Set your own pace exploring Chisinau and beyond by bike for 24 hours. You’ll get expert route advice from locals at VELOPOINT, plus all the gear you need for safety and comfort. Whether you stick to city streets or venture out to Old Orhei or nearby villages, expect moments of freedom and unexpected connection you’ll remember long after returning your wheels.
“Which one do you think fits me?” I asked the guy at VELOPOINT, half-laughing as he lined up three bikes — city, mountain, trekking — like I was picking a new identity for the day. He grinned and said, “Depends where you want to get lost.” That stuck with me. The air smelled faintly of rain on pavement, and there was this quiet hum from the city waking up as I adjusted my helmet (which felt a bit too snug at first, but maybe that’s just my head).
I’d never biked around Chisinau before — not properly — so starting out felt both freeing and slightly nerve-wracking. The staff handed me a map with some scribbled suggestions: “Try Old Orhei if you’re feeling strong,” they said, “or just wander the parks.” I ended up doing a bit of both. There’s something about pedaling past those faded Soviet facades and then suddenly finding yourself by a vineyard or in some sleepy village lane that makes Moldova feel bigger than it looks on paper. At one point, an old man waved from his garden; I waved back and nearly lost my balance (classic).
The best part? No schedule. Just me, the bike, and whatever caught my eye. The sun came out halfway through and everything smelled green — grass, wildflowers, even the dust had its own scent. When I stopped for water near Old Orhei Museum Complex, two local kids tried to race me up the hill (they won). My legs were jelly by then but honestly, I still think about that view over the river valley.
Yes, VELOPOINT offers 24-hour bike rentals in Chisinau.
You can choose between city bikes, mountain bikes, or trekking bikes depending on your plans.
Yes, helmet, reflective vest, lock, lights, and repair kit are all included free of charge.
Yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Specialized infant seats are also available.
The staff provides expert advice and route recommendations based on what you want to see.
Your rental includes use of a city, mountain or trekking bicycle along with a helmet, reflective vest, lock, lights and repair kit — plus friendly local advice on routes so you can make the most of your time exploring Chisinau or further afield in Moldova.
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