Moldova · Hidden Gems

Soroca Fortress & Gypsy Hill Discover the Hidden Pearl of Northern Moldova

8 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Soroca. Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Visit the medieval Soroca Fortress
  • 02 Explore the “Arta Rustica” Museum & Studio
  • 03 Walk through the colorful Gypsy Hill district
  • 04 See the Candle of Gratitude monument
  • 05 Enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding landscape
  • 06 Travel through Northern Moldova’s scenic countryside
  • 07 Learn about Moldovan history, legends, and traditions
  • 08 Free time for lunch and photos

Discover Northern Moldova on a full-day journey from Chisinau to Soroca, a riverside town known for its rich history, distinctive architecture, and vibrant local character. Travel through scenic countryside, stop in Orhei, and visit the “Arta Rustica” Museum & Studio to explore traditional Moldovan carpets, pottery, folk costumes, weaving looms, and handmade crafts.

In Soroca, step inside the legendary Soroca Fortress and learn about its rare circular design, medieval defensive role, and enduring local legends. The day also includes a visit to the Candle of Gratitude monument for sweeping views over the surrounding landscape, as well as a guided walk through Gypsy Hill, where extravagant mansions and Romani cultural heritage create one of Moldova’s most unusual and memorable neighborhoods.

With time for lunch and photos along the way, this experience offers a rewarding mix of history, folklore, architecture, and authentic Moldovan traditions.

Climb to the top of the monument for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Hours
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Chisinau, Soroca
Languages English, Romanian, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Morning Departure

Meet your guide and depart for Soroca, known as the "Romani Capital of Moldova" and a city steeped in history.

Visit to “Arta Rustica” Museum & Studio

Short stop and walk through the peaceful streets of Orhei, one of Moldova’s oldest towns. Discover local life, architecture, and charming surroundings before continuing north.

Arrive in the village of Clisova Noua and visit the famous “Arta Rustica” Museum & Studio. Explore an authentic collection of traditional Moldovan carpets, pottery, folk costumes, weaving looms, and handmade crafts reflecting the country’s rural heritage and customs.

Lunch

Enjoy free time for lunch at a local restaurant and taste traditional Moldovan cuisine and regional specialties.

Arrival in Soroca Town

Visit the legendary Soroca Fortress, built in 1499 by Stephen the Great. Learn about the fortress’ unique circular design, defensive system, and fascinating medieval legends. Explore the towers, fortress walls, and hear stories about battles, invasions, and the famous white stork legend.

Visit to the Candle of Gratitude Monument

  • Visit the Candle of Gratitude, a striking monument that honors Moldova’s anonymous heroes who preserved its culture, language, and history.
  • Learn about the monument’s symbolism, its connection to the works of writer Ion Druță, and its importance as a bridge between nature and history.
  • Climb to the top of the monument for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Gypsy Hill

  • Take a guided walk through the fascinating Gypsy Hill, known for its extravagant and colorful mansions.
  • Marvel at chateaux inspired by famous landmarks such as the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., and the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow.
  • Learn about the Romani community’s culture and traditions while soaking in the vibrant contrasts of this unique neighborhood.

Arrival in Chisinau

End of the tour with unforgettable memories, beautiful photos, and a deeper understanding of Moldova’s history, culture, and traditions.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Pickup service provided in Soroca. 2 cities · 8 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Comfortable transportation from/to Chisinau
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Entrance ticket to Soroca Fortress
  • Visit to “Arta Rustica” Museum & Studio
  • Guided tour of Soroca town
  • Visit to the Candle of Gratitude monument
  • Excursion to the famous Gypsy Hill
  • Free time for lunch and photos

What's Not Included

  • Lunch

Know before you go

  • INFANTS MUST SIT ON LAPS
  • PASSPORT REQUIRED

Tour Highlights

Explore the famous Soroca Fortress

Visit the traditional “Arta Rustica” Museum

Discover the colorful Gypsy Hill

Admire breathtaking views of the Dniester River

Experience authentic Moldovan culture and history

Taste traditional Moldovan cuisine

Enjoy a comfortable full-day guided excursion

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Pickup service provided in Soroca.
Tour start
Pickup service provided in Soroca.
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 hours finish where they began, in Pickup service provided in Soroca..

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.