Moldova : Best spots to visit & other details

 

Moldova is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, located between Romania to the west and Ukraine to the east. Chisinau is its capital and largest city. Moldova was part of the Soviet Union until gaining independence in 1991. It's known for its wine production and has a rich cultural heritage influenced by both Romanian and Slavic traditions. If you have specific questions about Moldova, feel free to ask!

Moldova may not be as well-known as some other European destinations, but it has its own unique charm and several places worth visiting. Here are some places you should consider:

1. **Chisinau**: The capital city is the political, economic, and cultural center of Moldova. You can explore its parks, museums, and historical sites like the Nativity Cathedral and Triumphal Arch.

2. **Orheiul Vechi**: This historical and archaeological complex is home to cave monasteries, ancient ruins, and stunning views of the Raut River. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. **Cricova Winery**: Moldova is known for its wine, and Cricova is one of the country's most famous wine cellars. You can take a tour of the underground tunnels and taste some excellent Moldovan wines.

4. **Milestii Mici Winery**: Another renowned winery, Milestii Mici, boasts the world's largest wine cellar. It's a fascinating place for wine enthusiasts.

5. **Transnistria**: A breakaway region of Moldova, Transnistria has a unique political status. It's an intriguing place to visit to gain insights into the complex history of the region.

6. **Soroca**: Known as the "Gypsy Hill," Soroca is famous for its well-preserved medieval fortress. It's a picturesque town with a rich cultural mix.

7. **Gagauzia**: Explore the autonomous region of Gagauzia to learn about its Turkic-speaking population and unique traditions.

8. **Tipova Monastery**: This monastery complex is known for its stunning location along the Dniester River and its cave churches carved into the cliffs.

9. **Saharna Monastery**: Located in a scenic natural setting, Saharna Monastery is a peaceful place with beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails.

10. **Hincesti**: This town is known for its historic architecture, particularly the Hincesti National Museum and the Assumption of Our Lady Church.

Moldova's charm lies in its simplicity, natural beauty, and rich wine culture. Be sure to try local dishes and wines while exploring these places.

Best seasons 

The best time to visit Moldova depends on your preferences for weather and activities. Here are some considerations for each season:

1. **Spring (March to May)**: Spring is a lovely time to visit Moldova. The weather becomes milder, and nature starts to come to life with blooming flowers and lush green landscapes. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring vineyards.

2. **Summer (June to August)**: Summer is the peak tourist season in Moldova. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and visiting wineries. You can enjoy festivals and events during this time, but be prepared for higher prices and more tourists.

3. **Autumn (September to November)**: Fall is a fantastic time to visit if you're interested in the wine harvest season. The vineyards are bustling with activity, and you can participate in grape picking and wine-making activities. The weather remains pleasant, but it starts to cool down in November.

4. **Winter (December to February)**: Winters in Moldova are cold, with temperatures often below freezing. If you enjoy winter sports like skiing, you can visit the ski resorts in the northern part of the country. Chisinau and other cities are adorned with festive decorations during the holiday season.

Cuisines

In terms of cuisine, Moldovan food reflects its agricultural heritage and multicultural influences. Some popular dishes to try include:

1. **Mămăligă**: This is a staple food in Moldova, similar to polenta. It's often served with cheese, sour cream, or meat.

2. **Sarmale**: Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, usually accompanied by sour cream.

3. **Moldovan Plăcintă**: These are delicious pastries filled with various ingredients like cheese, potatoes, cabbage, or fruit.

4. **Moldovan Wine**: Moldova is known for its wine production, so be sure to try the local wines, including reds, whites, and dessert wines.

5. **Mititei**: Grilled sausages made from a mixture of ground meat and spices, often served with mustard and bread.

6. **Pelin**: A traditional Moldovan drink made from wormwood, often consumed as an aperitif or digestif.

7. **Moldovan Desserts**: Sample desserts like gogosi (doughnuts), pască (Easter cake), and various fruit preserves and jams.

Moldovan cuisine is hearty and flavorful, with a mix of influences from Romanian, Ukrainian, Russian, and Balkan cuisines. It's a delightful experience for food enthusiasts.

Airlines in Moldova 

Moldova is served by several airlines, with Chisinau International Airport (IATA: KIV) being the primary international gateway. Here are some of the airlines that operate flights to and from Moldova:

1. **Air Moldova**: The national flag carrier of Moldova, Air Moldova, operates both domestic and international flights to various European destinations.

2. **Wizz Air**: Wizz Air, a low-cost carrier, has a base at Chisinau International Airport and offers a range of budget-friendly flights to destinations in Europe.

3. **Ryanair**: Ryanair, another low-cost airline, also operates flights to and from Chisinau, connecting Moldova with various European cities.

4. **Turkish Airlines**: Turkish Airlines provides international connections through Istanbul, making it a convenient option for travelers flying to and from Moldova.

5. **Austrian Airlines**: Austrian Airlines offers flights connecting Chisinau with Vienna, providing access to its extensive global network.

6. **Lufthansa**: Lufthansa offers flights from Chisinau to Frankfurt, allowing travelers to connect to destinations worldwide.

7. **LOT Polish Airlines**: LOT Polish Airlines provides flights between Chisinau and Warsaw, offering connections to numerous European and international destinations.

8. **Ukraine International Airlines (UIA)**: UIA operates flights between Chisinau and Kiev, offering connections to various destinations in Ukraine and beyond.

9. **S7 Airlines**: S7 Airlines connects Chisinau with Moscow, providing access to the Russian capital and onward destinations.

Please note that the availability of airlines and routes may change over time, so it's a good idea to check with the airlines or the Chisinau International Airport website for the most up-to-date information on flight options to and from Moldova.