Money and payments
Tipping
Moldovans are not accustomed to tipping.
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Europe · Eastern EuropeOutline guideCountry in Eastern Europe
Photo: Myrabella, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Moldova is a small, landlocked country nestled between Romania and Ukraine. Moldova is one of the least visited countries in Europe, but adventurous travellers will find some rewarding experiences. Moldova is famous for its wines and its monasteries. You can get winery tours and monastery tours from Chișinău, the capital.
Answers to what travellers most often look up about Moldova.
Tipping
Moldovans are not accustomed to tipping.
Moldavian
The official language of the country is Romanian. Since 2023, it has been the state language of the country.
Mobile networks
Very few healthcare facilities are on par with Western standards, and accessibility may be hindered if you're not proficient in Romanian and/or Russian.
Tourists are likely to attract stares from the locals. Do not be alarmed or surprised; this doesn't indicate hostility, but rather, curiosity.
Covered in the guide
Attractions, food, stays and travel essentials, with ratings, reviews, opening hours and directions.
the capital is a nice city to go and visit for some days, and to walk around in
the second largest city, features a pedestrian zone around the central square and a historic city centre
known as the "Romani (Gypsy) capital of Moldova", also boasts the Soroca fort built by Stephen the Great in 1499
a border town to Romania with a bridge over the Prut river designed by architect Gustave Eiffel
the capital of the territory of Gagauzia, known for wine specific to the southern part of the country
historically the site of many battles, now known for its spas
fortified since the 6th century BC, also famous for its monastery
Places in Moldova on the World Heritage List.
List from Wikidata (CC0). Photos from Wikimedia Commons.
Rolling hills and valleys between Dniester and Prut rivers controlled by the Moldovan Government.
An unrecognized but sovereign and independent territory. Its Soviet-style monuments and statues draw visitors interested in getting a glimpse of life in the old Soviet Union.
Public transport and paid services in Moldova.
By minibus
Minibuses (rutiere in Romanian; Маршрутное in Russian) are available in most cities. They are privately operated and are called by requesting the vehicle to stop, however can often be very crowded.
By car
M1 Highway provides a long way from the border with Ukraine, near Dubău, to the border with Romania at Leușeni, passing through Chișinău.
Apps for booking a taxi or a ride in Moldova.
Finding apps for Moldova…
Operators checked against their official websites in October 2026; services that have stopped running are not listed. Logos and Wikipedia links: Wikidata (CC0)
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Chişinău · International · RMO
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Calculated from climate averages: mild daytime highs and lower rainfall. It does not account for festivals, crowds or prices.
Average conditions in Chișinău
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. high | 0° | 2° | 9° | 16° | 23° | 27° | 30° | 30° | 24° | 16° | 8° | 2° |
| Avg. low | -7° | -6° | -1° | 4° | 11° | 15° | 18° | 17° | 11° | 5° | 0° | -5° |
| Rainfall (mm) | 41 | 33 | 38 | 40 | 52 | 70 | 61 | 36 | 39 | 46 | 42 | 40 |
| Humidity | 92% | 88% | 79% | 72% | 66% | 60% | 56% | 52% | 59% | 73% | 85% | 91% |
Choose your passport and destination to see whether you need a visa.
Budget
$55
Per person, per day
Mid-range
$145
Per person, per day
Luxury
$375
Per person, per day
| Budget | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $25 | $80 | $220 |
| Food and drink | $15 | $30 | $70 |
| Local transport | $5 | $15 | $30 |
| Activities | $10 | $20 | $55 |
Estimate from World Bank price levels (2025). Actual costs vary by city and season. World Bank
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We do not label countries as safe or unsafe. Below is the official advice from two governments, with the date it was last updated. Always read the full advice before you travel.
US Department of State
Level 2 of 4Exercise increased caution
Exercise increased caution in Moldova due to risk of unexploded ordnance (UXO). Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire travel advisory. There are ongoing security threats related to Russia’s war against Ukraine. Petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Be wary of people posing as police officers demanding fines. Take safety precautions against ATM "skimming" devices and online scams. Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Although Moldova declared itself "mine-safe" in March 2001, some areas have increased risk. Unexploded ordnance and landmines exist in central Moldova: These unexploded ordnances and landmines are primarily found in agricultural fields, forests, and along the banks of the Dniester (Nistru) River. They are found in the districts of Anenii Noi, Causeni, Stefan-Voda, and Ungheni, as well as in Chisinau, Ialoveni, Hincesti, Nisporeni, Calarasi, and Straseni. These areas are marked with warning signs featuring a red triangle pointing downwards, a skull and crossbones, and the word "Mine." Landmines and unexploded ordnance in central Moldova are from World War II and the 1992 Transnistrian conflict. Reconsider Travel to Transnistria due to risk of armed conflict.
UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Advises against all travel to parts of the country
Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Areas where FCDO advises against travel Transnistria FCDO advises against all travel to Transnistria. There is widespread military activity in Ukraine, including close to some Moldovan borders. Transnistria is outside the control of the Moldovan government. FCDO’s ability to offer support is extremely limited and will be more limited if there is military action on or near the Moldova-Ukraine border. Energy shortages The Government of Moldova announced an energy state of emergency on 16 December 2024 linked to the cut off of gas supplies on 1 January 2025. Managed power blackouts may occur. Please follow updates from local authorities and energy companies for information. Before you travel No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: see general advice for women travellers read our guide on disability and travel abroad see general advice for LGBT+ travellers read about safety for solo and independent travel see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad Travel insurance If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. About FCDO travel advice FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. Get travel advice updates Sign up to get email notifications when this travel…
Stories, itineraries and practical advice for travelling in Moldova.
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