Moldova, a small Eastern European country nestled between Romania and Ukraine, is often overlooked by tourists but offers some of the cheapest prices in Europe. With pints costing less than £2 and bottles of wine in restaurants for £4-5, it is an affordable destination for budget-conscious travellers.
The capital city, Chișinău, is the main entry point, served by Wizz Air and FlyOne from the UK. The city combines historic and Soviet-era architecture, with a compact, walkable centre dotted with large green spaces. Key attractions include the ornate Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ's Nativity and the National History Museum of Moldova.
Just outside Chișinău lies Milestii Mici, the world's largest wine cellar, with over 30 miles of limestone tunnels storing an estimated 1.5 million bottles of wine. Tours are available, and visitors can sample local wines. For history enthusiasts, the 13th-century cave monastery at Orheiul Vechi, south of the capital, offers stunning views and a glimpse into the past.
Nature lovers can explore the Bicaz Gorge near the Romanian border, featuring the unique Red Lake with its reddish hue and tree stumps rising from the water. Despite its charms, only about 67,000 tourists visit Moldova each year, making it a quiet alternative to more crowded European destinations.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against travel near the border with Ukraine, and travellers should monitor travel advice for any changes. Moldova remains a safe and intriguing option for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
