Top Chisinau Culture - page 3

Located on the banks of the Dniester River, Tipova Monastery stands out as a remarkable rock-hewn monastic complex, arguably the most impressive in Moldova and one of the largest in Europe. With multiple levels spread over a generous area, this monastery once housed over 700 monks in its hermitages, and today, there are hundreds of monk cells in the surrounding area. The origin of the monastic community dates back long before the establishment of the Moldovan feudal state. It is said that some cells were carved into the rocks along the banks of the Dniester as early as the 10th-12th centuries, serving as protection against barbarian invasions. The landscape in this area is simply stunning: the tranquil waters of the Dniester, steep cliffs concealing hundreds of cells and caves, the beauty of nature, and waterfalls. After exploring Tipova reservation we will continue our tour in a very picturesque village - Lalova, where wwe will take a lunch in a nice guesthouse - Hanul lui Hanganu.

Day Tour: Old Orhei Monasteries Complex & Brănești Cellar Wine Tasting Embark on a scenic tour to the Old Orhei Monasteries Complex, a fascinating historical site, followed by a wine tasting at Pivnitele from Brănești Winery, nestled in the forest near Orheiul Vechi in Brănești village. Explore the unique Orhei Cave Monastery, the charming village of Butuceni, and the breathtaking landscapes that are unlike anything else in Moldova. Afterward, you'll head to the winery for an unforgettable experience. At Brănești Winery, there are two tasting halls, one of which is located underground. These halls are beautifully decorated with wood and metal, showcasing themes related to vine cultivation and winemaking. Enjoy lunch at the Stone Age Complex of Pivnitele from Brănești Winery, where, thanks to the lack of internet and mobile phone signals, you can fully disconnect from the modern world and enjoy the peaceful surroundings away from city noise.

You will get an unique opportunity to visit the World's largest winery in the world - Milestii Mici Winery, founded in 1969 for small storing, maturing and preserving high quality wines. Underground tunnels with a length of 200 km are dug in layers of limestone rocks at depths between 35 and 80 meters. It represents an unique underground city, well-known all over the world by its huge labyrinths of streets and also biggest wine collection in the world. Another important tourist sight is Manuc Bei mansion, located in Hâncești town. Built at the beginning of the 19th century, in 1816. The project was realized by the famous Italian architect Bernardazzi. The so-called “Moldovan Versailles” palace respects the style of French classicism. We'll visit the hunting Castle, the Natural History and Ethnography Museum and The Manuc Bei Mansion.

Visit the breakaway state of Transnistria during your time in Moldova on this full-day excursion from Chisinau. Alongside a private guide, cross the border to Transnistria and explore its capital, Tiraspol. See the remnants of the old Soviet Union and discover top landmarks including Bendery Fortress, the Memorial of Military Glory, Kvint, and the Tank Monument.

The Old Orhei monastery complex, north of Chişinău, is a must-visit attraction in Moldova. Save yourself a trip to Chişinău’s chaotic central bus station and travel by private vehicle with hotel pickup on a small-group tour. Take a guided tour of the site, which includes the 13th-century cave monastery, and learn more at the Old Orhei Open Air Museum. Opt to visit a winery later, if you like.

Just 12 miles (20 kilometers) south of Moldova’s capital Chișinău lies Milestii Mici, a vast wine cellar said to accommodate about 2 million bottles. With this tour, a driver takes the wheel, ferrying guests to and around the underground complex. On a guided tour of the cellar, learn about Moldovan viticulture, and sample three different wines as well as typical Moldovan dishes.

This isn’t a standard city tour—it’s a time-travel ride through Chișinău in a vintage Lada/VAZ. On a private route, we chase Soviet-era icons, brutalist shapes, mosaics, and abandoned landmarks, stopping for the best photo angles and the stories behind what you’re seeing. Expect a flexible itinerary, hotel pickup, and a local guide who turns “concrete and symbols” into a living, unforgettable narrative.

Not everyone gets to go back in time and experience what Soviet-era life was like. This tour from Chisinau to Transnistria in Moldova allows you to do just that. This is a private tour, so you and your group will go at your own pace, instead of having to stick to a fixed itinerary. You’ll visit places like the Suvorov Monument, Bender Fortress, Tiraspol, and more. Cameras ready for Soviet architectural relics.

