MOLDOVA

Nestled between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova is a land of rolling vineyards, ancient monasteries, and heartfelt hospitality. Its history, shaped by Dacian, Ottoman, and Soviet influences, has forged a resilient culture, rich traditions, and a burgeoning wine scene.

Region: Eastern Europe

Capital: Chișinău

Official Language: Romanian (also referred to as Moldovan). Russian is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas and the breakaway region of Transnistria.

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution due to the impacts of the armed conflict in Ukraine and the risk of demonstrations. Avoid non-essential travel to Transnistria.

A map of Europe with the country of Moldova highlighted.

Why Visit Moldova?

Wine Country Wonders: Home to Mileștii Mici, the world’s largest wine cellar.

Soviet-Era Echoes: Explore relics of USSR history in Transnistria and Chișinău.

Monasteries in the Hills: Visit Orheiul Vechi’s cliffside churches and cave monasteries.

A large white bell tower and church with a golden dome against a blue and cloudy sky.

Countryside Charm: Rolling sunflower fields and time-frozen rural villages.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Fewer tourists mean tranquil sites and authentic encounters.

Affordable Europe: One of Europe’s cheapest destinations for food, lodging, and transport.

A rural road winding through a sun-dappled forest with autumn trees.

Essential Trip Information

Visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days) for citizens of the EU, US, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

Verify specific visa requirements based on your nationality via the official Bureau for Migration and Asylum of the Republic of Moldova website: https://www.evisa.gov.md/visafile/inregistrare.

Passport must be valid at least three months beyond departure date.

Onward ticket and proof of accommodation may be requested on arrival.

Moldovan Leu (MDL) is the official currency.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; most exchange kiosks are reliable and found throughout Chișinău.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs in major cities (Moldindconbank, MAIB). Credit cards accepted in urban hotels/restaurants. Carry MDL cash in rural areas.

  • What to Avoid: Exchanging money on the street. Avoid dynamic currency conversion—choose local currency when using cards.

Romanian is the official language. Russian is also widely spoken, especially in Transnistria.

Helpful phrases: “Bună ziua” (Hello), “Mulțumesc” (Thank you), “Unde este…?” (Where is…?)

Moldova is generally safe for tourists.

Be mindful of pickpockets in central Chișinău and markets.

Avoid political discussions in Transnistria, a breakaway region with Russian peacekeepers.

Emergency number: 112

No special vaccinations required.

Tap water is safe in Chișinău, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Pharmacies (Farmacia Familiei, Hippocrates) are common.

Buses & Minibuses (Marshrutkas): Connect towns cheaply but can be crowded.

Trains: Slow but scenic routes connect Chișinău to Bucharest and Odesa.

Taxis/Ride-sharing: Yandex and iTaxi are reliable. Always agree on price if hailing a taxi.

Car Rental: Best for rural exploration—roads are improving but remain uneven in remote areas.

Moldova is extremely budget-friendly for most travelers.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels or pensions (US$20–40/night)

  • Mid-range: Hotels or guesthouses (US$50–90/night)

  • Luxury: Boutique or international hotels (US$100–200/night)

Food

  • Street food: US$3–7 (placinte, mici, pastries)

  • Sit-down meal: US$10–20/person

  • Upscale dining: US$30+/person

Drinks

  • Local wine: US$2–5/glass

  • Beer: US$1–3 (bars), US$0.50–1.50 (supermarkets)

  • Coffee: US$1.50–3

Transportation

  • City bus/marshrutka: US$0.25–0.50

  • Taxi (within Chișinău): US$2–6

  • Intercity bus: US$3–10

  • Car rental: US$25–50/day

Money-Saving Tips

  • Visit free museums and parks in Chișinău.

  • Eat local—markets and bakeries offer hearty meals for less.

  • Public transport is extremely cheap and reliable for short trips.

Explore Moldova

Moldova’s capital blends Soviet architecture, leafy boulevards, and buzzing cafes. Discover its museums, parks, and wine bars.

An ancient cave monastery complex carved into limestone cliffs, 60 km northeast of Chișinău. A stunning mix of history and nature.

North of Chișinău, this vast underground wine city spans over 75 miles. Take a guided cart tour and taste Moldova’s finest wines.

Holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wine cellar—200 km of tunnels! Located just 30 minutes from the capital.

