As you step off the plane into Moldova’s capital, Chișinău, you will be welcomed by the warm hospitality of our team, marking the beginning of an unforgettable journey. A comfortable transfer will take you through the city's leafy boulevards to your hotel, where you’ll settle in before embarking on a deep dive into the heart of Chișinău’s rich history and culture.

Chișinău is a city of contrasts, where elegant 19th-century architecture meets remnants of Soviet grandeur, and bustling squares are softened by sprawling parks. Your guided city tour will unveil its rich past, stopping at some of its most iconic landmarks. Stand before the Nativity of Christ Cathedral, a masterpiece of neoclassical design, and admire the Bell Tower, which has witnessed the city’s transformations. Pass under the Arch of Triumph, a symbol of Moldova’s resilience, and pay tribute to Stephen the Great, the legendary medieval ruler whose statue overlooks the city’s central park.

As the sun sets, take in the relaxed atmosphere of the capital, perhaps savoring a glass of Moldovan wine at one of the city's charming terraces—a perfect way to celebrate the beginning of your adventure.

Highlights of the Day:

• City tour of Chișinău – Explore Moldova’s vibrant capital, where history, architecture, and culture blend harmoniously.
• Iconic Landmarks – Visit the Nativity of Christ Cathedral, the Bell Tower, the Arch of Triumph, and the Monument of Stephen the Great.

Travel Details: Expected Travel distance ~15 km; Transfer from Chisinau Airport; Overnight stay in Chisinau (-/-/-)

After a hearty breakfast in Chișinău, we set off to explore Moldova’s rich spiritual and historical heritage. Our first stop is the Curchi Monastery, a striking monastic complex surrounded by fortress-like stone walls. Founded centuries ago, it remains one of Moldova’s most beautiful religious sites, blending Baroque grandeur with Moldavian tradition.

Next, we continue to Orheiul Vechi, a stunning natural and historical site situated in a dramatic limestone valley. This 40,000-year-old natural amphitheater has been home to ancient civilizations, and today, visitors can explore its rock-hewn monastery, where monks once lived in solitude. The panoramic views of the Răut River valley from the cliffs are truly unforgettable. To enhance the experience, we take part in a traditional Moldovan cooking class, where you will learn to prepare placinta, a delicious stuffed pastry. Following the class, we enjoy a delightful lunch offering us a taste of authentic Moldovan countryside cuisine.

In the afternoon, we head to Cricova Wine Cellars, Moldova’s most famous underground wine city. Spanning over 120 km of tunnels, this vast labyrinth houses priceless wine collections and some of the finest sparkling wines in the region. A guided tour and wine tasting will introduce you to Moldova’s centuries-old winemaking traditions, featuring an exquisite selection of local red, white, and sparkling varieties.

As we return to Chișinău, the day's experiences—sacred monasteries, ancient landscapes, traditional flavors, and fine wines—will linger in your memory, shaping the tone for the journey ahead.

Highlights of the Day:

• Curchi Monastery – A beautifully preserved Moldavian monastic complex that features Baroque influences.
• Orheiul Vechi – Explore ancient cave monasteries nestled in a breathtaking limestone valley.
• Traditional Moldovan cooking experience – Learn to make placinta and enjoy an authentic countryside lunch.
• Cricova Wine Cellars – Discover Moldova’s legendary underground wine city and enjoy a premium tasting.

Travel Details: Expected Travel distance ~140 km /~5 hours, round trip; Overnight stay in Chisinau (B/L/-)

After a relaxing breakfast in Chișinău, we set off for Tighina (Bender), a place steeped in history and conflict. Here, we visit the Tighina Fortress, a formidable stronghold originally built in the 16th century by the Ottomans and later reinforced during Russian rule. As you stroll along its imposing stone walls and defensive towers, you’ll feel the echoes of centuries-old battles that have shaped the destiny of this land.