Explore the rise and fall of the Soviet Union in Chișinău on this private walking tour. Starting at the Railway Station, uncover the early hardships of the USSR through poignant monuments and stories of personal experiences. Visit significant sites like the WW2 Memorial, Deportations Monument and Circus, and enjoy a canteen-style lunch at Soviet Bistro, where culinary creativity thrived amid shortages. Traverse through the golden age of Soviet propaganda at cultural landmarks, like Lenin's Monument. Conclude with reflections on the decline and censorship in a hidden bar, with a Soviet-inspired drink. This immersive experience highlights daily life under communism. - Duration of ~5 hours, with engaging storytelling and historical visuals - Private tour offering an intimate exploration of Soviet life - Includes lunch at a local canteen and a drink at a hidden bar - Admission to museums, ride on a trolleybus (as needed) - Year-round availability

Transnistria Tour & Cricova Cellar with Wine Tasting Come with us to discover one of Europe’s most unexplored corners — Moldova! This unique tour offers a fascinating mix of culture, history, nature, and pleasure, taking you to some of the most intriguing places in the region. ⭐ Why join us? Explore Europe’s least-visited country and step into Transnistria — a self-declared republic that ‘doesn’t exist’ on the map, a living Soviet relic still flying the hammer and sickle. Travel safely with an experienced local guide. Visit both Bender and Tiraspol, the main cities of Transnistria. Admire striking Soviet architecture. After the Transnistria experience, we return to Moldova for an unforgettable afternoon underground: Cricova Winery (or optionally, the world-record-holding Milestii Mici) Discover the legendary underground wine city of Cricova, with over 120 km of tunnels. Wander its wide avenues lined with barrels, visit tasting rooms, and enjoy a guided wine tasting.

Don’t miss the chance to see some of Moldova’s most interesting monasteries while you’re touring in Chisinau. Book this hassle-free tour that takes you to Capriana and Hincu, where your guide will tell you all about the monasteries in the areas. You’ll also have hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t need to be making those arrangements separately.

Transnistria is a must place to visit if you are interested in the history of the USSR in Moldova. This "dissident republic" is still politically and economically aligned with Russia and feels very different from other parts of Moldova. Visit the town of Tighina with its medieval fortress, Chitcani and its religious complex, and Tiraspol with its Soviet architecture. As this is a private tour, you can ask plenty of questions throughout the tour and enjoy a more personalized experience.

We offer you an excursion dedicated to one of the regions of Moldova: "Gagauzia". This little-known region is located in the south of Moldova. It is populated by the Gagauz, a Turkish-speaking population largely Russified and historically close to the Turks of Anatolia. They thus speak a Turkish dialect (but also Russian) and they are Orthodox Christians (and not Muslims). Historically, the Turkish-speaking Christians of Bulgaria, the "Gök-oğuz" or Gagauz, were established here in 1812, among the Moldovans, when the Russian Empire annexed Bessarabia.

Instead of trying to navigate and explore Odessa on your own, this tour makes it easy and takes you on a convenient journey from Moldova. Your journey begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Chisinau. Experience the charm of Odessa as you stroll through Theatre Square. Marvel at the architecture, learn about the rich history, and don’t miss the chance to visit the Opera and Ballet Theater.

Transnistria & Chișinău: 8-Hour Soviet-Era and City Highlights Tour This full‑day excursion from Chișinău offers an immersive look at one of Moldova’s most unusual and fascinating regions. You’ll travel with a local guide and driver to explore Transnistria, a self‑proclaimed breakaway region with a distinct Soviet‑era atmosphere, and learn about its history, culture, and complex status in Eastern Europe. What You Can Expect on This Tour: Commentary and insights from a professional local guide throughout the day. A scenic drive across the border into Transnistria, where a unique political and cultural snapshot of the Soviet era still thrives. Small group size (maximum about 6 travelers), ensuring a more personal experience. Return to Chișinău by late afternoon or early evening. Important: Please have your passport with you. Bring cash for souvenirs and food, as cards are not accepted in local shops and restaurants.

