Discover the most popular tourist attractions in Moldova
Tourism in Moldova is on the rise and is rather niche, targeting tourists in search of picturesque, authentic places, and stunning natural landscapes. For this category, we have created the article. For tourists seeking places with cultural significance, various activities, and a hospitable environment.
Moldova will enchant you with the beauty of nature, traditional dishes, incredible wine, and also with hospitality.
Certainly, Moldova might not be as well-known as some other travel destinations, but it still offers a unique and charming atmosphere that can be wonderful for photography. Here are some places you might consider visiting:
1. Chișinău:
The capital city itself has various photographic opportunities. Explore the city's parks, monuments, and Soviet-era architecture. The bustling central market, known as the "Piața Centrală," can offer lively scenes.
2. Orheiul Vechi:
This historical and archaeological complex is known for its cave monasteries and scenic landscapes. The Răut River winding through the hills makes for great landscape photography. Within the boundaries of the Orheiul Vechi Landscape, 20 archaeological sites are documented, two of which are exceptionally large ensembles traditionally named by the local population: Peștera and Butuceni. The cultural-natural and landscape reservation is on the list of candidates to be included in the UNESCO heritage.
3. Cricova Winery and Milestii Mici Winery: The Republic of Moldova is a wine-growing country, ranking among the topmost important wine-producing nations in the world. Moldova is known for its wine, and the Cricova Winery offers a unique photographic experience. You can explore the underground wine cellars and capture the vast collection of wine bottles. The underground cellars of Mileștii Mici hold the world's largest collection of wines (over 1.5 million collectible bottles) and entered the Guinness World Records in 2005.
4. Saharna and Tipova Monasteries:
These monasteries are located amidst picturesque cliffs and lush landscapes. The views and the architecture provide excellent subjects for your lens. At Țîpova, on the rocky bank of the Dniester River (approximately 100 km north of Chișinău), lies the largest Orthodox rock monastery in Moldova, also considered one of the largest in Europe. Saharna forms 22 waterfalls, among which the most well-known is the "Groapa Țiganului" Waterfall, with a height of 5 meters.
5. Soroca Fortress:
This medieval fortress on the bank of the Dniester River is a photogenic spot. The stone walls, towers, and the surrounding views make for interesting compositions. Soroca Fortress was built at the crossing over the Dniester River, on the site of older fortifications. It is also known as the place where the Moldavian troops, led by the famous statesman Dimitrie Cantemir, and the Russian armies led by Tsar Peter I, gathered during the Pruth Campaign against the Turkish soldiers in the year 1711.
6. Gagauzia Region:
This autonomous region has a unique culture and traditions. Capturing the traditional clothing, local markets, and the distinctive architecture can provide a different perspective.
7. Capriana Monastery: This monastery is surrounded by a beautiful forest. The combination of religious architecture and natural surroundings can lead to stunning photos.
8. Vărzărești Monastery: Known for its distinctive blue color, this monastery offers an interesting architectural contrast with the surrounding greenery.
9. Lunca Prutului Reservation: The "Prutul de Jos" Scientific Reserve is a protected area located in the lower course of the Prut River, including Lake Beleu and its surroundings, in the southwestern part of the Republic of Moldova.
Between the villages of Văleni and Slobozia Mare in the Cahul District, Lake Beleu is an ideal place for nature enthusiasts. The lake hosts flocks of pelicans heading towards the Danube, black-winged stilts, great egrets, grey herons, and other birds. From May to July, white and yellow water lilies bloom on Lake Beleu.
10. Cave of Duruitoarea Veche: The "Grota Duruitoarea Veche" is known as an ancient settlement from the Stone Age. It consists of three chambers with a total length of 49 meters, width of 5-9 meters, and is situated above the village of Duruitoarea (Rîșcani District), at a height of 33 meters. Remains of animals, fragments of tools, and traces of primitive humans from around 250-300 thousand years ago have been discovered here.
11. Transnistria:
Although a breakaway region, Transnistria has a unique atmosphere. Photographing the Soviet-era relics, memorials, and local life can be intriguing. Also we visit Tighina Fortress (renamed Bender by the Turks) that is an architectural ensemble with an irregular quadrilateral plan, surrounded by wide walls with a thickness of 2.3 - 3 m and tall walls made of limestone and brick. It has 10 artillery bastions at the corners, 11 towers, and 6 gates, all encircled by a stone moat.
12. Local Festivals and Events:
Check the local calendar for festivals, fairs, and events. These gatherings can provide excellent opportunities to capture candid shots of local culture and traditions.
As with any photography trip, it's important to respect local customs and ask for permission when photographing people or private spaces. Additionally, take advantage of the different lighting conditions throughout the day to capture the essence of each place.
If I've convinced you that the Republic of Moldova has a unique charm, plan a getaway and book your vacation with Moldova Tours.
