10-Day Itinerary for Exploring the Republic of Moldova
The Republic of Moldova is often overlooked by travelers, but it’s a country filled with charming villages, authentic experiences, and plenty of history. From vibrant cities to peaceful countryside, Moldova will surprise you at every turn. Follow this 10-day itinerary for the perfect mix of culture, history, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, without missing out on some relaxing downtime.
Day 1: Arrival in Chișinău
Start your trip in Moldova’s capital, Chișinău. It’s a charming city with lots of Soviet-era architecture, colorful markets, and peaceful parks. After checking into your hotel or guesthouse, head to Stefan cel Mare Central Park. It’s a nice spot to people watch and get a feel for the local vibe.
If you have the energy, visit the National Museum of History to learn about Moldova’s complex past. In the evening, grab dinner at a local restaurant and try some of Moldova’s traditional food like mămăligă (corn porridge) or placinta (stuffed pastry).
Day 2: Explore Chișinău
Spend the day getting to know Chișinău. Visit the Triumphal Arch and check out the beautiful Nativity Cathedral. Both are located in the heart of the city, and they’re easy to explore by foot.
Don’t miss Piata Centrala, a lively market where you can find local produce, street food, and souvenirs. Don’t be shy to chat with vendors; Moldovans are very friendly and welcoming.
After lunch, take a trip to the Moldovan Parliament Building and see the statue of Stefan cel Mare, Moldova’s national hero. In the evening, relax at one of the local wine bars. Moldova is known for its incredible wine, so be sure to try a glass or two.
Day 3: Cricova Winery Tour
No trip to Moldova would be complete without exploring its wine culture. Take a half-day trip to Cricova, located just 15 kilometers north of Chișinău. Cricova is home to one of the most unique wine cellars in the world, stretching over 120 kilometers underground. Join a guided tour to learn about the history of the winery and sample its famous wines.
Return to Chișinău in the late afternoon and spend the rest of your day at leisure. You can enjoy a quiet walk along the Dendrarium Park or head to Valea Morilor Park for some lakeside relaxation.
Day 4: Journey to Orheiul Vechi
Start your day with a visit to Orheiul Vechi, an ancient archaeological complex an hour away from Chișinău. Orheiul Vechi is set in a scenic river valley and offers stunning views of the countryside. You’ll find centuries-old monasteries carved into cliffs, including the Cave Monastery, which is still in use today.
Take time to explore the small museum nearby to learn more about the history of the region, then spend the afternoon hiking or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
For an authentic experience, you can arrange to stay overnight at a local guesthouse within the Orheiul Vechi complex or a nearby village, where you’ll be treated to a home-cooked meal.
Day 5: Explore Curchi Monastery
After a traditional breakfast, head out to Curchi Monastery, which is just a short drive from Orheiul Vechi. This stunning monastery is one of Moldova’s most picturesque and features beautifully restored Baroque architecture.
Spend some time wandering the quiet grounds and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great place to reflect and take it slow before moving back to Chișinău in the late afternoon. Spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation or grab a nice dinner in the city.
Day 6: Day Trip to Mileștii Mici Winery
Another must-visit winery in Moldova is Mileștii Mici, which holds the world record for the largest wine collection, with over two million bottles stored in its massive underground cellars.
Book a guided tour to experience the impressive tunnels and learn about the winemaking process. Don’t forget to sample their famous wines and take in the surreal underground views.
After returning to Chișinău, consider visiting one of the city’s many art galleries or museums. Many of them close early in the evening, so plan accordingly.
Day 7: Visit Soroca and the Gypsy Hill
Today, you’ll head north to Soroca, about 2.5 hours from Chișinău. Soroca is known for its impressive fortress, which has stood since the 15th century. Walk along the Dniester River and explore the fortress to learn more about Moldova’s medieval history.
Afterward, visit the city’s unique “Gypsy Hill,” a neighborhood filled with extravagant mansions, each more elaborate than the next. While some are still under construction, the area offers an interesting glimpse into the local Roma (Gypsy) culture.
Stay the night in Soroca or head back to Chișinău, depending on your pace.
Day 8: Explore the Purcari Wine Estate
Wine lovers will be thrilled by a visit to Purcari Wine Estate, one of Moldova’s most famous wineries. Located about two hours southeast of Chișinău, it has been producing wine for centuries and is known for its award-winning reds.
Book a tour and enjoy a leisurely afternoon tasting both their wines and local cheeses. The estate is also a great place to relax in the countryside, far away from city life.
Return to Chișinău in the evening, enjoying a quiet night after a day filled with wine and nature.
Day 9: Day Trip to Gagauzia
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, take a day trip to Gagauzia, an autonomous region in Moldova with a distinct culture. The Gagauz people are a Turkic-speaking minority, and their customs and traditions are very different from those found elsewhere in Moldova.
Visit the Comrat History Museum to learn about the history of this unique region. Take your time wandering through the local markets and trying specialty foods like the plăcintă and local pastries.
Day 10: Explore Transnistria
Conclude your trip with a visit to Transnistria, a breakaway region that operates independently from Moldova. It’s like stepping back in time, complete with Lenin statues and Soviet-era relics. The capital, Tiraspol, is a few hours from Chișinău and can be visited as a day trip.
Stroll the quiet streets of Tiraspol, visit the monuments, and grab lunch at a local café. Make sure to pay a visit to the Noul Neam Castle and the Dniester River along the way. While Transnistria may sound intimidating, it’s a safe and interesting place for travelers looking for something truly off the map.
Return to Chișinău in the evening and celebrate your last night in Moldova with some delicious Moldovan wine and a final local meal. You’ve just explored a hidden gem in Europe!
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