The Republic of Moldova is taking part for the third consecutive year in the Destination of the Year competition, 2026 edition, a large scale contest organized in Romania that also includes tourist destinations from the right bank of the Prut River. Nominations for the national stage remain open until January 15, and the public can propose destinations that stand out through their stories, experiences, and the efforts of local communities.
Valentin Ceban, Head of the Product Development and Tourism Infrastructure Section at the National Tourism Office, explained the rules of the national stage and the significance of Moldova participation during an interview on Radio Moldova program Zi de Zi.
Ceban said participation brings increased visibility on the Romanian market and internationally. He noted that the National Tourism Office actively promotes Moldova as a tourist destination and that competitions such as Destination of the Year help strengthen the country image abroad.
He added that expectations for the 2026 edition are high, with a focus on promoting destinations that have not previously received nominations.
This year edition introduces several changes, including a new category called Destinations of Inspiration. This category targets destinations that won the Destination of the Year title during the past three years in either Moldova or Romania.
Ceban explained that destinations that won in the past three years can no longer compete for the title, but they can take on a consultative role and nominate other destinations from their locality or region.
The competition includes eight categories open for public nominations:
- Cities That Inspire, for nationally significant municipalities;
- Spa and Tourist Resorts, open year round;
- Enchanted Lands, destinations based on nature, history, and traditions;
- Storybook Villages, small localities offering authentic rural experiences;
- Play and Adrenaline, a new category for recreational and sports attractions for families and children;
- Sanctuaries of History, including historical and spiritual heritage sites;
- Realm of Knowledge, dedicated to museums and educational institutions;
- Best Promotion, a special category for outstanding tourism promotion.
Ceban said the Realm of Knowledge category brings together institutions that promote science, art, and culture through exhibitions and interactive programs, noting that Moldovan museums fit well into this category.
The Best Promotion category does not involve public voting. Destinations apply individually by submitting a video of at least three minutes that highlights their promotional initiatives.
To qualify, destinations must operate year round, attract tourists, maintain an active social media presence, and have a functional website. Evaluators also assess investments made over the past two years, existing tourism infrastructure, development plans for 2026, and long term vision.
Ceban said each destination must clearly explain why it deserves recognition and what goals it pursues for the future.
Participation in the competition has already delivered results for Moldova. In 2023, the village of Valeni in Cahul district won the special title Destination of the Year in the Republic of Moldova, while Lower Prut Meadow received recognition in the Best Promotion category.
According to the organizers, winners benefit from increased visibility and stronger travel interest, showing that Destination of the Year provides real support for local communities and tourism entrepreneurs.
The National Tourism Office organizes the national competition with support from the Ministry of Culture, as Romania and the Republic of Moldova continue to promote their most inspiring places, stories, and travel experiences.