Whether you want to discover great restaurants, explore the lands near Chișinău, or simply get to know the locals, a holiday in Moldova this summer is the perfect getaway. Whether you have been before or have never crossed the Prut, we recommend that you take the opportunity to enjoy this country, its cultural and gastronomic treasures and its hospitable people.
Here are 7 reasons to visit Chișinău, along with recommendations for a unique holiday.
Explore the wineries of the Republic of Moldova:
With a rich winemaking history and recent developments in wine tourism, the Republic of moldova and Chișinău specifically has become one of the most attractive and affordable wine destinations in the world. Featuring dozens of wineries open for tours, excursions and traditional meals, this is an experience not to be missed. Whether you visit a historic winery such as Milestii Mici (which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wine collection in the world), Cricova (known for its unique tasting complex and impressive underground streets), or Purcari (producer of some of the world's most celebrated wines), or focus on smaller, traditional wineries with special charm like Asconi or Et Cetera you will not regret exploring these wine-rich lands.
Many wineries offer more than just tours and tastings. You can enjoy on-site restaurants, stay in their hotels, shop for wines at preferential prices, or relax by their swimming pools and other leisure facilities. Moldova's wineries provide a complete experience for wine enthusiasts and leisure travelers alike.
Here are 7 reasons why you should visit Chișinău:
1. It Is Just a Step Away from Romania
Most of the time, we look for a quick weekend getaway, somewhere close yet refreshing. Why not explore a destination that's practically next door? Today, we have a unique proposal for you: a city with a rich history, historical monuments and natural parks that is easily accessible by all means of transport be it personal car, train, plane, or bus.
2. It Is Easy to Visit
The city offers a variety of tourist attractions that are easy to visit within a day, leaving plenty of time for rest or indulging in gastronomic and wine tastings. The city's main attractions are conveniently close to one another. For those without personal transportation, we recommend using public transport, which is both budget-friendly and a great way to take in the sights of Chișinău.
3. A Wealth of Tourist Attractions
Every visit to Chișinău should begin in the city center, the symbolic starting point of every journey. The Arc de Triomphe is undoubtedly a must-see landmark for any visitor to the capital of the Republic of Moldova. In the same area, you can discover several key attractions within a short walking distance:
Metropolitan Cathedral
Government Building
Monument to Stephen the Great
National Museum of History
House-museum of Aleksandr Pushkin
Botanic Garden
Village Museum
National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History
Central Square
Valea Morilor Park
4. The Food is Delicious!
Whether you dine at one of the city's restaurants or visit the wineries surrounding Chișinău, you'll be treated to delicious dishes served by exceptionally hospitable people. During our visit, we discovered some local delicacies that left us craving more. Here are a few must-try dishes that you shouldn't miss:
Coils
Polenta with steak and sheep cheese
Pies and cabbage (thin cherry pies with seeds)
Coltunasi and pelmeni
Red borsh
Prunes stuffed with nuts
Cusma lui Guguta cake and Napoleon cake
And for some incredible dining experiences, here are our top recommendations:
The Dacians' Stop
Barbecue House
Pegas Restaurant
We simply have to highlight the exceptional pies - they're truly unforgettable! We even tried to get the recipe but, unfortunately, didn't succeed. Maybe you'll have better luck? If you do, we'd love to hear about it in the comments!
5. Area with Developed Oenological Potential
Moldovan wines are intentionally renowned for their fruity and aromatic qualities. In Chișinău, you'll find a mix of traditional winemakers who have preserved recipes passed down through generations, alongside century-old wineries and modern producers crafting wines on an industrial scale. For those passionate about wine tourism, Moldova offers countless opportunities to explore and enjoy the art of winemaking.
Here are a few wineries we warmly recommend:
Chateau Vartely
Purcari
Cricova
6. Festivals and Cultural Events
If you are planning a trip to Chișinău, attending cultural events that take place throughout the year can make your visit even more memorable. Our curated offers are designed to provide unforgettable experiences, which is why we stay informed about special events we think you'd love. Here are some highlights to consider:
Opera and Ballet Festival "Invite Maria Bieșu"
Chișinău hosts this prestigious annual opera and ballet festival, first organized in 1990 under the patronage of the renowned Moldovan opera singer Maria Bieșu. Each year, the festival attracts the best opera singers and ballet soloists from countries such as Romania, Russia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Italy, France, Austria, the USA and beyond.
Moldox Documentary Film Festival
The only documentary inmoldova, Moldox is organized by OWH Studio with support from TV5 Monde, the French Alliance and the Union of Cinematographers. Despite the lack of state funding, this festival consistently features prominent editors and filmmakers who deliver inspiring speeches and presentations.
French Film Festival
Since 2000, TV5 Monde and the French Embassy have hosted the French Film Festival as part of the Days of French Culture in Moldova. This event celebrates the best of French cinema and cultural exchange.
Ethno-Jazz Festival
Every September, Chișinău becomes a hub for jazz enthusiasts with the Ethno-Jazz Festival. The event brings together jazz bands from Moldova, Russia, Israel, Poland, Germany, India, and more, offering a diverse musical experience that blends traditional and contemporary sounds.
Enhance Your Visit
Whether you’re an opera aficionado, a film enthusiast, or a jazz lover, these cultural events offer something for everyone. Attending these festivals will allow you to immerse yourself in the artistic and cultural vibrancy of Chișinău.
7. Unforgettable Experiences
The people who shape the culture of Chișinău are exceptionally friendly and hospitable. You’ll find open-hearted locals who will invite you to their tables, cook delicious meals, and serve you the finest wines—all with genuine warmth and generosity. They expect nothing in return, simply enjoying the company of curious tourists eager for a pleasant exchange of experiences with their neighbors.
While they expect nothing, a small gesture of appreciation can go a long way. A symbolic gift, even something as simple as a fridge magnet from your hometown—be it Transylvania, Dobrogea, Moldova, or Bucharest—will be warmly received. In return, they’ll treasure the memory of your visit and share the story of their experience with friends and family. Such thoughtful exchanges create meaningful connections that go beyond a typical tourist encounter.
Tips
- Travel by public transport
- Try traditional products, you will not regret it!
- Visit the wineries, they are exceptional!
- Track the period of cultural events or festivals
