Moldova's tourism is rising, with foreign visitors up 25%
The Republic of Moldova is attracting more foreign and domestic tourists. According to the latest World Tourism Barometer, the number of foreign tourists visiting the country in the first six months of this year was 25% higher than during the same period last year. Authorities attribute this growth to authentic experiences, uncrowded destinations, and opportunities to discover Moldovan culture, cuisine, and wines.
Slobozia Mare, in the Cahul district, is known for its location in one of the Republic of Moldova's most valuable natural areas—the "Prutul de Jos" (Lower Prut) Reserve, part of the UNESCO World Network. Rural tourism has become a key driver of the village's development, with local guesthouses attracting visitors from both within the country and abroad.
"Many families come from Chișinău seeking a few quiet hours or days away from the city to visit Lake Beleu and the surrounding area. Local families also come here to relax—using the sauna, hot tubs, and enclosed gazebo—or to host celebrations. We also welcome guests from abroad, including Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands," says Veronica Secaș, a guesthouse owner.
"These are business models developed over the last six or seven years using European funds as we expand our tourism sector. It is a vibrant, thriving village, and we want to see more of this growth so we can enjoy a good life right here at home," says Valentina Carastan, the mayor of Slobozia Mare.
Another example is a winery in Comrat with a history spanning over a century, now transformed into an ethno-tourism complex.
"Of course, it has become easier to promote our business now, and the number of tourists has undoubtedly increased. However, these numbers are recorded primarily during the spring and summer seasons. Still, the flow of tourists—both from Moldova and abroad—has grown. We receive a great many visitors from Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Romania," says Tatiana Diitroglo, a winery representative.
The growing interest in rural tourism is supported by programs that encourage stays at village guesthouses. Here, tourists combine culture, gastronomy, winemaking, and local traditions.
"We have a rich culture, a national treasure we take pride in; once we discover these values ourselves, we can promote them and share their stories with visitors from abroad," says Ana Șandra, Interim Director of the National Tourism Office.
According to the latest World Tourism Barometer, the Republic of Moldova recorded the highest growth in tourist numbers in Europe during the first half of this year. By comparison, Greece and Ireland reported increases of 15% each, while the European average was 3%.
