Exploring Chișinău: A Guided Walking Tour of Must-See Sites & Attractions.
Chișinău, the capital of Moldova, is a city of contrasts—where Soviet-era architecture blends with lush parks, Orthodox churches, and a burgeoning wine culture. A guided walking tour is the best way to uncover its hidden gems, historical landmarks, and local charm. Below is a carefully curated list of sites and attractions to include in your walking tour of Chișinău. We also include top tourist attractions and things to do in Tiraspol.
- Central Chișinău: The Heart of the City
A. Great National Assembly Square (Piața Marii Adunări Naționale)
Why visit? This is the main square of Chișinău, surrounded by key government buildings, including the Parliament of Moldova and the Presidential Palace.
Highlights:
The Monument to Stephen the Great (Ștefan cel Mare), Moldova’s most revered medieval ruler.
The Arc de Triomphe, built in 1841 to commemorate Russia’s victory over the Ottoman Empire.
The Cathedral Park, a serene green space perfect for a short break.
B. Nativity Cathedral (Catedrala Nașterea Domnului)
Why visit? The main Orthodox cathedral of Moldova, an architectural and spiritual landmark.
Highlights:
The beautiful interior with frescoes and golden iconostasis.
The adjacent bell tower, offering a great photo opportunity.
C. Government House (Casa Guvernului)
Why visit? A prime example of Stalinist architecture, this imposing building symbolizes Moldova’s Soviet past.
Fun fact: It was heavily damaged during the 2009 protests but has since been restored.
- Chișinău’s Green Spaces: Parks & Gardens
A. Ștefan cel Mare Central Park
Why visit? The oldest and most famous park in Chișinău, named after Moldova’s national hero.
Highlights:
The Alley of Classics, featuring busts of famous Moldovan writers and poets.
A peaceful atmosphere with fountains and shaded benches.
B. Valea Morilor Park (Grădina Publică "Valea Morilor")
Why visit? A scenic park with a lake, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Highlights:
The Chisinau Water Tower, an abandoned Soviet structure with urban exploration potential.
Great views of the city from the hills.
- Soviet & Historical Landmarks
A. The KGB Building (Former Securitate Headquarters)
Why visit? A chilling reminder of Moldova’s communist past.
Highlights:
The memorial plaque for victims of Soviet repression.
The building’s eerie, unchanged Soviet facade.
B. The Railway Station (Gara Feroviară)
Why visit? A beautiful example of 19th-century architecture.
Highlights:
The old steam locomotive displayed outside.
The bustling atmosphere of one of Moldova’s main transport hubs.
- Cultural & Artistic Stops
A. National Museum of History of Moldova
Why visit? To understand Moldova’s past, from ancient Dacians to modern independence.
Highlights:
The Golden Treasure of Moldova, a collection of Thracian artifacts.
Exhibits on Soviet occupation and the 1991 independence movement.
B. Pushkin Museum (Casa-Muzeu Pușkin)
Why visit? The house where the famous Russian poet lived in exile (1820-1823).
Highlights:
Original manuscripts and personal belongings of Pushkin.
A charming 19th-century atmosphere.
C. Chișinău’s Art Scene (ARTCOR & Zpace Galleries)
Why visit? For contemporary Moldovan art and underground culture.
Highlights:
ARTCOR – A hub for local artists and exhibitions.
Zpace – A creative space with indie art and events.
- Local Markets & Authentic Experiences
A. Piata Centrală (Central Market)
Why visit? The largest and most vibrant market in Chișinău.
Highlights:
Fresh produce, homemade cheese, and Moldovan wine.
A chance to interact with locals and taste traditional foods like plăcintă (Moldovan pastry).
B. Meșterul Manuc (Old Merchant’s Inn)
Why visit? A historic 19th-century caravanserai turned into a restaurant.
Highlights:
Traditional Moldovan dishes in an authentic setting.
A glimpse into Chișinău’s mercantile past.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems
A. The Underground Tunnels of Chișinău
Why visit? Rumored Cold War-era tunnels beneath the city (some guides offer access).
Highlights:
Mysterious passageways allegedly connecting government buildings.
B. Chișinău’s Abandoned Circus
Why visit? A surreal Soviet-era ruin frozen in time.
Highlights:
Eerie atmosphere and great for urban exploration.
Suggested Walking Tour Itinerary
Time Activity
10:00 AM Start at Great National Assembly Square (Monument to Stephen the Great, Arc de Triomphe)
10:30 AM Visit Nativity Cathedral & Bell Tower
11:00 AM Walk through Ștefan cel Mare Park (Alley of Classics)
11:30 AM Explore National History Museum
12:30 PM Lunch break at La Placinte (traditional Moldovan food)
1:30 PM Visit Pushkin Museum
2:00 PM Discover Piata Centrală (Central Market)
3:00 PM Explore Valea Morilor Park & Water Tower
4:00 PM End at Meșterul Manuc for a drink or coffee
Final Tips for Your Walking Tour
✅ Wear comfortable shoes – Chișinău’s sidewalks can be uneven.
✅ Bring water & sun protection – Summers can get hot.
✅ Ask your guide about hidden stories – Many buildings have fascinating untold histories.
A well-planned walking tour will give you a deep appreciation of Chișinău’s history, culture, and local life. Whether you’re into Soviet relics, Orthodox heritage, or vibrant markets, Moldova’s capital has something for every traveler.
We would also suggest private guided tours of Transnistria.
Would you like recommendations for a themed tour (e.g., Soviet history, wine culture, or Jewish heritage)?