Eastern Europe’s Hidden Jewel, Moldova

Your adventure in global travel has begun as you head to the city of Chişinău. As you descend into its airport, soak in the views of forests, vineyards, and rocky hills. A local guide will be waiting to greet you and take you to your hotel situated in the city’s center. 

After resting and unpacking, the afternoon is yours to explore. Roam the busy sidewalks, swim in the rooftop pool, or check out the fitness center. In the evening, you’ll meet with your group and guides for an authentic Moldovian dinner, which is an excellent opportunity to learn about the trip’s schedule and ask questions about your upcoming adventures. 

You’re about to experience one of UNESCO’s top-rated sites today. A bus will transfer you to the elaborate architectural and historical monuments at Orhei Vechi Monastery, built along the narrow Raut River, which formed this area of green beauty. Explore ancient monuments, a cave monastery within a cliff, and the Butuceni Village Museum. You’ll stop at a nearby greenhouse to experience Moldova’s rural life and enjoy a traditional lunch and wine tasting.  

You’ll start today heading toward Luminaria Recunostintei, otherwise known as the Candle of Gratitude. Build up the courage to climb the 650 steps to reach the very top of the monument. As a reward, take in the awe-inspiring views of Nistru river and the town of Soroca with a mountain backdrop. Next, you’ll take a tour of the Soroca Fortress which was built between 1543-1546 A.D. This fortress was situated on the banks of the Nistru River to protect against foreign invasions, but you can enjoy a picnic lunch on the river banks. Finally, you will reach the spectacular Gipsy Hill, which is a region inhabited by the Roma people, archaically (and now, often offensively) known as “Gypsies.” They will welcome you into their famous camps and you can enjoy an evening in their lives. 

Today is all about embracing Moldova’s magnificent outdoors. You’ll travel north to the established village of Rascov and enjoy a hiking tour of its natural reservation. There, you will have the opportunity to swim in open mineral water spring as well as explore 300-year-old caves. Enjoy lunch before departing toward Sanatauca Lake for some kayaking through the lake and its nearby wetlands. Take a moment to escape from reality as you view the towering trees and mountains and listen to the wind and water flow. Head back to your hotel just in time for dinner. 

You cannot visit Moldova without experiencing its wines! Today you will travel to the Milestii Mici Wine cellar, which is the biggest wine cellar in the country. Learn how the grapes are harvested and even stomp some yourself in an oversized bucket! Then you’ll get to explore the underground tunnels of the wine city, and  enjoy samples of some of the most treasured wines in the world (just for our adult navigators, of course!). Enjoy snacks of chicken rolls, beef tongue, cheese, tomatoes, as well as a meal of Moldavian chicken soup with sheep cheese. 

On your final day in Moldova, you will explore the capital Chişinău more closely. It’s a green and cozy town located in the country’s center, and a visit to the historical center of Chişinău will reveal impressive administrative edifices on Stefan cel Mare’s Boulevard, the main square and markets, and the World War II memorial. As you wander through the city, be sure to keep a lookout for souvenirs to bring home with you! 

It has been an enjoyable and educational week of adventure, but the time has come to leave Moldova. Enjoy one last breakfast with your group and guides and reflect on your favorite memories. Then it’s off to the airport to catch your departure flight home. We hope to see you again on another trip!