Exploring Moldova by Car: How to Use Carsharing Without the Hassle
Traveling through Moldova by car is one of the best ways to experience the country’s scenic landscapes, charming villages, and vibrant cities. While renting a traditional car can be expensive and time-consuming, carsharing offers a flexible and affordable alternative. In Chișinău, services like Getmancar make it easy for tourists and locals to rent a car on demand without the usual hassles.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using carsharing in Moldova—from registration and payment to local driving rules and insider tips.
Why Use Carsharing in Moldova?
1. Cost-Effective Compared to Traditional Rentals
No long-term commitments—pay only for the time you use the car.
No hidden fees (insurance and fuel are usually included).
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2. Convenience & Flexibility
Pick up and drop off cars anywhere within the service zone.
No need to wait in line at rental offices—just book via an app.
3. Access to Well-Maintained Cars
Carsharing fleets consist of modern, clean, and reliable vehicles.
No risk of getting an old or poorly maintained rental car.
4. Ideal for Short Trips & City Exploration
Perfect for day trips to Orheiul Vechi, Cricova Winery, or Transnistria.
Avoid the hassle of negotiating with taxi drivers or using public transport.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Carsharing in Chișinău
1. Download a Carsharing App
The most popular carsharing service in Moldova is Getmancar, but other options may also be available.
Getmancar App (iOS & Android)
Other local services (check for availability)
2. Registration & Verification
To sign up, you’ll need:
✅ A valid driver’s license (at least 1 year old).
✅ A passport or ID for identity verification.
✅ A credit/debit card for payments.
Note: If your license is not in Romanian or Russian, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
3. Finding & Booking a Car
Open the app and check the map for available cars.
Choose a vehicle that fits your needs (compact, SUV, etc.).
Reserve the car (some apps allow free short holds).
4. Unlocking & Starting Your Trip
Once near the car, unlock it via the app.
Check the car for any pre-existing damage (report it in the app if needed).
Start the engine and begin your journey.
5. Parking & Ending the Rental
Park in any legal spot within the service zone.
Lock the car via the app and confirm the end of the trip.
Payment is automatically processed.
How Much Does Carsharing Cost in Moldova?
Pricing typically includes:
Per-minute fee (~0.40 – 0.60 MDL/min).
Per-kilometer fee (~1.50 – 2.00 MDL/km).
Daily packages (cheaper for long rentals).
Example: A 2-hour trip covering 50 km might cost around 200-300 MDL (~$10-$15), which is often cheaper than taxis for the same distance.
Language Support & App Navigation
Most carsharing apps (including Getmancar) offer English, Romanian, and Russian language options.
Customer support is usually available via chat or phone.
Tip: If you’re unsure about parking rules, use Google Translate to read local signs.
Driving Rules & Tips for Moldova
1. Road Conditions
Chișinău has decent roads, but rural areas may have potholes.
Avoid speeding—traffic police frequently check.
2. Parking in Chișinău
Paid parking zones exist in the city center (~5-10 MDL/hour).
Look for blue lines indicating paid spots.
Avoid illegal parking to prevent fines.
3. Fuel & Charging Stations
Most carsharing cars come with a full tank (return with the same level).
Electric car options may require charging at designated stations.
4. Traffic & Safety
Drive defensively—local driving can be unpredictable.
Watch for pedestrians and stray animals in rural areas.
Best Day Trips from Chișinău by Carsharing
1. Orheiul Vechi (Old Orhei) (~1-hour drive)
A stunning historical complex with cave monasteries.
2. Cricova Winery (~30-minute drive)
Famous for its underground wine cellars.
3. Transnistria (Tiraspol) (~1.5-hour drive)
A breakaway region with Soviet-era landmarks.
4. Tipova Monastery (~1.5-hour drive)
A scenic riverside monastery carved into cliffs.
Real-Life Experiences & Tips from Travelers
✅ “Renting with Getmancar was so easy—I drove to Cricova Winery without any issues!” – Mark, UK
✅ “Cheaper than taxis and more flexible than buses. Perfect for Moldova’s countryside.” – Anna, Germany
✅ “The app was in English, and customer support helped me quickly when I had a question.” – David, USA
Pro Tips:
Book in advance during weekends/holidays.
Always check the car for damage before driving.
Use offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) in rural areas.
Final Thoughts: Is Carsharing Worth It in Moldova?
Absolutely! Whether you’re exploring Chișinău’s vibrant streets or venturing into Moldova’s picturesque countryside, getmancar.com/chisinau/carsharing offers a hassle-free, budget-friendly way to travel. With easy registration, transparent pricing, and 24/7 access to cars, it’s the perfect solution for both tourists and locals.
