Northern Moldova
The surroundings of Chișinău are rich in historical sites, monasteries, natural attractions, and renowned wineries. With a one- or two-day excursion, these places can be easily explored, offering insight into Moldova’s cultural and gastronomic world.
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Northern Moldova
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Prologue
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Legend
Experience
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Itinerary
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Epilogue
Mănăstirea Hâncu
Hâncu Monastery
Founded in the 17th century, this monastery lies in the heart of the Codru Forest, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. It functions as a women’s monastery and is considered one of the most peaceful spiritual sites in Moldova.
📍 Distance: approx. 55 km west of Chișinău
Mănăstirea Curchi
Curchi Monastery
One of the most important monasteries of the Moldovan Orthodox Church, founded at the end of the 18th century. Its buildings were constructed in a blend of Classical and Baroque styles, and the ornate Cathedral of the Virgin Mary is particularly impressive.
📍 Distance: approx. 55 km north of Chișinău
Muzeul de Arheologie Orheiul Vechi
Orhei Archaeology Museum
Part of the famous Orheiul Vechi archaeological complex. The museum presents the material heritage of the Dniester Valley civilizations, from the Bronze Age to the medieval period.
📍 Location: Trebujeni village
Orheiul Vechi
Old Orhei Archaeological and Cultural Complex
Moldova’s most famous tourist destination, an archaeological site set in a dramatic rocky river valley. The area includes Dacian fortifications, medieval monasteries, and cave churches. The 13th-century cave monastery is still an active Orthodox pilgrimage site.
📍 Distance from Chișinău: approx. 55 km northeast (1–1.5 hours by car)
Combinatul de Vinuri „Cricova”
Cricova Winery
One of Europe’s largest underground wine cities, featuring a 120 km network of tunnels. It is famous for its sparkling wines and reds, and can be visited on guided tours that include wine tastings.
📍 Distance: 15 km from Chișinău
🌐 www.cricova.md
Where next?
Continue the series – pick the next stop.
Now: Day plan
Northern Moldova
Next: Epilogue
Something comes to an end…
Show contents
Prologue
Quick post
Legend
Experience
Museums
Itinerary
Day plan
Epilogue
More Tales
Something comes to an end…
Something comes to an end… Experiences rarely arrive all at once — they settle and unfold layer by layer. Only with time did Moldova and Transnistria…
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Chișinău – Day Two The second day in Chișinău unfolds at a slower, more relaxed pace, focusing on the city’s greener and more intimate side. Parks,…
Olvass tovább / Read moreAuthor
Gábor Lengyel – Storyteller and Traveler
Part of the Tales from the Balkans series by Absurd Empire.
