Famed for its bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel, Ungheni lies along the River Prut as it marks the border between Moldova and Romania. It has existed since at least the 15th century but became of historical significance in 1875 when the Russians built a railway from Chișinău. Post World War II, this railway became the main connection between Romania and the USSR.
Things to do in Ungheni
One of Ungheni’s most famous landmarks is the Eiffel Bridge, which spans the River Prut and serves as a checkpoint between Moldova and Romania. It was designed by the French civil engineer who was responsible for Paris’s world-famous Eiffel Tower and opened in 1877, just three days before the outbreak of the Russo-Turkish War.
Ungheni is an ideal base for visiting the Plaiul Fagului Nature Reserve, which protects a unique tract of forest near the village of Rădenii Vechi. Established in 1992, it is home to around 900 different species of plants, including 70 rare varieties. Join a guided trek to learn about the ecological significance of the reserve while spotting fallow deer, badgers and wild cats.
Boasting magnificent views across what has been dubbed the “Little Tuscany of Moldova” is Crama Mircesti, a winery in the Măgurii Hills. Centred around a whitewashed mansion, it encompasses around 15 hectares of vineyards where Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay grapes are grown. In addition to offering guided wine tastings, Crama Mircesti features a restaurant specialising in traditional Moldovan cuisine.
Getting around Ungheni
Ungheni is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Chișinău and two hours from Chișinău International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. The Romanian city of Iași is just over an hour away. Regular trains connect from both Chișinău and Bucharest to the Ungheni railway station and buses travel throughout the city.