Finding Moldova – A Travel, Culture & Food Adventure
Small and landlocked, Moldova bursts onto the scene with an important history, countryside beauty and some of the most good undervalued eats & drinks in Eastern Europe thanks to a wealth of foodie events. A pebble throw from Romania – that is Pinterest perfect- end up getting more play than arguably their neighbour: think dramatic mountains ideal for hiking winding rivers; meerce ruska monasteries quite crazy rock formations remnants betraying villages fortified cities…It's all hereummings! The more the fairytale country is till now being overshadowed by its neighbors, Moldova- even if not hot on European tourists radar yet- can be accounted as an up-and-coming holiday destination for those travelers searching nothing else but some genuine living out of normal spark.
Moldova — Moldova is the cheapest country in Europe to travel and has lots of different options for every type of adventure traveler – charming capital city, lovely countryside with vineyards everywhere you look. And no Moldovan foray is complete without exploring the cuisine — a melange of Romanian and Ukrainian, as well as Russian and Turkish but heavily influenced by an agrarian base common to these regions. Introduction In this blog, we are going to discuss the, we will explore the best places to visit in Moldova and the incredible food you need to try as you journey through this beautiful and underrated country.
1. Chișinău: Moldova’s Capital and Cultural Hub
Chișinău, the capital city of Moldova, is the perfect starting point for your Moldovan adventure. It’s a city that blends Soviet-era architecture with vibrant parks, bustling markets, and a growing number of cafes and restaurants that serve both traditional and modern Moldovan cuisine.
Exploring Chișinău’s Landmarks
Begin your exploration at Stefan Cel Mare Central Park, the heart of the city. This sprawling green space is ideal for a leisurely stroll, and at its center stands the Monument of Stefan Cel Mare, Moldova’s national hero. Just across the road, you’ll find Cathedral Park, home to the grand Nativity Cathedral and its striking bell tower.
History buffs should visit the National Museum of History of Moldova, which offers insights into the country’s complex past, from the days of the Ottoman Empire to the Soviet era. Another key landmark is the Triumphal Arch, a remnant of Chișinău’s Imperial Russian past, located next to the government building.
Eating in Chișinău: A Taste of Traditional Moldova
Chișinău is also home to some of the best restaurants serving traditional Moldovan food. Start your culinary journey with a meal at La Taifas, a cozy restaurant where you can enjoy local dishes in a traditional setting.
One must-try dish is mămăligă, a cornmeal porridge that is similar to Italian polenta. In Moldova, it’s typically served with sour cream, cheese, and sometimes stewed meat. Another classic is sarmale, cabbage rolls stuffed with rice and minced meat, often flavored with dill and served with a generous helping of sour cream. Sarmale is a beloved dish across the country, especially during holidays and family gatherings.
For a hearty meal, try zeamă, a traditional chicken soup made with homemade noodles, carrots, and a hint of lemon or vinegar to give it a tangy flavor. This comforting dish is often served as a first course and is a staple of Moldovan home cooking.
End your meal with a traditional Moldovan dessert like plăcintă, a type of pastry filled with ingredients like cheese, apples, or cherries. Plăcintă can be either sweet or savory and is a popular street food as well.
2. Moldova’s Wine Culture: The Land of Vineyards
Moldova is often referred to as the “land of wine,” and for good reason. The country has one of the oldest winemaking traditions in the world, with vineyards stretching across much of the landscape. Moldova’s mild climate and fertile soil make it the perfect place for producing high-quality wines.
Cricova Winery: An Underground Wine City
One of the most famous wine destinations in Moldova is the Cricova Winery, located just outside Chișinău. Cricova is not just a winery—it’s an underground city of wine cellars that stretch for over 120 kilometers. The winery is housed in former limestone mines, and the cellars hold some of the world’s most prestigious wine collections, including bottles from historical figures like Yuri Gagarin and Vladimir Putin.
Take a guided tour of Cricova’s vast wine cellars, where you’ll learn about Moldova’s winemaking history and the process of producing some of the country’s best wines. The tour ends with a tasting of Cricova’s finest wines, including sparkling wines made using the traditional méthode champenoise.
Milestii Mici: The Largest Wine Cellar in the World
Another must-visit for wine lovers is Milestii Mici, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wine collection in the world. With over 200 kilometers of underground cellars, Milestii Mici is a labyrinth of wine barrels and bottles. A tour of the cellars includes a tasting of their award-winning wines, often accompanied by local snacks like cheese and nuts.
Purcari Winery: Moldova’s Oldest Winery
For a more scenic vineyard experience, head to Purcari Winery, one of the oldest wineries in Moldova, located in the southern part of the country near the Dniester River. Established in 1827, Purcari is known for its red wines, particularly the Negru de Purcari, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Rara Neagră, and Saperavi grapes. The winery offers guided tours of its vineyards and cellars, followed by a wine tasting and a gourmet meal at the estate’s restaurant.
3. Orheiul Vechi: Moldova’s Ancient History
After exploring Chișinău and its wineries, it’s time to dive into Moldova’s ancient history with a visit to Orheiul Vechi, an archaeological complex located about an hour’s drive from the capital. This stunning site is situated in a dramatic limestone canyon along the Răut River and is home to ancient fortresses, caves, and monasteries that date back thousands of years.
