All Chisinau Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

Soviet Era Tour of Transnistria from Chisinau Moldova

Dear travellers to Moldova! I would like to greet you warmly in my home country and introduce you to our little country. On the map of Eastern Europe, Moldova is still an unexplored country. On our one-day tour, we visit a place that can surprise Moldova – state within Moldova – tiny Transnistria, which is not found on the world map. We show and tell you about people's everyday lives, our culture and values, typical Moldovan delicacies. Lunch is served at the inn in the Bulgarian village at the locals'. On the tour we visit the fortress of Bendery, on the city walk we learn about the historical events that had shaped this region. We look at the Soviet monuments, Lenin and Suvorov monuments, the majestic building and memorial sites.

Special Offer

One day tour in Transnistria

Highlights of Moldova - Curchi, Old Orhei and Cricova (Optional)

(69)

from $110

Dear Guest, This tour perfectly combines Moldova’s rich medieval history with its world-famous wine culture in one unforgettable day. Curchi Monastery – Spiritual Beauty Next, visit the beautiful Curchi Monastery, one of the most impressive monasteries in the country. Old Orhei is the most picturesque and historically significant place in Moldova. Visit the Old Orhei Archaeological Complex and the Medieval Town Museum, where ancient civilizations, dramatic limestone cliffs, and traditional rural life come together. Cave monastery carved into limestone cliffs Ancient fortifications and ruins The local museum Learn about the region’s medieval history while admiring breathtaking views over the Răut River valley. The experience concludes with time for lunch in Butuceni (lunch is optional and paid separately). The final stop Cricova Winery (optional) Over 120 km of underground cellars The unique “underground wine city.”

Tour to Old Orhei &Cave Monastery &Cricova cellar tour (optional)

Tour to Old Orhei &Cave Monastery &Cricova cellar tour (optional)

(27)

from $109

Best of Moldova: Cricova Winery & Old Orhei and Curchi Monastery

(194)

from $155

Enjoy plenty of your guide's attention on this small-group tour to the breakaway state of Transnistria from Chisinau. Cross the border to explore Tiraspol, a city frozen in Soviet history. Discover landmarks like Bendery Fortress, the Tank Monument, and the Christmas Cathedral in a peaceful, safe region often described as a hidden gem, with a guide to share stories you'd never hear on your own.

Special Offer

Transnistria Tour from Chisinau Explore Soviet Time Capsule

Transnistria Tour from Chisinau Explore Soviet Time Capsule

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.

Transnistria Back in the USSR Tour

(49)

from $116

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 till today. Our first stop will be the Bender fortress - an architectural monument of the XVI century. It was built on the model of the Western European structure of bastion type. You can walk along the walls enjoying the great views of the Dniester River. After Bender, we take you to Tiraspol, the capital of Transnistria and the 2nd largest town of Moldova. We will take you to the major attractions of Tiraspol, such as V. Lenin monument and House of Soviets, the Transnistrian Parliament (25 October Ave, Tiraspol), the Afghanistan War Memorial, Monument-tank, and more. Possible extensions for this tour: KVINT Distillery (Tiraspol), MIMI Wine Castle, Asconi Winery or Noul Neamt Monastery.

Back in the USSR - Transnistria.

(69)

from $117

Our tour stands out for a more authentic, comfortable and personalized approach than the classic excursions. Offered in private format, it allows you to discover Curchi and Orheiul Vechi in very good conditions, with more flexibility, more attention and an experience better adapted to the Traveler’s pace. We offer not only a visit of sites, but a real introduction to the soul of Moldova: its religious heritage, landscapes, history and rural atmosphere. This tour is for travelers who want to understand, feel and discover the country in more depth.

Authentic Moldova - Excursion to Orhei Vechi

Authentic Moldova - Excursion to Orhei Vechi

5 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

(21)

from $117

Step back in time to the Soviet era on this action-packed private tour. Discover the history of the Soviet Union at Transnistria, with preserved Soviet monuments, equipment and historically important places. Visit the Bender Fortress dating back to 1538, the Tighina Military Cemetery, and discover local life at the Green Market Center at Tiraspol. See the Suvorov Monument, Tank Monument and the impressive Palacio Presidential.

