Old Orhei & Curchi.

Cliffs, cave monasteries and authentic village life — Orheiul Vechi is the one destination every tourist in Moldova is told to visit, and just up the road the grand monastery of Curchi rewards anyone who keeps going. This is how to do both properly, instead of rushing back to the city. Written by locals who really know this region.

• › 5 maps and 4 self-guided itineraries, so you can explore with confidence and context
• › Every landmark worth your time — with honest “what to skip” picks
• › Expert local recommendations on where to stay and eat, and how to book the phone-only spots
• › Hands-on experiences — cooking, tile-painting, kayaking — for you to connect with local culture
• › Practicalities done for you — bus schedules, opening hours, real budgets, festivals, when to go and more