From here, we cross into Transnistria, an unrecognized republic reminiscent of the Soviet era, seemingly frozen in time. Arriving in Tiraspol, the de facto capital, feels like stepping into the past. Soviet symbols, Lenin statues, and communist-era slogans dominate the cityscape, offering a rare glimpse into a world that has resisted modern change. Our guided tour takes you to the city's key landmarks, including the House of Soviets, the grand statue of Lenin, and the War Memorial, where the stories of past conflicts still linger in the air. For lunch, we embrace the Soviet atmosphere by dining at a local restaurant that serves classic Soviet-era cuisine.

The afternoon is dedicated to one of Transnistria’s most prized traditions—cognac-making. We visit the Kvint Cognac Factory, a legendary distillery founded in 1897, where generations of master distillers have perfected the art of crafting world-class brandy. During a guided tour, you will explore the aging cellars, learn about the production process, and uncover the secrets behind Kvint’s smooth, aromatic spirits. The experience culminates in a cognac tasting, allowing you to savor a selection of the finest aged blends, renowned for their rich, velvety flavor.

As the day winds down, we settle into our overnight stay in Tiraspol, where you have time to explore the quiet evening streets, reflecting on the surreal contrast between modern Moldova and this forgotten Soviet enclave.

Highlights of the Day:

• Tighina Fortress – Discover a historic Ottoman-Russian stronghold that has witnessed centuries of conflict.
• Tiraspol City Tour – Step into a world frozen in the Soviet past, with Lenin statues, grand government buildings, and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Enjoy an authentic Soviet-style lunch featuring classic dishes from that era.
• Kvint Cognac Factory Tour & Tasting – Discover one of the most renowned cognac producers, with a tasting of their finest aged spirits.

Travel Details: Expected Travel distance ~80 km /~ 1h 40 min; Overnight stay in Tiraspol (B/L/-)

Wake up in Tiraspol, where the streets still whisper stories of a bygone Soviet era. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we set off for Tighina (Bender), one of the oldest towns in Moldova, rich in history and hidden artistic treasures.

Unlike the imposing Tighina Fortress, today's focus is on the city's lesser-known yet captivating Soviet mosaics—vivid, larger-than-life artworks adorning government buildings, schools, and public spaces. These mosaics, remnants of Soviet propaganda art, depict workers, astronauts, and symbols of communist ideology, offering a rare and authentic glimpse into the visual language of the USSR. As we explore, you will discover how these masterpieces reflect the ideals, struggles, and aspirations of a past era. For lunch, we stop at a local restaurant where you can savor the traditional flavors of Tighina.

In the afternoon, we drive to Kislov Winery, a hidden gem nestled in the Moldovan countryside. Here, time slows down as we delve into the centuries-old winemaking traditions of the region. A guided tour takes us through the vineyards, cellars, and production areas, where we learn about Moldova’s rich viticulture and the unique techniques that make Kislov’s wines so distinctive. The highlight of the visit is a wine tasting session, during which we can savor a selection of their finest wines, from crisp whites to bold, full-bodied reds.

As the sun sets over the rolling vineyards, we head back to Chișinău, reflecting on the day's journey—a fusion of Soviet nostalgia, artistic heritage, and the timeless beauty of Moldovan wine culture.

Highlights of the Day:

• Discover Tighina’s Soviet Mosaics: Explore hidden propaganda artworks that tell the story of the Soviet era.
• Kislov Winery Experience – Tour a charming Moldovan winery and indulge in a guided wine tasting session.

Travel Details: Expected Travel distance ~115 km /~ 2h 20 min; Overnight stay in Chisinau (B/L/-)

Today, we set off toward Gagauzia, a unique autonomous region in southern Moldova, home to the Gagauz people—an ethnic group with deep-rooted traditions, rich folklore, and a distinct identity. The Gagauzians migrated from Bulgaria alongside ethnic Bulgarians and settled in Moldova in the 19th century, bringing with them a unique blend of cultural traditions, language, and customs that continue to thrive today.

Our first stop is Comrat, the capital of Gagauzia, where a panoramic city tour introduces us to this fascinating town. As we drive through broad boulevards and tranquil squares, you’ll observe the blend of Moldovan, Russian, and Turkish influences, reflecting the region’s rich heritage. A visit to Comrat’s central square, the Orthodox Cathedral, and the House of Culture offers insight into the daily life and history of the Gagauz people.

