Northern Moldova

Naslavcea, on Moldova’s northern border, offers the country’s most spectacular views of the Dniester River. The best vantage points are the tops of steep emerald hills rising from the riverbank. The area contains what Moldovans call the Heart of the Dniester -- an island in the river shaped like a heart. Nature is incredible away from the river, too. In fact many people call this location Moldova’s Switzerland. So be sure to explore the village’s surroundings, which include the Nagoryan Caves, where locals hid when the Tatars invaded. You’ll also find manmade gems in the area, such as a centuries-old water mill.