Chișinău travel guide

Chișinău, the capital of Moldova, is a city of understated charm and leafy boulevards, ideal for travellers seeking a quieter, more authentic European experience. Blending history, culture, and a relaxed pace of life, Chisinau offers green parks, local markets, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, the city invites exploration at your own pace.

Top 5 things to see and do in Chișinău

🏛️ Discover Moldova's history at the National Museum of History
Explore Moldova’s past through archaeological finds, historical artefacts, and cultural exhibits. The museum offers insight into the country’s evolution and identity.

🎭 Experience culture at the Mihai Eminescu National Theatre
Enjoy a performance or simply admire this grand theatre, a cultural landmark that hosts operas, ballets, and plays in a stunning neoclassical setting.

🛍️ Shop and stroll at Central Market
Dive into daily life at the bustling Central Market, where locals sell fresh produce, traditional food, crafts, and clothing. It’s the perfect place to experience the city's vibrant energy.

🕌 Visit the Nativity Cathedral and Cathedral Park
This iconic Orthodox cathedral and its surrounding gardens provide a peaceful escape in the city centre, with beautiful architecture and cultural significance.

🍲 Taste traditional Moldovan cuisine
Sample authentic dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), placinte (thin round or square-shaped pastry with various fillings) and mamaliga (cornmeal porridge) at cosy, traditional restaurants. Moldovan cuisine is hearty, flavourful, and deeply rooted in local traditions.

Tips for travellers

Outside Chișinău, take a day trip to Old Orhei to see ancient cave monasteries and dramatic scenery, visit Soroca Fortress for a glimpse into Moldova’s medieval heritage, or explore the peaceful forest trails of the Codru Reserve. Other highlights include the cliffside monasteries at Tipova and Saharna, perfect for history and nature lovers alike.