Next, we immerse ourselves in Gagauzian winemaking with a visit to Vinuri de Comrat Winery, one of the oldest and most esteemed wineries in the region. Here, we explore the vineyards, production areas, and aging cellars, learning how the warm southern climate and fertile soils create robust and flavorful wines. The experience is enriched with a wine tasting session, where we sample a selection of their finest vintages, followed by a lunch featuring traditional Gagauz cuisine.

In the afternoon, we visit Besalma, home to the National Gagauzian Museum, where artifacts, costumes, and photographs reveal the Gagauz people's nomadic origins and enduring culture. 

As the day comes to a close, we return to Chișinău, reflecting on the deep cultural connections and warm hospitality of Gagauzia—a land of heritage, wine, and tradition.

Highlights of the Day:

• Explore Comrat, Gagauzia – A panoramic city tour of the capital of Gagauzia, discovering its rich history and cultural landmarks.
• Vinuri de Comrat Winery Experience – Enjoy a guided tour of the winery, a wine tasting session, and a traditional Gagauzian lunch.
• Discover Gagauzia’s rich heritage – Visit the National Gagauzian Museum in Besalma and learn about the history, folklore, and customs of this unique ethnic group.

‍Travel Details: Expected Travel distance ~265 km /~ 4h 30 min; Overnight stay in Chisinau (B/L/-)

After a relaxing breakfast in Chișinău, we begin the day with a visit to the Museum of Natural History and Ethnography, one of Moldova’s most significant cultural institutions. This museum offers a captivating insight into the country’s natural landscapes, ancient civilizations, and rich folk traditions.

Next, we travel to a hidden architectural gem, the Medieval Wooden Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Built entirely of wood and featuring intricate craftsmanship, this centuries-old church is a rare example of Moldova’s early religious architecture. Stepping inside, you’ll be transported to another era, where hand-carved wooden details and religious icons tell the story of faith and devotion in rural Moldova.

By midday, we arrive at Asconi Winery, a family-owned estate known for its dedication to traditional Moldovan winemaking. Here, we enjoy a guided tour of the winery, exploring the vineyards, cellars, and production facilities to discover how Moldova’s fertile lands yield some of the finest wines in Eastern Europe. The highlight of our visit is a wine tasting session, where we sample a selection of elegant reds, crisp whites, and aromatic blends. A delightful lunch featuring traditional Moldovan dishes rounds off this unforgettable gastronomic experience.

As the afternoon sun casts a golden light over the rolling vineyards, we return to Chișinău, reflecting on a day filled with history, craftsmanship, and the flavors of Moldova’s winemaking heritage.

Highlights of the Day:

• Museum of Natural History and Ethnography – Explore Moldova’s rich natural and cultural heritage through its fascinating exhibits.
• Medieval Wooden Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary – Discover one of Moldova’s oldest wooden churches, a remarkable example of early religious architecture.
• Asconi Winery Experience – Enjoy a winery tour, wine tasting, and a traditional Moldovan lunch at a charming, family-run estate.

Travel Details: Expected Travel distance ~110 km /~ 2h 30 min; Overnight stay in Chisinau (B/L/-)

As the sun rises over Chișinău, you enjoy one last breakfast in the heart of Moldova, savoring the flavors that have accompanied you on this incredible journey. With your bags packed and memories overflowing, it’s time to check out and prepare for your departure.

Every step of this adventure—wandering through ancient fortresses, tasting Moldova’s finest wines, stepping back in time in Transnistria, and experiencing the warmth of Gagauzian hospitality—has left an indelible mark on your heart. Moldova is a land that welcomes travelers like old friends, revealing its hidden beauty, rich traditions, and untold stories to those who seek them.

As we transfer you to the airport, take one last look at this land of rolling vineyards, historic monasteries, and echoes of its Soviet past. Though this journey is coming to an end, Moldova endures—a land rich in history, culture, and warmth, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

Travel Details: Expected Travel distance ~15 km /~ 20 min; Transfer to airport for departure. End of tour. (B/-/-)