Moldova

Moldova: general info for travelers

Moldova is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe. It has a population of approximately 3.5 million people and its capital is Chisinau. Moldova has a rich history and culture, having been part of various empires and kingdoms throughout its history. Its cuisine is known for its hearty, traditional dishes, and the country is also famous for its wine, which is considered to be some of the best in Europe. Moldova is known for its beautiful countryside, including the Dniester River, and its stunning monasteries and historical sites. The official language is Moldovan, which is very similar to Romanian, and the currency used is the Moldovan leu.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Moldova, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Moldova: places to visit

Moldova is a beautiful and charming country in Eastern Europe, with a rich history and culture. Here are some of the main places to visit: 1. Chișinău: The capital city of Moldova, Chișinău is a bustling cosmopolitan center with plenty of museums, parks, restaurants, and shopping centers. One of the most famous attractions is the National Museum of History of Moldova, which showcases the country's fascinating past.
2. Orheiul Vechi: Located about 60 km north of Chișinău, Orheiul Vechi is a historical and archaeological complex that features a 13th-century cave monastery, a 14th-century fortress, and stunning views of the Răut River.
3. Tiraspol: The second-largest city in Moldova, Tiraspol is the capital of the self-proclaimed republic of Transnistria. Despite its unrecognized status, Tiraspol is a fascinating place to visit, with Soviet-era architecture, monuments, museums, and bustling markets.
4. Cricova Winery: Moldova is famous for its wine, and the Cricova Winery is one of the best places to taste the country's finest vintages. The winery is located about 15 km north of Chișinău and features stunning underground cellars that stretch for over 120 km.
5. Gagauzia: Located in the southern part of Moldova, Gagauzia is a unique autonomous region that is home to the Gagauz people, an ethnic group with a distinct language and culture. Visitors can explore the region's beautiful countryside, visit traditional Gagauz villages, and sample local food and wine.
There is more to see and do in Moldova: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Moldova: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Moldova, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Moldova has a moderate continental climate, with four distinct seasons. The summers are quite hot and can be quite dry, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) can be mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Winters (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C.
The best time to visit Moldova is during the spring and autumn months, when the temperatures are mild and the landscape is green and lush. The months of April, May, September, and October are ideal for exploring the countryside, visiting wineries, and enjoying outdoor activities. However, if you are interested in winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding, then the winter months of December to February are the best time to visit.

Moldova: activities and what to do

Moldova is a small country, but it has some interesting activities and sports you can do on your holiday. Here are some suggestions: 1. Wine tasting: Moldova is well known for its wines, and there are plenty of wineries and vineyards that you can visit for wine tasting tours.
2. Hiking: Moldova has some beautiful nature reserves and parks where you can do some hiking and enjoy the scenery.
3. Horseback riding: You can take a horseback ride through the countryside or even vineyards.
4. Cycling: Moldova has a number of cycling routes that are great for exploring the country and its attractions.
5. Water sports: There are several lakes and rivers in Moldova where you can enjoy various water sports, including boating, fishing, and even water skiing.
6. Skiing: During winter, you can head to the Codru ski resort for skiing and snowboarding.
7. Cultural activities: Moldova has a rich cultural heritage, and you can visit museums, galleries, and historic landmarks to learn more about the history and culture of the country.
Overall, Moldova has plenty of interesting activities and sports for a fun and memorable holiday.

Moldova: few words on history and culture

Moldova is a country in Eastern Europe with a rich history and culture that dates back to ancient times. Throughout the centuries, Moldova was influenced by various empires and civilizations such as the Romans, the Byzantines, the Ottomans, the Russians, and the Austro-Hungarians. This mixture of cultural influences has resulted in a unique Moldovan culture that blends together traditional customs and rituals with modern trends.
The traditional Moldovan culture is deeply rooted in agriculture and viticulture. The country is famous for producing high-quality wines and brandies that are exported all over the world. The Moldovan people are also known for their hospitality and love of music, dance, and arts.
The official language in Moldova is Romanian, and the population has a strong connection to Romanian culture. Other cultural influences include Russian, Ukrainian, and Bulgarian, which contribute to the complexity and richness of Moldovan culture.
Overall, Moldova offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and traditions that travelers can discover and enjoy during their trip.

