Discovering Moldova: Europe’s Best-Kept Budget Secret
The first time I stepped off the plane at Chisinau International Airport (KIV), I had no idea what to expect. It was 2018, and Moldova wasn’t exactly on the typical European backpacker circuit. My research had been minimal, my expectations low, and my budget even lower. Fast forward to my fifth visit earlier this year, and I’m still amazed at how this little Eastern European gem continues to be overlooked by budget travelers.
I remember standing in the central piața in Chisinau on that first trip, watching locals haggle over prices of fresh fruits and vegetables that cost a fraction of what I’d pay back home. An elderly woman noticed my confusion and handed me a small bunch of grapes with a smile, saying “Poftim, gustă!” (Here, taste!). That simple interaction set the tone for what Moldova has always been for me – unexpectedly generous, authentically welcoming, and gloriously affordable.
In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about traveling through Moldova on a tight budget, including all the money-saving tricks that have evolved through my multiple visits. Whether you’re planning a quick stopover or a longer exploration, I’ll show you how to experience the best of this underrated country without emptying your wallet.
Understanding Moldova: Context for Budget Travelers
Before diving into the practical aspects of budget travel in Moldova, it’s worth understanding a bit about the country itself. Sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova remains one of Europe’s least visited countries, which is precisely what makes it such a fantastic destination for budget travelers in 2025.
With approximately 2.6 million people and a land area smaller than Belgium, Moldova packs a surprising amount of diversity into its borders. The country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, and this relatively recent history has shaped both its cultural identity and economic situation.
As one of Europe’s poorest countries (by GDP), Moldova offers exceptional value for money. But don’t mistake affordability for lack of experiences – this small nation offers world-class wineries, picturesque villages, Soviet-era artifacts, and a unique cultural blend of Romanian, Russian, Ukrainian, and Gagauz influences.
Insider Tip: Moldova uses the Moldovan leu (MDL) as its currency. While some businesses in Chisinau accept euros or dollars, you’ll get better rates using the local currency, especially outside the capital. The current exchange rate is approximately 1 EUR = 19 MDL (as of early 2025).
Getting to Moldova on a Budget
Flying into Chisinau International Airport (KIV) is typically the easiest way to reach Moldova, though it’s not always the cheapest. Here’s what I’ve learned about minimizing transportation costs:
Finding Cheap Flights to Chisinau
Chisinau International Airport (KIV) has significantly expanded its connections since my first visit, with budget carriers like Wizz Air now offering direct flights from multiple European cities. I’ve found the best deals are typically from:
- London (Luton) – Often under €70 one-way
- Rome (Ciampino) – From €60 one-way
- Berlin – From €80 one-way
- Budapest – From €50 one-way
- Warsaw – From €65 one-way
I’ve consistently found the best deals by booking 2-3 months in advance and being flexible with my travel dates. Mid-week flights (Tuesday/Wednesday) are typically 30-40% cheaper than weekend options.
Alternative Routes to Moldova
If you’re already in Eastern Europe, consider these budget-friendly alternatives:
By Bus from Romania
Buses from Bucharest to Chisinau run daily and cost around €20-25 one-way. The journey takes 7-8 hours, crossing at the Leușeni border. I took this route in 2022, and while it’s longer than flying, it saved me nearly €100 and offered beautiful views of the Romanian countryside.
By Train from Ukraine (Pre-War Option)
Before the 2022 conflict, overnight trains from Odesa to Chisinau were a great budget option at around €15-20. As of 2025, these connections remain disrupted, but check Moldova Railways for the latest updates.
Money-Saving Hack #1: If you’re planning a multi-country Eastern European trip, consider flying into Iași, Romania, which often has cheaper connections from Western Europe. From there, it’s just a 2-hour minibus ride to Chisinau (about €10), and you’ll get to experience two countries for the price of one flight!
Airport Transfer Tips
Chisinau airport is just 13km from the city center. Avoid the overpriced airport taxis (around 200-250 MDL) and use these budget alternatives:
- Airport Express Bus #9: Costs just 3 MDL (less than €0.20) and runs every 30 minutes to the city center from 5:30am to 11:30pm. Look for the bus stop just outside the arrivals area.
- Yandex Taxi/Bolt: These ride-hailing apps work well in Chisinau and cost around 70-90 MDL (€3.50-4.50) from the airport to the center, significantly cheaper than traditional taxis.
