With this summer here, the family is hunting for their next fast escape. Whether it's for the sun, sand, seas, or cultural experience, this little-known European city may be just the ideal location for some.
Some of the less-needed cities can escape completely without breaking banks in particular, with one Eastern European destination being named places that are often overlooked. Affordable city breaks to Moldova's Balti may be a move you haven't yet considered.
As Moldova's second largest city, this “underrated gem” has enough charm and cultural touchpoints to quickly fill a fun weekend. You and your loved ones know that you and your loved ones will pass through the city, be immersed in Romanian lifestyles, eat real Moldovan food and never burn holes in your back pockets, Condé Nast Traveler reports.
When it comes to accommodation, I recommend Lidolux as Condé Nast is a stolen. It offers spacious family rooms that start at £65 per night. Alternatively, cheap cities have a wide range of both hotels and rental homes, with on average only £120-150 back in two nights.
Balthi is located just 127km north of the capital and conveniently situated both on the river and on the beautiful background of the Donister hilly landscape. Needless to say, there are plenty of historical, picturesque buildings scattered throughout the city, waiting to be explored.
This includes the much-loved Independence Square, described by visitors at the edge of a busy road, as being in the “centre of the city.” A TripAdvisor review said, “This is a very large square with a monument to Stephen in the central location. The square is very nice and relaxing.”
Another spot drawing for visitors is Vasile Alecsandri Square, which is listed on travel sites as something that can be done in Balti. Recently tourists took TripAdvisor. “This is the central square of the city. It is very large and has several attractions around it, including the National Theatre, the Central Market, the National Liberators Memorial, the urban cinema, and the memorials of several parks and cafes.
For family food and drink enthusiasts, Moldova has a lot of offerings, especially when it comes to wine. Many top attractions near the city include taking a quick trip to wineries and distilleries and experiencing the true taste of Balti.
When it comes to Sunshine, there's nothing wrong here, as their summers are usually very warm and lasts until the end of the season. Daytime temperatures are thought to range from 20c to 25c, but heat waves are known to boost up to people in their 40s.
Once you reach Balti you can fly from many UK airports to Chisinau, Moldova. Flights from London to the city are also usually inexpensive, with flights available for just £25 in the summer holiday rush.