Around the Hotel

Valea Trandafirilor, the Rose Valley, lies about two minutes from the hotel and is one of the largest green spaces in Chișinău. Lakes, walking paths and small cafés make it popular with locals throughout the year. An amusement area and summer events add life on weekends. Early mornings are peaceful, perfect for jogging.

Ștefan cel Mare Boulevard, the main avenue of the city, runs past government buildings, theatres and shops. The Cathedral Park contains the Nativity Cathedral and the Arc of Triumph, symbols of the city. Nearby, the Ștefan cel Mare Central Park has the Alley of Classics with busts of Romanian and Moldovan writers. These parks are lively in the evening.

The National Museum of History of Moldova and the National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History present the country's past and traditions. The ethnography museum occupies a striking building with oriental style architecture. The Pushkin House Museum recalls the Russian poet's exile in Chișinău. Each can be visited in an hour or two.

The Central Market, the city's largest, sells fresh produce, cheese, honey and household items. It offers an authentic view of local life. Mornings are the busiest time.

Cricova and Mileștii Mici wineries, both within half an hour's drive, have enormous underground cellars. Mileștii Mici holds a Guinness record for the largest wine collection. Tours with tastings should be booked in advance.

Orheiul Vechi, about one hour north, is a cave monastery carved into limestone cliffs above the Răut river. The landscape is among the most beautiful in Moldova.

For food, try plăcinte, stuffed pastries, mămăligă with cheese and sour cream, and zeamă chicken soup. Moldovan wines are excellent and inexpensive.