Moldova: how to move around on holiday

Moldova can be reached by plane, train, bus or car, depending on your preference and budget. The capital city of Chisinau has the largest airport and it receives daily flights from European airports. The railway system connects Moldova with neighboring countries such as Romania and Ukraine. There are also regular bus services that connect Moldova with Romania, Ukraine and other parts of Europe. If you prefer driving to your destination, you can rent a car from one of the car rental companies operating in the country. Once you arrive in Moldova, you can travel around the country either by bus, taxi or car. To hire a car to visit Moldova, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Moldova: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Moldova with a full stomach:D
Moldova's cuisine is a mix of traditional recipes inspired by Romanian and Russian cuisine. Here are some typical Moldovan foods: 1. Mamaliga - It is a porridge-like dish made from cornmeal and is a staple of Moldovan cuisine. It is often served with sour cream or cheese.
2. Mititei - These are small grilled sausages that are made from a combination of beef, lamb, and pork, and seasoned with garlic and paprika.
3. Sarmale - These are cabbage rolls filled with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and herbs. They are usually served with polenta or sour cream.
4. Placinte - These are savory or sweet pastries filled with cheese, potatoes, meat, cabbage, or fruit.
5. Zeama - This is a soup made with chicken or pork, and seasoned with garlic, lemon, and herbs.
6. Cozonac - It's a traditional sweet bread, flavored with cocoa, vanilla, nuts and other ingredients, made specifically for holiday celebrations.
7. Branza de burduf - It is a type of cheese made from sheep's milk. It has a strong flavor and is often enjoyed with bread or crackers.
8. Tuica - It is a traditional spirit made from plums and is considered the national drink of Moldova. It is often used as a toast during celebrations or along traditional meals.

Moldova: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Moldova is generally considered to be an affordable country for tourists. The cost of accommodations, food, and transportation is lower compared to many other European countries. Of course, the expenses depend on your travel style and preferences. In general, budget-conscious travelers can find affordable options for meals, lodging, and transport. However, the cost of tourist attractions and activities may vary. It's essential to research and plan your budget accordingly. Overall, Moldova can be a great destination for budget travelers who want to explore a beautiful country without breaking the bank.

Moldova: where to find accodation

There are many websites you can use to search for accommodation in Moldova. Some popular options include: 1. Booking.com - They have a wide range of accommodation options available in Moldova, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.
2. Airbnb - This website allows you to search for apartments, houses or rooms in Moldova that are available for rent. You can also communicate directly with the host to ask any questions and clarify details.
3. Agoda - This is another popular website for finding affordable accommodation in Moldova. It also includes user reviews and ratings to ensure that you're making a good choice.
4. Hostelworld - If you're on a tight budget and looking for hostels in Moldova, Hostelworld is a great option. It has a large selection of hostels with various amenities to choose from.
5. Tripadvisor - It includes a variety of accommodation options in Moldova, and also includes feedback and recommendations from other travelers who have stayed there before.
I hope this helps!
You can check hotel prices in Moldova here:
Booking.com

Moldova: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics of Moldova, the number of tourists who visited Moldova in 2019 was approximately 3 million. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists in 2020 reduced significantly. In general, Moldova is not a very crowded destination, even during the high season which is from May till October. The most popular months for tourism in Moldova are usually July and August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, even during these months, the number of tourists is not overwhelming, and you can still enjoy the sights and attractions without feeling too crowded.
Moldova is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, like any other country, there are some safety concerns that one should be aware of.
Petty theft, pickpocketing, and scams targeting tourists can occur, particularly in crowded areas and tourist attractions. It is advisable to keep valuable belongings secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items. It is also important to be cautious when using public transportation or walking at night, especially in urban areas.
Visitors should avoid traveling to the Transnistria region since it is a politically sensitive area and visitors may experience difficulties, including harassment and detention.
Overall, Moldova is a relatively safe and welcoming tourist destination, and visitors can enjoy the country's beautiful scenery, rich culture, and delicious food without undue concern for their safety.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Moldova on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Moldova: events for tourists

Moldova is a small country, but it has a rich cultural heritage and many interesting events throughout the year that attract tourists. Here are some of the most popular events: 1. Wine festivals - Moldova is known for its wine production, and wine festivals are held all year round in various cities and towns. The most famous wine festival is the National Wine Day, held in October in Chisinau, where visitors can taste different types of wine, and enjoy traditional food and music.
2. National Day - Moldova celebrates its National Day on August 27th with parades, fireworks, and cultural events in Chisinau and other cities.
3. Hiking and nature festivals - Moldova has beautiful natural landscapes, and several festivals are organized throughout the year to celebrate the natural beauty of the country. The most famous event is the Guguta International Festival held in August, which is dedicated to hiking, camping, and outdoor activities.
4. Traditional festivals - Moldova has a rich cultural heritage, and traditional festivals are held to celebrate its customs and traditions. The most famous festival is the Martisor festival, held in March to welcome the spring season, where participants give each other small tokens of good luck.
5. Music festivals - Various music festivals are held in Moldova, especially during the summer months. The most famous is the International Jazz Festival, held in July in Chisinau, where visitors can enjoy jazz music performances from around the world.
These are just a few of the many interesting events held in Moldova throughout the year, and there are always new events happening.

