---
title: "Moldova’s wine tourism attracts more local and foreign visitors"
url: https://moldova1.md/p/90213/moldova-s-wine-tourism-attracts-more-local-and-foreign-visitors
published: 2026-11-14T12:00:52Z
language: en
author: "Rodica Mazur"
section: "Economic"
source: moldova1.md
---

# Moldova’s wine tourism attracts more local and foreign visitors

> Vast vineyards, historic wine cellars, and internationally acclaimed wines are making the Republic of Moldova an increasingly appealing destination for travellers seeking authentic experiences. Wine tourism offers visitors more than the chance to taste local wines: it invites them to discover the stories behind each bottle, meet the people who make them, savour traditional cuisine, and explore customs passed down through generations.

![](https://storage.moldova1.md/images/cf202a3c-e42e-41bc-8fae-2ce9af92670b.jpg)

Vast vineyards, historic wine cellars, and internationally acclaimed wines are making the Republic of Moldova an increasingly appealing destination for travellers seeking authentic experiences. Wine tourism offers visitors more than the chance to taste local wines: it invites them to discover the stories behind each bottle, meet the people who make them, savour traditional cuisine, and explore customs passed down through generations.

Wine tourism is the primary focus of promotion, and tourists arrive with high expectations, as the Republic of Moldova frequently appears in top international rankings, said tour guide Natalia Covali during the "Zi de Zi" program on Radio Moldova.

The expert also highlighted that the Republic of Moldova offers various tourist routes—most notably the "Wine Route in Moldova", a cultural-tourism path that is part of an international network approved by the Council of Europe.

*"Tourists know that a visit to Moldova promises a glass of good cheer. Beyond that, another growing trend is 'experiential tourism.' It’s not just about wine tasting or wine as a product; it’s about the experience itself. Depending on the professionalism and dedication of the staff, tourists leave with lasting impressions—or even delightful new discoveries—regarding both the wine and the broader tourism offering in the Republic of Moldova,"* stated Natalia Covali, in an interview with journalist Daniela Gherman.

According to Natalia Covali, the tourism product is highly diverse. Visitors seek a comprehensive experience: they want to come to the winery to see how wine is made, participate in tastings, and walk through the vineyards. Sometimes, they even get to take part in routine tasks, such as harvesting grapes or crushing them.

*"We all know that our wonderful autumn festivals offer such opportunities. You can join in age-old traditions—crushing grapes or making 'must' (freshly pressed grape juice), which you can then taste. Yes, the range of offerings is truly diverse,"* said Natalia Covali. According to the expert, domestic tourism has increased noticeably—a trend driven by a period of significant decline in international visitors.

*"During the pandemic, both locals and tourists turned their attention to what was close by—even within their own immediate surroundings. The figures are quite impressive. Those who rediscover or explore Moldova are often amazed as they learn about the history of various regions and traditions they previously knew little about. Beyond history and culture, they also discover guidelines and recommendations regarding wine service and food-and-wine pairing. No one leaves these tours without a lasting impression,"* the expert asserts.

Wine tourism in the Republic of Moldova can be further developed by aligning with international tourism standards and routes, which guarantee service quality and the experiences offered, noted the guest—a professional tour guide.

*"Successful initiatives often involve aligning with international routes—networks that tourists choose precisely because they offer a guarantee of service quality. This is exactly what Moldova is implementing. Moldova is on the right track; it performs well, participates in international competitions, and consistently ranks among the top for wine quality. We have also benefited from valuable learning opportunities through the European Union, with trainers coming in to upskill staff in the wine tourism sector. We are currently in the midst of a process of modernization and service enhancement. We should take pride in what we have"*, concluded Natalia Covali.

[Audio: https://trm.blob.core.windows.net/photos/72ba9e2a-4127-4cb0-bf01-41168c4c1134.jpg](https://original.trm.md/video/definst/MP4:2026/11/14/gherman-turism-vinicol.m4a/playlist.m3u8)