15 not-so-typical things to do in Moldova

Moldova, you say? It’s the kind of place that sneaks up on you — in the best way, of course. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t shout. But it does pour you a glass of homemade wine, invite you into ancient cave monasteries, and serve up dumplings that make you question everything you thought you knew about comfort food.

This is a country where underground wine cities exist. Where the capital thrums with Soviet-era grit and charm in equal measure, and where every turn leads to a story you’ll want to tell. Wedged between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova has faced its fair share of challenges since independence in 1991, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

But its rich history and patchwork of cultures make it an emerging destination of note. With more flights heading there than ever before, we thought it best to round up some of the more interesting things to do (or do differently) on your Moldovan adventure.

1. Discover Moldova’s capital, Chișinău

While Moldova is most known for its impressive wine making, its capital is the best place to get your bearings. The city has a history stretching back 600 years but most of this was razed during World War II and an earthquake in 1940. What you have now is an emerging Chișinău which isn’t about grand landmarks but discovering the rhythm of an often overlooked capital.

While here, be sure to stroll through Stefan cel Mare Central Park. Named after Moldova’s national hero, it’s surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Presidential Palace and Parliament.

Let our local guide lead the way on: Moldova Discovery

2. Buzz about Chișinău’s Central Market

If you want to experience the real Moldova, head to Chișinău’s Central Market. This bustling bazaar is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Sample fresh produce, haggle over homemade cheeses, and chat with vendors who’ve been selling here for decades. It’s chaotic, colourful, and completely captivating.

3. Admire Soviet-era architecture

Chișinău’s cityscape is a blend of past and present with Soviet-era buildings standing alongside modern developments. You can wander solo but even better if you go with a local in-the-know (we know a few!) to help showcase its Brutalist architecture, grand boulevards, and monuments telling the story of Moldova’s complex history. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of a city that’s constantly evolving.

4. Stroll around Valea Morilor lake

Need a break from the hustle and bustle? Valea Morilor Lake offers a serene escape right in the heart of Chișinău. Take a leisurely walk around the waters, rent a paddleboat, pucker up like a goldfish fountain, or simply relax on a bench and watch the world go by. It’s the perfect spot to recharge before your next adventure — especially if it’s best done with a designated driver.

5. Explore Cricova’s underground wine city

Only 15km (9.32 mi) north of Chișinău lies Cricova, a subterranean labyrinth stretching over 120km (74.6 mi). Known as the National Wine Cellar, these tunnels (which had another life as limestone mines) now house an underground city complete with tasting rooms, a cinema, and even a chapel. The cellars maintain a constant low temperature, ideal for aging wine.

Legend has it that cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin once got lost here for two days — and personally, we don’t blame him. Join a tour, sample sparkling wines made using the traditional French method, or peruse the National Wine Collection, home to the private collections of the nation’s politicians and figureheads.

Taste Cricova’s best blends on: Heart of the East: Romania & Moldova Adventure

6. Meet the most wine at Mileștii Mici

More wine? Sure, wine not! When we said Moldova has a long history steeped in winemaking, that didn’t quite cover it. Welcome to the Guinness World Record holder for the largest wine collection on Earth. Mileștii Mici boasts over one-and-a-half million bottles stored in 200km (124.2 mi) of limestone tunnels, with 55km (34.2 mi) currently in use. The constant humidity and temperature create the perfect conditions for aging wine — this is the kind of ‘science’ we love.

Hop on a guided tour, cruise through underground streets named after grape varieties, and taste wines happily maturing since the ‘70s. It’s like Disneyland for oenophiles (but with fewer mice and more Merlot — there’s no complaining here).

7. Step back in time at Orheiul Vechi

Orheiul Vechi is Moldova’s open-air museum, where history and nature intertwine. Perched above the Răut River, this archaeological complex features ancient fortresses, monasteries carved into limestone cliffs, and traditional villages such as Butuceni and Trebujeni.

Declared a nature reserve during the Soviet period, plenty of the natural features and heritage of this area have been preserved and have visitors flock here from Chișinău, 55km (34.2 mi) away. One of the cooler things to do here is wander through the 13th-century cave monastery, still inhabited by monks, and soak in panoramic views that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.

Take a light hike to Orheiul Vechi on: Moldova Discovery

8. Seek out spirituality in Saharna

Lace up your hiking boots and head to Saharna, a spiritual haven nestled in the forested hills. The trail leads you past cascading waterfalls to the Holy Trinity Monastery, one of two prolific monasteries in the area, perched atop a cliff. Along the way, keep an eye out for a footprint in the rock, believed by local people to belong to Saint Cuviosul.