I made the mistake of taking an airport taxi on my first visit and paid nearly triple what was necessary. Learn from my error!
Budget Accommodation in Moldova
One of Moldova’s greatest advantages for budget travelers is the remarkably affordable accommodation. Even in Chisinau, your money stretches surprisingly far.
Hostels in Chisinau
Chisinau has a growing hostel scene catering to budget travelers. My personal favorites include:
- Amazing Ionika Hostel: Centrally located with dorm beds from €8-10. The owner, Ion, frequently organizes impromptu wine tastings with local varieties.
- Chisinau Central Hostel: Modern facilities with beds from €9-12. Great communal kitchen for self-catering.
- Bakul Hostel: A bit further from center but super affordable at €7-9 per night, with a lovely garden area.
The best part about hostels in Moldova isn’t just the price – it’s the local knowledge. Hostel owners have consistently given me the best tips for finding authentic, affordable experiences that guidebooks miss.
Budget Hotels and Apartments
If you prefer private accommodation, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the value. In Chisinau, expect to pay:
- Budget Hotels: €25-35 for a decent private room with en-suite bathroom
- Airbnb Studio Apartments: €20-30 for entire apartments in central locations
Outside Chisinau, prices drop even further. In smaller towns like Soroca or Cahul, private rooms can be found for €15-20 per night.
Accommodation Type | Chisinau Price (€) | Provincial Town Price (€) | What to Expect |
---|---|---|---|
Hostel Dorm Bed | 7-12 | 5-8 | Basic but clean, often including breakfast |
Budget Hotel Room | 25-35 | 15-25 | Private bathroom, sometimes dated furnishings |
Airbnb Studio | 20-30 | 15-20 | Kitchen facilities, more space than hotel rooms |
Guesthouse | 30-40 | 20-30 | Often includes homemade meals and local interaction |
Money-Saving Hack #2: For stays of a week or longer, message Airbnb hosts directly to negotiate. During my month-long stay in 2023, I secured a 30% discount on a central apartment simply by offering a guaranteed longer booking and paying in cash (saving the host the platform fee).
Rural Accommodations and Agritourism
Some of my most memorable experiences in Moldova have been staying in rural guesthouses, known locally as pensiuni. These family-run accommodations typically cost €20-30 per night and often include homemade meals featuring produce from the family garden.
The organization Moldova Rural Tourism maintains a network of vetted rural accommodations. My favorite was a small vineyard guesthouse near Trebujeni where I helped harvest grapes and learned to make traditional plăcintă (cheese pastries) with the grandmother of the family.
Getting Around Moldova on a Budget
Moldova’s compact size makes it relatively easy and affordable to explore. Here’s what I’ve learned about budget-friendly transportation:
Public Transport in Chisinau
Chisinau has an extensive network of trolleybuses, buses, and minibuses (marshrutkas) that are incredibly cheap:
- Trolleybus/Bus: 2 MDL per ride (approximately €0.10)
- Marshrutka (minibus): 3-5 MDL per ride (€0.15-0.25)
Pay the driver directly when boarding, or use the new electronic payment system that was introduced in 2024 on most routes. The M-Ticket app now works across most public transport in Chisinau.
During my last visit, I never spent more than €1 per day on transportation within Chisinau, despite crisscrossing the city multiple times.
Intercity Travel
Moldova’s main cities and towns are connected by an affordable network of buses and minibuses:
By Bus/Marshrutka
The main bus station in Chisinau (Gara Centrală) offers connections to virtually every town in Moldova. Prices are remarkably affordable:
- Chisinau to Orhei: 25-30 MDL (€1.30-1.50), 1 hour
- Chisinau to Soroca: 70-80 MDL (€3.50-4.00), 3 hours
- Chisinau to Cahul: 90-100 MDL (€4.50-5.00), 3.5 hours
Marshrutkas leave when full rather than on a fixed schedule, so arrive early for popular routes, especially on weekends.
By Train
Moldova’s rail network is limited but can be a scenic option for certain routes. The Chisinau-Odesa line remains disrupted due to the conflict in Ukraine, but domestic routes like Chisinau-Ungheni (€2-3) operate regularly. Check the Moldova Railways website for current schedules.
Local Phrase: “La ce oră pleacă autobuzul spre…?” (At what time does the bus leave for…?) – This simple phrase has saved me countless times when trying to navigate bus stations where schedules aren’t always clearly posted.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing
Within cities, taxi apps provide excellent value:
- Yandex Taxi: Most popular and usually cheapest
- Bolt: Good alternative with similar pricing
A 3-4 km ride in Chisinau typically costs 40-60 MDL (€2-3), making it affordable even for budget travelers when you’re tired or carrying luggage.
