2025 Chisinau Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Chisinau, the heart and soul of the Republic of Moldova, is a charming city that blends history with modernity. 🏙️ Located on the banks of the Dniester River, it is like a dazzling pearl inlaid in Eastern Europe, exuding a unique charm. When you step into Chisinau, the first thing that catches your eye is its retro-style buildings. 🏛️ Ancient churches, museums, and palaces, every brick and tile tells the long history of the city. Walking on the narrow and winding streets, you seem to be able to travel through time and space, feeling the profound cultural heritage of Moldova. However, Chisinau is not only about the past, but it is also a vibrant modern city. 🌆 Skyscrapers rise from the ground, modern shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes are scattered all over, providing convenient living experiences for residents and tourists. When night falls, the neon lights of the city flicker, putting on a charming coat for this ancient city. In terms of culture, Chisinau is even more colorful. 🎵 From traditional folk dances to modern art exhibitions, from classical concerts to jazz performances, this city can always bring you unexpected surprises. In addition, Chisinau also has many museums and libraries, providing a wealth of knowledge for culture lovers. Of course, when it comes to Chisinau, we have to mention its food. 🍽️ Moldova's traditional dishes are famous for their unique taste and flavor, such as stewed lamb, pickled cucumbers, and homemade wine, which are memorable. In the streets and alleys of Chisinau, you can find many authentic restaurants and snack stalls, where you can taste the most authentic Moldovan food. In addition to culture and food, Chisinau is also famous for its green ecological environment. 🌳 The city is surrounded by lush forests and clear lakes, providing an ideal leisure place for residents. In their spare time, people can come here for a walk, cycling, or picnic, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of nature. Chisinau is a charming city with a sense of history and modern vitality and innovation. Whether you are a culture lover, a foodie, or a nature seeker, you can find your own fun and touch here. 🌟

#bucketlistreboot During our trip we had the choice to visit a local winery. Considering Moldova’s long standing tradition in producing wine, there are a few estates that have opened up in a museum style to showcase wine making methods but also their cellars filled with this sweet elixir. We chose to see Cricova Winery, but another close option is Milestii Mici. Cricova has the second largest wine cellars in Moldova, after Milestii Mici (the largest in the world). It boasts 120 kilometres (75 mi) of labyrinthine roadways, versus Milesti Mici’s 200 kilometres (120 mi). Nonetheless, these cellars would make Dionysus himself come down from the Heavens and sample some Moldovan wine. #chisinau #moldova

#bucketlistreboot Presidential Palace The building was originally built to be the new Supreme Soviet (Parliament), after the independence from the U.S.S.R. it became the Presidential Palace. It looks very similar, at least in architecture, to the Bulgarian Presidential Palace. Unlike the Presidential Palace in Bucharest, you can only visit this official residence once a year during the Open Day. Parliament of Moldova Opposite the Presidential Palace you can also notice the Parliament of Moldova. The architecture is soviet style and is typical for former communist countries. We didn’t think too much about the buildings but like we said they are conveniently placed on the boulevard #moldova #chisinau

The Berds Chisinau is part of the MGallery hotels. It is a bit removed from the city center but close to the train station. There is, however, a shopping mall and grocery store right nearby. The rooms are absolutely a joy and feel more like a small studio than a hotel room. The large windows make the large room feel even more spacious. The rooms are also have local touches and very modern and ergonomic. The bed was extremely comfortable and large, providing me with a refreshed and restful stay. There's also a spa included in your stay, which includes the dry sauna, steam bath, Himalaya salt therapy and jacuzzi, which was very relaxing. Staff were also quite warm and welcoming.

Chisinau is a very fascinating place. It's not the on the usual destinations people go for but it definitely has its charm. The city is quite cheap and not expansive. There are surprisingly many green spaces to stroll around in and to enjoy nature right near the heart of the city. Dating from the Soviet era, the city is lined with brutalist buildings as well as several older historic buildings. I definitely recommend it if you're into off the beaten track destinations and to get a taste somewhere different and with less tourists. One good thing was that credit card was surprisingly widely accepted throughout the city!

