Moldova at a Glance
Sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova remains largely off the radar for most travelers. Yet this compact European nation delivers an authentic experience with quiet countryside, rich wine traditions, and genuine local hospitality.
The Charms of the Moldovan Capital
Flying into Chisinau, you arrive in a city often called the “city of seven hills” and known as one of the greenest urban centers in Europe. Spend time walking through the extensive botanical gardens, Pushkin Park, and Rose Valley, then head over to the National History Museum or check out the shops lining Stefan Cel Mare Avenue.
Just outside the city limits sit two of the largest underground wine cellars on the planet. Cricova and Milestii Mici are sprawling subterranean networks stretching for miles, so vast that visitors actually tour them by car. These underground wine cities house exceptional vintages and rare collections. When hunger hits, try plăcinte, a traditional flaky pastry filled with either savory or sweet ingredients.
Historic Monasteries and Wooded Hills
A short drive from Chisinau brings you to the Old Orhei region, often referred to as the “Moldovan Switzerland.” This scenic area features rolling green hills, riverside cliffs, ancient cave monasteries, and a medieval fortress. Among them, the Curchi Monastery stands out for its striking architecture. Farther northwest, just across the Romanian border, the Bukovina region is home to famous painted monasteries dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, recognized by UNESCO for their intricate exterior frescoes.
If you prefer outdoor adventures, cross into Romania for the Bicaz Gorges for rugged hiking trails and dramatic overlooks. In Ceahlău National Park, you can climb to the summit for sweeping views over Lake Bicaz. For a more secluded spot, visit Rudi, known locally as the Valley of the Wolves, where a historic monastery sits deep inside a dark forest alongside the local cave systems.
When to go
Spring, summer, and early autumn offer the most comfortable weather for exploring Moldova, with June and July bringing the sunniest days. Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing.
How to get there
From North America, every routing connects in Europe, usually in Istanbul, Vienna, Munich, or Bucharest, before the short hop into Chisinau International Airport. Fares for that European leg run around $240*. Long-distance buses also connect major European hubs to Moldova for travelers taking a slower overland route.