Moldova: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Moldova, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here is an itinerary for a two-week trip to Moldova.
Day 1-2: Chisinau Start your trip in the country's capital, Chisinau. Spend the first two days exploring the city's highlights, including the National Museum of History of Moldova, the Triumphal Arch, and the iconic Stefan Cel Mare Monument.
Day 3-4: Orhei On day three, take a day trip to Orhei, where you can visit the Orthodox cave monastery, the famous Orheiul Vechi archaeological complex, and enjoy a traditional Moldovan lunch at a local winery.
Day 5-7: Cricova and Straseni Spend the next few days exploring Moldova's wine country. Visit the Cricova Winery, the largest underground wine cellar in Europe, and sample some of the country's best wines. Continue your wine tour by visiting Straseni, Rezina, and other nearby villages famous for their wines.
Day 8-9: Soroca Head to Soroca and visit the iconic Soroca Fortress, a landmark of the city. You can also see the Gypsy Hill and the nearby village of Lipcani.
Day 10-12: Gagauzia Explore Moldova's autonomous region of Gagauzia, known for its unique Gagauz culture. Visit the Gagauz National Museum and take a tour of the Gagauz villages of Comrat, Besalma, and Chirsova.
Day 13-14: Transnistria Finally, visit the breakaway region of Transnistria, home to a unique state that is not recognized by the international community. Visit the capital, Tiraspol and see the Presidential Palace, the National Bank, and the House of Soviets.
This itinerary covers the most popular destinations in Moldova, but there are many other places to visit in this charming country. I hope you find this helpful!