The next monastery, the cave monastery of the Annunciation, is a significant pilgrimage site in Moldova. Take a moment to light a candle at the cliffside monastery. Whether you’re religious or not, the act is a meaningful way to connect with the spiritual heritage of the region. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning surroundings make it a memorable experience so, whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment or just a good workout, Saharna delivers.

Wander Saharna’s serenity on: Heart of the East: Romania & Moldova Adventure

9. Eat uplifting cheeses in Horodiște

We all know the power of a transformative bit of brie or burrata, but one French cheesemaker takes it to another level in a tiny Moldovan village. At Fromage - Made in Moldova in Horodiște, you can enjoy a light lunch with Thierry Ernst and family as they share how their cheese factory serves the community.

In a refurbished schoolhouse, they employ local people to make eco-friendly cheeses from a blend of French and Moldovan traditions. Not only do you get to learn about and support their efforts, but you get to taste their cheeses, jams, and wines for yourself. Noroc!

Savour your Local Living moment on: Moldova Discovery

10. Make traditional meals in Trebujeni

In the spirit of slowing down to match a destination’s pace, there’s no better way to immerse yourself than a local cooking class. At an agro-pension in this tiny pastoral village, you can sink your hands (and teeth!) into learning traditional specialties like placinte (Moldovan pastry), a cheese pie with potatoes, cabbage, and other seasonal ingredients.

Fill your plate with good feels on: Heart of the East: Romania & Moldova Adventure***

11. Go gaga for Gagauz culture

Between a mock traditional Gagauzian wedding (that you can dress for and attend!) and an invitation to a bountiful traditional feast in this autonomous region, it’s easy to fall in love with the people of Gagauzia.

At the National Gagauz History and Ethnography Museum, you can dive headfirst into the local culture to witness traditional wedding customs including dowry etiquette. And at Gagauz Sofrasi, you can belly up to true Gagauzian hospitality with a locally-sourced banquet of food and wine.

Celebrate lasting love and tradition on: Moldova Discovery

12. Discover the cliffside Tipova Monastery

It seems Moldova has two things in spades: wine cellars and monasteries. And if you can never have too many of the former, the same has to be said of the latter. Tipova Monastery is a marvel of human ingenuity and devotion. Carved into the cliffs above the Dniester River, this complex sits over 200m (656 ft) above the west bank.

The oldest of the cave churches, the Elevation of the Holy Cross cave church, dates back to the 11th century. The journey involves a scenic hike and the reward is, thankfully, worth every step: stunning views, ancient frescoes, and a profound sense of peace.

13. Climb to the Candle of Gratitude

Standing 29.5m (96.8 ft) tall, Lumânarea Recunoștinței, the Candle of Gratitude, is a monument dedicated to the anonymous heroes who preserved Moldova’s culture and language. Located near Soroca, the climb to the top offers panoramic views of the Dniester River and surrounding countryside. The climb itself is between 600 and 650 steps — so bring the right shoes! The treasured monument is a poignant reminder of the resilience and spirit of the Moldovan people.

14. Step into history at Soroca Fortress

Soroca Fortress is a testament to Moldova’s strategic importance in medieval times. Built in 1499 by Stephen the Great and later reconstructed in stone, this perfectly circular fort with five bastions played a crucial role in defending the region. Aesthetically speaking, the fortress wouldn’t look out of place in England or France, but its history is much more diverse.

The fortress played a role in many historical events: During the Great Turkish War of 1667 to 1683, the forces of John III Sobieski (King of Poland) successfully defended the castle against the Ottoman horde. In 1711, during the Prut Campaign, troops from Moldova and Russia united to oust the Ottomans from Moldova. Walk along the ramparts, explore the towers, and immerse yourself in the stories of battles fought and won.

15. Explore Grota Duruitoarea Veche

Just a short distance from the charming town of Costești flows the Duruitoarea River, a tributary of the Ciugur River. It has beautifully carved a deep gorge through the hills, with its steep limestone slopes dotted with fascinatingly shaped caves. One of the highlights here is the Old Duruitoarea Cave, believed to have been an ancient shelter dating back to the Stone Age. The cave holds three chambers, stretching a total of 49m (160.8 ft) in length.

Thanks to archaeological excavations, they've uncovered Ice Age petrifications and relics of an ancient civilization, making this site famous worldwide. The natural beauty, the stunning landscape, and the rich array of historical and architectural sites here are truly remarkable and might even surprise your imagination.

Ready to make the most of Moldova?

Moldova may not be on everyone’s radar — yet — but that’s exactly what makes it so special. It’s a country where traditions are alive, where every meal is a celebration, and where the people welcome you with open arms and full glasses. Noroc! (That’s cheers to you and me).