Available languages
5 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Explore the rise and fall of the Soviet Union in Chișinău on this private walking tour. Starting at the Railway Station, uncover the early hardships of the USSR through poignant monuments and stories of personal experiences. Visit significant sites like the WW2 Memorial, Deportations Monument and Circus, and enjoy a canteen-style lunch at Soviet Bistro, where culinary creativity thrived amid shortages. Traverse through the golden age of Soviet propaganda at cultural landmarks, like Lenin's Monument. Conclude with reflections on the decline and censorship in a hidden bar, with a Soviet-inspired drink. This immersive experience highlights daily life under communism.
- Duration of ~5 hours, with engaging storytelling and historical visuals
- Private tour offering an intimate exploration of Soviet life
- Includes lunch at a local canteen and a drink at a hidden bar
- Admission to museums, ride on a trolleybus (as needed)
- Year-round availability
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Entrance fee
Alcoholic Beverages
Lunch
Public transportation
Chisinau Railway Station
The Railway Station was bombed during World War II. It was redesigned in Stalinist style, and the current station no longer resembles the old one. It is both a place of progress and sorrow, as here 100,000 people were deported during USSR, often forced into labor camps where many perished.
The National Museum of Military History offers a fascinating, sometimes sobering, look at the country’s complex past through the lens of war and defense. The museum occupies a Soviet-era building and houses an extensive collection that spans from medieval fortifications and weapons to Moldova’s role in the World Wars, Soviet period, and Transnistrian conflict.
2 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Stanley H,
Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
This tour is an absolute must for anyone curious about Moldova’s culture, history, and life under communism. Elena, our guide, was incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely kind. We explored Moldova’s past, from its early history to the rise and fall of communism, while hearing what everyday life was really like during those years. Along the way, Elena brought us to some of the city’s hidden gems, Soviet era architecture, brutalist buildings, old statues, and a Soviet style canteen where we stopped for lunch. We talked about Moldova’s culture, politics, and identity, and wrapped up the day at a local bar with drinks inspired by local traditions. The whole experience felt thoughtfully curated and wonderfully immersive. Instead of a tour, it was like wandering through the city with a local friend who loves her hometown and wants to share its stories. Truly one of a kind these hidden places are as unique as they are beautiful.
Lydia R,
Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
This really is a must see tour of Chisinau. And yes you should visit Chisinau—what an amazing city! Elena showed me incredible places around the city while explaining Moldova’s history. She is an amazing human being and you will really enjoy learning about the CCCP from the perspective of Moldova. If you are going to Chisinau, look no further! Get a tour from Elena.
Operated by Elena's Tours