Tiraspol and Bender Back in the USSR Tour

(149)

from $95

Milestii Mici Underground Winery Tour INCLUDING Wine tasting

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(32)

from $130

If you want to feel the breath of the former Soviet Union, we invite you to visit Transnistria. It will be exciting and interesting. This region was formed after the war in 1992 and is independent from Moldova, although officially it is considered to be part of Moldova. It has its own currency, own president and three official languages. We will visit places and buildings from the former USSR. You will see Lenin monuments, the majestic House of Soviets in the style of Stalinism, the 16th century Bendery fortress. You will visit the USSR canteen, where many old Soviet things are collected . The highlight of your trip will be visit to a private guesthouse "Usadba Acasa" in a Bulgarian village of Parcani,where we will go for lunch. Lunch will be prepared by caring hosts in the best national traditions.Here you will taste delicious homemade wine and take part in a folklore performance,get acguainted with the life of local residents, national traditions

Tour of Transnistria

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Moldova’s capital city boasts pleasant parks, Soviet-era architecture, and several notable historical sights. Because of its relatively limited tourist infrastructure, it can be a somewhat intimidating place for first-time visitors. On this private walking tour of Chișinău, take the stress out of navigating as your guide leads you to the most impressive sights and monuments, and explore at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

(25)

from $77

Likely to Sell Out

Best of Chisinau Private City Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

(68)

from $67

Tired of cookie-cutter tours that feel like a checklist? This personalized trip through Transnistria (an unrecognised country within Moldova, and known locally as Pridnestrovie) is tailored to your pace. Instead of rushing through landmarks, explore with a local artist who shows you both top sights and hidden corners most tourists miss. It’s the perfect way to truly understand the country—with time to ask questions, hear real stories, and let Transnistria speak for itself.

Transnistria travel with Anton Dendemarchenko - most transparent and entertaining tours from all possibilities! Discover the country that doesn’t exist - we make cognac not war ☭

Travel to Pridnestrovie with Anton Dendemarchenko - day tour

5 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

(219)

from $117

Visit one of the oldest wineries in Moldova and discover the rich cultural heritage on this full-day small-group tour. Explore Old Orhei Archaeological Complex and Manastirea Curchi (Curchi Monastery), offering a look at Moldova’s tradition of religious art and architecture. Then, head to the extensive Cricova wine caves, where you can opt to join a tour and wine tasting (additional fee). Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for convenience.

1 Day: Old Orhei, Curchi monastery and Cricova Winery (optional)

(20)

from $117

Skip the hassle of taxis and the unpredictability of public transport. Our reliable Chisinau airport transfer service guarantees a smooth ride to or from the airport—right on time to any location in Chisinau. Get picked up from the arrivals gate in Chisinau airport by your driver who will help you with your luggage. Your driver will track your flight so that no matter whether your flight arrives early, late or on-time, they will be there to meet you on arrival. A customer service line is available 24/7 to support you in any help you need. So sit back, relax and kick-off your vacation in Moldova. Let us make your travel experience seamless and stress-free. See you soon!

Private Transfer to or from Chisinau Airport

30 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutesFree Cancellation

(11)

from $28

Discover Gagauzia and Manuc Bei Mansion

8 hours 15 minutesFree Cancellation

4.8

(30)

from $130

Tiraspol must-see tour with Anton Dendemarchenko - Pridnestrovie

Supreme Soviet and back of 50 pridnestrovian roubles banknote. Transnistria tour by Anton Dendemarchenko. Welcome to Pridnestrovie, we make cognac not war ☭

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Wine culture is such a big part of Moldova heritage. The story of Milestii Mici Winery begins in an old stone-extracting mine, where the extraction of limestone over the years inadvertently created the perfect environment for wine maturation and storage. The Mileștii Mici winery is known for having tunnels over a total length of 200km and the largest wine cellar in the world. Today, the collection exceeds 2 million bottles and can be visited at any time of the year, with a constant underground temperature between 12-14 degrees Celsius. The winery is located approximately 16 kilometers south of Chișinău, in the Ialoveni district. Embarking on a journey to Mileștii Mici Winery offers not just a taste of exceptional wines but also an immersive experience into Moldova's rich cultural and historical tapestry.

(212)

from $41

Stretching for 250 km, of which only 120 km are currently in use, the Milestii Mici cellar complex is also the largest in the world

Visit Milestii Mici the Largest Wine Cellar in the World

4 hoursFree Cancellation

(4)

from $115

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.

