Moldova

Moldova

Moldova offers an authentic European experience with rolling vineyards, historic monasteries, and a burgeoning wine tourism scene. It's a charming, off-the-beaten-path destination perfect for those seeking cultural immersion without the crowds.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days
Budget$30/day
Mid-range$70/day
Luxury$300/day

Known For

MoldovaChișinăuEastern EuropeRomaniaUkraineGagauziaTransnistriaBessarabia

🇲🇩 Country Information: Moldova

CapitalChisinau
CurrencyMoldovan leu (L)
Language Romanian , Russian, Ukrainian, Gagauz, Bulgarian
Phone Code+373
Electricity220V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is appreciated in restaurants (5
  • 10% of the bill) and for taxi drivers (rounding up the fare)
  • It's not common to tip hotel staff or tour guides, but it's not discouraged

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are common, especially in cities
  • Credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but cash is essential for smaller establishments and rural areas
  • Bringing some cash (Euros or USD) to exchange can be useful, though ATMs are generally reliable
  • There is no significant black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • It's customary to greet people with a handshake
  • Punctuality is valued in professional settings, though social gatherings can be more flexible

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Moldova has legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in some areas, but societal attitudes can be conservative, and same-sex marriage is not recognized.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are strict, and penalties for possession or trafficking are severe

Special Laws

\* Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and heavily penalized.

Common Phrases

NoNu (noo)
YesDa (dah)
HelloBună ziua (boo-nuh zee-oo-uh)
PleaseVă rog (vuh rog)
GoodbyeLa revedere (lah reh-veh-deh-reh)
Thank youMulțumesc (mool-tsoo-mesk)

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Mămăligă must_try

A traditional, simple corn porridge, often confused with polenta, that is a national dish of Moldova. It is cooked until thick enough to be cut with a

Sarmale regional_speciality

Stuffed rolls, usually made from sauerkraut or vine leaves, filled with a mixture of rice, vegetables, and meat. These are often cooked in a clay pot,

Plăcintă snack

Traditional stuffed pies that can be savory or sweet. Savory versions are commonly filled with ingredients like cow's cheese, cabbage, or potatoes, wh

Zeamă must_try

A traditional, restorative chicken soup, often considered a celebratory dish. Its basic ingredients usually include chicken, homemade noodles, and the

Divin (Moldovan Brandy) alcohol

The local name for Moldovan brandy, which is a popular alcoholic beverage in the country. Moldova is also well-known for its wine production using Eur

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Tour/Tasting at Cricova or Mileștii Mici Wineries tour_or_activity
Book 2–6 weeks in advance.

These famous underground wineries have limited space for English-language tours and tastings, which often sell out weeks ahead, especially on weekends.

Fun Facts

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