rich heritage of Moldova’s cognac industry at Kvint, a renowned distillery that has been producing top-quality cognac since 1897. Visit the factory gates to purchase a bottle of Europe’s best cognac and enjoy a tasting tour of the facilities. Immerse yourself in the local culture and history of this iconic Moldovan institution.
- Purchase a bottle of locally produced cognac at Kvint’s entrance gate
- Take a guided tour of the distillery and learn about the cognac-making process
- Experience a tasting tour and sample some of Europe’s finest cognac
15. Taul Park and Pommer Mansion: A Historic Landmark in Taul Village
Explore Taul Park, the largest park in Moldova, and discover the stately mansion house of Ivan Pommer, a testament to landscape architecture at its finest. Wander through the upper and lower parts of the park, each offering a unique blend of floral beauty and natural splendor. Discover 150 varieties of trees and bushes, many exotic, as you stroll along the park’s 12.5 kilometers of trails.
- Visit Taul Park and explore the stately mansion of Ivan Pommer
- Discover the unique flora and fauna of the park’s upper and lower sections
- Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park’s lush surroundings and immerse yourself in its natural beauty
In conclusion, Moldova offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re interested in wine tourism, historical sites, or natural reserves, Moldova has something for everyone. So pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and discover the hidden gems of this charming European country. Moldova is waiting for you to explore its rich history and vibrant culture.