Things To Do
in Moldova

Moldova is a small, landlocked country located in Eastern Europe, bordered by Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north, east, and south. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful vineyards, and vibrant folk traditions. The capital city is Chișinău, which serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the nation.

Moldova offers a unique blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and warm hospitality from its people.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Chișinău
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Stefan Cel Mare Central Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll and see the impressive Stefan Cel Mare Monument. Afterward, head to the National Museum of History of Moldova to learn about the country's past.

afternoon
:

Explore the vibrant local markets, particularly the Central Market, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. In the afternoon, visit the Cathedral Park and the Nativity Cathedral for some cultural immersion.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Moldovan cuisine, followed by a night stroll around the city center to soak in the atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Wine and Nature
morning
:

Take a trip to the famous Cricova Winery, where you can tour the underground wine cellars and taste some of the best wines in the region. Enjoy a guided tasting session of local varieties.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Orheiul Vechi archaeological complex, a picturesque landscape with ancient cave monasteries and stunning views. Hike through the area to appreciate its natural beauty.

evening
:

Return to Chișinău for a relaxing dinner at a local bistro, followed by a visit to a bar or club to experience the city's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$3
🍷Glass of local wine$4
🚌Public transportation ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine and wines
  • Affordable travel costs
  • Limited infrastructure in rural areas
  • Language barrier for non-Romanian speakers
  • Less touristy compared to neighboring countries
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Te rog" - Please
  • "La revedere" - Goodbye
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Moldova

Visit one of these nice places.

Orheiul Vechi

An ancient archaeological site with stunning landscapes, perfect for capturing the beauty of Moldova.

Cricova Winery

The vast underground wine cellars provide unique architectural photography opportunities.

Stefan Cel Mare Park

A beautiful park in the capital, ideal for capturing the essence of urban Moldovan life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Moldova

Moldovan cuisine is a delightful mix of Eastern European and Mediterranean influences, characterized by hearty dishes and local wines.

Moldova Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mămăligă

A traditional cornmeal porridge, often served with cheese, sour cream, or stews.

Must-Try!

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with rice and minced meat, typically served with sour cream.

Plăcinte

Savory or sweet pastries filled with various ingredients such as cheese, potatoes, or apples.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Central Market

A bustling market in Chișinău where you can find local produce, meats, and traditional snacks.

Street vendors

Look out for vendors selling plăcinte and other local snacks throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Moldova has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F), while winters (December to February) can be cold, averaging -2°C (28°F). Spring (March to May) brings mild weather and blooming flora, while autumn (September to November) is characterized by cooler temperatures and colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are common; addressing people with their titles is polite.

Dining Etiquette

If invited for a meal, bringing a small gift such as flowers or sweets is customary.

Respect for Traditions

Moldovans value their traditions; showing interest in local customs and folk culture is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Moldova is generally safe for travelers, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid poorly-lit areas at night and be cautious with valuables in crowded places. It's also recommended to stay informed about local advisories and to have emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in Moldova

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, but rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in most establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller venues.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures begin to rise, flowers bloom, and outdoor festivals start, making it an ideal time to visit.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for vineyard tours and outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

The harvest season offers beautiful foliage and wine festivals, showcasing the country's agricultural bounty.

Winter

Cold temperatures and potential snow create a magical winter landscape, ideal for holiday celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Moldova at Night

Moldova's nightlife is vibrant, particularly in Chișinău, where you can find a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. The city comes alive after dark with establishments offering local wines, cocktails, and dance music. Popular areas include Stefan Cel Mare Boulevard and the city center, where you can enjoy both laid-back lounges and energetic clubs.

Hiking in Moldova

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Codrii Forest

A beautiful forest area with marked trails, ideal for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying nature.

Bălți Hills

Offering scenic views and various hiking routes, this area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a challenge.

Airports

How to reach Moldova by plane.

Chișinău International Airport (KIV)

The main airport serving Moldova, located about 13 km from Chișinău. It offers both domestic and international flights, connecting Moldova to various European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chișinău is quite walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, parks, and restaurants are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common. However, outside the city center, public transportation may be necessary to reach further destinations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Moldovans

The majority ethnic group, Moldovans share a rich cultural heritage and speak Romanian.

Ukrainians

A significant minority group in Moldova, Ukrainians contribute to the country's cultural diversity and often speak both Ukrainian and Romanian.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Moldova, with many local clubs and a national team that competes in international tournaments.

Rugby

Rugby is also gaining popularity, with several clubs and a national team that participate in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chișinău can be congested during peak hours, but public transportation options, including buses, trolleybuses, and minibuses, are available and affordable. While driving is common, be cautious as road conditions may vary, and traffic rules are sometimes not strictly followed.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many traditional dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, such as mămăligă and salads.

Gluten-Free

Some local dishes are naturally gluten-free, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Moldova is a mix of public and private services. Public healthcare is available, but facilities may be limited in some rural areas. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and access to private healthcare facilities in larger cities for better services.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Moldova.