A self-declared republic east of the Dniester River. A surreal glimpse into a Soviet-style microstate. Passport checks apply.

Nestled near the Dniester River, this spiritual retreat features cascading waterfalls and a sacred footprint said to belong to St. Mary.

Located in the south, near Bălți, this monastery is surrounded by salt lakes offering mud therapies and health treatments.

An autonomous region in the south with a distinct Turkic-Christian identity. Try the local Gagauz cuisine and learn about its unique culture.

One of Europe’s oldest forests, stretching through central Moldova. Ideal for hikes, birdwatching, and autumn foliage walks.

A remote monastery on the banks of the Dniester River, carved directly into the cliffs. Said to be where Stefan the Great married.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices

  • Fewer Crowds

  • Authentic Local Vibe

  • Winter Traditions & Local Cuisine

  • Cozy Atmosphere

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cold Temperatures (20–35ºF / -6–2ºC)

  • Shorter Days

  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-winter)

  • Some Rural Closures

Key Regions:

  • Chișinău: Explore museums, underground wine cellars, and vibrant cafes with minimal tourist crowds.

  • Orheiul Vechi: Experience the dramatic cliffside monastery landscape dusted in snow (weather permitting).

  • Codru Wine Region: Enjoy quiet, cozy wine tastings at some of Moldova’s top wineries.

  • Găgăuzia (Comrat): Discover regional traditions and hearty winter dishes in this autonomous southern region.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (50–75ºF / 10–24ºC)

  • Manageable Crowds

  • Reasonable Prices

  • Wine Festivals & Cultural Events

  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (Especially Spring Rain)

  • Some Regional Variation in Conditions

  • Popular Wine Events Can Draw Crowds

Key Regions:

  • Chișinău & Cricova/ Mileștii Mici Wineries: Spring and autumn are perfect for wine cellar tours and tastings.

  • Orheiul Vechi: Ideal for hiking and cultural sightseeing with comfortable temperatures.

  • Codru & Ștefan Vodă Wine Routes: Great for vineyard visits during budding season (spring) or harvest (autumn).

  • Transnistria (Tiraspol): A unique off-the-beaten-path experience with Soviet architecture and calmer tourist flow.

  • Soroca: Explore the iconic Soroca Fortress with scenic river views and vibrant fall foliage.

  • Mid-Summer (June–August)

  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period

  • Major Wine Festivals (September–October Harvest Time)

Planning Your Trip

Politics: Avoid engaging in political discussions—opinions can be strongly divided, especially around relations with Russia and Romania.

Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants is appreciated; round up taxi fares and offer US$1 per bag for hotel porters.

Dress Code: Smart-casual in cities like Chișinău; dress modestly when visiting monasteries or rural villages.

Monastery Etiquette: Shoulders and knees should be covered; women may be expected to wear headscarves.

Punctuality: Moldovans value it in formal settings, but buses may not always run on time—be flexible.

Photography: Always ask before taking photos in local markets or religious sites.

Accommodation: Hostels (US$20–40), hotels (US$60–120), boutique or upscale (US$150–250).

Food: Local canteens (~US$5–10), sit-down meals (US$15–25), fine dining (US$50+).

Transport: Local trolleybuses and minibuses (US$0.25–0.50), intercity buses (~US$5–10).

Activities: Wineries and monasteries often have low entry fees (~US$2–10); guided tours (US$20–40).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$50–80 (hostels, markets, public transport).

  • Mid-range: US$120–200 (hotels, local cuisine, wine tours).

  • Luxury: US$300+ (boutique stays, private guides, fine dining).

Free Wi-Fi: Widespread in cafes, hotels, and many public parks in Chișinău.

SIM Cards: Local providers like Moldcell and Orange offer tourist SIMs (US$5–10 for 10–20GB).

eSIMs: Supported by international providers like Airalo and Holafly. Coverage is solid even in rural areas.

Recommended for: Medical coverage, border delays, and rural travel interruptions.

Healthcare: Private clinics in cities are affordable, but travel insurance is still advised for emergencies.

Adventure activities: Some policies may not cover rural hikes or horseback wine tours—read the fine print.

Moldova offers a range of accommodation, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels, often at very reasonable prices.