Money-Saving Hack #3: For traveling to popular tourist sites like Orheiul Vechi, check hostel bulletin boards for ride-sharing opportunities. I’ve frequently split costs with other travelers, reducing my transportation expenses by 50-70% compared to hiring a taxi alone.
Budget Food and Drink in Moldova
Eating and drinking in Moldova is a budget traveler’s delight. The country’s agricultural heritage means fresh, high-quality food is abundant and affordable. Some of my best memories involve meals that cost less than €5!
Local Cuisine on a Budget
Moldovan cuisine blends Romanian, Ukrainian, and Russian influences with its own unique character. Must-try dishes include:
- Mămăligă: Cornmeal porridge served with sour cream, cheese, and sometimes stewed meat
- Plăcintă: Pastries filled with cheese, potatoes, cabbage, or apples
- Zeamă: Traditional chicken soup with homemade noodles
- Sarmale: Cabbage or vine leaves stuffed with rice and minced meat
Where to Eat Cheaply
Markets and Street Food
The Central Market (Piața Centrală) in Chisinau is my go-to for inexpensive, fresh food. You can assemble a picnic of fresh bread, local cheese, vegetables, and fruits for about 50-70 MDL (€2.50-3.50).
Street food vendors around the market sell excellent plăcintă for 10-15 MDL (€0.50-0.75) per piece – perfect for breakfast or a quick lunch.
Budget Restaurants
These places offer authentic Moldovan food at prices that still surprise me:
- La Plăcinte: Local chain serving traditional pastries and main dishes. A filling meal costs 70-100 MDL (€3.50-5.00).
- Cantinele (Canteens): Soviet-style cafeterias that serve inexpensive set lunches. Look for signs saying “Cantina” near government buildings or universities. Expect to pay 50-70 MDL (€2.50-3.50) for a complete lunch.
- Andy’s Pizza: Despite the name, they serve much more than pizza, including many Moldovan dishes at reasonable prices (80-120 MDL/€4-6 for main courses).
Insider Tip: Many restaurants offer “Business Lunch” specials on weekdays between 12-3pm, typically including soup, main course, and sometimes dessert for 70-100 MDL (€3.50-5.00).
Self-Catering
If your accommodation has kitchen facilities, self-catering is extremely affordable in Moldova. My typical grocery bill for a week of cooking simple meals was around €20-25. Main supermarket chains include Nr.1, Linella, and Fidesco, but local markets offer better value and fresher produce.
Wine on a Budget
Moldova is famous for its wine, and you don’t need to spend much to enjoy it:
- Supermarket Wines: Decent bottles start at just 40-60 MDL (€2-3)
- Wine Bars: Many offer tasting flights of 3-4 wines for 100-150 MDL (€5-7.50)
- Direct from Producers: Small family wineries often sell unlabeled wine from 20-30 MDL (€1-1.50) per liter if you bring your own container
During harvest season (September-October), many villages have wine festivals where you can taste multiple varieties for minimal cost.
Local Phrase: “Un pahar de vin roșu/alb, vă rog” (A glass of red/white wine, please) – This simple phrase has helped me enjoy countless glasses of excellent local wine without breaking my budget.
Free and Budget-Friendly Activities in Moldova
Some of my most memorable experiences in Moldova have cost little or nothing at all. Here’s how to enjoy the country without spending much:
Free Things to Do in Chisinau
- Parks: Chisinau is one of Europe’s greenest capitals. Stefan cel Mare Park, Valea Morilor Park, and Dendrariu Park are beautiful spaces for walking, people-watching, and relaxing.
- Cathedral Park: Visit the Nativity Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe, two of Chisinau’s most iconic landmarks.
- Soviet Architecture Tour: Chisinau has fascinating examples of Soviet modernist architecture. I created my own walking tour using offline maps to see buildings like the Circus, Hotel Cosmos, and the Government House.
- Central Market: The bustling Piața Centrală is a cultural experience in itself, full of colors, aromas, and local life.
- Free Walking Tours: Check Chisinau Free Walking Tours for departure times (typically operating March-November).
