Chisinau City Guide

Local dishes like Mămăligă and Sărmăluțe are must-tries. The city center offers Italian, Asian, and other cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing but limited. Some places stay open late or 24/7.

Nightlife is developing with bars, pubs, and clubs mostly in the city center. Options range from wine bars to dance clubs.

Coffee culture is growing with a mix of traditional and specialty cafes.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Around 5-10% in restaurants, rounding up fares in taxis, small tips for services.

SIM cards are easy to get at the airport or shops. Orange Moldova and Moldcell offer the best coverage. ID is needed to activate. eSIMs are limited but available from Orange.

The city is generally clean, especially central areas and parks. Waste collection is regular.

Some pharmacies and small shops operate 24/7. Limited late-night food options in center.

Supermarkets like Linella, Andy's, and Green Hills offer growing international options. Central Market is best for fresh produce and bargains. Supermarkets typically open 8-10 AM to 9-10 PM, including some Sundays.

Cards are accepted in supermarkets, larger restaurants, and modern shops. Smaller markets, street vendors, and some taxis may still prefer cash.

ATMs are common throughout the city, including banks and malls. Most accept Visa and Mastercard. Local banks like Moldindconbank and Victoriabank are reliable with reasonable fees.

International schools like the American School of Chisinau and Heritage International offer English curricula. Local schools mainly teach in Romanian. Plan ahead for admissions.

The digital nomad community is small but growing, with nomad-friendly cafes and occasional meetups.

Chisinau has many large parks with shaded paths good for running or walking.

Popular running spots include city parks and boulevards. Running is safe in central, well-lit areas.

Several gyms offer a range of facilities around the city.

Tennis courts available at sports clubs like the Republican Tennis School.

Padel courts are uncommon but slowly growing in number.

Yoga studios offer various styles with some classes in English.

Gyms offer Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, Boxing, and some BJJ and Muay Thai. Drop-in varies; some English spoken.

No skiing; Moldova's terrain doesn't support ski resorts.

Limited water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding on local lakes and rivers.

No surfing available; the city is landlocked.

No diving options due to landlocked location.

Private clinics like Medpark and American Medical Center have English-speaking staff. Public healthcare is variable. Pharmacies are common, some open 24/7. Emergency number is 112.

Tap water is not recommended for drinking due to aging infrastructure. Bottled water is widely used.

Parks with playgrounds are common, including Stefan cel Mare Park and Dendrarium. Kid-friendly cafés and baby supplies are available. Attractions include the zoo and museums.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is mixed; some inclusive venues exist but societal challenges remain.

Pet policies vary. Vet services and pet supplies are available. Some parks are good for dog walking.