Gagauzia is an autonomous region in southern Moldova. The majority of the population is “Gagauze,” a Turkish-speaking community of Orthodox Christian faith.
The region is located approximately 80 km south of Chișinău. It is accessible by taxi, private hire car, car, or bus. We chose an organized day trip from Chisinau with Moldova Tours.
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Must-Sees

Manuc Bey Mansion in Hâncești

Discover the history of the Manuc Bey Historical Architectural Complex in the town of Hâncești: the French-style castle, the park, the gardens, and the watchtowers.

The Symbolic Gagauzia Monument
Located before Comrat (the regional capital), this sign marks the entrance to the Gagauzia region and recalls the Turkish roots of the Gagauz people (Gagauziya / Komrat Dolayı).

Comrat
– Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral: A superb example of Orthodox architecture with golden domes.

– The Alley of Glory: memorials to local heroes: Turkish statesman Süleyman Demirel, Aleksandr Puskin, Dmitry Kara Coban, etc.

– The Comrat Market: A true blend of Eastern and Slavic cultures!

The National Museum
The National Museum of Gagauz History and Ethnography in Besalma.

Where to eat?
We had lunch at the Gagauz Sofrasi ethno-tourism complex.
A magnificent location, a 100% local and warm atmosphere, and delicious Gagauz specialties.
https://www.gagauzsofrasi.com/
Examples of typical meals: Gozleme, Shurpa (lamb soup), Kaurma (roast lamb), and Gevreki pastries.

If you have more time
– Regional History Museum of Comrat
– The Vinuri wine estate in Comrat
– The Kara Gani Winery in Vulcănești
– The village of Avdarma
– Saint-Dimitri monastery (Ceadîr-Lunga)
– Chishmikoy and Etulia

* I took this trip in April 2025 on a personal basis. I receive a percentage of compensation if you click on a referral link and make a booking, but this does not affect the price paid or the services provided. Furthermore, this article was written completely independently, with no commercial collaboration.