Underground Wineries (National Icon)

• Mileștii Mici: With a total tunnel length of about 200 kilometers and over 1.5 million bottles of wine stored, it holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wine collection in the world. You can take a sightseeing vehicle tour through the underground streets named after wines, including vintage wine tastings. (3 hours)
• Cricova: Features around 120 kilometers of underground tunnels and is known for its sparkling wines. It also stores collections belonging to politicians and celebrities. Visitors can explore the underground streets and cellars and enjoy wine tastings. (3 hours)
• Purcari Winery: A renowned estate in the southern part of the country, its red wines have won multiple international awards. The winery hotel and French-style courtyard are great for an overnight stay. (Half day to one night)
• Castel Mimi Castle Winery: A boutique winery set in a castle redesigned in French style, featuring a lovely restaurant and courtyard. (3 hours)

Religious and Cultural Landmarks

• Orheiul Vechi: A cliffside cave monastery with panoramic views of the river valley—Moldova’s most photogenic spot. (Half a day)
• Căpriana Monastery: An important monastery dating back to the era of Prince Stephen the Great, surrounded by forests, peaceful and quaint. (2 hours)
• Metropolitan Christmas Cathedral: A landmark in Chișinău, this white cathedral features Neo-Byzantine architecture along with a freestanding bell tower. (1 hour)
• National Museum of History: Traces history from prehistoric gold artifacts to the Soviet era—an hour-long journey through Moldova’s layered past. (2 hours)

Historic Towns and Unique Destinations

• Soroca Fortress: A well-preserved circular stone fortress on the Dniester River dating back to the 15th century. Nearby, the mansions of wealthy Roma families are also notable. (2 hours)
• Tiraspol: The capital of Transnistria, featuring Lenin statues and Soviet-style streets for a trip back in time. (Half a day)
• Gagauzia Autonomous Region: Home to a community of Turkic-speaking Christians, where you can experience village homestays and traditional polenta feasts. (One day)
• Chișinău Central Market: A bustling hub offering local produce, perfect for picking up honey, jams, and cheese. (1.5 hours)

Itinerary Suggestions

Moldova’s attractions are relatively concentrated. For the wineries, you can choose either Mileștii Mici for an in-depth tasting experience or Cricova for a quicker visit. The religious and cultural route centers around Orheiul Vechi, with Căpriana Monastery along the way. Split your time between Soroca and Tiraspol over two days for a more relaxed pace. Photography enthusiasts should visit Orheiul Vechi at sunset—the backlit river valley offers some of the best photo opportunities.