Getting around Moldova: Public transportation, car rentals, and taxis.

Getting Around Moldova: A Guide to Transportation Options

Moldova is a small country located in Eastern Europe, bordered by Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north, east, and south. Despite its small size, Moldova has a lot to offer visitors, from its rich history and culture to its beautiful countryside and delicious wine. However, getting around Moldova can be a challenge, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the country. In this article, we will explore the various transportation options available in Moldova, including public transportation, renting a car, and taxis or ride shares.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is the most common way to get around Moldova, especially in the capital city of Chisinau. The city has an extensive network of buses, trolleybuses, and minibusses, which are known as marshrutkas. The public transportation system in Chisinau is relatively cheap, with a single ticket costing around 2 lei (about $0.10 USD). However, the system can be confusing for visitors, as there are no maps or signs in English, and the buses and trolleybuses can be crowded and uncomfortable.

Outside of Chisinau, public transportation options are more limited. There are buses and minibusses that connect the major cities and towns in Moldova, but the schedules can be irregular, and the buses can be old and uncomfortable. Additionally, there are no direct trains between Moldova and its neighboring countries, so travelers who want to visit Romania or Ukraine will need to take a bus or hire a private car.

Renting a Car

Renting a car is another option for getting around Moldova, especially for those who want to explore the countryside or visit smaller towns and villages. There are several car rental companies in Chisinau, including international brands like Hertz and Avis, as well as local companies like Autorent and Rentauto. The cost of renting a car in Moldova is relatively cheap, with prices starting at around 20 euros per day.

However, there are some challenges to renting a car in Moldova. The roads outside of Chisinau can be narrow and poorly maintained, and the driving culture in Moldova can be aggressive and unpredictable. Additionally, many of the smaller towns and villages in Moldova have narrow streets and limited parking, which can make driving a challenge. Finally, it is important to note that Moldova has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving, and the penalties for driving under the influence can be severe.

Taxis and Ride Shares

Taxis and ride shares are another option for getting around Moldova, especially for those who want to avoid the hassle of public transportation or the challenges of driving in Moldova. Taxis are widely available in Chisinau and other major cities, and fares are relatively cheap, with a typical ride costing around 30 lei (about $1.50 USD) within the city limits. However, it is important to negotiate the fare with the driver before getting into the taxi, as some drivers may try to overcharge tourists.

Ride shares, such as Uber and Yandex, are also available in Moldova, although they are less common than taxis. These services are generally more expensive than taxis, but they offer the convenience of being able to book a ride through a mobile app and pay with a credit card. Additionally, ride shares are often more comfortable and reliable than taxis, as the drivers are vetted and the cars are newer and better maintained.

Conclusion

In conclusion, getting around Moldova can be a challenge, but there are several transportation options available to visitors. Public transportation is the most common way to get around, especially in Chisinau, but it can be confusing and uncomfortable. Renting a car is another option, but it can be challenging due to the poor road conditions and aggressive driving culture. Taxis and ride shares are also available, and they offer the convenience of being able to avoid the challenges of public transportation and driving in Moldova. Ultimately, the best transportation option will depend on the individual traveler’s needs and preferences, but with a little planning and research, it is possible to get around Moldova safely and comfortably.