Moldova 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Monday

Morning

9:00 am - Arrival in Chisinau

  • Arrive at Chisinau International Airport (KIV)
  • Go through customs and immigration (if required)

Places to Visit

10:00 am - National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History

  • Learn about Moldova’s history, culture, and natural environment
  • Explore the museum’s collection of artifacts, including traditional clothing and household items

1:00 pm - Lunch at a local restaurant (try traditional dishes like mamaliga or sarmale)

  • Try some of Moldova’s delicious cuisine, often served in cozy, family-run restaurants

Afternoon

2:30 pm - Visit the Cathedral of the Nativity and Alexander Nevsky Church

  • Admire the stunning architecture of these two historic churches
  • Take a moment to reflect on the country’s spiritual heritage

Evening

7:00 pm - Traditional Moldovan dinner and folk show

  • Experience the country’s rich cultural traditions through music, dance, and food
  • Enjoy a hearty meal and lively entertainment at a local restaurant or folklore center

Day 2: Tuesday

Morning

9:30 am - Travel to Orheiul Vechi ( approx. 1 hour drive)

  • Visit the ancient cave monastery of Orheiul Vechi, carved into the limestone cliffs
  • Explore the unique blend of history, nature, and spirituality in this UNESCO World Heritage Site

Places to Visit

11:30 am - Cricova Winery

  • Take a tour of one of Moldova’s oldest and largest wineries (founded in 1945)
  • Sample some of the country’s renowned wines and enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful vineyards

Afternoon

2:00 pm - Visit the town of Orheiul Vechi (approx. 30-minute walk)

  • Wander through this charming town, with its historic buildings, shops, and restaurants
  • Take time to appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and scenic views

Evening

7:00 pm - Return to Chisinau

  • Reflect on the day’s experiences and plan for tomorrow’s adventures

Day 3: Wednesday

Morning

9:30 am - Visit the Transnistrian region (approx. 1 hour drive)

  • Cross into the breakaway republic of Transnistria, a fascinating if sometimes contentious place to visit
  • Explore the capital city, Tiraspol, and its surrounding countryside

Places to Visit

11:00 am - Tiraspol City Hall

  • Admire the impressive architecture of this Soviet-era building
  • Take time to observe the unique blend of Russian and Romanian influences in the region’s culture and politics

1:00 pm - Lunch at a local restaurant (try traditional dishes like pelmeni or blini)

  • Enjoy some of the region’s hearty cuisine, often served with a side of lively discussion about Transnistria’s status

Afternoon

2:30 pm - Visit the Bender Fortress (approx. 10-minute drive)

  • Explore this historic fortress, which has played a significant role in the region’s history and conflicts
  • Learn about the complexities and controversies surrounding Transnistria’s relationship with Moldova and the wider world

Evening

7:00 pm - Return to Chisinau and depart from Chisinau International Airport (KIV)

  • Reflect on your experiences in Moldova, including its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Practical Information

Visa Requirements:

  • No visa required for most nationalities, but check with the Moldovan Embassy or Consulate in your home country for specific requirements

Transportation:

  • Domestic transportation: buses, taxis, and private transfers available
  • International airport (KIV): served by several airlines, including Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and Wizz Air

Currency:

  • Moldovan Lei (MDL) is the local currency; however, euros are widely accepted in tourist areas
  • Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred for smaller transactions

Safety:

  • Generally a safe country to visit, with low crime rates
  • Take normal precautions against petty theft and scams

Things to Know

  • Moldova has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Romanian, Russian, and Turkish traditions
  • The country produces some of the world’s best wines, particularly white wines like Pinot Grigio and Riesling
  • Be prepared for occasional power outages or disruptions in rural areas
  • Learn a few basic words in Moldovan (e.g., “hello” bună ziua; “thank you” mulțumesc)

Remember to stay flexible, be open-minded, and enjoy the adventure!