Chișinău: The winter highlights in the capital of Moldova

If you're looking for originality and tradition, you'll find it in Moldova, as the former Soviet republic is still relatively undeveloped in terms of tourism. We offer you the opportunity to explore the country with a direct flight to Chișinău

June 24, 2024

2 min read

Lufthansa Editorial Team

Moldova is officially called the Republic of Moldova and lies between Romania and Ukraine. Its location in the far east of Europe may be one reason why not many tourists have yet flocked to the country. However, this offers the advantage that visitors find a country that has preserved its traditions and authenticity.

Lufthansa's winter flight schedule provides for a direct flight from Frankfurt to Chișinău, the capital of the Republic of Moldova, in 2024 and 2025. The city surprises with its own unique mix of classically beautiful architecture and Soviet brutalism. On a stroll through Chișinău, you'll discover an imposing triumphal arch, magnificent government buildings and Orthodox churches, as well as extensive parks to linger in. The Valea Morilor Park with its artificial lake and impressive fountain is particularly beautiful.

A wine bottle, a carafe and a wine glass filled with red wine on a wooden table. — Moldova can look back on 5,000 years of wine history (© Getty Images; header image © Getty Images)

Various patterns of Romanian and Moldavian weaving. — Romanian and Moldovan carpet weaving is a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage (© Shutterstock)

Lots of people at the Christmas market in Chișinău with a lit Christmas tree in the foreground. — Festive atmosphere: the Christmas market in Chișinău attracts many visitors every year (© Shutterstock)

We have compiled some tips for a winter trip to Chișinău:

ATU Winery

Wine lovers will get their money's worth in Moldova, as the country can look back on a 5,000-year-old wine culture. The ATU Winery, located on the route from the airport to the city center, is particularly exciting. Young winemakers offer wines for tasting made from local grape varieties, but also from well-known varieties such as Pinot Noir or Gewürztraminer.

Chișinău Christmas Market

The square in front of the National Theater of Opera and Ballet Maria Bieșu is transformed into a colorful sea of lights from mid-December to January, with food stalls where you can sample traditional Moldovan dishes and snacks, market stalls with traditional handicrafts, ice skating rinks and carousels for children.

Traditional Weaving

Romanian and Moldovan tapestry weaving is a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. The best place to admire traditional carpets is at the Covorul Dorului carpet fair, which takes place on December 15 2024 in Chișinău.