Known for its wines, Moldova is a charming blend of East and West, offering even the most experienced traveler new experiences.
Moldova is a small landlocked country in Eastern Europe, between Ukraine and Romania. According to countryaah, it is one of the poorest countries in Europe, which has balanced between East and West since the break-up of the Soviet Union and its subsequent independence.
Tourists are only slowly discovering Moldova and mass tourism is shining in its absence so far. Moldovan culture mixes old traditions with the present. The authentic friendliness of the country, the beautiful scenery and the unique wine and food culture offer new experiences to even the most experienced traveler.
The most important places to visit are the country’s capital Chisinau, which is green and surprisingly peaceful as a big city. Located in Cricova, one of the largest underground wine cellars in Europe is an interesting place to visit for non-committed wine lovers. The Moldovan countryside, on the other hand, delights tourists with its simple beauty as well as its traditional way of life.
One of the most interesting places is Transnistria, which has been declared independent by Moldova, on the eastern side of the Nistru or Dniester River. Internationally, it is considered part of Moldova, as no state has recognized its independence. Transnistria offers the tourist a Soviet time travel that can no longer be experienced anywhere else.
Moldova is at its most beautiful in summer
Moldova’s climate is triggered and continental. Summers are long and warm, at times even hot. Due to the proximity of the Black Sea, the winter is short, but can be very cold at times.
The best time to travel to Moldova is from April to October. In spring and late summer, the country is at its most beautiful and temperatures remain pleasant. The heat of midsummer can be repressive for the holidaymaker as there are no beach resorts in the country. In September-October, fall colors are at their best.
Short for MD by abbreviationfinder, Moldova is not an actual winter destination. A city break is possible, of course, but the skis should be left at home. Moldova’s winter sports opportunities are limited.
Good to know about Moldova
Moldova has been between East and West since the break-up of the Soviet Union. Moldova wants to join the European Union, while the self-proclaimed Transnistrian region is looking towards Russia.
Traveling in Moldova is safe with normal caution. However, the situation may change rapidly, especially in the Transnistrian region. Before the trip, you should read the Ministry for Foreign Affairs’ up-to-date travel bulletin and take out travel insurance.
The Moldovan currency is the Leu. You should bring euros or dollars, which can be exchanged for local currency. In major cities, currency can be withdrawn from vending machines. You can pay with a card in larger places. When traveling to the countryside, cash must be booked. Extra chips should be wasted or exchanged back for euros at the airport at the latest, as they may be difficult to exchange elsewhere.
Transnistria has its own currency, the Transnistrian ruble, which can only be used and exchanged in the Autonomous Community.
FLIGHTS, ACCOMMODATION AND MOVEMENT IN MOLDOVA
Flights to Moldova
There are no direct flights from Finland to Moldova. During the trip, the machine must be changed once. Typical stopovers are Kiev, Ukraine, Istanbul, Turkey, and Moscow, Russia. All flights land in the capital, Chisinau, home to the country’s only international airport.
Flights from Finland to Moldova cost 170-290 euros, depending on the airline. Ukraine International Airlines, Aeroflot and Turkish Airlines, among others, fly to Moldova. The shortest flight time with stopovers is about five hours.
Accommodation in Moldova
Moldova has accommodation to offer for every budget. Most options are in the capital Chisinau. There is a selection from high standard hotels to hostels.
In recent years, the hotels have been upgraded and refurbished to European standards. Some are very high quality and modern, while some still have the potential to sense a genuine Soviet atmosphere. The price level in the country is generally so affordable that it is worth investing in a slightly higher quality overnight stay in Moldova.
In other cities, there is less choice of accommodation and the level varies. In the countryside, you should choose a private inn or homestay. Many of these places operate according to ecological principles and offer a picturesque opportunity to explore authentic Moldova.
Getting around on site
The capital is easy to get around on foot. All major attractions are located close to each other and are within easy reach. You can go further by local bus or numbered maxi taxi, which run on agreed routes. Taxis are also an affordable option. In taxis and buses, payments must be made in cash.
There is only one international airport in Moldova. It is located about 20 km from the center of Chisinau. There are no domestic flights at all. Other cities can be reached by bus or train.
Car rental is also possible. It should be noted, however, that in some places the country’s road network is bumpy and in poor condition. In addition, special care must be taken when driving in winter. You have little plowing and not all cars have studded tires.
