Got a winter trip planned to Moldova? Moldova can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 37°F (that's 3°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?
First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.
In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Moldova in winter—whether you're visiting Orheiul Vechi, touring Cricova Winery, visiting the villages of Capriana and Curchi, or exploring Lake Bardar.
What should women wear in Moldova in winter?
Moldova in winter is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: long-sleeved shirts, thermal baselayers, jeans, cardigans, and heavy coat. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Moldova has to offer.
Long-sleeved shirts
Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Moldova, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.
These are some of my favorites:
Thermal baselayers
As Moldova in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Moldova trip despite the cold weather.
Here are some of my favorites:
Jeans
You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Moldova, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.
Here are a few of my top picks:
Cardigans
A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Moldova in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.
These would be perfect:
Heavy coat
You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Moldova, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.
Why not grab yourself something new before you go:
What should men wear in Moldova in winter?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: thermal baselayers, heavy coat, cardigans, button-down shirts or polos, and jeans or khakis. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Moldova in comfort and style.
Thermal baselayers
As Moldova in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Moldova trip despite the cold weather.
I found these which would all work great:
Heavy coat
You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Moldova, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.
These are some of my favorites:
Cardigans
A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Moldova in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
Button-down shirts or polos
Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.
Why not treat yourself before you go:
Jeans or khakis
Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.
Here are some options I'd recommend:
FAQs
Is winter a good time to go to Moldova?
Winter is considered the low season in Moldova, as temperatures can get very cold. However, if you don't mind bundling up (or mostly just want to stick to indoor activities), winter can be a great time to enjoy Moldova without the crowds.
How do people typically dress in Moldova in winter?
People in Moldova dress in a variety of different ways depending on their personal style, the occasion, and the weather. However, many winter outfits you will see in Moldova typically include coats, scarves, and boots.
What should you NOT wear in Moldova in winter?
There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in Moldova. It's fine to dress casually when out and about, although it's still important to be respectful of cultural norms—especially when visiting sites of historical or religious significance. Some places may have their own dress code, so be sure to follow any local guidelines.
I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Moldova will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Moldova has to offer!