UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Book Attractions in Advance
Skip the lines at Moldova's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, monasteries, and experiences across Moldova.
Struve Geodetic Arc
Visit the Chisinau observatory point of this 19th-century scientific network spanning Europe.
A unique astronomical heritage site highlighting geodesy and international collaboration.
Orheiul Vechi Monastery Complex
Explore ancient cave monasteries carved into limestone cliffs dating back to the 13th century.
A tentative UNESCO site blending Orthodox history with stunning natural rock formations.
Soroca Fortress
Discover this 15th-century Genoese-style fortress on the Dniester River's banks.
Key medieval defensive structure with panoramic views and Gypsy Hill nearby.
Saharna Monastery
Wander the cliffs and forests around this 15th-century Orthodox monastery.
A spiritual site with legends of miracles, surrounded by hiking trails and waterfalls.
Bendery Fortress
Tour the Ottoman-era fortress in Transnistria with its imposing walls and towers.
Rich in military history, offering insights into regional conflicts and architecture.
Capriana Monastery
Visit one of Moldova's oldest monasteries founded in the 15th century amid ancient forests.
Features beautifully painted churches and serene grounds for cultural reflection.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Codru State Reserve
Hike through oak and beech forests with diverse wildlife and scenic trails.
Ideal for birdwatching and nature photography in Moldova's largest protected area.
Nistru (Dniester) River
Kayak or boat along Europe's longest river in Moldova, with sandy beaches and cliffs.
Perfect for fishing, picnics, and spotting otters in calm, scenic stretches.
Prut River Valley
Explore wetlands and meadows via cycling paths, attracting eco-tourists.
Serene spot for birdwatching and wildflower hikes near the Ukrainian border.
Plaiul Fagului Forest
Wander ancient woodlands with marked trails, perfect for easy family outings.
This central forest offers a quick nature escape with fresh air and biodiversity.
Valeni Lake
Row or fish on this man-made reservoir surrounded by hills and vineyards.
Hidden gem for water sports and lakeside relaxation in rural tranquility.
Steppe Landscapes of the South
Discover rolling plains and wild steppes with horseback riding routes.
Agricultural tours connecting to Moldova's rural heritage and open-sky charm.
Moldova by Region
🌆 Central Moldova (Chisinau Area)
- Best For: Urban culture, wine cellars, and historic monasteries with vibrant city life in Chisinau.
- Key Destinations: Chisinau, Orheiul Vechi, Cricova Winery, and Capriana for heritage and modern attractions.
- Activities: City walks, underground wine tours, monastery visits, and market explorations.
- Best Time: Spring for blooming vineyards (April-May) and summer for festivals (June-August), with mild 15-25°C weather.
- Getting There: Well-connected by marshrutka minibuses from Chisinau, with private transfers available via GetTransfer.
🏙️ Northern Moldova
- Best For: Medieval fortresses and rural traditions as Moldova's scenic countryside heart.
- Key Destinations: Soroca, Balti, and Saharna Monastery for forts and natural beauty.
- Activities: Fortress tours, hiking trails, local craft markets, and river cruises.
- Best Time: Year-round, but autumn (Sept-Nov) for harvest festivals and fewer crowds.
- Getting There: Chisinau Airport is the main hub - compare flights on Aviasales for best deals.
🌳 Southern Moldova & Gagauzia
- Best For: Wine regions and ethnic diversity, featuring steppe landscapes and Turkish influences.
- Key Destinations: Comrat, Purcari, and Bendery for vineyards and cultural sites.
- Activities: Wine tastings, horseback rides, visiting Gagauz villages, and fortress explorations.
- Best Time: Summer for activities (June-Aug) and autumn for grape harvests (Sept-Oct), 10-25°C.
- Getting There: Rent a car for flexibility in exploring remote vineyards and villages.
🏰 Transnistria (East)
- Best For: Soviet-era intrigue and unique enclaves with a distinct political vibe.
- Key Destinations: Tiraspol, Bender, and the Dniester River for urban and historical sites.
- Activities: Border crossings, museum visits, cognac tastings, and riverside walks.
- Best Time: Summer months (June-Aug) for outdoor events, with warm 20-25°C and calm evenings.
- Getting There: Easy day trips from Chisinau by bus or train, with guided tours recommended.
Sample Moldova Itineraries
🚀 7-Day Moldova Highlights
Arrive in Chisinau, explore Stefan cel Mare Park, visit the National Museum, sample wines, and experience central market vibes.
Bus to Orheiul Vechi for cave monastery tours, then head to Cricova for underground wine cellar explorations.
Travel to Tiraspol for Soviet sights and Bender Fortress, with a day in Purcari for wine tastings.
Final day in Chisinau for craft shopping, last-minute winery visits, and departure, ensuring time for local cuisine.
🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer
Chisinau city tour covering parks, arcades, museums, and wine bars with local food markets.
Orheiul Vechi for historic sites including cliff hikes, then Soroca for fortress visits and Gypsy culture.
Tiraspol for political tours and cognac, then drive to Codru Reserve for forest hiking preparation.
Full outdoor exploration with Nistru River kayaking, steppe rides, and stays in wine villages.
Gagauz cultural immersion in Comrat with ethnic foods, before returning to Chisinau.
🏙️ 14-Day Complete Moldova
Comprehensive Chisinau exploration including museums, food tours, park walks, and wine institution visits.
Orheiul Vechi for monasteries and caves, Saharna for hikes, Soroca for forts and river views.
Tiraspol urban tours, Bender Fortress, Dniester cruises, and cognac tastings in scenic enclaves.
Purcari wine regions, Comrat ethnic sites, Prut Valley nature, and steppe explorations.
Capriana Monastery for spiritual sites, final Chisinau experiences with shopping before departure.
Top Activities & Experiences
Wine Cellar Tours
Descend into vast underground cellars like Cricova for tastings of world-class Moldovan wines.
Available year-round with guided tours offering historical insights and pairings.
Vineyard Harvests
Join seasonal grape picking in Codru Hills with local families and wine-making workshops.
Learn traditional viticulture from experts in Moldova's renowned wine regions.
Monastery Pilgrimages
Visit cave and cliff monasteries like Orheiul Vechi with spiritual walks and icon viewings.
Guided tours reveal Orthodox traditions and ancient frescoes in serene settings.
Cycling Routes
Pedal through vineyards and hills on dedicated paths with bike rentals in Chisinau.
Popular routes include river valleys and countryside trails with gentle terrain.
Fortress Explorations
Tour medieval strongholds like Soroca and Bender with historical reenactments.
Many sites offer interactive exhibits and views of river landscapes.
Transnistria Day Trips
Cross into the breakaway region for Soviet museums and unique cultural contrasts.
Guided experiences provide context on history and daily life in this enclave.