Five ideas for guided tours in Moldova

• Chisinau

  Welcome to Chisinau, the vibrant capital of Moldova. Set among the green hills and picturesque vineyards of this fascinating country, Chisinau is a bustling city offering a unique combination of tradition and modernity.
  Explore the soul of Chisinau through its parks and historical monuments:
  Chisinau is full of lush parks where you can stroll and relax while learning about the city’s history. Don’t miss the beautiful Stefan cel Mare Park, which pays tribute to Moldova’s national hero, with its imposing equestrian statue and shady walkways perfect for strolling. Continue your exploration with the Valea Morilor Park, a true haven of peace in the heart of the city, with its peaceful lake where you can go pedaling and its many trails for nature lovers.
  Soak up Moldovan culture in the museums and emblematic sites:
  Chisinau is full of fascinating museums that will allow you to dive into Moldovan history and culture. Don’t miss the National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History, which houses a rich collection of traditional Moldovan artifacts, as well as exhibits on the region’s flora and fauna. For art lovers, the National Art Museum of Moldova is a treasure trove, with its collections of Moldovan and international art, ranging from ancient times to the present day. A visit to the Capriana Monastery complex, located a few kilometers from Chisinau, is also a must to discover the religious and spiritual history of the region, with its Orthodox churches dating from the 15th century.
  Chisinau is also known for its lively nightlife, with many bars, clubs and cafes where you can enjoy the warm and friendly atmosphere of the city. Don’t miss the lively neighborhoods of Old Town and Puskin Street, where you’ll find a multitude of trendy bars and cafes.

• Cricova, the underground city of Moldovan wines

  Upon arrival in Cricova, you will be impressed by the huge complex of wine cellars. The city has more than 120 km of underground tunnels, a large part of which is used for the preservation of Moldovan wines. The wine cellars of Cricova are famous all over the world for their exceptional quality, variety and richness.
  During your visit, you will be able to discover a wide variety of wines, ranging from reds to whites, sparkling wines and sweet wines. The cellars are also a storage place for many prestigious wines, including wines from the personal collection of the Moldovan president. Here you can discover the secrets of making these exceptional wines, and taste different varieties of Moldovan wines.
  But Cricova is not limited to its wine cellars. The town itself is charming and picturesque, with beautiful buildings, lively squares and a rich history. You can visit the old town, stroll through its cobblestone streets, admire its historic buildings and learn more about Moldovan culture. Cricova is easily accessible from Chisinau, which is only about 15 km away.

• Soroca Fortress

  The Soroca fortress is located on the right bank of the Nistru River, a few kilometers from the Ukrainian border. It was built to protect the country from enemy invasions. Its octagonal shape and its thick walls testify to the will of its builders to make it impregnable. Today, the fortress of Soroca is a tourist site not to be missed in Moldova. Visitors can admire its imposing walls and watchtowers, as well as its underground galleries, which once allowed soldiers to move around safely. A guided tour allows to discover the history of the fortress and to understand the geopolitical stakes of the time. Finally, the Soroca fortress is also known for its cultural events. Every year, it hosts music festivals, craft fairs and contemporary art exhibitions. It is a meeting place for Moldovan and Ukrainian cultures, which have been living together for centuries in this border region.

• Codrii forest

  The forests of Codru ( or Codrii )are a must-see destination for all those who wish to discover the beauty of the wilderness in an unspoiled environment. This region located in the north of Moldova is famous for its vast expanses of forests, which cover more than 80,000 hectares. There are many hiking trails offering breathtaking views of the area, as well as opportunities to observe wildlife. The forests are also home to numerous streams and waterfalls, which provide sites of great natural beauty. Visitors can also discover historical and cultural sites, such as monasteries, churches and traditional villages.
  The forests of Codru are home to many animal species, including bears, wolves, deer, wild boar and lynx. Photography enthusiasts will be able to capture unique moments, while naturalists will appreciate the richness of the fauna and flora. The forests are also a meeting place for fishing, hunting and mushroom picking enthusiasts.

• Orheiul Vechi, a dive into the history and nature of Moldova

  Coming to visit Orheiul Vechi is a real trip back in time, where the remains of different eras stand side by side. The city is known for its Târguşor fortress, which dates back to the 14th century and was built to protect the city from Mongol invasions. You can also explore the troglodytic caves, carved into the rock thousands of years ago by the region’s first inhabitants. These caves have been used as dwellings, places of worship and even as Orthodox churches.
  But Orheiul Vechi is not limited to its historical heritage. The city is also surrounded by lush nature, with green hills and wheat fields as far as the eye can see. You can walk along the banks of the Răut River, admire the spectacular scenery and meet the local people, who will be delighted to share their way of life and traditions with you.