Luxury:

  • Chisinau: GREGORY Boutique Hotel Chisinau, BERDS Hotel Chisinau – MGallery Collection, Radisson Blu Leogrand Chisinau.
  • Wine Estates: Some wineries, like Château Purcari, offer luxurious stays with vineyard views.

Mid-range:

  • Boutique hotels: Richmond Hotel, London Boutique Hotel (Chisinau).
  • Comfortable stays: City Park Hotel, Hotel Tulip Residence & Spa (Chisinau).

Budget:

  • Guesthouses: Often found in smaller towns and rural areas, offering a more local experience, typically around US$25–50/night.
  • Hostels: Numerous options in Chisinau, such as Hostel City Center, Hostel Buddha, and Amazing Ionika Hostel, starting from US$15–30/night.

Unique Stays:

  • Agritourism: Consider staying at a traditional farm or guesthouse in the countryside for an authentic Moldovan experience, often including homemade food and wine.
  • Wine Cellar Hotels: Some larger wineries offer accommodation directly on their grounds.

Tip: While generally less crowded, book ahead for peak festival times (e.g., National Wine Day in October) or if traveling to specific wine regions.

Moldova’s transport focuses primarily on roads, with limited rail service.

Buses/Minibuses (Marshrutkas):

  • Intercity routes: The most common and affordable way to travel between cities and towns. Major bus stations are in Chisinau (Central, South, and North).

  • Local transport: In cities like Chisinau, a network of buses, trolleybuses, and minibuses provides efficient public transport. Fares are typically paid in cash to the conductor or driver (around 6 MDL or US$0.30).

Trains:

  • Limited network: Primarily connects Chisinau to Ungheni and offers some international routes to Romania and Ukraine. Trains are generally slower than buses but can be comfortable, with some offering sleeper cars.

Flights:

  • No domestic flights: Currently, there are no scheduled domestic flights within Moldova. All flights operate internationally from Chisinau International Airport (RMO).

Car Rental:

  • Good for exploration: Renting a car (from companies like Hertz, Avis) is ideal for exploring the countryside, lesser-known wineries, and historical sites outside of major cities.

  • Consider road conditions: While main roads are improving, secondary roads can be less maintained. Manual transmissions are common. Average daily rental for a small car is around US$45.

Public Transport in Cities:

  • Chisinau: The city has an extensive and affordable network of trolleybuses and buses. Tickets are bought directly on board.

  • Taxis/Ride-sharing: Taxis are readily available and inexpensive. Ride-sharing apps like Uber (for Taxi services) also operate in Chisinau. Negotiate the fare or ensure the meter is used for taxis.

Handy Tips

Moldova uses the Moldovan Leu (MDL). Common bills: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 lei; coins include bani (1, 5, 10, 25, 50).

Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks—use ATMs or licensed exchange offices in cities for better rates.

Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at hotels and restaurants in Chisinau, but cash is essential in rural areas and markets.

Tipping Etiquette: Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated.

  • Restaurants: 10% for good service.

  • Taxis: Round up the fare.

  • Hotel staff: US$1–2 for porters; US$2–3 per night for housekeeping.

  • Tour guides: US$5–10 per person for group tours.

The official language is Romanian, but Russian is also widely spoken. English is increasingly understood in tourist areas.

Useful phrases:

  • “Unde este cea mai apropiată stație de autobuz?” (Where’s the nearest bus station?)

  • “Cât costă?” (How much is it?)

  • “Pot primi o chitanță?” (Can I get a receipt?)
    Pro Tip: Learn a few Romanian or Russian phrases—locals warm up when you make an effort.

Moldova is generally safe, especially in Chisinau and major tourist zones. Exercise caution at night and avoid Transnistria unless well-informed.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 112: Police, ambulance, fire

  • Your Embassy: Many are located in central Chisinau—save contact info

  • Watch out for pickpockets at bus/train stations and crowded markets

Moldova uses 230V/50Hz with Type C and F plugs (two round pins).

Travelers from the U.S. will need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter for non-dual voltage devices.

Tap water is officially potable in cities but locals often prefer bottled water due to pipe issues.

Restaurants typically provide bottled water—ask for “apă plată” (still water) to avoid sparkling.

Many shops and services shut down on these days:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 8 Mar: International Women’s Day

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 9 May: Victory Day

  • 27 Aug: Independence Day

  • 31 Aug: Romanian Language Day

  • 25 Dec (Western) & 7 Jan (Orthodox): Christmas

Shops: Typically open 09:00–18:00 Mon–Sat (some close for lunch).

