Hidden Chisinau: A Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour

1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll explore Chișinău through the eyes of a local, visiting historic monuments, elegant parks, and architectural treasures. You’ll also hear about the personalities and events that shaped this unique Eastern European capital. Moldova’s capital city is a blend of Soviet grandeur, Romanian heritage, and surprising local stories waiting to be discovered. This audio tour starts at the Main Post Office at “Kilometer 0,” the point from which all distances in Moldova are measured. You’ll stroll through the elegant Cathedral Park to see its Orthodox cathedral and bell tower, and pass the grand Triumphal Arch. Along the way, you’ll find out how Russian, Romanian, and Soviet influences have shaped Chișinău’s identity through the centuries. The tour ends in a spot adjacent to the historic Chisinau City Hall building and the impressive Organ Hall, originally installed because the daughter of a Soviet leader wanted to study organ music.

What's Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Smartphone and headphones

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour begins at the Central Post Office located on Stefan cel Mare boulevard, number 134, right across the street from the Chisinau City hall. The correct starting point is the stairs of the Post office or standing next to the stairs of the institution.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    Begin your journey at "Kilometer 0," the central point from which all distances in Moldova are measured. This historic post office marks the perfect starting point to explore Chișinău's fascinating blend of cultures and architectural styles.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Marvel at this stunning Orthodox cathedral built in the 1800s over six years, standing proudly in Cathedral Park with its elegant bell tower. Discover the compelling reasons behind its lengthy construction as you admire its beautiful architecture.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Pass through this grand arch that echoes Chișinău's complex history of Russian, Romanian, and Soviet influences. Standing near Cathedral Park, this impressive monument offers a glimpse into the city's layered past.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Admire the ornate façade of this cultural jewel, one of Chișinău's most beautiful buildings. Pass by this architectural treasure while hearing stories about the city's rich performing arts heritage.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Pass this distinctive building designed to resemble an open book, a symbol of knowledge and democracy. Enjoy the quirky legend about Marx and Engels sharing a bottle of vodka on this very spot.

    Admission ticket free
  • Stephen the Great Central Park (Pass by)

    Stroll through this elegant green space and admire its distinctive cast-iron fence with an extraordinary origin story. Discover how this fence was transported by ox carts over three days from Odessa in a remarkable feat of 19th-century logistics.

    Admission ticket free
  • Stephen the Great Monument (Pass by)

    See the statue honoring Moldova's most revered historical figure, who defended the country against Ottoman invasion. Learn the remarkable story of how this monument was twice deported to Romania during WWII.

    Admission ticket free
  • National Art Museum of Moldova (Pass by)

    Walk past this elegant building that once served as a girls' school funded by Princess Natalia Dadiani. Marvel at how this historic educational institution was transformed into Moldova's premier art museum.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    See the seat of Moldova's government and hear about the dramatic Twitter Revolution of 2009. Learn how civil unrest damaged this important building during a pivotal moment in the country's recent history.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Learn about this former Greek Orthodox church with a surprising Soviet-era twist in its history. Discover how this sacred space was repurposed as a wine-tasting venue during communist times.

    Admission ticket free
  • Organ Hall (Pass by)

    Marvel at this impressive concert venue installed because a Soviet leader's daughter wanted to study organ music. Discover how one family's musical ambitions created a lasting cultural legacy for the entire city.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    End your tour adjacent to this historic city hall building, the administrative heart of Moldova's capital. Experience the culmination of your journey in this area that perfectly captures Chișinău's governmental and cultural significance.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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