The land-locked nation boasts a stunning range of scenery including the Nistru River and the historic cave monasteries of Tipova. It is also home to vast underground wineries such as Cricova as well as the expansive Codru National Reserve.
Moldova even boasts the world’s largest collection of wine bottles. It is home to 1,500,000 expensive bottles of wine, including one that previously belonged to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The country, which declared its independence in 1991, has been split between its ties to Russia and the European Union. It applied for EU membership in March 2022, being granted candidate status in June of the same year.
The country is aiming to establish full EU membership by 2030. Although it is thought the breakaway state of Transnistria could be a contentious issue since Russia’s invasion of neighbouring Ukraine.
The UK Government advises against all travel to the Transnistria region. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office says: “FCDO advises against all travel to Transnistria. There is widespread military activity in Ukraine, including close to some Moldovan borders. Transnistria is outside the control of the Moldovan government.”
YouTuber Steve Marsh visited the nation in 2023, but admitted he was “nervous” while travelling after his return flight was axed due to “security” reasons. He was however quickly won over by the nation.
He said: “As first impressions go, I really like this place, and even with this horrible weather. The fact that nobody comes here just adds to the allure for me.”
Meanwhile travel blogger Drew Binksy also praised the tiny nation. He said: “I actually really like Moldova.
“Chisinau is the capital. It's like the least visited city and country in Europe. No one really knows about it. Very similar to Russian. They speak Russian. They look Russian, they act Russian, but it’s this kind of mix of European, little bit of Ukrainian vibes because it's kind of sandwiched there on the border.
“They have really good wine in Moldova. There's a place called Orhei. I'm not pronouncing it right, but I went down there for the winery tour and it was fantastic.”