[Traveling around Eastern Europe] The country with the lowest sense of existence in Europe, I am afraid that Moldova can not escape the top three. Ben and the Romanian descendants of the Dacia, but also a part of the Great Romania, but was forced by the Soviet Union, made a whole fifty-year Soviet republic, the smallest and the poorest and the most unknown. Sitting in the morning and arriving at the capital Chisinau in the morning, the morning sun is chaotic and the fog is foggy. The office workers are rushing, and no one turns their heads to look at the old man who is trembling in the wind. The hotel is not yet available for check-in. I went to the church, the historical museum and the art gallery. The underground floor of the Historical Museum shows the memories of that special period. In the Soviet high pressure of the Soviet Union in the 1930s and 1940s, thousands of Moldovans were imprisoned, executed, or exiled to Siberia. Half-century of Soviet rule has profoundly affected this country, and even many people still cannot get rid of the old ideology after independence. And about this, the place to go tomorrow will be more interesting.

Moldova was a surprisingly cozy and warm place to visit! It feels like a time capsule, as you see many Soviet buildings and communism monuments. Moldovan white wine was also very nice :)

I should have posted this earlier because this was actually more an extension of my prior trip to Romania. So basically every now and then i go find a random country on the atlas and plan a trip. Moldova is one of those that ended up on my list. It was right across the border from Romania and a handy addition to Bucharest Because it is generally off the beaten track so first up a bit of background. Moldova is one of the countries that emerged when the Soviet Union collapsed, but before it was integrated into the USSR in the 1940s it was by and large Romanian. And to this day this Romanian vs Russian debate can be rather sensitive to some people in the country. For the traveller though it does mean you have a strange mix of both Moldova is a very small country. The capital Chişinău is small, well maintained, but not much to see particularly and you can finish it in 0.5-1 day, with or without a guide. Like a lot of the former Soviet Union it’s actually incredibly safe to walk around. Your bigger frustration is probably communication just have google translate handy and set for Russian or Romanian There are 3-4 main itineraries that lead out of the capital. The most popular one is a day trip to Transnistria. It’s a narrow strip of land that has declared itself independent from Moldova but is recognized by no other country in the world (no not even Russia though Russia does bankroll it). For all purposes and intents it’s a defacto independent country. The architecture and parts of society are still very Soviet. Monuments, tanks, model labourer awards, parades. That’s more of a cover. You do run into a bit of a chicken and egg problem - the independent authorities of Transnistria know foreigners come here for Soviet tourism, so they are more than happy to indulge and in parts of the country there are Soviet themed cafes that are clearly gimmicks for visitors. Do note that beneath the cover of this all it’s anything but a communist state in fact chunks of the economy is controlled by one single oligarch. It is nonetheless a sufficiently different experience vs the rest of Moldova and is worth your day trip (book via local agencies) Moldova is also well known for its wineries and multiple vineyards organize visits. I am not much of a drinker and did not visit any but most tourists I’ve met dedicated at least a day to it Moldova is interestingly well connected by flights to and from Turkey, but if you are doing this as a side trip there are overnight buses and trains into the country from Bucharest Overall a minimalist itinerary of Moldova is around three days, but you can also add a day or two for other side visits to destinations like the old orhei monastery. Then it’s a been there done that one more country on your country body count list….

wonderful must visit Church in Moldova

📅 Itinerary Day1： Day2: Day3: 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

📍Chishinau Prestige Aparthotel ✔️Close to the city center, great access to major attractions ✔️Rooms are spacious and well-equipped with kitchen facilities, making them suitable for long-term stays ✔️Very clean and comfortable with modern interior ✔️Friendly staff and quick check-in/check-out procedures ✔️Quiet surroundings allowed for a comfortable rest. A place you'll want to visit again for its excellent facilities and services for the price! #EuropeanTravel

📍Prestige Aparthotel, Chisinau, Moldova The exterior is a bit old, but the interior of the room is completely different Clean, air conditioning, sofa, outlet next to the bed, Netflix, balcony, etc. It is fully equipped Staff response is fast and friendly City center location + quiet surroundings Recommended for those looking for a good value and quiet accommodation in Chisinau, Moldova. #European travel

