If you have just one day for the area around Chișinău, Old Orhei is the best choice: spectacular landscapes, a monastery carved into the rock and a traditional village. Here is a one-day route.
Old Orhei and Butuceni village
The Old Orhei museum complex lies about 50–60 km north of Chișinău, roughly an hour’s drive. Here you can see the cave monastery carved into the rock above the Răut river, the stone cross on the hill and the view over the river’s meander. At the foot of the hill is Butuceni village, with traditional houses and guesthouses where you can have lunch with local food.
Wear comfortable shoes: the climb to the monastery and the descent to the village are on foot.
Curchi Monastery
About 15 km from the town of Orhei, Curchi Monastery is one of the most beautiful monastic ensembles in Moldova, with white churches and a well-kept garden. It combines easily with Old Orhei on the same day.
Optional: Căpriana
Căpriana Monastery, one of the oldest in Moldova, dating back to the 15th century, is about 40 km west of Chișinău, in the forests. It fits on the way back or as a separate half-day.
A suggested route
- 09:00 — departure from Chișinău.
- 10:00–13:00 — Old Orhei, the cave monastery and Butuceni village; lunch in the village.
- 14:00–15:30 — Curchi Monastery.
- 17:00 — return to Chișinău (or a stop at a winery on the way).
Tips
- Modest dress is required in monasteries: shoulders covered, and women preferably with their heads covered.
- Spring and autumn are the most beautiful seasons for this route.
- With hourly booking, the driver waits for you at every stop and you can change the order along the way.
FAQ
How far is Old Orhei from Chișinău?
About 50–60 km to the north, roughly an hour by car.
Can I visit Old Orhei and a monastery on the same day?
Yes. Old Orhei combines easily with Curchi Monastery, about 15 km from the town of Orhei.
What should I wear at the monasteries?
Modest dress: shoulders covered, and women preferably with their heads covered.
