Forgotten Europe: Why this country could soon surprise everyone

Mass tourism is virtually unknown in Moldova. It is often described as the «least visited country in Europe,» despite offering plenty to discover — all without long lines or heavily commercialized attractions. Instead, the country promises authentic experiences, short travel distances, and local cuisine.

Moldova made its debut this year at the Fespo travel fair in Zurich to showcase its advantages. Travelnews spoke with Elena Stepanov, Managing Director of the National Inbound and Domestic Tourism Association of Moldova (ANTRIM), to learn what visitors can experience and why the destination is especially appealing to Swiss travelers.

The land of wine

«Moldova is the land of wine and grapes», Stepanov explains at the start of the conversation. Wine tourism is one of the country’s signature strengths. More than 200 wineries produce Moldovan wines while also offering a wide range of tourism activities. Many estates provide accommodations and courses, including workshops on winemaking.

Near the capital, Chișinău, two wineries have even earned a place in the Guinness World Records: Mileștii Mici and Cricova, the two largest underground wine cellars in the world.

Both resemble subterranean cities, stretching over 100 kilometers and housing several million bottles of wine. The tunnels descend as much as 80 meters underground and are open to visitors. Tours typically include train rides through the galleries, collection viewings, and tastings in specially designed halls.

Great wine naturally calls for great food. Many guesthouses emphasize seasonal, freshly prepared dishes using ingredients sourced from their own farms, Stepanov notes. Particularly in rural areas, travelers can expect an immersive experience combining regional cuisine, tradition, and cultural insight.

A vibrant capital

Chișinău is an ideal city-break destination for a three-day trip. The city features abundant green spaces and beautiful parks — such as Dendrariu Park and Valea Morilor Park — especially enjoyable in the warmer months. Shops, cafés, and historic buildings line Ștefan cel Mare Boulevard.

The city’s landmarks, including the Cathedral of the Nativity and the Triumphal Arch, are centrally located and easily explored on foot. Museums such as the National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History provide insight into the country’s past.

Chișinău is lively and offers a varied nightlife scene with theaters, opera performances, bars, and clubs. During the summer months, Moldovans celebrate numerous festivals. The Valea Trandafirilor Park hosts a BBQ festival — typically held in May — to mark the start of grilling season, featuring talented chefs, hearty meat specialties, and live music.

About an hour from the capital, the DescOperă open-air opera festival takes place each year in the Orheiul Vechi Natural Reserve. The reserve contains a unique archaeological landscape and provides a spectacular backdrop for performances. And of course, the October Wine Festival — where more than 100 wineries present their products — is not to be missed.

Those seeking tranquility will also find plenty to enjoy. While Moldova’s terrain is less alpine than Switzerland’s, it offers remarkable variety: canyons, forests, waterfalls, bird habitats, and lightly trafficked hiking trails.

Excursion to Transnistria

Although many of Moldova’s key attractions are located near the capital, travelers can also take a day trip to Transnistria. «Every second tourist wants to visit this region,» says Stepanov. The breakaway territory on the Ukrainian border exerts a strong fascination on foreign visitors — an experience often compared to stepping back in time.

The region’s old buildings and monuments are closely tied to Russian history and evoke the Soviet era, a legacy also reflected in its restaurants and local cuisine. While a form of Romanian is spoken in Moldova, Russian is predominant in Transnistria. Payments are made using the Transnistrian ruble rather than the Moldovan leu.

Safety concerns among some travelers due to the geographic location are understandable but unfounded, Stepanov says. Moldova — including Transnistria — is entirely safe despite its proximity to Ukraine, and the country is also considered suitable for solo travelers.

Direct flights from Basel

Starting in April 2026, Wizz Air will connect Basel and Chișinău with a direct flight of around two and a half hours. One month later, SkyUp Airlines will launch the same route. Once in Moldova, the main attractions — including those outside the capital — are well connected by public transportation.

Authentic experiences, local and traditional cuisine, and short travel distances make Moldova an appealing alternative to conventional, overcrowded tourist destinations. At an attractive price-performance ratio, visitors can explore underground wine cellars, traditional villages, nature reserves, and regional gastronomy. Anyone seeking authentic Eastern European culture will find Moldova a perfect fit.