This isn’t a standard city tour—it’s a time-travel ride through Chișinău in a vintage Lada/VAZ. On a private route, we chase Soviet-era icons, brutalist shapes, mosaics, and abandoned landmarks, stopping for the best photo angles and the stories behind what you’re seeing. Expect a flexible itinerary, hotel pickup, and a local guide who turns “concrete and symbols” into a living, unforgettable narrative.
Stefan cel Mare Park is one of Chișinău’s most iconic central green spaces. We’ll stop here for a short walk to see the park’s main alleyways, monuments and city life—perfect for photos and a quick introduction to the capital’s atmosphere. Your guide will share brief context about the park’s role in local culture and everyday life, then we’ll continue the tour by vintage Lada to the next highlights.
At this memorial complex, you’ll see one of Chișinău’s most striking Soviet-era sites: a dramatic monument and the Eternal Flame. We’ll take a short walk around the main structure, spot symbolic details, and talk about how public memory was shaped during the USSR period—and how locals relate to it today. Great photo angles and strong “monumental” atmosphere.
You’ll see one of the city’s most iconic Soviet modernist buildings—famous for its bold, circular form and dramatic silhouette. We’ll stop outside for photos and a quick explanation of why circuses were cultural symbols in the USSR and how this building fits that era’s design language.
At this stop, you’ll see one of Chișinău’s most intriguing “frozen-in-time” landmarks: the abandoned National Hotel. We’ll pause for photos and a short walk around the exterior to observe its late-Soviet modernist design, the scale of the building, and the eerie atmosphere that makes it a local urban legend. Your guide will share the background of why this project stalled, how it became a symbol of transition, and what details to look for that reveal the era’s architectural mindset. This is an exterior-only visit focused on storytelling, atmosphere, and striking photo angles.
At this stop, you’ll visit one of Chișinău’s most iconic Soviet-era landmarks: the Romanita Building, instantly recognizable by its distinctive “chamomile” shape. We’ll pause for photos and take a short walk around the tower to appreciate its late-Soviet modernist design, bold curves, and the scale of the surrounding urban plan. Your guide will explain why this building became a symbol of the city’s skyline, what its architecture was meant to communicate at the time, and how locals see it today. Expect strong photo angles, quick “hidden detail” spotting, and a clear dose of context before continuing the tour by vintage Lada.
Passing by this area, you’ll get a quick glimpse of Chișinău’s everyday life—where Soviet habits, post-Soviet reality, and local culture intersect. Your guide will point out what’s truly local (and what’s more tourist-oriented), highlight a few signature products and street scenes, and share brief context as we continue by vintage Lada.
Meet at Piata Marii Adunari Nationale (PMAN) near the Triumphal Arch. Please arrive 10 minutes before the start time. Your driver will be waiting next to the vintage Lada/VAZ parked by the square, and will greet you by confirming the lead traveler’s name.
Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, is a vibrant city where Soviet-era architecture meets modern development. Known for its parks, monuments, and lively cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of history, culture, and Eastern European charm. The city is also a gateway to Moldova's renowned wine regions.
A beautiful park in the heart of Chisinau, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.
A monument dedicated to Stephen the Great, a famous Moldovan ruler.
A museum showcasing the natural history and ethnography of Moldova.
A traditional Moldovan polenta, often served with cheese, sour cream, or stews.
Fried or baked pastries filled with various ingredients like cheese, potatoes, or cabbage.
This is the best time to visit Chisinau for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city comes alive with festivals and cultural events.
Moldovan Leu (MDL)
GMT+2 (GMT+3 during daylight saving time)
220VV, 50HzHz
Chisinau is generally safe, but petty crime can occur. Exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.
Chisinau Central Railway Station
Central Bus Station, North Bus Station
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Chisinau. They are affordable and cover most of the city.
Available • Apps: BlaBlaCar, Yandex.Taxi
Car, Bike
One of the largest wine cellars in Moldova, offering tours and tastings.
A historic monastery nestled in a picturesque setting.
Price varies by option