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Moldova flagTransportation & Infrastructure Guide · Moldova

Transportation & Infrastructure Guide in Moldova

Public transit, airports, and getting around

Moldova, with a population of 2.6 million, is rapidly modernizing its transport infrastructure through substantial EU support via the €1.9B Growth Plan and TEN-T integration. Key projects include €38M M3 Cimislia bypass, €120M M5 Criva-Balti road, and R34 upgrades, enhancing road safety and economic links. Rail reorganization separates infrastructure from operations, while a new ITS Strategy introduces smart tech for traffic and safety. Challenges persist with aging bus fleets risking sector collapse due to fuel costs, limited public transit, and 14 airports offering basic connectivity. Residents and visitors rely on affordable buses (7 MDL in Chisinau), informal taxis, and growing intermodal options on the right-hand driving network.
Public Transport
Below Average
Road Infrastructure
Moderate
Public Transport
4.2/10

Basic bus networks dominate, with Chisinau fares at 7 MDL (€0.36) per ride after May 2025 hike; inter-district capped at 1.09-1.24 MDL/km. No metro or high-speed rail; trains regional only. Aging fleet and high costs risk collapse per Union of Transporters. Limited integration, poor rural coverage, operating mainly daytime.

Road Infrastructure
5.1/10

Adequate network improving via EU projects: M3 Cimislia (€38M), M5 Criva-Balti (€120M), R34 Hancesti-Cahul (€57M) for TEN-T alignment. EBRD funds rehabilitation for better transit. Urban roads fair, rural variable; safety enhancing with EPIC expertise, but maintenance gaps persist.

Internet Speed
6.2/10

Moderate broadband averaging 75 Mbps, with urban fiber growth supporting ITS rollout. Rural-urban gap exists; mobile data reliable for navigation apps.

Avg: 75+ Mbps • Available in Chisinau and major cities, expanding via EU digital programs; limited rural penetration

Airport Connectivity
5.3/10

14 airports total, 5 major for regional/international links; Chisinau (KIV) primary hub with European routes. No global carrier hubs; domestic limited. Quality basic, accessibility fair.

Hubs: Chisinau International (KIV)

Transportation Costs

Metro Pass
N/A (no metro)
Bus Trip
7 MDL (€0.36) Chisinau single ride
Taxi
1.09-1.24 MDL/km (€0.06/km) regulated inter-district
High-speed Train
N/A (no high-speed rail)

Mobile Network

5G Coverage: Major cities like Chisinau deploying 2025-2026, limited nationwide
4G Coverage: Extensive urban coverage >95%, good rural via Orange, Moldcell, Unite

Reliable 4G supports transport apps; 5G rollout tied to ITS Strategy for smart traffic management. Urban speeds high, rural adequate.

Driving License

IDP requiredConversion needed

Non-EU country; EU/foreign licenses valid 90 days with IDP recommended. Long-term residents (over 183 days) must exchange for Moldovan license via exam or conversion process at Public Services Agency.

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