Chisinau

Chișinău, the capital of Moldova, is one of Europe's least-visited capitals — a Soviet-planned city of wide boulevards, monumental architecture and large parks that has been slowly rebuilding its identity since independence in 1991. It is not a conventional tourist destination, but its affordability, its warm hospitality and its proximity to some excellent wine and cultural experiences make it worthwhile for adventurous travellers. The city centre is laid out in a Soviet grid of wide streets. Stefan cel Mare and Sfânt Boulevard is the main avenue, lined with the Government Building, the Cathedral Park and the National Museum of History. The Triumphal Arch, the outdoor book market, and the Central Market are city-centre landmarks. The National Museum of Fine Arts holds a surprisingly good collection of European and Moldovan art. The Cricova and Mileștii Mici wine cellars — two of the world's largest underground wine cities — are extraordinary and very close to the city. Moldova is one of the world's most important wine producers per capita, and wine tourism centred on the Codru, Ștefan Vodă and Valul lui Traian regions is the country's greatest tourism asset. The Cave Monastery of Orheiul Vechi, carved into limestone cliffs above the Răut River, is a stunning day trip. Prices in Moldova are among the lowest in Europe. The cuisine reflects Romanian and Russian influences — mămăligă (polenta), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), traditional wines.