Everyone told me Moldova was boring. Well, they clearly never drove through the world’s biggest wine cellar, sipping Cabernet in an underground city of bottles at Cricova. Or maybe they missed that jaw-dropping moment at sunset when the limestone cliffs of Orheiul Vechi light up in shades of gold, with the ancient monastery perched above like something from a fairytale.
These are the most beautiful places in Moldova that completely changed how I see Eastern Europe. From wandering through endless underground wine tunnels (yes, you can actually drive a car down there) to watching the sun set over monasteries carved into cliffs, this tiny country surprised me in the best possible way. Let me show you exactly why.
Picture-Perfect Places to See in Moldova
Looking to explore Moldova’s most beautiful places? From the picturesque vineyards of Mileștii Mici to the historic charm of Orheiul Vechi, Moldova is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll the vibrant streets of Chișinău, marvel at the natural beauty of Codru Nature Reserve, or explore the cultural richness of Tiraspol. Discover the charming allure of Soroca Fortress, the tranquil landscapes of Cricova, or the breathtaking views from Tipova Monastery. Whether you’re into wine, history, or nature, here are 12 of Moldova’s most breathtaking spots!
1. Chisinau
- 📍 Location: Capital city of Moldova in the center of the country along the Bâc River
- 🏆 Best For: City explorers 🏙️, history enthusiasts 🏛️, food lovers 🍷
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Stefan cel Mare Park, visiting National Museum of History, sampling wines at Carpe Diem Wine Shop
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-June and September-October for pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Radisson Blu Leogrand Hotel – Centrally located luxury accommodation
Forget the crowded European capitals – Chisinau offers that perfect urban adventure without the tourist hordes. This vibrant city blends Soviet architecture with modern energy and lush green spaces. I found the central Stefan cel Mare Park ideal for people-watching while sipping Moldovan wine. Don’t miss the bustling Central Market, where locals gather for fresh produce and traditional foods.
The National Museum of History tells Moldova’s complex story from ancient times through Soviet occupation. For nightlife, head to Chisinau’s evolving restaurant scene, where traditional cuisine meets contemporary flair. The city makes an excellent base for exploring Moldova’s renowned wine regions and nearby attractions like Cricova Winery.
- Love exploring European capitals? Check out: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
2. Transnistria
- 📍 Location: Strip of land between the Dniester River and Ukrainian border, 60 km east of Chisinau
- 🏆 Best For: Soviet history buffs 🚩, off-the-beaten-path travelers 🗺️, photographers 📸
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring October 25th Street with Soviet monuments, visiting Bendery Fortress, seeing unique Transnistrian currency
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for comfortable temperatures 🍂
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Russia in Tiraspol – Central accommodation with Soviet charm
Want to experience the Soviet Union without a time machine? Transnistria feels frozen in time with Lenin statues and hammer-and-sickle flags proudly displayed throughout this unrecognized breakaway state. The capital, Tiraspol, features imposing government buildings along October 25th Street that transported me straight back to the USSR. Bendery Fortress offers an impressive 16th-century Ottoman structure with panoramic views.
For something surprising, check out the ultra-modern Sheriff Stadium Complex that seems completely out of place. Obtaining a temporary visa at entry points is straightforward. Locals are generally friendly toward visitors despite photography restrictions around government buildings. Bring cash, as foreign cards rarely work in this peculiar region.
- Exploring Eastern Europe? You’ll also enjoy: Most Beautiful Places in Eastern Europe
3. Tipova Monastery
- 📍 Location: Limestone cliffs above the Dniester River, 100 km northeast of Chisinau
- 🏆 Best For: Religious history enthusiasts ⛪, nature lovers 🏞️, photographers 📸
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring cave cells, hiking Tipova Nature Reserve, admiring Dniester River views
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall when hiking trails are accessible 🌿
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Villa Roz – Traditional guesthouse with homemade meals
Adventure seekers will marvel at Tipova Monastery, one of Eastern Europe’s most dramatic religious sites carved directly into towering limestone cliffs. Dating from the 10th century, this complex once housed 700 monks living in isolated stone chambers. The monastery features ancient cells, prayer rooms, and the partially functional Church of the Feast of the Holy Cross. I recommend wearing sturdy shoes for the steep paths with limited railings.
The surrounding Tipova Nature Reserve rewards hikers with stunning viewpoints over the river canyon. Allow at least half a day to fully appreciate this spiritual haven nestled in pristine nature. Combine your visit with nearby Orheiul Vechi for a perfect day trip from Chisinau. The contrast between ancient religious practice and natural beauty creates an unforgettable experience.
4. Cricova Winery
- 📍 Location: 15 km north of Chisinau, beneath the town of Cricova
- 🏆 Best For: Wine enthusiasts 🍷, underground explorers 🚇, history lovers 🏛️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Taking electric car tours through underground “streets,” visiting tasting rooms, exploring National Wine Collection
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round (underground temperature remains constant at 12-14°C) 🌡️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Weekend Boutique Hotel – Elegant wine-themed accommodation nearby
Wine lovers rejoice at Cricova Winery, an underground city of wine with 120 kilometers of tunnels and “streets” named after famous wine varieties. Created from former limestone mines, this subterranean marvel houses one of the world’s most impressive collections at depths of 50-80 meters. Electric carts whisk visitors through labyrinthine passages to elaborate tasting rooms. You’ll glimpse the National Wine Collection with bottles rescued from Nazi Germany during WWII.
