When it comes to looking for a vacation destination, the first cities in Europe that come to the memory of many Portuguese are London, Paris and Madrid. However, there is a European capital that is still unnoticed in the eyes of many tourists and stands out for the famous wines, cheap food and green spaces. In addition, there are direct flights since Lisbon.
If you are looking for a different destination in Europe, accessible and still far from the crowds, Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, emerges as an option to consider. Far from the luxurious and busy cities, such as Paris, London or Madrid, this city offers a quieter and more economic experience.
A city in tourist growth
Chisinau is gaining prominence in European tourism and is described by as a city in “tourist boom”, although it still maintains quite low prices compared to other capitals on the continent. With a wide green area and a welcoming environment, it remains a “jewel still being discovered by millions of people.”
One of the city’s main attractions is the San Esteban El Grande Central Park, known as the Chisinau Green Lung. Stefan Cel Mare Avenue is another point of interest, surrounded by museums, historical sites, and a vast offer of restaurants, where a meal can cost only five euros per person.
Destination away from the crowds
According to the latest official data, Moldova annually receives about 400,000 visitors. This reduced number makes Chisinau particularly attractive for those who seek to avoid agitation and the crowds that characterize other better known tourist destinations.
Although not an election destination for most tourists, Chisinau preserves a striking Soviet heritage. The city stands out for its historical architecture and an animated nightlife, features that contrast with its reputation as the poorest country in Europe.
Parks that beautify the city
Among the many green spaces of the city, Parque Valea Morilor deserves a special mention. In addition to the lush vegetation, the park has a large lake, providing a real oasis of tranquility in the middle of the city.
Chisinau’s historic center, although small, has several unmissable points. One is the Cathedral of Christ’s Nativity, a masterpiece of the Orthodox religion, completed in 1830. Damaged in World War II, the cathedral was only fully rebuilt in 1997.
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There is also an arc of triumph in Moldova
Another well-known monument is the Arc do Triunfo, built to commemorate the victory of the Russian Empire over the Ottoman Empire in the 1828-1829 Russian War in the Russian War. Although less imposing than his Parisian counterpart, he is an important symbol of the story.
In the city center, there is also the monument in honor of Stefan del Mare, a fundamental historical figure in the resistance against Ottoman rule and the struggle for the independence of Moldova.
Museums for a time trip
For those who like culture, Chisinau offers several reference museums. The National Ethnographic Museum, founded in 1889, is the oldest in the country and has about 140,000 pieces that have the evolution of Moldova.
Already the National Museum of Moldova History, founded in 1983, has a collection of 350 thousand items exposed in 12 rooms. Collections include from ancient archaeological objects to weapons and historical armor, allowing a complete journey through the history of the region.
Traditional flavors at affordable prices
Local gastronomy is another of the city’s strengths. Among the most traditional dishes is the Mamaliga, a cornmeal porridge accompanied by melted butter, sour cream and grated cheese. Locations, such as La Placinte and MoldoveNec are recommended to try this delicacy.
Finally, no visitor should fail to know the famous molding wines. Cricova’s cellar, just four kilometers from Chisinau, is the world’s largest underground cellar, with 100 kilometers of tunnels and over 1.3 million bottles. There is possible to take evidence and tours through the underground streets named caste names such as Cabernet, Pinot Noir or Chardonnay.
Direct flights from Lisbon
By plane, the route between Lisbon and Chisinau takes just over four hours and there are some direct air connections since the Portuguese capital. Count on direct flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
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