Marshrutkas: The backbone of Moldovan transport. These fixed-route minibuses run between Chisinau and virtually every town in the country. They depart when full rather than on a strict schedule, which means you may wait a while in quieter spots. Fares are cheap — a trip to Orheiul Vechi or Hincesti from Chisinau costs around 30–50 MDL. Marshrutkas leave from Chisinau's central bus station and from smaller stations around the city.
Buses: Larger state buses run on the same routes as marshrutkas, slower but slightly cheaper. For longer journeys to Baltsi or Soroca in the north, a bus may be the better option.
Trains: Moldova's rail network is limited and slow — average speeds of 35–40 km/h. The main line connects Chisinau with Ungheni (for the Romanian border) and Baltsi. Trains are cheap and rarely crowded, but don't rely on them if you have a connection to catch.
Taxis and ride apps: In Chisinau, the local taxi app inDriver is widely used and inexpensive. Agree on a price before getting into an unmetered cab. For day trips to nearby sites like Orheiul Vechi or Cricova winery, hiring a driver for the day is a practical option and not expensive by European standards.
Driving: Car rental is available in Chisinau. Roads in the capital and on main inter-city routes are passable; rural roads can be rough. Fuel stations are plentiful on main routes. Driving yourself is the most flexible way to reach Orheiul Vechi, remote monasteries, or the wineries.
Transnistria: The route from Chisinau to Tiraspol is straightforward — marshrutkas and shared taxis run regularly and the journey takes about an hour and a half. At the Transnistrian checkpoint you receive a paper entry slip; keep it and surrender it when you leave.