Driving in Moldova: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

• Driver’s License: EU licenses are valid. Non-EU visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their license for stays over 90 days.
• Traffic Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas like Chișinău, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on highways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.03%.
• Road Conditions: Main roads like the M2 (Chișinău to Soroca) are decent, but rural roads can be poorly maintained with potholes—drive cautiously. Night driving is not recommended outside cities.
• Parking: Parking in Chișinău is regulated—use metered spaces or paid lots near the city center. Free parking is common in smaller towns like Orhei.
• Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Roadside assistance is limited—carry a spare tire and emergency kit.
• Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit Moldova Tourism.

Moldova Currency: Using the Moldovan Leu for Your Trip

• Moldovan Leu: Moldova uses the Moldovan Leu (MDL). Coins come in 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 bani; banknotes are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 lei.
• Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or licensed bureaus in Chișinău for the best rates. Avoid street vendors. US dollars and euros are widely accepted for exchange.
• Payment Methods: Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in Chișinău hotels and restaurants, but cash is essential in rural areas like Cricova. Always carry some MDL for small purchases.
• ATMs: ATMs are common in Chișinău, with banks like Moldindconbank offering reliable services. Outside the capital, ATMs are scarce—withdraw cash in advance.

Moldova Legal Guide: Laws Travelers Should Know

• Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and can lead to imprisonment. Public intoxication may result in fines—drink responsibly.
• Cultural Sensitivities: Moldovans are hospitable—greet with a handshake and use “Bună” (Romanian). Respect religious sites like the Capriana Monastery by dressing modestly. More on this in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
• Photography Restrictions: Photography is generally fine, but avoid taking pictures near government buildings or military areas without permission.
• Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are discreet. Smoking is banned in public indoor spaces—use designated areas.
• Customs Rules: You can bring 2 liters of wine or 1 liter of spirits and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over 10,000 EUR (or equivalent) upon entry or exit.
• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact local police in Chișinău at +373 22 255 005.

Travel Safety in Moldova: Staying Safe on Your Trip

• Crime in Moldova: Moldova is relatively safe, but petty theft occurs in Chișinău, especially in markets and public transport. Keep belongings secure and avoid isolated areas at night.
• Road Safety: Roads outside Chișinău can be rough—watch for potholes. Local drivers may be aggressive; drive defensively. Winter (December-February) brings snow—use winter tires.
• Health Risks: No major health risks. Tap water in Chișinău is safe, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas. Ticks can be a concern in forests like Orheiul Vechi—check after hiking.
• Natural Hazards: Moldova has a continental climate with cold winters (-5°C) and hot summers (25-30°C). Flooding can occur in spring—check local forecasts.
• Medical Facilities: Healthcare in Chișinău is adequate, with hospitals like the Republican Clinical Hospital. Rural areas have limited facilities—carry a basic medical kit.
• Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. Pharmacies in Chișinău are well-stocked—look for “Farmacie” signs.
• Public Transport Safety: Buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) are common but can be crowded—watch for pickpockets. Taxis in Chișinău are safe—use official ones or apps like Yandex Go.

Culture & Etiquette in Moldova: What to Know

• Greetings: Moldovans are warm and welcoming. A handshake and “Bună” (Hello in Romanian) is standard. Close friends may greet with a hug or cheek kiss.
• Dining Customs: If invited to a Moldovan home, expect a feast—bring a small gift like flowers or wine. Always try a bit of everything, as refusing food can be seen as impolite.
• Religious Sites: Dress modestly when visiting monasteries like Capriana or churches in Chișinău. Women may need to cover their heads with a scarf in some Orthodox sites.
• Festivals: National Wine Day in October is a highlight, with celebrations in Chișinău’s city center. Mărțișor, a spring festival in March, celebrates renewal with red and white charms.
• Language Tips: While Romanian is the official language, many speak Russian. Learning a few phrases like “Mulțumesc” (Thank you) goes a long way.
• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated—around 5-10% in restaurants in Chișinău. In rural areas, it’s less common.

Local Cuisine in Moldova: Must-Try Dishes and Drinks

• Mămăligă: A cornmeal dish often served with cheese and sour cream, a staple in Moldovan homes.
• Sarmale: Cabbage rolls stuffed with rice, meat, and spices, typically enjoyed during holidays and family gatherings.
• Plăcinte: Flaky pastries filled with cheese, potatoes, or meat, a popular street food in Chișinău.
• Wine: Moldova’s wine is world-class. Try varieties like Fetească Neagră or Rara Neagră at Cricova or Mileștii Mici wineries.
• Divin: A Moldovan brandy, often served as a digestif after meals—perfect for sipping in Chișinău’s cozy restaurants.
• Where to Eat: In Chișinău, La Taifas offers traditional dishes with a modern twist. For wine tours, book a tasting at Cricova Winery—details in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Moldova: Must-Visit Places

• Chișinău’s Nativity Cathedral: A beautiful Orthodox cathedral in the heart of the capital, surrounded by a park perfect for a stroll.
• Cricova Winery: One of Moldova’s most famous wine cellars, offering tours through its 120 km of underground tunnels. Book your tour on Tiqets.
• Orheiul Vechi: A UNESCO-nominated archaeological complex with ancient cave monasteries, churches, and stunning views over the Răut River.
• Mileștii Mici Winery: Holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wine cellar, with over 200 km of tunnels. Book your visit on Tiqets.
• Capriana Monastery: A serene 15th-century monastery in a lush forest, one of Moldova’s oldest religious sites.
• Ștefan cel Mare Central Park: Chișinău’s oldest park, ideal for relaxing and people-watching near the statue of Stephen the Great.

Flights to Moldova: Travel Options

Chișinău International Airport (RMO) is the main gateway, with flights from European cities like Istanbul, Vienna, and Warsaw. Low-cost carriers like Wizz Air and FlyOne operate routes to Chișinău.

Make Your Packing List for Moldova