I couldn’t believe the craftsmanship of their sparkling wines produced using traditional French methods. The winery has hosted numerous world leaders who maintain personal collections in its depths. Book well in advance for this popular attraction, as tours fill quickly, especially during summer months. Don’t miss the chance to purchase bottles unavailable outside Moldova.
- Book winery tours here: Cricova Official Site
5. Kvint Factory
- 📍 Location: Tiraspol, Transnistria, along the banks of the Dniester River
- 🏆 Best For: Spirits connoisseurs 🥃, Soviet industrial history fans 🏭, souvenir hunters 🛍️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Taking distillery tours, sampling brandy varieties, visiting on-site museum
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round (indoor facility) 🌡️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Russia – City-center accommodation within walking distance
Bourbon who? Kvint Factory produces brandies that rival famous cognacs yet remain a hidden gem among spirits aficionados since 1897. This historic Transnistrian distillery offers fascinating tours through production facilities where traditional methods meet modern technology. Follow the brandy-making process from massive oak aging barrels to sophisticated bottling lines. The tasting room experience lets you sample varieties ranging from young 3-year brandies to premium 20-year reserves.
My favorite part was exploring the factory’s museum with historic equipment and international competition medals. The on-site shop offers excellent value for high-quality spirits unavailable in most markets. These bottles make unique souvenirs from this unusual territory where Soviet traditions still thrive. Even non-drinkers will appreciate the craftsmanship and cultural significance of this renowned factory.
- Book a factory tour: Kvint Distillery
6. Orheiul Vechi
- 📍 Location: 60 km northeast of Chisinau near the village of Trebujeni
- 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, photographers 📸, nature enthusiasts 🏞️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Cave Monastery, hiking river canyon, visiting Butuceni village
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late April through October for ideal weather 🌿
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Eco-Resort Butuceni – Traditional village accommodation with authentic cuisine
Instagram-worthy views await at Orheiul Vechi, where a limestone canyon carved by the Răut River creates Moldova’s most spectacular landscape. This open-air museum encompasses remains from civilizations dating back thousands of years. The site’s highlight is the Cave Monastery, carved into limestone cliffs by Orthodox monks in the 13th century. Inside you’ll find a small chapel with original frescoes where services occasionally still occur.
I stood speechless at the viewing platform as the serpentine river unfolded below. Nearby Butuceni village maintains traditional Moldovan architecture with houses centuries old. Visit the ethnographic museum before enjoying authentic cuisine at family-run restaurants. This natural amphitheater offers the perfect escape from digital life into Moldova’s rich heritage. Plan for at least half a day to properly explore both the monastery and village.
- For more stunning landscapes: Most Beautiful Places in Europe
7. Soroca
- 📍 Location: Northern Moldova, situated on the Dniester River, about 160 km north of Chișinău
- 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏰, architecture lovers 🏛️, cultural explorers 🌇
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the medieval fortress, visiting Gypsy Hill, admiring the panoramic views of the Dniester River
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for pleasant weather and accessible attractions 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Central Soroca – Comfortable accommodation near the fortress with river views
Ready to impress your Instagram followers with medieval fortresses that rival European hotspots? Soroca offers perfectly circular 16th-century Soroca Fortress, built during Prince Petru Rareș’s reign. I was amazed by the panoramic views of the Dniester River that creates a natural border with Ukraine.
The city’s famous Gypsy Hill showcases elaborate Roma mansions with architectural elements inspired by global landmarks. These ornate “Gypsy Palaces” offer fantastic photo opportunities for architecture buffs. Take time to wander the cobblestone streets of the old town, explore the riverside promenade, and visit the Soroca Memorial Candle Monument. This unexpected Moldovan gem combines authentic cultural experiences with fascinating history in one compact riverside location.
8. Saharna
- 📍 Location: North-central Moldova, 120 km north of Chișinău, nestled in the Saharna River valley
- 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, pilgrims ⛪, hikers 🥾
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the 22 waterfalls, visiting the Holy Trinity Monastery, climbing to the “Grimstone” rock formation
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn when the waterfalls are flowing and hiking trails are accessible 💦
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Eco Resort Butuceni – Traditional Moldovan cottages with rustic charm and organic dining
Need a digital detox that combines adventure and spirituality? Saharna hits refresh on your stressed mind with its astonishing 22 waterfalls scattered throughout a lush valley that few tourists have discovered. The largest cascade, Saharna Mare, drops from 10 meters, creating a misty spectacle perfect for slow-motion videos.
The stunning Holy Trinity Monastery anchors this major Orthodox pilgrimage site dating back to the 18th century. Nearby stands a rock with what believers claim is St. Maria’s footprint. My favorite hike leads to Grimstone, a natural rock formation towering 657 feet above the valley floor. Well-marked trails guide you through scenic forests, past crystal-clear springs, and alongside the rushing Saharna River. This hidden gem offers the perfect blend of physical challenge and spiritual renewal without the tourist crowds.
