Welcome to Republic of Moldova

Be among the first to embrace the charms of Moldova, the least-visited country in Europe and yet one of its most charming. There’s an emerging wine industry here and some of the best vintages in Europe come from right here in this little landlocked country.

Checkout the historical buildings, galleries and spas of Chisinau. Venture to the River Sharna and seem some of its 22 waterfalls. Birdwatchers, don’s miss the Royal Forest, where hundreds of bird species are found, including some notable herons.

Unique Facts

• The Orheiul Vechi open-air monastery is more than 2,000 years old and showcases ancient fortifications, baths and baths.
• There are flashy, quirky homes in Soroca (known as Gypsy Hill), where the wealthier residents have built houses for themselves inspired by famous landmarks, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Bolshoi Theater.
• Mămăligă – porridge – is Moldova’s national dish, made with yellow maize flour and served alongside stew or meat dishes.
• Moldovians always take their shoes off when entering a home because it’s considered impolite to leave them on. Guests are typically provided slippers to wear.
• Transnistria is a breakaway territory of Moldova. It declared independence in 1990, but is not recognized by any country in the United Nations. Tourists can visit, but need their passport.

Language

Moldova’s official language is Romanian.

When To Go

The best time to go to Moldova is April and May, when it’s not overly warm.

Airports

Chișinău International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of under 90 days

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for most travelers when visiting Moldova: Hepatitis A vaccine. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and F. Standard voltage: 220V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Moldovan Leu

Getting Around

Be aware that road conditions in Moldova vary significantly from those in the United States. Roads often lack signs and are poorly lit. Be aware of slow-moving farm machinery, pedestrians and livestock sharing the roadways.

The public transportation system is well maintained and includes trains, trolleybuses, buses and taxis.

Driver’s License

An international driving permit is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Chisinau
103 Mateevici Street
Chisinau MD-2009
Republic of Moldova
Telephone: +(373)(22) 40-83-00
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(373)(22) 40-83-00
Fax: +(373)(22) 22-63-61
ChisinauACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Moldova Tourist Information Center
Stefan cel Mare si Sfant Boulevard 83
Chișinău 2012
Moldova
Tel: +373 22 904 040

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Fire: 901
Ambulance: 903
Police: 902

Safety and Security

The crime rate is moderate in Moldova. Be aware of petty theft and various financial scams, such as inflated bar tabs and PIN theft from ATMs. Do not leave belongings unattended.