Moldova: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Moldova described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Anenii Noi is a district in the central part of the Republic of Moldova and is located about 40 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Chisinau. It has a population of over 37,000 inhabitants and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anenii Noi
- Balti is the second-largest city in Moldova with a population of over 144,000 people. It is located in the northern part of the country, close to the border with Ukraine. Balti is an important industr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Balti
- Basarabeasca is a town in the southern part of Moldova. It has a population of about 9,000 people. The town is situated on the banks of the river Prut and is surrounded by rolling hills and forests. B... CONTINUE here for a trip to Basarabeasca
- Cahul is a city located in the southern part of Moldova, near the border with Romania. It has a population of approximately 30,000 people. The city is known for its cultural heritage, including the hi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cahul
- Calarasi is a town located in the central part of Moldova, and it is situated approximately 40 kilometers away from the capital city, Chisinau. The town has a population of around 10,000 inhabitants, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Calarasi
- Camenca is a city located in the northern part of Moldova, in the region of Briceni. It is situated on the bank of the river Ciuhur, close to the border with Ukraine. Camenca has a population of appro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Camenca
- Cantemir is a small town located in the Hîncești District of Moldova. It is situated in the central part of the country, approximately 40 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Chișinău. The town... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cantemir
- Causeni is a town in the central part of Moldova, located about 60 kilometers southeast of the capital city, Chisinau. The town has a population of around 15,000 people and is an important center of t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Causeni
- Ceadir-Lunga is a city in southern Moldova, located in the autonomous region of Gagauzia. It has a population of around 20,000 inhabitants and is known for its traditional Gagauz culture and architect... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ceadir-Lunga
- Chisinau is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Moldova, a small landlocked country in Eastern Europe. It has a population of over 720,000 people and is located in the center of the countr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chisinau
- Cimislia is a small city located in the southern part of Moldova. It has a population of approximately 16,000 residents and is known for its beautiful surroundings, including the nearby Ciuluc Mountai... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cimislia
- Comrat is the capital city of the autonomous region of Gagauzia in southern Moldova. It has a population of around 23,000 people and is located approximately 60 km southwest of Chisinau, the capital o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Comrat
- Criuleni is a town in Moldova, located in the central part of the country. It has a population of around 11,000 people and it is famous for its beautiful countryside, vineyards, and traditional crafts... CONTINUE here for a trip to Criuleni
- Donduseni is a town in the northern part of Moldova. It is located near the border with Romania and Ukraine. The town has a population of around 8,000 people and is known for its beautiful scenery, hi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Donduseni
- Drochia is a town located in the North of Moldova, near the border with Ukraine. It is the administrative center of the Drochia District and has a population of approximately 15,000 people. The town i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Drochia
- Dubasari is a town in the eastern part of Moldova, situated on the banks of the Dniester River. It is the administrative center of the Dubasari District and has a population of around 23,000 people. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dubasari
- Edinet is a town located in the north of Moldova, near the border with Romania. It is the administrative center of the Edinet District and has a population of around 14,000 inhabitants. The town is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Edinet
- Falesti is a town located in the north-central part of Moldova. It is the center of the Falesti district and has a population of around 15,000 people. The town is situated on the banks of the Raut Riv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Falesti
- Floresti is a small town located in the central part of the Republic of Moldova. It is situated about 17 kilometers west of the capital city Chisinau and has a population of around 12,000 people. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Floresti
- Glodeni is a town located in the north-western part of Moldova, with a population of around 16,000 people. It is known as an agricultural center, with a focus on growing crops and raising livestock. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Glodeni
- Hincesti is a town and municipality located in the central part of Moldova. It is one of the oldest settlements in the country, believed to have been founded in the 15th century. The town has a popula... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hincesti
- Ialoveni is a town located in the central part of Moldova, about 15 kilometers from the capital city of Chisinau. It has a population of approximately 20,000 people and is known for its vineyards and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ialoveni
- Leova is a small city located in the southern part of Moldova with a population of approximately 9,000 people. It is situated on the banks of the river Prut and it is surrounded by beautiful hills and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Leova
- Nisporeni is a small city located in the central region of Moldova, approximately 30 kilometers west of the capital city, Chisinau. It has a population of about 20,000 people and is known for its beau... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nisporeni
- Orhei is a town located in central Moldova, about 40 kilometers north of the capital city, Chisinau. It is located on the Raut River and is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, historic landmar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Orhei
- Rascani is a town located in the northern part of Moldova, near the border with Ukraine. It is situated in the district of Briceni and has a population of approximately 4,200 people. The town is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rascani
- Rezina is a small town located in the central part of Moldova. It has a population of approximately 7,000 people and it is situated on the banks of the Dniester River. The town is known for its histor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rezina
- Riscani is a small town located in northwestern Moldova, near the border with Romania. It has a population of around 10,000 people and is known for its picturesque landscapes and historical sites. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Riscani
- Singerei is a town located in the northern part of the Republic of Moldova, near the border with Ukraine. It has a population of approximately 8,800 people and is known for its picturesque landscapes ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Singerei
- Slanic Moldova is a town located in the Bacau County of Romania. It is a popular tourist destination because of its natural beauty and its sulfuric waters, which are believed to have healing propertie... CONTINUE here for a trip to Slanic Moldova
- Soldanesti is a small town located in the north-eastern part of Moldova, near the border with Ukraine. It has a population of around 8,000 people and is known for its picturesque landscapes, including... CONTINUE here for a trip to Soldanesti
- Soroca is a city in the northern part of Moldova, located on the banks of the Dniester River. It is known for its impressive 15th century Fortress, which is one of the few remaining fortresses of its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Soroca
- Stefan Voda is a district located in the southern part of the Republic of Moldova, with its administrative center in the town of Stefan Voda. The district has a population of around 60,000 people and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stefan Voda
- Straseni is a small city located in central Moldova, about 20 kilometers northwest of the capital city of Chisinau. It has a population of around 20,000 people and is the administrative center of the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Straseni
- Taraclia is a town located in the southern part of Moldova, near the border with Ukraine. It has a population of around 12,000 people and is the administrative center of Taraclia District. The town is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taraclia
- Telenesti is a town situated in the central part of Moldova, about 47 km north of the capital, Chisinau. It has a population of around 5,000 people and is known for its beautiful natural scenery, incl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Telenesti
- Tiraspol is the second largest city in Moldova and serves as the capital of the unrecognized state of Transnistria. The city has a population of around 200,000 people and has a rich history, dating ba... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tiraspol
- Ungheni is a city located in the central part of the Republic of Moldova, on the river Prut. It is the capital of the Ungheni District and has a population of around 36,000 people. Ungheni is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ungheni
- Vulcanesti is a town located in the southern part of the Republic of Moldova. It is situated in the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia, which has a distinct culture and history. Vulcanesti has a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vulcanesti


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