- Plan your Moldova adventure: Discover Moldova
9. Capriana Monastery
- 📍 Location: Central Moldova, in Codru Forest, approximately 40 km northwest of Chișinău
- 🏆 Best For: Religious travelers ⛪, history buffs 📜, architecture enthusiasts 🏛️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the monastery complex, visiting the museum, exploring the ancient oak forest
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April through October when the forest is lush and monastery grounds are in full bloom 🌳
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa din Lunca Pension – Charming countryside guesthouse with traditional décor and homemade Moldovan meals
Looking for content that goes beyond typical European churches? Capriana Monastery offers a masterclass in authentic Eastern Orthodox heritage as one of Moldova’s oldest religious sites, dating back to the 15th century. This former residence of Moldova’s Metropolitan sits nestled within the ancient Codru Forest.
The monastery complex features several churches built across different periods. The main Assumption Cathedral showcases classic Moldovan Orthodox architecture with its impressive bell tower and colorful frescoes. You’ll find my favorite spiritual escape wandering among centuries-old oak trees that create a serene atmosphere perfect for contemplation. Don’t miss the small museum housing religious manuscripts and ceremonial objects. After exploring, sample traditional Moldovan cuisine at nearby family-run restaurants where recipes have remained unchanged for generations.
10. Gagauzia
- 📍 Location: Southern Moldova, an autonomous region about 100 km south of Chișinău
- 🏆 Best For: Cultural explorers 🌐, food lovers 🍷, off-the-beaten-path travelers 🗺️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the National Gagauz History and Ethnographic Museum, touring local wineries, experiencing traditional Gagauz cuisine
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late summer to fall for harvest festivals and wine-related events 🍇
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Gagauz Sofrasi – Traditional guesthouse with authentic food and cultural experiences
Craving a cultural escape that none of your friends have experienced? Gagauzia offers a fascinating adventure where Orthodox Christians of Turkic origin maintain their unique language and traditions. This autonomous region feels like crossing a border while still in Moldova.
The capital, Comrat, houses the excellent National Gagauz History Museum, showcasing traditional crafts and costumes. Food enthusiasts should try authentic Gagauz specialties like kaurma and shorpa, often paired with excellent local wines. I couldn’t get enough of the regional specialties that blend Turkish influences with Moldovan staples. The Kara Gani winery offers tastings of indigenous varieties grown in the southern sun. Time your visit with the colorful Baba Marta spring festival or autumn Kasym celebrations for maximum cultural immersion without tourist crowds.
11. Taul Park and Pommer Manor
- 📍 Location: Northern Moldova, near Taul village, approximately 200 km north of Chișinău
- 🏆 Best For: Garden enthusiasts 🌸, architecture lovers 🏛️, photographers 📸
- 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling through Moldova’s largest landscape park, exploring the historic manor, photographing rare plant species
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early autumn when gardens are in full bloom 🌺
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa din Lunca – Countryside guesthouse with traditional Moldovan hospitality near the park
Want an aristocratic experience without Swiss price tags? Taul Park has royal vibes spanning over 200 hectares as Moldova’s largest landscaped garden. Created by renowned architect I.V. Vladislavski-Padalko, this botanical masterpiece, houses over 150 species of exotic trees and ornamental plants.
The elegant Pommer Manor stands at the heart of this early 20th-century estate commissioned by landowner Ivan Pommer. Though it suffered damage during Soviet times, recent restoration efforts have revitalized its charm. When I walked the pathways through themed gardens and past artificial lakes, each turn revealed perfect photo opportunities. During spring, the rose garden bursts with color and fragrance. Autumn transforms the park into a canvas of gold and crimson foliage. This northern treasure provides sophisticated relaxation without luxury-destination costs.
12. Codru National Reservation
- 📍 Location: Central Moldova, approximately 50 km west of Chișinău
- 🏆 Best For: Nature enthusiasts 🌿, birdwatchers 🦅, hikers 🥾
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking through ancient oak forests, spotting rare wildlife, visiting the nature museum
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April through October for best trail conditions and wildlife viewing opportunities 🦊
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Diplomat – Modern hotel in Chișinău with comfortable rooms, restaurant and bar, approximately 30 minutes drive from the reserve
Seeking forest therapy that rivals expensive Scandinavian retreats? Codru National Reservation protects Moldova’s most valuable woodland ecosystem. These 5,177 hectares preserve ancient oak trees that have stood for 400-500 years undisturbed by mass tourism.
The reserve features well-marked hiking trails through diverse landscapes of dense forests, sunny meadows, and small lakes. Wildlife spotting includes over 145 bird species and 43 mammal species, including wild boar and deer. I spent hours photographing rare plants found nowhere else in Europe. The Lozova Ecological Trail offers the most comprehensive introduction to the ecosystem. Visit the nature museum at the administration center first to orient yourself. This remarkably preserved slice of wild Moldova provides the perfect antidote to digital burnout with authentic forest immersion just an hour from the capital.
