Departure from Chișinău at 8:30–9:00 AM

After a brief overview of the day’s programme, we will depart for Transnistria, or as it is known on the other side of the river, Pridnestrovie. During the approximately one-hour journey, I will explain the history of Moldova and Transnistria/Pridnestrovie, focusing on the events that led to the creation of this de facto state, which is not recognised by the international community. Upon arrival, there will be a walking tour of the towns of Bender and Tiraspol, during which we will visit the main tourist attractions, as well as some lesser-known places that are connected to Italy through history or interesting facts.
After the city tours, tourists will be able to choose one of the following two options, depending on their interests and the time available:
Bender Fortress (Tighina)
The Bender Fortress, one of only two medieval fortresses in Moldova. During the tour, which I will lead, you will gain a better understanding of the region’s historical dynamics within the context of the Ottoman and Tsarist empires. Entrance ticket: 50 Transnistrian rubles (around €2.50). Visiting Time: 00:45 – 01:00 Hours
Abandoned school near Tiraspol
For those interested in unusual places, it is possible to visit an abandoned school located just a few kilometres from Tiraspol. This is a little-known site, highly sought after by Italian tourists and generally visited only by select groups. Admission costs EUR 10 per person, payable to the caretaker. Minimum visiting time: 1 hour. The visit is entirely at the tourist's discretion.

Lunch is not included in the price. You can have lunch at the “URSS” winery in Bender, a venue with a more down-to-earth atmosphere, or at the “Back in USSR” restaurant in Tiraspol, which is more elegant and has a traditional restaurant feel.

Return to Chișinău at 6:30–7:30 PM