Old Orhei: A Moldovan Historical Gem
Explore Moldova's ancient heart: Old Orhei's fortresses, cave monasteries, and stunning landscapes await discovery.
Old Orhei is a historical and archaeological complex in Moldova, showcasing remnants of civilizations from the Paleolithic era to the Golden Horde and Moldavian periods. Carved into limestone cliffs along the Răut River, it features cave monasteries and fortresses, offering a glimpse into the region's diverse past.
A brief summary to Old Orhei Fort
- Old Orhei, MD
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven and involve walking between the various sites.
- Bring water, especially during the summer months, as it can get hot.
- Dress conservatively when visiting the religious sites; men should wear trousers, and women should cover their legs and hair.
- Purchase tickets at the visitor center or online to avoid queues.
- Consider visiting the Orheiul Vechi Exhibition Centre to see artifacts recovered from the archaeological digs.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Old Orhei from Chișinău, take a marshrutka (minibus) from the Central Bus Station (Gara Centrală), located near the Central Market. Look for buses heading to Butuceni or Trebujeni. A one-way ticket costs approximately 26-27 MDL. The journey takes about an hour. From Butuceni, it's a short walk to the main sites. Check the bus schedules at autogara.md for the most up-to-date information.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Chișinău and can take you directly to Old Orhei. The journey is approximately 55 minutes and costs around 250-300 MDL. It's advisable to confirm the price before starting the journey.
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Driving
If driving from Chișinău, head northeast on highway M21. The drive is approximately 53 km and takes about 55 minutes. Use GPS coordinates 47.3099011, 28.9731755 to navigate directly to Old Orhei Fort. Parking is available near the entrance.
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Walking
If you are already in the Orheiul Vechi area, you can walk to Old Orhei Fort from the main visitor center in Orheiul Vechi. Follow the marked trails towards the fort. The walk is approximately 2 km (about 30 minutes) and offers scenic views.
Discover more about Old Orhei Fort
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Paragliding Site
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Soar above Criuleni, Moldova, and experience the breathtaking beauty of the countryside from a unique paragliding perspective.
Old Orhei. Paragliding Site
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Experience the thrill of flight amidst the ancient wonders of Old Orhei, Moldova – a unique blend of history and adventure.
Vila Roz
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Experience Moldovan hospitality at Vila Roz, a charming guesthouse near Old Orhei, offering traditional cuisine and a tranquil rose garden retreat.
Geto-Dacian Monument
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Explore the ancient Geto-Dacian Monument in Butuceni, Moldova, and step back in time to discover the rich history of this archaeological site.
Старый Орхей
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Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Old Orhei, a nature preserve in Moldova that captivates with its beauty and cultural heritage.
Старый Орхей
1.0 km
Discover Moldova's ancient heart at Old Orhei: Explore cave monasteries, dramatic landscapes, and centuries of history in this captivating cultural reserve.
Traditional Peasant House
1.1 km
Experience authentic Moldovan rural life at the Traditional Peasant House in Butuceni, showcasing 19th & 20th-century heritage and traditions.
Ruine
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Tatar Bath Ruins
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Resedinta Rotundu
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Caves Viewpoint
1.4 km
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Manor of the Balioz family
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Conacul familiei Bogdasarov
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Complexul Turistic „Codru”
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Panorama orașului Orhei
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Unmissable attractions to see
Trebujeni Viewpoint
0.1 km
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Orheiul Vechi, Trebujeni
0.4 km
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Orheiul Vechi Cultural and Natural Reserve
0.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich archaeological heritage of Orheiul Vechi Cultural and Natural Reserve in Moldova, a perfect blend of nature and history.
Viewpoint towards Old Orhei
0.6 km
Experience the stunning views of Old Orhei from the observation deck, where Moldova's natural beauty and rich history come together.
Medieval Church Remains
0.6 km
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Bosie Cave Monastery
0.9 km
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Cave Monastery
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Old Orhei
0.9 km
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Eco-Resort Butuceni
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Butuceni Ethnography Museum
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Butuceni
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Trebujeni landscape reserve
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Podul Piatra
9.3 km
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La Poianna
10.0 km
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La Izvor - Popas Turistic
11.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Agro Pensiunea Butuceni
1.0 km
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AgroPensiunea La Popas
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Villa Etnica
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Epoca de Piatră
2.7 km
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Magazinul LoryGel
3.0 km
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BLUE RIVER
9.2 km
Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine at Blue River – where flavor meets tradition in Holercani.
Casa Sobarului
11.3 km
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Safari
12.0 km
Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine at Safari Restaurant in Orhei - where tradition meets taste in a delightful setting.
Doi Haiduci
12.5 km
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Restaurantul "Primăvara"
13.3 km
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Select Lounge
13.4 km
Discover Select Lounge in Orhei - where Moldovan flavors meet contemporary dining excellence.
Casa Porumbeilor
13.4 km
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SAMURAI SUSHI & ROLLS TERRACE Orhei
13.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Valea Stancii
0.2 km
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Restaurant ”de Vis”
0.2 km
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Casa din Lunca Pension
0.5 km
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Magazin Bisericesc Suvenire
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Casa de sub Stinca Pension
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Agro Pensiunea Casa Verde
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DescOperă
1.0 km
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Eco Vila
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Gramma
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Busuioc Ion
9.9 km
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Magazin MARKET
11.7 km
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Relax
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Dumbrava
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Magazin de fructe și legume
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Jardi Market
13.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La bar la Senea
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Aici să dau heetsuri purple
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Кафе Сафари этно музей с зооуголок.
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Bere Bună
13.4 km
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Diez Café
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Fan Kebab
13.5 km
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Dolce Vita
13.5 km
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NIPPON SUSHI
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Le Café
13.6 km
Experience the warmth of Moldovan hospitality at Le Café in Orhei, a cozy spot for delicious food and delightful drinks.
Versailles
13.6 km
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Acropolis
13.6 km
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VinBere
13.8 km
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Zona de odihnă/picnic
14.0 km
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Restaurant Orhei
14.4 km
Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine at Restaurant Orhei, a culinary gem in Orhei, offering delightful dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Cafenea Orhei
14.5 km
Discover the charm of Cafenea Orhei, where delightful local cuisine meets a cozy and inviting atmosphere in the heart of Moldova.
