Taking a road trip through Moldova
A road trip through Moldova is the perfect way to experience the country in all its diversity. Start in the vibrant capital, Chișinău, where wide boulevards, Soviet-style buildings, green parks, and cozy wine bars come together. The city is a great base for day trips and offers a good introduction to Moldova. From Chișinău, head north to Orheiul Vechi, an impressive archaeological site set in a picturesque landscape. Here, you’ll find ancient cave monasteries carved into the cliffs, overlooking the Răut River — a place filled with silence, spirituality, and history.
Not far from Orheiul Vechi lies the famous underground wine town of Cricova, where you can drive through a maze of wine tunnels and taste wines that have even been served to world leaders. After your visit, return to Chișinău and head south to Milestii Mici, the largest wine cellar in the world, with more than 200 kilometers of tunnels and millions of stored bottles. To experience a completely different side of Moldova, continue to Gagauzia, an autonomous region with its own language, traditions, and cuisine. It offers a unique cultural mix you won’t find anywhere else in Europe.
End your road trip in the southeast, at the scenic wineries of Purcari and Et Cetera. These charming wine estates are set among rolling hills and offer not only wine tastings, but also stylish accommodation. As you sip a glass of local red wine among the vineyards, you’ll enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the Moldovan countryside. A road trip through Moldova offers a surprising mix of culture, history, nature, and gastronomy — all within easy reach and far away from mass tourism.
Travel tips for Moldova
- Moldova uses the Moldovan leu (MDL). ATMs are widely available in cities like Chișinău and Bălți, but it’s smart to carry some cash when visiting rural areas.
- The official language is Romanian, though Russian is widely spoken in Transnistria and by older generations. English is spoken occasionally in tourist spots, but not everywhere.
- Mobile coverage is generally good in cities, but can be unreliable in rural areas or natural parks. Download offline maps via Google Maps or Maps.me before heading out.
- Moldova is a true wine country. Don’t miss the chance to visit the vast underground cellars of Cricova or Milestii Mici.
- Be sure to try local dishes like mămăligă (cornmeal porridge), plăcintă (savory or sweet pastries), and sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) — delicious with a glass of local wine!
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