Moldova Travel Guide (Balkans/Europe)

Introduction to Moldova
List of Places to Visit in Moldova
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Moldova: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Moldova
Best Things to Do in Moldova: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Moldova
Food and Drink Scene of Moldova
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Moldova: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Moldova: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Moldova
Best Time to Visit Moldova
Do’s and Don’ts of Moldova
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Moldova
- Health in Moldova
Getting to Moldova: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Moldova
Where to Go Next from Moldova: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Moldova

Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Moldova is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travellers. Formerly part of the Soviet Union, this small Eastern European country has a rich history, unique culture, stunning scenery, and warm, welcoming people. Moldova’s capital, Chisinau, is a vibrant and buzzing city that serves as the perfect gateway to explore the rest of the country. Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, or just soaking up the local culture, Moldova has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Moldova

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Moldova has a rich history, which is reflected in its numerous museums and historic sites. Some of the top places to check out include:

National History Museum of Moldova - Located in Chisinau, this museum has a vast collection of artefacts and exhibits detailing the country’s history, from ancient times to the present day.
Cricova Winery - Home to one of the largest wine cellars in the world, Cricova Winery is a must-visit for wine connoisseurs.
Orheiul Vechi - A unique archaeological complex that features the ruins of an ancient fortress, cave monasteries, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Bendery Fortress - Discover the history and legends of the medieval fortress that has stood the test of time through wars and battles.

Natural Attractions of Moldova: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Moldova also boasts an abundance of natural beauty, with rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling rivers. Some of the top outdoor destinations include:

Milestii Mici Winery - The largest wine cellar in the world, Milestii Mici is a hidden gem located just outside of Chisinau, offering vast wine cellars, where one can taste diverse wine varieties.
Tipova Monastery - A perfect place for hiking, the monastery offers picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Saharna - Home to a stunning waterfall, Saharna is a tranquil spot for a picnic, as well as an ideal spot for rafting and kayaking.
Purcari Winery - A beautiful vineyard situated in the heart of the countryside offering wine tasting tours and picturesque views of the estate.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Moldova

Moldova is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with trails for all skill levels. Some of the top trails for outdoor enthusiasts include:

Dniester Canyon - a challenging route for biking and hiking, with stunning scenery and picturesque views of the river.
Codri National Park - a large forested area with scenic trails perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.
Chisinau City Center - take a stroll around the beautiful parks and plazas in the heart of the capital city.

Best Things to Do in Moldova: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Moldova offers a wide range of activities and tours to suit all interests. Some of the top things to do include:

Wine Tours - Sip your way through the country’s famous vineyards, including renowned destinations such as the Cricova Winery and Milestii Mici, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Traditional Crafts Tour- Experience Moldova’s rich culture first-hand by taking a tour of the local handicrafts markets and workshops.
Chisinau Walking Tour - Discover the charming architecture and hidden gems of the capital city, with plenty of options available to suit all interests.
Historic Tours - Get to grips with Moldova’s fascinating history by taking a tour of the country’s top museums and historic sites, such as Orheiul Vechi and Bendery Fortress.

Week-Long Itinerary for Moldova

With so much to see and do in Moldova, it’s not easy to decide where to focus your time. Here is a sample one week itinerary to help you get the most out of your visit:

Day	Activity
1	Explore the historic centre of Chisinau
2	Visit the Milestii Mici Winery and wine cellars
3	Take a tour of Orheiul Vechi and Bendery Fortress
4	Go hiking in Codri National Park
5	Visit Saharna and enjoy a picnic
6	Discover the local handicraft markets in Chisinau
7	Take a day trip to Purcari Winery and explore the countryside

Food and Drink Scene of Moldova

Moldova’s cuisine is a mix of Eastern European and Mediterranean influences, with plenty of hearty meat dishes, fresh vegetables, and locally-produced wine. Some of the top dishes to try include:

Must-Try Dishes

Mamaliga - A traditional cornmeal dish similar to polenta, served with cheese or sour cream.
Sarmale - Cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice, usually served with a side of pickles and sour cream.
Mici - Grilled minced meat rolls, usually served with white bread and mustard.

Local Beverages

Moldova is renowned for its wine, with dozens of vineyards producing a wide variety of red, white, and dessert wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours at the country’s top wineries, such as the Cricova Winery and the Milestii Mici.

Where to Stay in Moldova: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury hotels to comfortable guesthouses, Moldova has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the top places to stay include:

Jazz Hotel - A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Chisinau.
Radisson Blu Leogrand Hotel - A luxurious hotel with modern amenities and stunning views of the city.
Tucano Guesthouse - A budget-friendly option featuring comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Moldova: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of souvenirs and local products to take home from Moldova, including:

Wine - Moldova’s famous wines make the perfect gift for wine lovers.
Handicrafts - The country’s traditional handicraft markets offer a wide range of embroidered clothing, wooden carvings, and pottery.
Honey and Jams - Locally produced honey and jams are a delicious and unique souvenir to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Moldova

Moldova is a country with a rich culture and set of customs. Visitors can learn more about this unique heritage by:

Taking part in local traditions and customs, such as folk dances and music performances.
Visiting traditional handicraft markets and workshops to learn about local ways of life.
Trying local cuisine and wine, which reflects the country’s unique history and influences.

Best Time to Visit Moldova

The best time to visit Moldova is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the countryside is abundant with lush greenery. However, travellers should be aware that some attractions may be closed during the winter months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Moldova

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions, such as taking your shoes off when entering someone’s home.
Be open to trying new foods and experiences.
Negotiate prices when shopping at local markets.

Don’t:

Wear shoes inside people’s homes, as it is considered disrespectful.
Smoke or drink in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Moldova

Moldova is a relatively safe country for travellers, with low levels of crime and violence. However, visitors should still take the usual precautions when travelling, such as being aware of their surroundings and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night.

Health in Moldova

Travellers should ensure they are up to date with routine vaccinations before visiting Moldova. Visitors should also take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as there have been occasional outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases in the region.

Getting to Moldova: Transportation Options and Logistics

Moldova is easily accessible by both air and land. Some of the top options include:

Airports Near Moldova

Chisinau International Airport - The main international airport, located just 13km from the city centre.

Bus Stations Near Moldova

Central Bus Station - The main bus station for international and domestic routes, located in the centre of Chisinau.

Other Options

Train - There are a few international trains that connect Moldova with neighbouring countries such as Romania, Ukraine, and Belarus.

How to Get Around in Moldova

Travellers can get around Moldova by using a combination of buses, taxis, and rental cars. City transport, like buses and trolleybuses, is affordable and efficient. Taxis are also relatively inexpensive. Rental cars are a great option for those who want to explore the countryside at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Moldova: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Moldova is surrounded by a number of interesting destinations that are well worth a visit. Some of the top destinations include:

Bucharest, Romania - Located just a short drive from Moldova’s borders, the Romanian capital is a bustling city with a rich history and culture.
Odessa, Ukraine - A stunning seaside town renowned for its beautiful architecture and lively nightlife.
Black Sea Coast - The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Black Sea are just a short drive from Moldova’s southern border.

Conclusion

Moldova is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travellers, with stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and warm, welcoming people. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or just a chance to relax and unwind, Moldova has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of this majestic Balkan country.