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

📍Prestige Apartment Hotel ✔️Balcony Available Each room comes with a small balcony, perfect for stepping out and enjoying some fresh air at least once a day. ✔️Friendly Staff + Quick Responses English communication in Chișinău was not as smooth as expected, but using a translator made it easy to interact with the staff. Whenever I needed something, I reached out via messenger and received super-fast replies! ✔️Prime Location The hotel is located right next to the central park. Most tourist attractions are within walking distance, and there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, and pharmacies nearby, making the area well-equipped for daily needs.

Honestly didn’t expect much from Chișinău, but 5 days in Moldova turned out to be a bit of a gem. 📚 Culture-wise, the National Museum of History of Moldova was a proper highlight – fascinating to learn how the country evolved through Romanian and Russian control. And yep, there’s even a dinosaur skeleton thrown in. 🏛️ Also checked out Pushkin Museum, the Arch, a few cathedrals, and wandered the central parks. Really peaceful and green — locals playing chess, buskers doing their thing, just a proper laid-back city feel. 🎉 Caught a Romanian festival by chance — live folk music, dancing, street food stalls everywhere. Whole square buzzing. 🍽️ Moldova’s food scene? Way better than expected: • Mici Wine Stellar – modern, classy, excellent wine and service • Taifas – traditional dishes, great flavour, live band in the evenings — proper fun night out • Caravan – homely and hearty, full of locals • La Placinte – casual, quick, and full of Moldovan comfort food • Ciao Bella – Italian-Moldovan hybrid, surprisingly good pasta • Atypic – minimalist setting, standout modern dishes • Fiour – really impressed here — beautifully done plates in a cosy setting • Radisson Blu Rooftop – worth it for the views alone, but the steak held its own too ☕ Bonjour Café was our go-to for coffee breaks — chilled vibe, good espresso, and comfy seats when your legs give up. 🚖 Getting around was a breeze with Yandex Go – cheap, fast, no faff. 🌤️ Weather sat nicely in the low 20s — warm enough for T-shirts and park walks, but not roasting. Perfect sightseeing weather. It’s not the first place people think of, but maybe it should be. Good food, friendly people, loads of green space, and proper value for money. Would 100% go again — might even bring mates next time. #MoldovaTravel #ChisinauVibes #UnderratedDestinations #CityBreaks #EasternEuropeTrip #MoldovanFood #TravelOnABudget #HiddenGems #WanderLocal #TravelMoreSpendLess #YandexGo #TravelRecap #WhereToNext

🏖️Ambiance/Facilities: Charming and European 💞Reasons to Recommend: Amazing food and service #travel #thingstodo #cafe #localfood

📍Prestige Apart Hotel 🛌✨ Price: Around 70,000 KRW Location: Near Cathedral Park Conveniently located in the city center, making it easy to get around. The rooms are spacious and clean, providing a comfortable stay. The staff are friendly and respond quickly, which was very satisfying. Although English communication isn't possible, using a translator worked well, and their quick responses were impressive. Would definitely consider revisiting! 🙌

📍Chisinau Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxed European getaway away from the crowds. With its lush parks scattered throughout the city, charming streets, and world-renowned wine cellars, this small city is packed with charm. 🌿 Recommended Places • Chisinau Cathedral – The city's landmark • Cricova or Milestii Mici Winery – An underground city of wine 📌 Travel Tips • With fewer tourists, you can fully immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. • If you want to enjoy wine tasting, booking a tour is a must!

📍Kishinev Not widely known as a tourist destination, which makes it even more charming. Kishinev (Chisinau) is the quiet capital of Moldova, a travel destination that impresses with its harmony between nature and urban life. It's a quaint and rather pretty city. ✨Recommended for those who prefer leisurely strolls over busy travel or are interested in winery tours.