Supermarkets: 08:00–22:00 daily.

Markets: Best early mornings—Piata Centrala in Chisinau is a must.

Pharmacies: Many are 24/7 in cities.

Mămăligă: Cornmeal dish served with cheese, sour cream, and meats.

Sarmale: Cabbage rolls stuffed with rice and minced meat.

Plăcintă: Savory pastry with fillings like cheese, cabbage, or cherries.

Zeamă: Chicken soup with noodles and a sour twist from fermented bran.

Friptură: Roast meat (typically pork or lamb), served at family feasts.

Baba Neagră: Rich, dark, slow-cooked dessert made with flour and molasses.

Pârjoale: Fried meat patties seasoned with herbs.

Salată de Boeuf: Festive salad with diced beef, potatoes, carrots, and mayo.

Colțunași: Dumplings filled with cheese, cherries, or potatoes.

Local cheeses: Like brânză de oi (sheep cheese) and cașcaval (semi-hard cheese).

Alcoholic:

  • Cricova Sparkling Wine: Moldovan Champagne-style sparkling wine.

  • Purcari Negru de Purcari: Bold red blend with international acclaim.

  • Mileștii Mici Red Blend: Straight from the world’s largest wine cellar.

  • Rară Neagră: Local red grape variety—smooth and slightly fruity.

  • Divin: Moldovan brandy, aged and smooth—try Kvint or Bardar labels.

  • Radler Beer: Light beer mixed with lemonade—summer favorite.

  • Chisinau Beer: Local lager, widely available and refreshing.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Compot: Homemade fruit drink, served chilled or warm.

  • Kvass: Slightly fermented rye drink—tangy and slightly sweet.

  • Uzvar: Dried fruit infusion—mildly sweet and traditional.

  • Mors: Berry-based drink, especially popular in the north.

  • Mineral water: Brands like “Gura Căinarului” are local favorites.

Chisinau’s Cathedral Park: Classic 19th-century Moldovan architecture.

Cricova & Mileștii Mici: Underground wine cities with tourable tunnels.

Old Orhei: Open-air complex with monasteries carved into cliffs.

Tipova Monastery: Cave monastery overlooking the Dniester River.

Soroca Fortress: 15th-century fortification guarding the Dniester.

Traditional music: Folk dancing and pan flute tunes at festivals.

Mărțișor Festival (March): Cultural shows, concerts, and red-white trinkets for spring.

Rural guesthouses: Experience authentic Moldovan village life.

Wooden churches: Scattered throughout the countryside, often painted.

Soviet-era relics: Public statues, monuments, and architecture especially in Tiraspol.

Wine tasting tours: Cricova, Purcari, and Castel Mimi offer immersive visits.

Chisinau’s Central Park: People-watch with an ice cream or espresso.

Art Museum of Moldova: Rotating exhibitions and Soviet-era pieces.

National Opera and Ballet Theatre: Affordable world-class performances.

Live folk music nights: Try La Taifas or Vatra Neamului restaurants.

Hiking in Codru Forest: Moldova’s oldest nature reserve.

Eco-villages: Stay in places like Butuceni for a slow travel experience.

Craft markets: Handwoven rugs, ceramics, and traditional costumes.

Local festivals: Autumn wine harvest or Cherry Festival in May.

Boat rides: Rent a paddle boat on Lake Valea Morilor.

Chisinau’s bars: Try Zaxi, a rooftop cocktail spot atop the Radisson.

Propaganda Café: Retro-Soviet vibe, boho clientele, good espresso martinis.

BandabaR: Cozy underground jazz bar with live sessions.

Kira’s Club: Art-house bar and occasional indie DJ nights.

Taproom 27: Local craft beer spot in central Chisinau.

Backdoor venues: Ask locals for pop-up raves or courtyard parties.

Wine bars: Carpe Diem offers curated Moldovan wine tastings.

Summer terraces: Try Eli-Pili near the lake for lakeside drinks.

Cultural events: Open-mic poetry and live folk nights at Art-Labyrinth.

Transnistria curiosity: For the adventurous, Tiraspol has Soviet-style bars frozen in time—be cautious and carry ID at all times.