"Odessa from Moldova: A Guided Day Trip to Remember"

"Odessa from Moldova: A Guided Day Trip to Remember"

14 hoursFree Cancellation

(3)

from $400

Discover the hidden history of the unfinished Soviet bunker 'Object 1180' in Olișcani, a site shrouded in mystery and buried deep within the forest. This unique tour offers a detailed exploration of the bunker’s construction, its intended purpose, and the intriguing stories that surround it. Navigate through heavy metal blast doors and dark corridors, uncovering the secrets of this relic of the Cold War. - Guided descent into the hidden Soviet bunker with expert insights - Navigate dark corridors and view unique ice formations, even in summer - Explore a fascinating piece of Cold War history, unknown to many

Explore the Secret Soviet Bunker Object 1180 in Olișcani

Explore the Secret Soviet Bunker Object 1180 in Olișcani

3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $175

Hidden Chisinau: A Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour

On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll explore Chișinău through the eyes of a local, visiting historic monuments, elegant parks, and architectural treasures. You’ll also hear about the personalities and events that shaped this unique Eastern European capital. Moldova’s capital city is a blend of Soviet grandeur, Romanian heritage, and surprising local stories waiting to be discovered. This audio tour starts at the Main Post Office at “Kilometer 0,” the point from which all distances in Moldova are measured. You’ll stroll through the elegant Cathedral Park to see its Orthodox cathedral and bell tower, and pass the grand Triumphal Arch. Along the way, you’ll find out how Russian, Romanian, and Soviet influences have shaped Chișinău’s identity through the centuries. The tour ends in a spot adjacent to the historic Chisinau City Hall building and the impressive Organ Hall, originally installed because the daughter of a Soviet leader wanted to study organ music.

Hidden Chisinau: A Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour

1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $10

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.

Full-Day Hiking Trip to Tipova Cave Monastery and Lalova Village

(8)

from $120

Join me for a fun, relaxed walk through Chisinau with plenty of wine! We meet at the Stefan cel Mare Monument (Stephen the Great Monument) to enjoy the first glass. I’ll share stories about the national hero, his "Saint" status, his legacy and why he is on every single paper bill in Moldova Next, we hit the Alley of Classics for the second glass. Learn about famous poets, their personal habits, and why Pushkin is there. We’ll discover 31st of August Street, which is considered by many the city's most beautiful road. Here I will show you great museums and restaurants that you can visit later. After visiting Queen Maria’s monument and hear the story of the German mayor, Carol Schmidt, we’ll head to the Parliament and Presidency. I’ll explain the 2009 protests and the shady history of the building's repair. We finish with a final glass of wine and my insider tips for the best restaurants, easy-to-reach wineries, and unforgettable nightlife. Discover the real Moldova with a local!

Chisinau Walking City Tour Combined With Local Wine

Chisinau Walking City Tour Combined With Local Wine

2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

Soviet Era Tour of Transnistria from Chisinau Moldova

(22)

from $41

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What are people saying about Chisinau

Kathleen_W, Aug 2026

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see and learn. Superb, positive experience and a great guide!!!

Absolutely fantastic, informative day with the best guide that we could have wished for, Natalia. She asked about our interests to help to tailor the day, was flexible and had so much information about the area, and she put an agenda together to suit everyone. We saw so much, all of the main sights in the tour description and more. We have come away with a greater awareness after a positive day and a fantastic experience. 10 out of 10!

One day tour in Transnistria

tim_p, Aug 2026

Good tour to a different part of the world

Very interesting. Good tour of a different type of place. Both the driver and guide were very friendly and informative. Is worth making the effort to see this different place. You move about a lot and it would be difficult to replicate this experience travelling on public transport.

Highlights of Moldova - Curchi, Old Orhei and Cricova (Optional)

Noah_S, Jul 2026

Great day with Oleg

What a great day! Great communication the evening before, clean and comfortable car, and Oleg was a great guide. He was able to balance the history of each place without it being overwhelming, and seemed incredibly passionate about sharing his country with us.

Half-Day Private Guided Tour of Orheiul Vechi and a Farmhouse

Inese_G, Jul 2026

Excellent your with a great guide

The tour was excellent, it was prolonged and adjusted to our needs and a bonus site was added to the tour program. The guide had an excellent knowledge not only about the destinations we visited, but also about various aspects of Moldovan culture and everyday life. I would definitely recommend.

Discover Gagauzia and Manuc Bei Mansion

Cristina_C, Jul 2026

10/10 Experience! The...

