FERM 2025 | Ana ȘANDRA (Acting Director, National Tourism Office): “The Republic of Moldova stands out through authentic tourism experiences, integrated into a modern and competitive vision.”
100 economic opportunities for the development of the Moldova Region on the A7 Highway route
REGIONAL ECONOMIC FORUM MOLDOVA 2025
19th Edition – Vatra Dornei, July 9–13, 2025
Thematic Panel:
Tourism and Destination Development in the Moldova Region
Speaker:
Ana Șandra – Acting Director, National Tourism Office of the Republic of Moldova
Intervention topic:
“Republic of Moldova – traditions, customs, wine and digital transformation”
Within Panel 7 “Tourism and Destination Development in the Moldova Region”, Ana Șandra, Acting Director of the National Tourism Office of the Republic of Moldova, highlighted both the cultural and wine heritage of the Republic of Moldova and new development directions, including digitalization and medical tourism.
Tourism – a strategic objective for the Republic of Moldova
In her opening remarks, Ana Șandra emphasized the need to strengthen regional cooperation, stressing that tourism development must be seen as part of a joint effort for economic and cultural progress.
“We have many things to achieve together, and the desire to develop culture, tourism and the economy represents objectives that we share.”
In this context, she presented the role of the National Tourism Office (NTO) as a strategic institution responsible for coordinating and promoting inbound and domestic tourism. At the same time, NTO supports entrepreneurs in the field in developing skills and in creating tourism products and services that are competitive and aligned with European quality standards.
Why choose the Republic of Moldova as a tourist destination?
Ana Șandra presented the Republic of Moldova as a unique tourist destination, where cultural heritage, living traditions and innovation blend into a diverse and competitive offer.
The Republic of Moldova is a small country, but with an impressive diversity. From the languages spoken – Romanian, Russian, English, as well as Gagauz, Ukrainian or Bulgarian – to our traditions, gastronomy and hospitality, every visitor can discover a world of its own.”
One of the country’s strengths is cultural and traditional tourism. Festivals, crafts and local dishes reflect the authenticity and identity of the Moldovan people.
“We have living traditions, festivals and crafts that not only tell the story of Moldova, but also offer authentic experiences to every tourist.”
At the same time, wine tourism remains the country’s calling card. The Republic of Moldova is ranked among the top 10 wine destinations worldwide, with over 200 wineries and unique collections.
“Wine is part of our cultural DNA. Visitors who enter Mileștii Mici or Cricova do not only discover award-winning wines, but step into an underground universe unique in the world.”
The tourist calendar of the Republic of Moldova is completed by over 40 annual festivals and events, among which the National Wine Day holds a central place.
“The National Wine Day is more than an event – it is a celebration of our identity, a moment to open our doors to the world.”
The Republic of Moldova also relies on nature and ecotourism. Reserves such as Orheiul Vechi, Lower Prut, Pădurea Domnească or Butești Gorges are becoming increasingly attractive to tourists, as are adventure activities: kayaking, SUPing, cycling, hiking, camping or aerial sports.
The capital city Chișinău complements the tourist image with its mix of tradition and modernity.
“Chișinău offers visitors wine cellars, diverse gastronomy, opera and ballet, but also modern infrastructure adapted to the highest standards.”
Not least, a sector in full expansion is medical tourism, where the Republic of Moldova is becoming a serious competitor on the international market.
“Dentistry, in vitro fertilization and plastic surgery are just some of the fields in which our specialists excel. It is no coincidence that the Republic of Moldova holds the presidency of the Global Council for Health Tourism.”
Tourist routes – bridges over the Prut
A central element of Ana Șandra’s speech was the presentation of national and cross-border tourist routes, developed in partnership with Romania and other European states. These are not just travel itineraries, but true “cultural and economic bridges over the Prut”, meant to connect the traditions and heritage of the Republic of Moldova with the European space.
“Tourist routes are not just itineraries for visitors, but living links between communities, between past and present, between the Republic of Moldova and Europe.”
Among the most important routes are:
- The Moldovan Wine Route – affiliated with the European Cultural Routes, includes 40 visitable wineries, gastronomic experiences and cultural attractions.
“Moldovan wine is not just a product, but a story written in every winery and shared with every tourist.”
- The Route of Stephen the Great – bringing together fortresses, monasteries and historical monuments, certified and recognized internationally.
“It is a route that speaks about history, but also about our identity, about the values that connect us to the Romanian and European space.”
- The Wooden Churches Route – a common heritage of the Republic of Moldova and Romania, awarded as a sustainable cultural destination.
- The Craftsmen’s Route – dedicated to traditional art and local artisans, meant to offer visitors authentic experiences.
- The Gastronomic Route – a new initiative promoting the cultural-culinary connection between Moldova and Romania.
“Gastronomy is a universal language, and this route helps us tell Moldova’s story through shared tastes and traditions.”
Tourism digitalization – a step towards the future
In her presentation, the Acting Director of NTO highlighted the essential role of digitalization in tourism development, presenting tools already implemented and appreciated by visitors.
Among the most relevant are:
- Village Travel Bot – a Telegram app, available in over 40 languages, allowing tourists to discover destinations, guesthouses and restaurants based on their location.
- The official portal turism.gov.md – updated daily, provides information and recommendations in Romanian, Russian and English, facilitating quick access to travel news and opportunities.
- Eco-App for sustainable tourism – developed through international partnerships, supports trail marking and the creation of digital guides, promoting responsible and eco-friendly tourism.
“We cannot talk about tourism development without integrating digital tools. Digitalization makes us more visible, more accessible and more competitive internationally.”
Moldova – small in territory, great in experience
Ana Șandra extended an open invitation to participants and to all those interested in discovering the charm of the Republic of Moldova. She emphasized that beyond its geographical size, the country compensates with the richness of its cultural, tourist and human experiences.
“Moldova is a very small country, but it has a very big heart. There are so many things to see and experience here. You are always welcome in the Republic of Moldova to spend your time.”
Conclusion
Ana Șandra clearly emphasized that the Republic of Moldova is at a crucial moment of asserting and diversifying its tourism offer. The country harmoniously combines authentic traditions and cultural heritage with modern experiences of adventure, gastronomy and winemaking, creating a complete and competitive tourism portfolio at international level.
Digitalization initiatives, thematic routes and sustainable promotion demonstrate a strategic vision oriented towards increasing tourist attractiveness and strengthening the image of the Republic of Moldova as a top destination in Eastern Europe. Tourism is not only an economic opportunity, but also a cultural and social vector, which facilitates regional cooperation, enhances local identity and stimulates community development.
Thus, the Republic of Moldova positions itself as a destination that offers a complete experience: from relaxation and cultural discovery to adventure, innovation and direct interaction with the authenticity of the place. Tourism thus becomes a strategic development pillar, capable of generating long-term economic, cultural and regional impact.
