Transnistria declared independence from Moldova in 1990. It still forms part of Moldova but relies on Russia for military and economic support. You can start by exploring Bendery, which is a city in Transnistria a breakaway state in Moldova.

Moldava

You can visit the History and Military memorial. This memorial is dedicated to three wars, the war in 1990, World War II and the Russian internal War.

bendery history and military memorial

Next up you can stop, to visit the Bendery Fortress which was built during Ottoman rule. The fortress is about 69 square hectares and has a museum inside. One exhibit displays military artifacts and memorabilia from the civil war of Transnistria in 1992.

Bender Fortress

Bender Fortress

Continue your tour by heading to the capital city of Transnistria the city of Tiraspol, which also happens to be the second-largest city in Moldova. Make sure you visit the two other war memorials commemorating the fallen soldiers of several wars and a famous Russian general, Alexander Suvorov. In case you’re wondering, the Soviets were big on building war memorials.

Bender Fortress

Tiraspol

If you want to have a taste of the Ukrainian food, visit the Kumanek Tavern Restaurant to try some traditional Ukrainian food such as Borshch (vegetable soup made out of beets, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic). The beets are what give it its intense red color.

 Kumanek Tavern Restaurant

Not one to miss the opportunity to try a local alcoholic beverage, you can enjoy a ten year old cognac by the well- known Transnistrian label KVINT.

cognac

The official language here in Transnistria is the Russian language. Also this country produces the best caviar anywhere you can find in Moldova. Make sure you go in some of the best sweet shops and try some.

Caviar

So there you have it – A guide of what to see in Transnistria. It’s not a place for everyone and isn’t your typical European country, but that’s what traveling is all about – discovering new places around the world.