Discover Bender and Tiraspol with their Soviet-era architecture, visit the historic Bender Fortress, and enjoy a tasting of 4 wines at the renowned Château Purcari. The return to Chișinău completes a day full of history, culture, and wine.
The trip at a glanceThe programme
9:00Meeting in front of your hotel.
Departure to the city of Bendery, Transnistria.
Arrival in Bender and visit to its famous historical fortress.(60 km from Chisinau).
Departure from Bender to Tiraspol.
Lunch in Tiraspol with a Soviet theme (Not included in the price).
Tour of Tiraspol.
Transfer from Tiraspol to the village of Purcari, located in the Ștefan Vodă district of Moldova.
Upon arrival, visit the Château Purcari Winery. Enjoy a guided tour of the winery, explore its historic cellars, and take part in a wine tasting of four premium varieties.*(Basic package).
Around 20:15 – Transfer back to Chisinau.
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Ask a questionTravelling as a group? Get a group quote →About this trip
A day trip through Moldova begins in Chisinau and takes you into the fascinating Transnistrian region, where history, Soviet heritage, and nature intertwine. This full-day excursion allows you to explore cities, landscapes, and monuments that preserve the memory of different eras, offering a unique glimpse into Moldova’s northern and eastern territories.
Your adventure starts in the Transnistrian cities of Bender and Tiraspol, where Soviet-era architecture, streets, and monuments remain remarkably intact. Wide avenues, large statues, old trolleybuses and monumental buildings create the impression of stepping back into the USSR, as if time has stood still since the mid-20th century. Key highlights include Bender Fortress, a historical gem on the banks of the Dniester River. First mentioned in the 15th to 16th centuries as part of the Principality of Moldavia, it was later renamed during Ottoman rule. Walking along its formidable walls and through the inner courtyard, you can sense the echoes of countless battles and the intertwining destinies of empires.
After exploring Bender, the route continues south to the renowned Château Purcari winery, founded in 1827. Known worldwide for its exceptional wines, including the celebrated Negru de Purcari, the estate provides a full sensory experience. Here, you can wander through the vineyards, visit the historic cellars, learn about traditional winemaking techniques, and enjoy
a tasting with * 4 types of wines is the basic package. From the flavours to the stories behind each bottle, past and present coexist, creating lasting memories.
From the communist heritage of Transnistria to the tranquil atmosphere of the Purcari winery, each stop offers fresh impressions. The excursion concludes with a comfortable return to Chisinau, giving you time to reflect on a day spent journeying through regions where the past remains alive, from medieval fortresses and Soviet monuments and offering a rich and memorable encounter with Moldova’s history and culture.
*Reservations must be made 48 hours in advance through our travel agency.
Photos
Questions travellers ask
Is Moldova safe for tourists?
Yes. Moldova is considered a safe destination for international travellers, and visitors generally enjoy a peaceful and pleasant stay.
Do I need a visa to visit Moldova?
It depends on your nationality. Many visitors from Europe, North America and other countries can enter visa-free for short stays. Check the rules for your passport before you travel, or ask us.
What is the best time to visit Moldova?
Moldova can be visited all year. Spring (April–June) suits nature and sightseeing, summer (June–August) festivals and outdoor activities, autumn (September–October) the wine harvest, and winter (December–January) Christmas traditions.
Which languages do your guides speak?
Our guides work in English, French, Romanian and Russian.
Are entrance fees and meals included?
It depends on the tour. What is included and what is not is listed on this page under “Covered”, and confirmed before you book.
Can I customise the itinerary?
Yes. We specialise in tailor-made trips built around your interests, budget and pace, and we can add transfers and accommodation.
How does booking and payment work?
Tours with online booking can be paid in full at booking, with instant confirmation. For private, group and tailor-made trips, send us your request here, by email or on WhatsApp: we confirm availability. A 10% deposit confirms the booking, a further 40% is due one month before and the remaining 50% in the final month. Nothing is charged when you send a request.
What if I need to cancel?
For tours booked online, the cancellation terms are shown before you pay. For private, group and tailor-made trips, you get a full refund if you cancel at least 10 days before the programme; later, a 50% penalty applies. You can also change your itinerary after booking, subject to availability.
Can I bring my pet, and what about children?
Pets are not accepted on our standard excursions; ask us if you plan a private trip. Children are welcome, and infants travel free; child and infant prices and age limits are shown when you choose your date.
Are wine tastings included?
Most wine tours include guided tastings. The number of wines depends on the winery and the package.
Can non-drinkers join a wine tour?
Of course. Wine tours also include architecture, gastronomy, local traditions and cultural visits.
Can I buy wine and take it home?
Yes. Most wineries sell wine and can advise you on the transport rules for your destination.
Is Transnistria safe to visit, and do I need my passport?
Thousands of foreign tourists visit every year without issues. A valid passport is required. Most visitors need no visa for a short visit, but an entry registration procedure applies, and a guide makes the border simple.
Which currency is used, and can I pay by card?
Transnistria uses the Transnistrian ruble. Bring cash, as international cards may not be accepted everywhere.
Can I take photographs?
Yes, but photography of military facilities and some government buildings may be restricted. Your guide will tell you where.