Low-Cost Museums
Most museums in Moldova charge minimal entrance fees:
- National Museum of History: 15 MDL (€0.75)
- National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History: 20 MDL (€1)
- Pushkin Museum: 10 MDL (€0.50)
Many museums offer free admission on select days or evenings – typically the last Sunday of the month. Just ask at your accommodation for current information.
Affordable Day Trips
Orheiul Vechi
This archaeological complex with cave monasteries and stunning landscapes is Moldova’s most impressive sight. Getting there:
- By marshrutka: 25-30 MDL (€1.30-1.50) each way from Chisinau’s Central Bus Station to Trebujeni village
- Entrance to the cave monastery: Free
- Museum: 15 MDL (€0.75)
I’ve visited Orheiul Vechi four times, and the sunsets over the Răut River valley remain one of my favorite memories from all my travels in Eastern Europe.
Cricova or Mileștii Mici Wineries
Moldova’s underground wine cities are worth splurging on:
- Cricova: Standard tour from 250 MDL (€12.50)
- Mileștii Mici: Basic tour from 300 MDL (€15)
Money-Saving Hack #4: Instead of booking winery tours through hotels or agencies (which add commission), contact the wineries directly through their websites. For Cricova, I saved about €15 by booking directly and taking public transport instead of a tour company’s transfer.
Tipova Monastery
This cliff-side monastery complex is stunning and much less visited than Orheiul Vechi. Transportation costs about 60-70 MDL (€3-3.50) each way, plus a small donation for the monastery.
Sustainable Budget Activities
Combining budget travel with sustainability is easier than you might think in Moldova:
- Eco-Rural Tourism: Organizations like Eco-Visit connect travelers with eco-friendly rural experiences from 250-400 MDL (€12.50-20) for a full day including meals.
- Bicycle Rental: Chisinau now has bike rentals for 100-150 MDL (€5-7.50) per day – a sustainable way to explore the city’s extensive parks and green spaces.
- Community-Based Tourism: Villages like Butuceni near Orheiul Vechi offer community-led experiences like traditional cooking classes for 200-300 MDL (€10-15) that directly benefit local residents.
Travel Mistake: On my second trip, I booked a commercial “wine tour” that cost €50 but merely took us to a touristy winery with large groups. On my next visit, I discovered that locals in Cricova village often offer informal tours of their home cellars, complete with homemade wine and food, for about €15-20 total. The experience was infinitely more authentic and affordable.
Unique Budget Experiences in Moldova
Some of my most memorable Moldovan experiences were distinctive to the country and cost very little:
Transnistria on a Budget
The breakaway region of Transnistria feels like traveling back to the Soviet era. While technically part of Moldova, it functions as a de facto independent state with its own currency, border controls, and distinct atmosphere.
Visiting Transnistria is surprisingly affordable:
- Transportation: Marshrutkas from Chisinau to Tiraspol cost 40-50 MDL (€2-2.50) each way
- Accommodation: Hotel Aist offers rooms from €25, though most travelers visit as a day trip
- Food: Soviet-style canteens in Tiraspol offer meals for 40-70 Transnistrian rubles (€2-3.50)
- Attractions: The Soviet monuments, Lenin statues, and KVINT cognac factory (tours from €5) provide unique experiences
Important Note: Transnistria uses its own currency (Transnistrian ruble) that cannot be exchanged outside the region. Bring small euro notes for exchange, and convert only what you need for your visit.
Local Festivals
Timing your visit to coincide with local festivals can provide free entertainment and cultural immersion:
- National Wine Day (first weekend of October): Wine tastings, folk performances, and food stalls fill central Chisinau
- Mărțișor Festival (early March): Cultural performances celebrating the arrival of spring
- Independence Day (August 27): Parades and free concerts in central Chisinau
- Village Festivals: Throughout summer and early autumn, villages hold local celebrations with traditional music, dance, and food
During my 2022 visit, I stumbled upon a small village festival near Călărași where I was invited to join local dances, sample homemade wine, and eat traditional food – all without spending a single leu.
Authentic Cultural Experiences
Some of my favorite budget-friendly cultural experiences include:
- Banya (Traditional Bath House): The public banya in Chisinau costs just 70-100 MDL (€3.50-5) for a complete experience including oak-leaf veniks (bundles for massage)
- Folk Craft Workshops: The Artisan Center in Chisinau occasionally offers workshops in traditional crafts like egg painting or weaving for 100-200 MDL (€5-10)
- Home-Cooked Meals: Platforms like EatWith connect travelers with local hosts for home-cooked meals, typically costing 250-350 MDL (€12.50-17.50) – far less than restaurants while providing deeper cultural connection
Sensory Experience: The smell of freshly baked plăcintă wafting from street vendors in the early morning is one of my most vivid memories of Chisinau. For just 10 MDL (€0.50), you get a warm, flaky pastry filled with brânză (local cheese) that tastes infinitely better than any fancy restaurant meal.