Despite the economic and political situation in the country, Moldova hosts the most diverse festivals every year. It is a new habit for us, which is turning into a beautiful cultural tradition. Below you will find a top 10 festivals that you can attend during the year 2025. 1. Classical Music Festival "DescOPERA" – June 20th - 22th The first edition of the festival took place last weekend at Orheiul Vechi. What makes this festival special is the opportunity to enjoy classical music in the open air. Renowned orchestra conductors perform at the event. Spectators can savor the distinguished atmosphere alongside people who appreciate culture and art. 2. Street Food & Wine Festival – Gastronomic Festival Date: June 13–15 Location: Great National Assembly Square, Chișinău Participants will be able to enjoy a variety of culinary delights, wines from local producers, and performances by artists such as Subcarpați, Adriana Ochisanu, Gabriel Nebunu, and Adrian Ursu & Orchestra. Entry to the festival is free. 3. IA MANIA – Arts Festival Born from Tradition Date: July 6 Location: Holercani village, Dubăsari district Launched in 2013, IA MANIA is a festival dedicated to promoting the traditional embroidered blouse (ia) and folk crafts from Moldova. The event brings together local artisans, chefs who prepare traditional recipes, musicians, and dancers in an authentic and vibrant atmosphere. 4. Noaptea Sânzienelor – Festival of Music and Traditions Date: July 5 Location: Castel Mimi Wine Resort, Bulboaca village, Anenii Noi district. The Night of the Saints (Noaptea de Sânziene) is a traditional Romanian festival celebrated on the night of June 23 to 24. At Castel Mimi, the event features music, dance, cultural traditions, and a special program filled with surprises. 5. Festivalul Lupilor – Festival of Music and Traditions Date: August 8–10, 2025 Location: Trebujeni village, Orheiul Vechi Cultural-Natural Reserve, Republic of Moldova Festivalul Lupilor 2025 will take place from August 8 to 10 in the village of Trebujeni, located within the Orheiul Vechi Cultural-Natural Reserve. The event is known for its authentic atmosphere, combining folk, rock, and ethno music with ancestral traditions and the stunning natural landscapes of the region. 6. LAPOIANA – Festival of Music and Traditions Date: August 9–10 Location: Glinjeni village, Fălești district The festival offers a wide range of musical genres, from techno and house to pop, rap, and folk, performed by local and international artists. The main stage and the retro stage will host electrifying performances, accompanied by visual installations and a customized light show, creating an unforgettable sensory experience. 7. HODINA – Festival of Music and Traditions Date: August 17 Location: Pohrebea village, Dubăsari district Hodina Fest is an annual festival that brings together the traditions, culture, and natural beauty of the Republic of Moldova. The event takes place on Sunday, August 18, in Pohrebea village, Coșnița commune, Dubăsari district. Hodina Fest is more than just a festival – it’s a unique experience that combines music, traditional crafts, local gastronomy, and outdoor activities. 8. Summer Fest 2025 Date: August 23–24, 2025 Location: Botanical Garden, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova Now in its eighth edition, Summer Fest 2025 promises to be the most spectacular festival of the summer, bringing together music lovers, fun seekers, and fans of a vibrant atmosphere. 9. VinOpera Date: September 5 Location: Castel Mimi Wine Resort, Bulboaca village, Anenii Noi district. VinOpera at Castel Mimi is a special event that blends the art of opera with fine wine tasting, offering a cultural and gastronomic experience in a spectacular setting. Held outdoors, VinOpera features opera and classical music artists performing famous arias, while guests enjoy the award-winning wines of the castle. The VinOpera concept aims to create a refined atmosphere where music, wine, and architectural ambiance merge into a unique and unforgettable experience. 10. Chișinău Marathon Date: September 27–28 Location: Great National Assembly Square, Chișinău. The Chisinau International Marathon is a landmark sporting event and the largest running competition in Moldova.
Check out the calendar of cultural and tourist events in the Republic of Moldova for the 2025 season
We present to you the cultural-tourism Agenda "Tree of Life", 2025—a comprehensive plan that includes 40 national and international events aimed at highlighting the authentic traditions and customs of the Republic of Moldova. The "Tree of Life" Agenda offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, including music and theater festivals, exhibitions, classical music concerts, craft workshops, and gastronomic events. These events provide a valuable opportunity to deepen knowledge of Moldova's authentic culture and traditions. Moreover, the agenda helps identify the best times to visit the country, serving as a useful tool both for first-time tourists and for diaspora members eager to rediscover Moldova’s cultural heritage. Creating a well-organized event calendar can significantly enhance the region's visibility, transforming it into a cultural destination of national and international interest. Moldova Tours team invites you to explore the complete agenda and plan your vacation based on the events and experiences that interest you during your trip to the Republic of Moldova.
If you're willing to brave the cold and expand your travel experiences, visiting Moldova during the winter months (December to March) can also be an affordable option. This time our Moldovans go for what they have the best: rural tourism, wine tourism and culinary experiences, being once again to the liking of those who prefer outdoor activities, but also those who are looking for authentic gastronomy and wines of very good quality. In the past, winters in Moldova came with fairy tale-like snow and cold weather, with cloudy skies and sometimes very low temperatures. But in these past few decades, with the climate changing, it’s difficult to predict what will be. Last time, during the winter time, the weather is moderately cold and dry. Winter temperatures in Moldova may vary from -1 degree Celsius to -5 degree.
The village of Văleni in Cahul district, among 'The Best Tourist Villages in the World' for 2023: 260 localities from 60 countries entered the competition.
About 16,500 foreign tourists visited the Republic of Moldova through travel agencies in the period of January-June 2023, an increase of over 58% compared to the same period last year. The majority of tourists were from Romania, accounting for 34.7% of the total tourists received in the Republic of Moldova. Following them are tourists from Italy (16.8%), Ukraine (13.7%), Germany (9.4%), and France (6.6%)."
Traveling in Moldova can be a unique and rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy exploring lesser-known destinations with Moldova Tours, that represents main incoming travel operator in Moldova.
