Moldova Flag
Why visit Moldova?
Ideal for the experienced Eastern Europe traveler seeking to enjoy art, cathedrals, green rolling hills, historical sites, orchards, river valleys, vineyards, whitewashed villages, and wine tours.
At a Glance
- Souvenirs to Buy: Carpets, ceramics, crystal, embroidered blouses, fur hats, moldavite, pottery, rugs, scarves, wines, and wooden boxes.
- Local Cuisine to Try: Borș de burechiușe (ravioli). Brinza (cheese). Colsunash (ravioli). Friptură (stew). Kostitsa (grilled pork chop). Kyrnatsei (sausage). Mămăligă (cornmeal porridge). Plăcinte (sweet pastry). Tochitură (pork dish).
- Local Drink to Try: Divin (brandy) and Negru de Purcari (sparkling wine).
Fun Facts
- Home to the world's largest wine cellar (Cricova).
- Milestii Mici Winery (Chisinau) holds 2 million bottles of wine.
- Imports majority of their energy supplies from Russia and Ukraine.
- The bell at Cathedral of the Nativity (Chisinau) was cast from guns the Russians captured from Turkey.
- Giurgiulești is the only port on the Danube.
- Historically a part of the Russian Empire.
- First country in the world to launch high-definition voice services for cellular users.
OrheiLand, Orhei, Moldova. Photo Credit: Viorel Robu/Pixabay
Special Holidays/Occasions
- Annual Events: (February) ExpoVin, (March) Martisor Music Festival, (May)
Chronograph Festival, Night of Museums, Sweet Acacia Flower Music Contest, Theatre Festival Festei, (June) National Touristic Festival of Traditions, (July) International Pottery Fair, Nufarul Alb (August) Faces of Friends, (September) Classical Parachuting Cup, Velo Hora Festival, (October) Bostaniada Festival, and National Wine Festival. - Holidays: New Year's Day, Orthodox Christmas, International Women's Day, Orthodox Easter, Labour Day, Victory Day, Independence Day, Limba Noastră, and Christmas Day.
Good to Know
- The official language is Romanian.
- Less developed than other Eastern European countries.
- You must register your visit with the local government.
- Sunflowers are visible during the summer (May - September).
- While on the street, the local police have the legal right to ask for your identification.
- Declare and register foreign currency and valuable goods upon arrival.
- Cuisine is influenced by Romania, Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine.
- Anticipate delays, last minute schedule changes, and unexpected closings.
- Avoid public demonstrations.
- Tuberculosis (TB) is an increasingly serious health concern.
- Divided into 32 districts.
- Roads often lack signage and are unevenly maintained.
- Streets and sidewalks are not well maintained.
- Carry your passport (or photocopy) at all times.
- Outside of Chisinau nightlife does not exist.
- Hospital accommodations are inadequate.
- Photographs of checkpoints, military facilities, and security forces is not permitted.
- Avoid driving at night due to poorly lit roads.
- Local drivers are considered aggressive.
- Most popular wine regions are Codru (center), Stefan Voda (south east), and Valul lui Traian (south west).
- Human trafficking of native children and women to other European countries is an issue.
- The maximum legal blood alcohol content is 0.03%. Driving under the influence warrants a fine and/or imprisonment.
- ATM pin theft by skimming devices that record the card information, hidden cameras, and shoulder surfing is known to occur.
- Many shops are only during daylight hours for energy conservation.
- Moldovan "Collection" wines are sealed with a wax cap.
- Avoid Transdniestria due to extortion and robbery.
- Avoid fresh salads and dairy products.
- Avoid tap water consumption.
- The tourism industry is unevenly regulated regarding facilities and equipment safety inspections.
- One of the poorest countries in Europe.
- Buses provide interurban service throughout the country.
- Fuel and repair service is not usually available off main roads.
- Possessing, trafficking, or using illegal drugs imposes severe penalties.
- The green national trains offer the best rail service.
This international destination requires:
- A valid passport with six months of validity and one blank page for entry stamp.
- Tourist VISA not required for visits under 90 days.
- Currency Restrictions for Entry/Exit: $10,000EUR.
Photo Credit: 13alterego/Pixabay
- Best Time to Visit: May - September
- Coldest Months: November - March
- Hottest Month: July
- Peak Season: June - August
Your Must-See & Do
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Struve Geodetic Arc
Photo Credit: padureanu/Pixabay
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All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.
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