Money-Saving Tips and Local Insights
After multiple visits to Moldova, I’ve developed some strategies that help stretch my budget even further:
Banking and Money
- ATMs: While ATMs are abundant in Chisinau, they’re scarcer in smaller towns. Withdraw enough cash before heading to rural areas.
- Exchange Rates: Currency exchange offices (“Schimb Valutar”) typically offer better rates than banks or hotels. Those on Stefan cel Mare Boulevard in Chisinau consistently offered the best rates during my visits.
- Cards vs. Cash: While many establishments in Chisinau accept cards, smaller towns and villages operate primarily in cash. Always have some MDL on hand.
Money-Saving Hack #5: When exchanging currency, avoid the booths at the airport and central train station where rates are typically 5-7% worse than in the city center. I’ve found the best rates consistently at exchange offices near the Central Market.
Communication and Connectivity
- SIM Cards: Local SIM cards are incredibly cheap. Operators like Orange or Moldcell offer prepaid packages with ample data for 50-100 MDL (€2.50-5). This is vastly cheaper than international roaming.
- Free Wi-Fi: Most cafes, restaurants, and public spaces in Chisinau offer free Wi-Fi. The main boulevard (Stefan cel Mare) has public Wi-Fi throughout its length.
Seasonal Budget Considerations
The time of year significantly impacts your budget in Moldova:
- High Season (June-August): Slightly higher accommodation prices, but still affordable compared to most European destinations
- Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Ideal balance of good weather, lower prices, and fewer tourists
- Low Season (November-March): The cheapest time to visit, with accommodation discounts of 20-30%, but be prepared for cold weather
My personal favorite time to visit is late September/early October, when harvest festivals are happening and the weather remains pleasant without summer crowds.
Travel Mistake: During my winter visit, I underestimated how cold Moldova gets. The money I saved on accommodation was partially offset by needing to buy warmer clothes locally. If visiting in winter, bring appropriate gear rather than planning to purchase it locally.
Common Tourist Mistakes to Avoid
- Organized Tours: Many travel agencies in Chisinau charge €40-50 for day trips to places like Orheiul Vechi that cost less than €10 to visit independently.
- Airport Taxis: As mentioned earlier, taking official airport taxis costs 3-4 times more than alternatives like bus #9 or ride-hailing apps.
- Dining Only in Tourist Areas: Restaurants directly on Stefan cel Mare Boulevard charge 30-40% more than equally good options just a block or two away.
Conclusion: Your 5-Step Moldova Budget Travel Action Plan
After five visits and countless conversations with fellow travelers and locals, I’ve refined my approach to experiencing Moldova on a budget. Here’s my recommended action plan for making the most of this affordable European gem:
Step 1: Plan Your Timing Strategically
Visit during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for the optimal balance of good weather, lower prices, and authentic experiences. If your schedule is flexible, aim for early October to experience National Wine Day and harvest festivities.
Step 2: Book Smart Transportation
Monitor budget airlines like Wizz Air for deals to Chisinau, booking 2-3 months in advance for the best rates. Consider alternative entry points like Iași (Romania) if they offer significantly cheaper flights, then connect to Moldova by bus.
Step 3: Mix Accommodation Types
Create a varied accommodation plan: start with a few nights in a Chisinau hostel to make connections and gather local insights, then perhaps an Airbnb for more privacy and self-catering options, and finally a rural guesthouse for authentic cultural immersion.
Step 4: Prioritize Free and Low-Cost Experiences
Build your itinerary around Moldova’s wealth of affordable attractions: self-guided walking tours, public parks, free museums days, local markets, and community events. Splurge selectively on unique experiences like winery tours that offer exceptional value compared to similar activities elsewhere in Europe.
Step 5: Connect with Locals
Make an effort to interact with Moldovans through community tourism initiatives, homestays, or simply striking up conversations in parks and cafes. Local connections often lead to invitations, recommendations, and experiences that no amount of money could buy.