The Cave Monastery
The highlight of Orheiul Vechi is the Cave Monastery, which was carved into the cliffs by monks in the 13th century. The monastery is still active today, and visitors can enter the small, dimly lit cave where the monks once lived and prayed. From the top of the cliffs, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
While you’re in the area, be sure to visit the nearby Butuceni Village, where you can experience traditional Moldovan rural life. Many local families open their homes to visitors, offering home-cooked meals made with ingredients from their own gardens. This is a fantastic opportunity to try authentic Moldovan food in a rustic setting.
Dining in Butuceni: Farm-to-Table Moldova
In Butuceni, meals are often prepared using traditional methods and cooked in wood-fired ovens. A typical meal might include moldovenească, a stew made with pork or lamb, vegetables, and wine, slow-cooked to perfection. Another favorite is ciulama, a creamy chicken dish served with mămăligă.
For dessert, try cozonac, a sweet, braided bread often filled with walnuts, raisins, or poppy seeds. Cozonac is traditionally baked during holidays but is enjoyed year-round in many Moldovan households.
4. Tiraspol: Exploring Moldova’s Breakaway Republic of Transnistria
For a unique and somewhat surreal experience, consider a day trip to Tiraspol, the capital of the self-declared and unrecognized Republic of Transnistria. This breakaway region, located on the eastern bank of the Dniester River, maintains a Soviet aesthetic, complete with statues of Lenin, old Soviet tanks, and Russian-language signs.
Soviet Nostalgia in Tiraspol
Tiraspol feels like a time capsule from the Soviet era, making it an intriguing destination for history buffs and curious travelers. While you’re there, take a walk along the city’s main avenue, October 25th Street, where you’ll find the House of Soviets and the impressive Lenin Monument.
Food in Transnistria
While Transnistria shares many culinary traditions with the rest of Moldova, the Russian influence is more pronounced here. Be sure to try pelmeni, Russian dumplings filled with meat and served in broth or with sour cream. Another local favorite is pirozhki, fried or baked buns filled with meat, potatoes, or mushrooms.
For dessert, try syrniki, fried cheese pancakes served with jam or honey. These sweet, fluffy pancakes are a popular treat in both Moldova and Transnistria, perfect for breakfast or as a snack with tea.
5. Gagauzia: A Glimpse into Moldova’s Turkic Heritage
For another culturally distinct region of Moldova, head south to Gagauzia, an autonomous territorial unit inhabited by the Gagauz people, a Turkic ethnic group. The Gagauz people have their own language, culture, and cuisine, which is influenced by both Turkish and Moldovan traditions.
Exploring Comrat
The capital of Gagauzia is Comrat, a small but culturally rich town where you can visit the Gagauz National History and Ethnography Museum to learn more about the region’s history and traditions.
Gagauz Cuisine
In Gagauzia, you’ll find dishes that are distinct from the rest of Moldova, such as gözleme, a flatbread stuffed with cheese, spinach, or meat, and shorpa, a hearty lamb soup flavored with herbs and spices. Another popular dish is kavurma, a type of slow-cooked meat, often served with rice or bulgur.
For dessert, try pakhlava, the Gagauz version of baklava, made with layers of dough, nuts, and honey syrup. The Gagauz also enjoy sudjuk, a sweet, sausage-shaped confection made from grape must and walnuts, similar to Georgian churchkhela.
6. Moldova’s Natural Beauty: Outdoor Adventures
Moldova’s natural landscapes are just as impressive as its cultural and culinary offerings. The country is dotted with rolling hills, vast sunflower fields, and scenic forests, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Codrii Forests
One of Moldova’s most beautiful natural areas is the Codrii Forests, located in the central part of the country. These ancient oak and beech forests are perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the tranquility of nature. The Codrii Nature Reserve offers several well-marked trails where you can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
The Dniester River
The Dniester River is another great destination for nature lovers. Along its banks, you’ll find charming villages, historic fortresses, and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and boating. The Soroca Fortress, located on the Dniester’s northern bank, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Moldova
Currency: The official currency is the Moldovan leu (MDL), and while many places in Chișinău accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to carry cash, especially in rural areas.
Language: The official language is Romanian, though Russian is widely spoken. English is becoming more common in tourist areas, but it’s helpful to know a few basic phrases in Romanian or Russian.
Transportation: Moldova has a decent bus and minibus network connecting major cities and towns. However, renting a car is recommended if you want to explore the countryside at your own pace.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Moldova is during the late spring and early autumn (May to October), when the weather is mild, and the vineyards are at their most beautiful.
Conclusion: Moldova, A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
Moldova may be one of Europe’s least-visited countries, but it offers a wealth of experiences for the adventurous traveler. From the vibrant streets of Chișinău and the ancient history of Orheiul Vechi to the rich winemaking traditions and hearty cuisine, Moldova is a country full of surprises. Whether you’re sampling wine in an underground cellar, enjoying a home-cooked meal in a rural village, or exploring the scenic beauty of its forests and rivers, Moldova promises an unforgettable journey.