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View of Chişinău, river and lights at night
View of Chişinău, river and lights at night

Chişinău

Published: 02 February 2024, 09:00

Culture, wine and hospitality

Chişinău and the Republic of Moldova are among the lesser-known travel destinations in Eastern Europe. Those wishing to discover this country, which is still unspoiled by tourism, will share in a unique travel experience off the beaten track. Chişinău offers travellers a wealth of museums and historical monuments. The architecture of the Moldovan capital reflects its different eras, and its picturesque parks are perfect for relaxing walks. Chişinău and the former Soviet Republic of Moldova are home to many ethnic groups, including Moldovans, Russians, Ukrainians and Gagauz - this diversity is reflected in the local culture, language and cuisine. The country’s untouched landscapes, centuries-old monasteries and warm hospitality are also among its highlights. The Republic of Moldova offers a rich mix of culture, history, nature and culinary experiences for travellers who are ready to explore lesser-known destinations.

Numbers, data, facts

  • Time difference: none
  • Population: 533.000
  • Official language: Romanian
  • Currency: Moldovan Leu (MDL)

Ten highlights of Chişinău

Triumphal arch with clock on a street, white church behind it
The Triumphal Arch was built in 1841 in honour of the Russian victory in the Russo-Ottoman War and is a landmark of Chişinău. © Denis/stock.adobe.com
White Russian Orthodox church with tower in the park
The Russian Orthodox Church of the Nativity with the bell tower is the city's main cathedral. © Igor Syrbu/stock.adobe.com
Gardens with fountain, steps and monument in Stefan cel Mare Central Park
The Stefan cel Mare Central Park in Chişinău city centre, named after the historical leader of Moldova, features beautiful walking paths, ponds and monuments. © lusiolad/stock.adobe.com
Red war memorial in the shape of a triangle, blue sky
The impressive war memorial, which shows five raised weapons, commemorates the numerous victims of Chişinău during the Second World War. © qwertfak/stock.adobe.com
State circus, white architecture, empty square
The popular state circus, known as the “lost place”, was the largest event venue in Chişinău until a few years ago. Parts of the building have now been restored. © Robson90/stock.adobe.com
Pedestrian zone, cobblestones, trees in the background, two sculptures
The lovers' sculpture in the pedestrian zone is a popular photo motif, especially among couples. © Fotokon/stock.adobe.com
Artfully decorated National Museum of Ethnology and Natural History
The National Museum of Ethnology and Natural History has a comprehensive collection dedicated to the nature and culture of Bessarabia. © Andrey Shevchenko/stock.adobe.com
Valea Morilor Park with fountain, steps, vases, flowers, trees and river in the background
The picturesque Valea Morilor Park with extensive green areas and artificial lake makes for lovely boat trips. © qwertfak/stock.adobe.com
Cathedral of St Teodor Tiron in neo-Byzantine style, blue church with golden spires
The Cathedral of St. Teodor Tiron is small but impressive with its neo-Byzantine style with rich interior decoration. © Aleksandar/stock.adobe.com
Entrance to the National Museum of History, three flags in the foreground
The National Museum of History offers a comprehensive collection of exhibits and interactive elements on the country's history from antiquity to the present. © Andrey Shevchenko/stock.adobe.com

Discover the Republic of Moldova from Chişinău

The picturesque vineyards and with them numerous wineries that can be visited for sightseeing and wine tasting begin right at the gates of Chişinău. The Republic of Moldova is also home to a variety of unspoiled villages, important monasteries and untouched nature for you to discover.

Five excursions from Chişinău

Cricova winery, wine bottles stored in stone shelves, long wooden corridor, stone ceiling
Cricova is one of the largest underground wine cellars in the world, with a branching tunnel system. A paradise for wine lovers. © frimufilms/stock.adobe.com
Orheiul Vechi Monastery on a mountain with courtyard and several buildings, limestone cliffs and river in the background, fog, sunrise
One of the most famous sights in the country is Orheiul Vechi, a historical settlement area with remains of ancient sites as well as several monasteries. © Calin Stan/stock.adobe.com
Fortress, late medieval fortification, blue sky, green meadow, river in the foreground
The town of Soroca is known for its 15th century fortress and the Roma-influenced quarter Țiganca Hill with numerous colourful houses. © Sid Smith/stock.adobe.com
Gelbe Kathedrale mit vergoldeten Spitzen, Parkanlage, Brunnen und Hecke im Vordergrund
The Autonomous Republic of Gagauzia maintains its own traditions and culture. The locals' roots lie in Turkey. © Christian Faludi/stock.adobe.com
Saharna Monastery, surrounded by green forests, hilly landscape
Nestled among forests and hills, the beautifully situated Saharna Monastery is an important pilgrimage site. © Olga/stock.adobe.com

Chişinău from BER

Aircraft about to land on the runway

FLYONE

Wizz Air

SkyUp

 

Chişinău International Airport (KIV)

Five travel tips for…

  1. Mămăligă, sweet dish or savoury side dish made from corn flour
  2. Sarmale, meat-filled cabbage leaves eaten with sour cream
  3. Plăcinte, savoury or sweet filled dumplings
  4. Zeama, a sour soup with chicken or pork, vegetables and rice
  5. Gogoși, deliciously stuffed and fried dough balls sprinkled with powdered sugar

  1. Visit the impressive Cricova underground wine cellar
  2. Visit Milestii Mici wine cellar and the world's largest vineyard
  3. Chateau Vartely with its elegant restaurant
  4. Taste famous red wines from the Purcari winery
  5. Try innovative types of wine at the Asconi winery

  1. Discover Orheiul Vechi with its picturesque rock formations and ancient cave monasteries
  2. When visiting the Saharna Monastery, visit the beautiful waterfall that shares its name
  3. Experience the unique birdlife and picturesque river landscape in the Nistru-Ungeni Nature Reserve
  4. Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Padurea Domneasca, the country's oldest forest
  5. Hike through dense forests and rolling hills of Codrii Cosminului Nature Reserve

Picture source title: 
© frimufilms/stock.adobe.com

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