Europe > 🇲🇩 Moldova
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Moldova can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Moldova; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Moldova?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Moldova?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in Moldova
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Chișinău | KIV |
Moldova — Car or No Car?
Tucked between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova remains one of Europe’s least-visited destinations. Its charm lies in quiet villages, rolling hills, and centuries-old vineyards rather than big cities or crowded resorts. That leads to the key question: should you rent a car in Moldova?
🚗 Why Renting a Car in Moldova Often Makes Sense
Public transport in Moldova is cheap but unpredictable. Buses and marshrutkas (minibuses) go almost everywhere, yet they don’t follow reliable schedules and often travel slowly. If you value flexibility and want to see more than just the capital, then renting a car is the best way to explore.
With a car, you can easily reach:
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🍇 Cricova and Mileștii Mici – famous underground wine cellars outside Chișinău.
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🏰 Orheiul Vechi – a breathtaking cave monastery complex in a limestone gorge.
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🌳 Codru Forest Reserve – ideal for hiking and spotting wildlife.
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🏞️ Tipova Monastery and the Dniester Valley – peaceful, remote, and full of atmosphere.
Roads between main towns are decent, and fuel costs are lower than in Western Europe. However, rural tracks can get rough, especially after rain, so it’s best to choose a sturdy rental vehicle.
🚫 When You Might Not Need a Car
If you plan to stay within Chișinău, a car is unnecessary. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot or by public transport, with frequent trolleybuses and affordable taxis. Parking in the centre can be tight, and traffic occasionally builds up during rush hour.
Travellers mainly interested in wine tourism can rely on guided tours with transfers, which are common and good value. That way, you can relax and enjoy tastings without worrying about driving later.
🚄 Trains and Buses
The rail network in Moldova is limited but offers an old-fashioned travel experience. Routes such as Chișinău–Iași and Chișinău–Bucharest connect the country with Romania. Domestic lines serve Tiraspol (Transnistria), though onward connections into Ukraine are not currently advised due to the ongoing conflict.
Intercity buses and marshrutkas remain the main form of long-distance travel for locals. They’re cheap and frequent, though comfort varies. For short trips, they can be a fun way to experience Moldovan life — just bring patience and an open mind.
⚠️ Border and Regional Travel
If you plan to visit Transnistria, the breakaway region between Moldova and Ukraine, you’ll need to show your passport and complete a temporary entry form. Some car rental companies don’t allow vehicles across this border, so check first.
Otherwise, travel within Moldova and across the Romanian border is straightforward and usually smooth.
🧭 Should You Rent a Car in Moldova?
✅ Yes, if you want to explore the countryside, see monasteries, wine cellars, or reach rural areas on your own schedule.
🚫 No, if you’re staying in Chișinău or joining tours that include transfers.
In short, should you rent a car in Moldova?
Yes — if you love independence and spontaneous detours through peaceful valleys and vineyards. But if you’re only visiting the capital or joining guided excursions, public transport and taxis will take you wherever you need to go.