Chisinau

Family Activities in Chisinau: Where to Go with Kids

Chisinau is a family-friendly city. It has a real zoo, a large trampoline park, children's entertainment centers, a Botanical Garden, green parks with beaches, and even a butterfly park. There's plenty to do for kids — and parents too.
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Chisinau

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Family feeding a giraffe at the zoo

Chisinau Zoo

The Chisinau Zoo is one of the largest in the region, with around 1,000 animals of various species. It has big cats (lions, tigers), bears, wolves, zebras, giraffes, reptiles, and an aviary. The grounds are spacious, green, with benches and a café. A must-see for children aged 4–12.

Address: 2 Sadovaya St.
Hours: 9:00–18:00, daily
Admission: 40–60 MDL adult, 20–30 MDL child
Visit time: 2–3 hours
Getting there: trolleybus or Bolt (~50–70 MDL from the center)

Children's Entertainment Centers

Bananakids Alfa

Moldova's largest children's play center, covering more than 2,000 m². Large trampoline areas, slides, mazes, zones for toddlers and older kids, and a café for parents. Ideal for children aged 2–12.

For: children aged 1 to 12
Hours: 10:00–21:00
Price: from 100–200 MDL per child per 1–2 hours

Wonderland at MallDova

A children's entertainment zone in the MallDova shopping center. Rides, arcade games, a carousel, and a small play town. Perfect to combine parents' shopping with kids' fun.

Address: 23/3 Decebal Blvd (MallDova)
Price: from 50–100 MDL depending on the attraction

Ninja Park

A trampoline and obstacle park for active kids aged 5 and up. Features a real ninja-style obstacle course, trampolines, a children's climbing wall, and jumping zones.

For: children aged 5 to 14
Price: from 100–150 MDL / 1 hour

Children playing on a bright playground in the park

Parks and Nature for Children

Valea Morilor Park

Chisinau's largest park with a lake — perfect for picnics and family walks. In summer you can swim (there's a beach), rent bikes, or paddle a SUP or kayak. A playground is located at the park entrance.

For: all age groups
Admission: free

Botanical Garden

Over 10,000 plants, greenhouses, and ponds. Kids especially enjoy it in spring (flowers, bees, turtles in the ponds). Great for an educational stroll.

Arboretum

A dendrological park in the Buiucani district with 104 species of trees and shrubs across a large area. Quieter and less touristy than the Botanical Garden. Perfect for a relaxed family walk.

Unusual Attractions for Kids

Belly Garden — Butterfly Park

A small tropical park with live butterflies flying around you. Kids (and adults) are delighted. Features tropical plants, turtles, and a small aquarium.

For: children aged 3 to 10
Price: from 80–100 MDL

Bardar Exotic Animals (15 km from Chisinau)

A private exotic animal park next to the well-known Bardar winery. Home to ostriches, pheasants, peacocks, deer, nutrias, and various rare birds. A short day trip that pairs well with a countryside walk.

Children and mom smiling in the car during a road trip

Day Trips with Children

Orhei-Land (Water Park)

A small water park with slides near the town of Orhei (45 km from Chisinau). Slides of varying difficulty, a children's pool, and a relaxation area. A great summer option for a day out.

Distance: ~45 km from Chisinau (40–50 min by car)
Season: summer (June–August)

Old Orhei (Orheiul Vechi)

For children aged 8+ — absolutely stunning. A medieval monastery carved into cliffs above a river — a natural adventure landscape. Climbing rocks, exploring cave churches, looking down at the river — kids love it.

Distance: 50 km (45 min by car)

Tips for Parents

  • Children's menus are available in most cafés and restaurants in the center. La Placinte is the most convenient chain.
  • Summer temperatures reach 28–35°C. Parks with shade and water are your best friends.
  • Health insurance for children is essential. The pediatric department is at 1 Tome Ciorba St.
  • Baby food and diapers are available at Nr. 1 and Green Hills supermarkets.
  • Strollers are only practical in parks and along the main boulevard. Sidewalks in the old town are uneven.

FAQ

Is there a water park in Chisinau?
There is no indoor water park. There is an outdoor one near Sociteni (open in summer). Orhei-Land is 45 km away — a full-day trip.

How to plan a day out with a child?
Zoo (morning) + lunch at La Placinte + Bananakids Alfa in the evening — a perfect full day.

At what age is Orheiul Vechi suitable for children?
From age 6–7 — there's walking on trails. Best from age 8+.

Where to buy children's goods in Chisinau?
Munchkin, Chicco, Lego and other brands — at MallDova, Atrium. Moldovan toys and books — at bookstores in the city center.

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