10/10 Experience! The attractions were fascinating and our guide went absolutely above and beyond. Our guide Vadim is an expert historian who gave us detailed explanations of each planned attraction plus everything else we passed. He added tasteful humor and insightful details all throughout, plus answered all the extra questions we had. Unfortunately, the museum was closed (despite the website showing otherwise), but our guide still shared its story and even took us to another similar museum to make up for it. This tour was truly fascinating, as we got to know so much about the Gagauz history and culture. The food was amazing and the atmosphere at the Sofrasi restaurant was great, as we even saw a traditional wedding. It cannot be overstated how above and beyond Vadim went to make the experience special and worthwhile. This tour is perfect for anyone who appreciates culture, history and traditional customs.

Best of Moldova: Cricova Winery & Old Orhei and Curchi Monastery

Laura_T, Jul 2026

Fantastic private tour

Fantastic your, fantastic guide, loved it. Would highly recommend! Went on this tour with my sister and mum and it was amazing. Going at your own pace you get to see the amazing monastery, museums, tunnels and more and then you finish on the wine tour which was simply amazing, I would do it all over again. Moldova was beautiful covered in sunflowers lovely!

Transnistria Tour from Chisinau Explore Soviet Time Capsule

Dennis_M, Jul 2026

Very nice experience

Very interesting experience. I felt very safe, despite all the warnings that embassies give to tourists. Diana was a very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful guide. She did all she could to give the group a pleasant experience. Pridnestrovie is worth a visit. You step back in time to the Sowjet Union in the 80s and at the same time you will see that the people there are just like us all. Can recommend.

Authentic Moldova - Excursion to Orhei Vechi

Matthew_F, Jun 2026

Beautiful and peaceful

A really good tour to beautiful and peaceful locations. Our guide was excellent and knowledgeable. The monastery was highlight. Such stunning surroundings. This is a wonderful way to explore Moldova outside of the capital. A really real ‘must’ for including, in any visit to Chisinau.

Tiraspol and Bender Back in the USSR Tour

charlottelister, Jun 2026

One of the best tours we have ever done

Wow. This is a fabulous tour, made even better by our fantastic guide Victor. He is knowledgeable, engaging and funny. The logistics were perfect - we were contacted to day before to confirm time of pick up, advised what to bring, and then transported effortlessly to every part of the tour on a comfortable, clean minibus. Victor gave a commentary through Chisinau and onto Bender, explaining the process for crossing the border and making this effortless and straightforward. He then took us to exchange currency, we saw the monuments and buildings in Bender, then drove on to Tiraspol. Victor told us about the history and geopolitical situation at every point and answered all questions openly and fully. Lunch in the Soviet canteen was great (and super cheap) and shopping in the market was great fun. We finished at Bendery fortress with more information and history, and then got driven back to Chisinau. Overall a truly brilliant tour, definitely helped by good weather and a great group of people on the tour, but so worth doing.

Travel to Pridnestrovie with Anton Dendemarchenko - day tour

Paul_B, May 2026

A Local Pridnistrovie Guide is Best

You could get a guide from Chisinau BUT Anton Dendemarchenko lives in Transnistria and he guides you through an experience of Pridnistrovia. He's very focused on providing a catered experience and he communicated via WhatsApp as soon as I booked to ask about who I am and what I wanted from my visit. To say he went beyond expected is no exaggeration, he added a few hours to our visit so he could show us more Local things. When you book with Anton, a local, you have so many advantages. Be warned there will be a quiz, you are expected to think... it's ok if you don't want to participate. And for your safety, there's no talking to Anton while he's driving in the city. For some reason I got a Gilead vibe, there is NO similarity, just the desire to create your own country and the reaction from the rest of the world. So I say, as an experienced world explorer, Book This Experience!

Biking a Guinness Book Winery

Sean_T, Apr 2026

Electric train (not bike) tour

To be clear from the beginning, I booked the electric train/cart option not the cycling one, so please consider that in reading this review. The tour was well paced and took us deep into the cellars. Our guide was excellent and told great stories and history of not just the wines and cellars, but the background of people with win in the cellars, and all kinds of interesting info. Toward the end we were led to a wonderful room for a tasting of a few wines along with a small plate of food as palette cleansers. This was one of the best winery tours I’ve been lucky enough to experience.

4 Hours Cricova Winery Tour with Tasting

Rebecca_D, Oct 2025

Can be booked directly through the winery

We really enjoyed this winery, it was a great experience and we had a really good time. Our driver was really quiet, and hard to find at the end of the tour, but we appreciated the ride. If we could do this again, we probably would have just booked directly through the winery and caught an uber. This tour didn’t really provide anything special that we couldn’t have planned ourselves.