Every year on September 27th, people around the world unite to celebrate a shared passion for exploration, cultural exchange, and the wonders of our planet. International Day of Tourism reminds us of the transformative power of travel, the beauty of diverse cultures, and the importance of responsible tourism.

This year, we want to introduce you to the hidden gem in Eastern Europe – Moldova! Challenge Fund 2022/2023 awarded a Czech innovator Smart Guide to help to boost tourism in Moldova with their travel app. Get inspired by the suggested 3-day travel itinerary and do not forget to use Smart guide app to plan your vacation for you!

This 3-day itinerary will give you a taste of Moldova’s rich history, culture, and culinary delights, with a special focus on its world-class wine production. Enjoy your trip to this hidden gem in Eastern Europe!

Day 1: Exploring Chisinau, the Capital

Morning:

Start your Moldovan adventure by arriving at Chișinău International Airport. After checking in to your hotel and freshening up, head out to explore the capital city. Begin your day with a visit to the National Museum of History of Moldova. Here, you can learn about the rich history and culture of the country, from ancient times to the present.

Lunch:

Enjoy a traditional Moldovan meal at a local restaurant. Don’t forget to try the delicious mămăligă (cornmeal porridge) and sarmale (cabbage rolls) paired with a glass of local wine.

Afternoon:

Stroll to the Valea Morilor lake, a beautiful green space in the heart of Chisinau. Admire the statues, fountains, lake and the serene atmosphere. Try to find a tiny statue of a Little Prince! Visit the Triumphal Arch, a historic monument commemorating Russia’s victory over the Ottoman Empire. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.

Evening:

Explore the lively Piața Centrală (Central Market), where you can shop for local products, crafts, and enjoy street food. For dinner, dine at a local restaurant in the city center and savor more Moldovan cuisine or try local steaks.

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Day 2: Wine Tasting in the Vineyards

Morning:

After breakfast, embark on a day trip to Moldova’s renowned vineyards, which are known for producing some of Europe’s best wines. Head to the Cricova Winery, one of the largest underground wine cellars in the world. Take a guided tour of the cellars, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy wine tasting.

Lunch:

Have lunch at a winery’s restaurant. Savor local dishes paired with exceptional Moldovan wines.

Afternoon:

Visit the Mileștii Mici Winery, another famous underground winery. Explore the vast underground tunnels and sample more wines. If time allows, you can visit additional wineries or vineyards in the area.

Evening:

Return to Chisinau and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant in the city.

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Day 3: Exploring Moldova’s Cultural Heritage

Morning:

After breakfast, venture out of Chisinau to visit the Orheiul Vechi Monastery Complex. This historic site features cave monasteries, ancient ruins, and stunning views of the Răut River. Explore the area on foot or by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Lunch:

Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Orheiul Vechi area, where you can enjoy more Moldovan dishes.

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Afternoon:

Visit the Curchi Monastery, a picturesque Orthodox monastery with beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. Return to Chisinau in the late afternoon. Spend your last evening in Moldova exploring the city at your leisure, perhaps revisiting a favorite restaurant or enjoying the local life.

Hope you will enjoy your trip to Moldova!

About the Czech-UNDP Partnership for SDGs

The partnership of the Czech Republic and UNDP supports innovative solutions from the private sector of the Czech Republic, non-governmental organizations, universities, state institutions, research centers and individuals for solving specific development challenges in priority countries (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Ethiopia, Cambodia, Zambia). The implementation of projects and expertise is financially supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic.