Travelling to Moldova?

Secure the best rates for Moldovan leu online

Embark on your Moldovan adventure with prepared by ordering your Moldovan leu from Manor FX today. 

Our exceptional Moldovan leu exchange rate means more leu in your pocket to enrich your travel experience. 

Have your Moldovan money delivered securely to your home or office, or pick it up from our bureau de change near Heathrow.

Experience swift and hassle-free online ordering with Manor FX for your Moldovan currency.

Moldovan travel money:

Moldova, a charming destination in Eastern Europe, awaits your visit. Understanding the nuances of cash and card payments is essential for a smooth trip. So read on!

Where can you buy Moldovan leu?

The Moldovan leu (MDL) is a minor currency not commonly found in local banks or exchange offices outside Moldova. Planning ahead is key. 

We stock Moldovan leu at excellent exchange rates. Plus, you get the convenience of having your Moldovan leu delivered to your doorstep. We aim to simplify your currency exchange experience.

Alternatively, visit our Manor FX bureau near Heathrow for a personal service while still enjoying our great rates.

Can you buy Moldovan leu in the UK?

As an exotic currency, it’s not as readily available as more common currencies. Only specialist exchange offices are likely to stock Moldovan leu. 

Make your life easier by ordering your Moldovan currency online today! Our process is straightforward, and we offer free delivery for orders over £750.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Moldova?

Yes, having some local currency, the Moldovan leu is wise. Especially for immediate expenses like transport or small purchases when you arrive in Moldova.

What’s the best currency to take to Moldova?

The best currency for your Moldovan trip is undoubtedly the Moldovan leu.

You could also carry a small amount of euros or US dollars. You can easily exchange these into leu if needed. However, the Moldovan leu is the best option for most of your spending needs.

Do they accept euros in Moldova?

While the euro is not an official currency in Moldova, some tourist areas might accept euros. Especially in large hotels and certain businesses, particularly in the capital city, Chișinău. 

However, acceptance isn’t widespread, and where it is, the exchange rate might not be favourable.

Can I use US dollars in Moldova?

Using US dollars for everyday transactions in Moldova is generally not possible.

Can I use my bank card in Moldova?

Bank cards, including international debit and credit cards, are fine in larger Moldovan cities. However, in more remote areas, cash is best. Having some leu on hand is advisable for such instances.

Helpful tip: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues during your trip.

Should I use cash in Moldova?

Cash is essential in Moldova, especially in rural areas or with vendors who may not accept card payments. Taxi drivers, small vendors, and tour guides often prefer cash. It’s a good idea to carry some Moldovan leu for these situations.

In larger cities and tourist spots, card payments are more common. However, it’s still beneficial to have some cash.

Handy hint: Small denominations and coins are useful for tipping in Moldova.

Is it better to use cash or credit card in Moldova?

Both cash and credit cards are helpful in Moldova.

• Cash is handy in smaller towns or markets where card payments might not be possible. It’s also great for small purchases.
• Credit cards can be useful in larger cities and tourist areas. 

A mix of cash and a credit or debit card is ideal.

Is Moldova cheap or expensive?

Moldova is one of the more affordable travel destinations in Europe.

Accommodation

Moldova offers a range of budget-friendly options, especially compared to Western European standards. Hostels and budget hotels are pretty affordable; even mid-range hotels typically offer good value for money.

Food and dining 

Eating out in Moldova can be very economical, especially if you choose local eateries and street food. Traditional Moldovan dishes and local wines are both delicious and reasonably priced. 

Upscale dining options are also available at a fraction of the cost you might expect in more expensive European countries.

Transport

Public transport within cities and towns in Moldova is cheap. Taxis are also quite affordable, especially compared to Western European rates. For longer distances, buses and trains are cost-effective options.

Attractions and activities

Many of Moldova’s attractions, such as its historic sites, parks, and museums, are free or have very low entrance fees. 

Wine tours, a popular activity in the country, offer good value for the experience they provide.

Overall living costs

Moldova’s day-to-day expenses, such as groceries and basic services, are relatively low. Especially compared to many other European countries.

How much cash should I take to Moldova?

It depends on your travel style and planned activities. Here are some budget guidelines for different travel styles:

Budget travel:

• Daily spend: Approximately 700-800 MDL (around £30-£35).
• What it covers:
  • Staying in hostels or budget accommodations.
  • Eating at local, inexpensive eateries or street food.
  • Using public transport.
  • Free or low-cost activities like visiting parks or museums with minimal entry fees.
• Ideal for: Backpackers or those who prefer a more adventurous, cost-effective travel experience.

Mid-range travel:

• Daily spend: About 1,400-1,600 MDL (roughly £60-£70).
• What it covers:
  • Comfortable hotels or guesthouses.
  • Dining at mid-range restaurants.
  • Occasional taxi rides or car rentals.
  • Paid experiences like guided tours or wine tastings.
• Ideal for: Travellers who enjoy a balance of comfort and exploration without the extravagance of luxury travel.

Luxury travel:

• Daily spend: Around 2,500-3,000 MDL (approximately £105-£130).
• What it covers: 
  • Staying in high-end hotels or resorts.
  • Dining at upscale restaurants.
  • Private tours, taxi or private car services for transportation.
  • More exclusive experiences.
• Ideal for: Those seeking a more indulgent, comfortable, and leisurely travel experience with premium services.

It’s always wise to carry a little extra for unforeseen expenses. 

Returning with leftover currency? Convert your Moldovan leu back to pounds with us.

How can I avoid ATM fees in Moldova?

Here are tips to save on ATM fees:

• Use ATMs from major networks like Visa or Mastercard for potentially lower fees.
• Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to reduce fees.
• Always withdraw in MDL to avoid higher fees with dynamic currency conversion.
• Pre-exchange some pounds to Moldovan leu with us to avoid ATM hassles altogether.

How does tipping work in Moldova?

Here’s a quick guide:

• Restaurants and cafés: A 10% tip is customary unless service charge is included.
• Bars: Rounding up or small change is appreciated.
• Hotels: Small tips for housekeepers and porters are considerate.
• Tour guides and drivers: Customary to tip for their services.
• Taxi drivers: Rounding up the fare is a friendly gesture.
• Other services: Around 10% tip for hairdressers, spa attendants, etc.

Not tipping isn’t rude, but it’s a nice way to show appreciation.

Yes! You can buy Moldovan leu in the UK from us here at Manor FX. 

Moldovan currency: 

Banknotes in Moldova

Moldovan leu banknotes come in various denominations, commonly 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and sometimes 1000 leu. Each denomination has a different colour and size, making it easy to distinguish them.

The designs on the banknotes feature prominent Moldovan historical figures, cultural symbols, and architectural landmarks. The 1 leu note often depicts a historical figure on the front and cultural or architectural imagery on the back.

Moldovan banknotes have security features to prevent counterfeiting. These features may include watermarks, security threads, see-through registers, and special inks that change colour when tilted. The higher the denomination, the more complex the security features tend to be.

The banknotes are user-friendly. They include features that aid in distinguishing denominations for those with visual impairments.

Coins in Moldova

In Moldova, coins are also an integral part of the currency system alongside the banknotes. 

The coins are denominated in Moldovan lei (singular: leu) and bani (singular: ban)

Commonly used coin denominations include 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 bani. There are also 1 leu and 2 lei coins, with 100 bani making up 1 leu.

Moldovan coins typically feature the national coat of arms, symbols of Moldovan culture, or important historical figures. The design varies with each denomination, often including elements that reflect Moldova’s heritage and national identity.

The size and material of the coins vary by denomination. Generally, the coin’s value correlates with its size — higher denominations are usually larger.

Coins are great for smaller transactions. You’ll use them to buy things from local markets, pay for public transport, or make small purchases in shops and cafes.

Like banknotes, Moldovan coins often have features that make them distinguishable by touch, which is helpful for visually impaired individuals.

Have you got leftover Moldovan coins? Our sister company, Leftover Currency, can exchange them back to pounds for you.

Moldova’s currency import and export regulations

Import regulations:

There aren’t any restrictions on the amount of foreign or domestic currency you can bring into Moldova. If you are carrying an amount equivalent to or exceeding 10,000 euros (or its equivalent), you must declare it.

Export regulations:

When leaving Moldova, you can take the equivalent of 10,000 euros out without declaring it. 

If you’re exporting more than 10,000 euros, you must declare it. You’ll need to prove that the money was either legally imported into Moldova, withdrawn from a bank account in Moldova, or legally acquired during your stay in the country.

Ordering Moldovan leu online

With Manor FX, you can conveniently exchange your GBP to Moldovan leu online. Have them swiftly and securely delivered to your home or office with Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®. 

Alternatively, you can collect them from our travel money shop near Heathrow. Click here to buy Moldovan leu online.

Selling back Moldovan leu

If you want to convert Moldovan leu to pounds, follow this link to exchange MDL to GBP. Click on ‘sell currency’ and select ‘MDL Moldovan leu’. We’ll offer competitive rates for your leftover Moldovan leu.

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