How safe is Moldova for travelers?

Transnistria

• See the entry section. Consular help is very limited, insurance usually excludes it, and you are issued a paper slip you must keep.
• Photographing military or government installations there is a genuinely bad idea and people have been detained for it.
• Check current advice before deciding to go.

The Ukrainian border

• Moldova borders Ukraine and the war next door has practical effects - airspace routing, occasional debris incidents near the border, and a large refugee population.
• Check current travel advice before travelling to the eastern border regions.

Crime

• Violent crime against visitors is rare and Chisinau is a comfortable city.
• Pickpocketing at markets and the bus station is the usual level.
• Taxi overcharging is the standard complaint - use an app.

Roads

• Rural road quality is poor and unlit.
• Drink-driving enforcement is strict.