📌Travel to Chisinau Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, is an undiscovered gem in Eastern Europe. Known for its historic architecture, expansive parks, and renowned wine, it is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and leisurely travel experience. ✔️ Highlights: • Stefan cel Mare Park • Milestii Mici Winery

📍Address: Bulevardul Ștefan cel Mare și Sfânt, Chișinău  •Admission: Free •Opening hours: Open all year round •Transportation: Located in the heart of Chisinau, easily accessible on foot or by public transport Stefano cel Mare Central Park is a place where you can experience Moldova's history and culture, and is an ideal place to visit for a variety of purposes, such as a quiet walk, a family outing, or a cultural tour. At the entrance to the park is a statue of Grand Duke Stefan, erected in 1928. #Overseas travel

📍Chisinau Central Park Central Park is full of cute sculptures, and it seems to have created a world of innocence for children. There is the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ, a cafe, an ice cream shop, etc. in Central Park, and the Arc de Triomphe is right at the entrance, so it is great for a walking tour! Triumphal Arch: Located across from the cathedral, this arch is a monument symbolizing Moldova's independence and freedom, adding to the park's historical significance. It provides a special experience for those who love art. #EuropeTravel

📍Cathedral Park Cathedral Park, located in the heart of Chisinau, is a representative resting place of the city, combining the beauty of nature with the historical and cultural heritage of Moldova. 🏛️ It has the main attraction, the Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ. •Nativity Cathedral: Built in 1830, this neoclassical Orthodox cathedral is the center of the Moldovan Orthodox Church and is located in the center of the park, making a deep impression on visitors. #Traveling Abroad

📍Central Park There is the Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ, the most important cathedral in Chisinau. This is the headquarters of the Moldovan Orthodox Church, and the architectural style is simple, but it is a space where you can feel the beauty unique to the Orthodox Church. There is a wide square in front of the cathedral, creating a very leisurely atmosphere in the city center. Foreigners can also visit freely, and there is no admission fee❌ #European travel

📍Cafe La Plăcinte with a great atmosphere near the park The atmosphere was really pretty thanks to the windows that were filled with sunlight. The interior was cozy and the staff were generally friendly. There were some people who had a little difficulty communicating in English, but one staff member who was fluent in English was especially kind and friendly, making it a memorable place. A perfect place to take a break with a cup of coffee ☕✨ #Emotional Accommodation

Amazing memories from Chisinau, Moldova where i bought flight tickets with trip.com❤️#travel

📅 Travel Itinerary Day 1: City Tour Arch of Triumph and Cathedral Park, Stephen the Great Central Park, Cascade Stairs Day 2: Winery Tour Mileștii Mici or Cracova 🏨 Recommended Accommodation: Prestige apart-Hotel 📌 Useful Tips There are many outdoor cafes and restaurants near the park on nice days, so it's good to take a break after a walk When visiting a winery, you need a coat even in summer because it's cold inside the wine cellar

Small tourist destination I came to a niche tourist destination in Europe Chisinau, Moldova Moldova, have you heard of it? Honestly, I never thought I'd end up here. Chisinau 👋, only 3 important attractions All three are in the same park. 📍Metropolitan Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ If you don't take pictures, you can finish the tour in 5 minutes I thought it would be boring, but I was pleasantly surprised The people here are sincere and kind They are wearing clothes from the 90s 👚 It also has the simplicity and simplicity of the 90s They are wearing dresses 👗 and high heels 👠 that we haven't worn for a long time They are wearing very formal casual clothes 👕, leather shoes 👞 Help me when I need help Their English is not good, but I always feel that our smiles can communicate ⚠️Practical tips: 1⃣️I entered from Romania and it was much easier than I thought I didn't ask anything when I left the country. I personally found that the Schengen visa is very useful. 2⃣️The city center marked on the map 🗺️ is inaccurate The downtown area is full of small commodity markets, and the streets next door are full of small commodity markets. By the way, the fruit is really cheap. It was the first time in my life that I carried cherries and strawberries so hard that my arms were sore. I only spent 2.5 euros on 4 kilograms. It was so cheap that I doubted my life. 3⃣️If you choose a low-cost airline Remember to check in online 3-24 hours in advance I set several alarms and saved 40 euros