Choosing a Cycling Route in Moldova
Each of the recommended Moldovan cycling routes below has been specifically designed to combine some of the best nature, viewpoints, lakes, forests and rolling hills with rural villages and towns for the opportunity to visit local wineries, artisans, museums, family guest houses, restaurants, historical sites and more. They are of different lengths, segments, difficulties and styles so that there is a cycling route to fit every interest, difficulty level, desired daily distance, location and schedule. This means that you have a lot of flexibility and many options to find a route that fits your interests, schedule and desired difficulty level.
The cycling route segments (30-55km each) that are intended to be completed in one day with accommodation, food and transport services available at the beginning and end of each segment. However, longer route segments also include an option to overnight along the way to break it into two days if you wanted to take your time, reduce the daily distance, and go at a slower pace to enjoy the different stops along the way. Alternatively, if you are a fast cyclist you could also combine a couple of segments into one day.
As each trail is well-marked you can cycle them in either direction, starting and finishing at either trailhead. Choose the starting point and direction that is most convenient for you depending upon your travel plans and itinerary in Moldova.
Moldova on Bikes has also been active marking new trails north of Chisinau that you can find here.
Accommodation, Food and Transport Services Along Cycling Routes
All of the featured Moldovan cycling routes are supported by accommodation, food and public transport services at the trailheads (start/end points), as well as along the route. The details for family guesthouses and wineries that offer rooms, hearty traditional Moldovan food, wine tasting, where to get water, and other services are included in each cycling route guide.
In addition, each cycling route’s start and end points are accessible by public bus so you can easily get to and from the trailheads from Chisinau or a nearby regional town. The availability of all these services for each cycling route segment means you have flexibility to select the best day or multi-day cycling trip that fits your needs, schedule and interests.
Bicycle Rentals in Moldova
Bicycles of different sizes are available to rent at the beginning and end of each route segment at either a guest house, winery or tourism office. These bicycle rental points are indicated in each of the cycling route guides. You will need to return the bicycle to the original rental point. If you would like to do a one-way cycling journey then a local tour operator may be able to help you with coordinating the bicycle tour and arranging returning your rental bicycle to the pickup spot.
You can also request specialized biking services for groups from Velopoint in Chisinau.
What to Take With You Cycling in Moldova
If you plan to do a day trip, then you don’t need to bring much with you — just some water and snacks. You can also ask at the guest house for a picnic lunch.
If you decide to cycle for one or more days with overnights in local accommodation, we recommend that you leave your luggage at the accommodation at the route starting point (or in Chisinau) and just take a small day pack with you with only the essentials (e.g., water bottle, toothbrush, change of clothes). The accommodation along the route will provide you with a hearty home-cooked meal and everything else you might need for a comfortable sleep.
Moldova Cycling Route Guides
Each recommended Moldova cycling route below is linked to a detailed guide with all the information you need to choose the right bike route for your interests and time, whether for a day trip or a multi-day cycling journey. You’ll find all the details on what you’ll see and experience on each cycling route in terms of landscapes and stops at cultural and historical sites. In addition, each cycling guide provides all of the logistical information you need on accommodation, food, and transport so you can easily plan, organize and make the most of your Moldova cycling trip.