Moldova remains one of Europe’s most affordable and authentic destinations, offering a rare glimpse into a part of the continent that mass tourism has largely overlooked. By following this guide, you’ll not only save money but also experience the genuine warmth and hospitality that makes this small country so special.
From the rolling vineyards and ancient monasteries to the Soviet architecture and vibrant markets, Moldova offers a diversity of experiences that belies its modest size and humble reputation. And the best part? You can experience it all without draining your bank account.
Final Thought: On my last night in Chisinau during my most recent visit, I sat in the courtyard of a small wine bar, sharing a bottle of excellent local Fetească Neagră with travelers I’d met at my hostel. As we calculated our expenses, we realized that each of us had spent less in a week in Moldova than we would have in just 2-3 days in Western Europe. Yet our experiences—the connections, the flavors, the memories—felt infinitely richer. That’s the true magic of Moldova: it reminds you that the value of travel isn’t measured in dollars spent, but in moments collected.
FAQs About Budget Travel in Moldova
Is Moldova safe for budget travelers?
Yes, Moldova is generally very safe for travelers, including those on a budget. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. The main concerns are occasional petty theft in crowded areas and taxi scams (easily avoided by using ride-hailing apps). As a solo female traveler during several of my visits, I never felt unsafe, even when walking in Chisinau after dark.
How much should I budget per day in Moldova?
Based on my experiences, you can enjoy Moldova comfortably on:
- Ultra-budget: €20-25/day (hostel dorms, self-catering, public transport)
- Budget: €30-40/day (mix of hostels and budget private rooms, eating at inexpensive restaurants, some paid activities)
- Mid-range: €50-70/day (private accommodations, regular restaurant meals, daily activities and occasional taxis)
Do I need to speak Romanian or Russian to travel in Moldova?
While knowing some basic phrases helps, you can get by with English in Chisinau, especially among younger Moldovans and in tourism-related businesses. Outside the capital, English is less common, but a combination of gestures, Google Translate, and a few key Romanian phrases will usually suffice. Learning “Mulțumesc” (thank you) and “Bună ziua” (hello/good day) goes a long way.
What’s the best way to handle money in Moldova?
Bring some euros or US dollars to exchange, and use ATMs for additional withdrawals. Exchange rates are generally favorable, but always count your money carefully after any exchange. While cards are accepted in many Chisinau businesses, smaller towns and rural areas operate primarily in cash. I typically kept about 1000 MDL (€50) in cash for daily expenses.
Is it worth visiting Transnistria, and is it safe?
Transnistria offers a fascinating glimpse into a Soviet time capsule and is generally safe for tourists, despite its unrecognized status. The border crossing process can seem intimidating but is usually straightforward for visitors staying less than a day (you’ll receive a paper slip rather than a passport stamp). Just be aware that travel insurance may not cover this territory, and you should carry your passport at all times.
Can I drink the tap water in Moldova?
While technically treated, tap water in Moldova often runs through old pipes and may not meet the standards you’re accustomed to. Most locals and visitors stick to bottled water, which is very inexpensive (about 5-10 MDL/€0.25-0.50 per 1.5-liter bottle). To reduce plastic waste, consider bringing a water bottle with a built-in filter.
What are the visa requirements for Moldova?
Citizens of the EU, US, Canada, UK, and many other countries can enter Moldova visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check the latest requirements before traveling, as regulations can change.
What’s the best way to get from Chisinau airport to the city center?
Bus #9 is by far the most budget-friendly option at just 3 MDL (€0.15), running every 30 minutes from outside the arrivals terminal. For more convenience, the ride-hailing apps Yandex or Bolt cost around 70-90 MDL (€3.50-4.50) and are much cheaper than airport taxis.
References and Further Reading
- Official Tourism Website of Moldova – Comprehensive information from the national tourism authority
- Lonely Planet: Moldova – General travel information and recommendations
- Wikitravel: Moldova – Community-updated travel guide with practical tips
- Wine of Moldova – Information about Moldova’s wine regions and producers
- Moldova Rural Tourism Association – Network of rural guesthouses and agritourism experiences
- Chisinau Free Walking Tours – Volunteer-led city tours
- Moldova Railways – Train schedules and ticket information
- In Your Pocket: Chisinau – Detailed city guide with current events and recommendations
- Atlas Obscura: Transnistria – Information about the breakaway region
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Moldova – Official visa information
- Cricova Winery – Website of Moldova’s famous underground winery
- Mileștii Mici Winery – Home of the world’s largest wine cellar