Combine two popular day trip destinations on this full-day tour from Chisinau. Discover Moldova’s winemaking heritage and enjoy a guided wine tasting during a tour of the Milestii Mici winery, home to the world’s largest underground wine cellar. After lunch (own expense), explore Tiraspol, Moldova’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of the Transnistrian Moldovan Republic.

Discover the perfect balance between spiritual heritage and refined wine culture on your tour to Căpriana Monastery and Château Cojușna Winery. Begin your journey at one of Moldova’s most important monasteries, surrounded by peaceful forests and centuries of history. Explore the monastery, which includes the Churches of Virgin's Assumption (1545), Saint Nicholas (1840), and Saint George (1907), as well as the abbot's house, the refectory, and cells. The most ancient is the Virgin's Assumption Church, founded by Petru Rares. Continue the day with visiting Chateau Cojusna Winery - an elegant winery where tradition meets modern winemaking. Enjoy a wine tour and a wine tasting program, which includes a tasting of 4 high-quality wines and appetizers. Enjoy guided visits in Moldova, beautiful landscapes, and a curated wine tasting experience that highlights the flavors of the Codru region.

There are a few places in the world which still "breathe the air of Soviet Union" I invite you to dive into our world, esplore its beauty, taste its authenticity. Moldovans are famous for their hospitality - it represents the signature of the country, having earned Moldova the name of "piece of heaven"

We offer a dedicated excursion to the north of Moldova. You will visit the town of Soroca, founded in 1420, is located in the north 160 km from Chisinau, in the Nistru valley, being surrounded by hills and centuries-old forests. The Russians compared Soroca to Yalta, which is in Crimea, while the Romanians called it Sinaia Bessarabian. The tourist objectives that you will visit are: The medieval fortress of Soroca The recognition candle - the symbol of the Moldovan people, erected in tribute to the anonymous heroes who fought to preserve, protect and transmit the culture, language and history of Moldova through the generations. Gypsy Hill - where you will discover a curious reproduction of the White House or an unusual copy of the Moscow Bolshoi.

Explore the best attractions of Chisinau on a joyful 2,5 hour walking tour with an expert guide. You will walk through the central streets of Chisinau and see such sights as Chisinau Opera Building, Parliament Building, Native Cathedral etc

Get to know the highlights of Gagauzian in just one day with this tour that conveniently departs from Chisinau. Join for an experience that includes visits to historic sites, winery tours with wine tastings, a traditional lunch, transportation, and guide services. Explore the Gagauzian culture from Chisinau city to Manucy Bei Mansion, Hinceti city, Comrat City, Besh alma village, and Dolai village.

Explore the fascinating blend of history and culture in Bender and Tiraspol on this comprehensive full-day guided tour from Chișinău. Discover the impressive Bender Fortress, stroll through bustling local markets, and admire Soviet-era monuments while gaining insights from an experienced local guide about the region's unique past. This tour includes transportation, entrance tickets, and a complete sightseeing itinerary, ensuring a structured yet engaging experience. Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike, this tour offers a deep dive into the stories that shape Moldova today. – Citizens of Ukraine must book at least 2 weeks in advance, so we can arrange the required entry permit for Transnistria. – Important: International cards (Visa, Mastercard) do not work in the region. You must carry cash in USD or EUR, with bills in good condition, so they can be exchanged for local currency without problems. – Please make sure to have your passport with you for border control.

All of Transnistria in one trip! Delve into Soviet-era history on this tour to Transnistria from Chisinau. Explore the hotly contested Republic of Transnistria, or Pridnestrovie. We will visit all the main attractions in Transnistria. After this tour, you will definitely know everything about the Soviet Era period in Moldova! We invite you to discover Transnistria, the place where the old USSR is still alive and flourishing. It is a breakaway territory within the internationally recognized borders of Moldova. The country’s national coat of arms still includes the traditional hammer and sickle, and the lenin is revered today. The guide will show you around Transnistria on an unforgettable tour full of beautiful vistas, forgotten Soviet-era monuments, and real travel through time.

Maximize your time in Moldova on this full-day tour from Chisinau and visit two popular attractions in one day. Discover Moldova’s winemaking heritage and enjoy a guided wine tasting during a tour of the Cricova winery, famous for its ‘underground city’ of wine cellars. After lunch (own expense), explore Tiraspol, Moldova’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of the Transnistrian Moldovan Republic.