This Transnistrian capital has Soviet-era landmarks, including Lenin statues. Visitors can explore a cognac distillery, watch football at Sheriff Stadium, and enjoy the Dniester River.
Tiraspol, the capital of Transnistria, showcases Soviet-era landmarks such as Lenin statues and trolleybuses. You can visit Sheriff Stadium, explore the local cognac distillery, and enjoy the Dniester River.
Reaching Tiraspol from Moldova
To reach Tiraspol from Moldova, take a bus from Chișinău's central station. The journey involves crossing the Moldova-Transnistria border, where officials will check your documents but not stamp your passport. Officials will give you a small paper slip with your details and permitted length of stay—keep this until you depart. The bus continues through the town of Bender, crosses the Dniester River, and arrives in central Tiraspol. The entire trip from Chișinău typically takes about two hours.
Navigating Tiraspol's Unique Currency Situation
Tiraspol uses the Transnistrian ruble, a currency not recognized outside the region. You can exchange euros, Moldovan lei, or Romanian lei at numerous exchange offices throughout the city. The exchange rate is approximately €1 to 17.35 Transnistrian rubles (as of early 2024). While some places may accept other currencies, having local money on hand for most transactions is advisable. Remember that you won't be able to use or exchange Transnistrian rubles once you leave the region.
Sheriff Stadium: Modern Football Venue
The Sheriff Stadium serves as the home ground for FC Sheriff Tiraspol and seats 14,300 spectators. FC Sheriff has won several Moldovan league titles and cups. In 2021, the team made headlines by defeating Real Madrid in a Champions League match. If you enjoy football, attending a game here gives you insight into Transnistrian sports.
Soviet Monuments in Tiraspol's Center
The central square of Tiraspol features a statue of Alexander Suvorov on horseback, honoring the city's founder. Nearby stands a statue of Vladimir Lenin in front of the Transnistrian government building. A T-34 tank memorializes World War II, and an eternal flame honors those who defended and liberated the city. These monuments reflect Transnistria's continued use of Soviet symbols and history.
