Guía de viaje de Moldavia: consejos esenciales

1. What are the top attractions in Chișinău?
Top attractions in Chișinău include the Nativity Cathedral and its bell tower in Cathedral Park, the Triumphal Arch, and the Stephen the Great Monument. Visit the National Museum of History of Moldova and the bustling Central Market for a taste of local life.

2. What is the best time to visit Moldova?
The best time to visit Moldova is late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September) for pleasant weather, ideal for wine tours and exploring Orheiul Vechi. Summer (July to August) is hot and great for outdoor activities, while winter (December to February) offers a quieter experience with festive markets.

3. Do I need a visa to travel to Moldova?
Moldova is visa-free for EU, US, Canadian, and Australian citizens for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. You’ll need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your departure date. Check with the Moldovan embassy for other nationalities.

4. What are the best wine tours in Moldova?
Moldova is famous for its wine. Visit Mileștii Mici, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wine collection, with over 200 km of underground tunnels. Cricova Winery offers tours with tastings, and Purcari Winery in the southeast is known for its premium reds.

5. Is Moldova expensive to travel to?
Moldova is budget-friendly. Daily costs average $40–$70 per person for accommodation, food, and transport. A mid-range trip can cost $500–$800 for a week. Chișinău is slightly pricier, but rural areas like Orhei or Gagauzia offer affordable guesthouses and dining.

6. What are traditional Moldovan foods to try?
Try mămăligă (cornmeal polenta) with brânză (cheese) and sour cream, sarmale (cabbage rolls with meat), and plăcinte (pastries filled with cheese or potatoes). For dessert, enjoy cozonac (sweet bread). Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or țuică (plum brandy).

7. What are the best historical sites in Moldova?
Visit Orheiul Vechi, a historical complex with cave monasteries and ancient ruins. The Soroca Fortress, built by Stephen the Great, is a must-see, as is the Capriana Monastery, one of Moldova’s oldest. In Transnistria, explore the Bender Fortress for a glimpse into military history.

8. Is it safe to visit Transnistria?
Transnistria, a breakaway region, is generally safe for tourists, but the FCDO advises against travel due to its unrecognized status, which may affect consular support. Register at checkpoints, carry your passport, and avoid political discussions. Tiraspol offers Soviet-era sights like the Lenin statue.

9. What are the best outdoor activities in Moldova?
Popular activities include hiking in Orheiul Vechi, cycling through the Codru Forest, and exploring the Dniester River by kayak. Visit the Pădurea Domnească Reserve for wildlife spotting, or enjoy a picnic in the rolling hills of the Gagauz region.

10. How can I travel around Moldova?
Buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) are the main transport options, connecting Chișinău to Soroca, Orhei, and Comrat. Trains are limited but run to some cities like Bender. Renting a car is ideal for rural areas like Orheiul Vechi or Transnistria, as public transport can be infrequent.