A full day of Moldova’s highlights—Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei, and Cricova Winery—delivered in style, comfort, and intimate company. For around 20-37 euros, you get a well-paced, expertly guided trip that covers some of Moldova’s most iconic sites, including a stunning cave monastery, ancient ruins, and an underground wine city. We love how this tour packs so much into just one day; it’s the perfect way to get a true taste of Moldova’s spiritual, historical, and vinicultural soul.
Two standout features are the guided visits to Old Orhei, where you’ll walk through centuries of history and see monks still living in a cave monastery, and the Cricova wine cellars, with its labyrinth of underground streets named after wines—truly a wine lover’s paradise. The small-group format, limited to just seven travelers, ensures a more personal experience and plenty of time for questions and photos.
A possible consideration is the cost of wine tasting, which is not included in the package—so if you’re a wine enthusiast, be prepared for an extra expense. Also, this tour suits those who appreciate history, architecture, and wine; it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a leisurely day with lots of free time. Overall, if you want to combine cultural exploration with stunning scenery and a dash of Moldovan wine, this trip is a wise pick.
Key Points
- Authentic Experiences: Visit three top Moldova sites—monastery, archaeological site, and underground winery—all in one day.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Oleg are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share insights with humor and patience.
- Well-Paced Schedule: The 8-hour itinerary balances sightseeing and travel comfortably, with small-group intimacy.
- Cost-Effective: From €20 to €37, depending on your wine tasting package, offering good value considering the variety.
- Unique Locations: Highlights include the cave monastery at Old Orhei and the massive Cricova underground wine city.
- Authentic Moldovan Culture: The tour emphasizes local architecture, history, and traditions, making it more than just sightseeing.
Exploring Moldova’s Top 3: A Detailed Look
Planning more time in Old Orhei? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting with Curchi Monastery: A Spiritual Masterpiece
We begin our day at Curchi Monastery, a true jewel of Moldovan religious architecture. This monastic complex is renowned for its biggest monastic complex status and its stunning churches, especially the Virgins Assumption Cathedral. Built by the design of Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the same architect behind Russia’s Winter Palace, this monastery offers a glimpse into Moldova’s spiritual resilience and artistic ambition.
During our visit, we appreciated the tranquility of the grounds, the beautifully maintained frescoes, and the sense of history that emanates from every stone. The guide often points out details about the architecture and the monastery’s role through Moldova’s turbulent history. It’s a peaceful start that sets a reflective tone for the day.
Next Stop: Old Orhei—A Journey through Time
The highlight here is Old Orhei, an archaeological and historical treasure. We join a guided tour lasting about 1.5 hours, wandering through ruins of two medieval cities – from the 14th to 16th centuries. It’s remarkable to see how these ruins tell stories of Tatar settlers and their expansion into Europe. These remnants evoke a sense of the resilient communities that once thrived here.
But the most captivating part is the Orthodox Cave Monastery, built into the cliffs. Monks expanded and modified this space over centuries, creating a labyrinth of chapels and living quarters. We loved the way light filters through the windows, illuminating centuries-old frescoes and simple stone churches. The site still functions today, blending history with spirituality.
You’ll also get sweeping views of the valley, perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. The guide shares stories about how the monks used this isolated spot for prayer and contemplation, making it more than just an archaeological site. It’s a quiet testament to Moldova’s spiritual endurance.
Afternoon Delight: Cricova Underground Wine Cellars
After a morning of history and religion, it’s time for some wine—Moldova’s most famous export. At Cricova, you’ll tour over 70 streets of underground cellars covering 53 hectares. Each street has a name like Sauvignon or Cabernet, and you’ll walk through tunnels that resemble a quaint underground city.
The story about Yuri Gagarin, the Russian astronaut, getting lost in 1966 after a few drinks, adds a dash of humor to the visit. It’s said he spent the night in a tasting room named after him, which gives you a chuckle and a sense of the wine’s historic significance. You’ll also see the oldest bottle of wine from 1902, a tangible link to Moldova’s long winemaking tradition.
You can choose from different tasting packages—€25 for one glass of wine, or €37 for four, giving you a chance to sample Moldova’s finest. The guide will suggest pairing wines with local cheeses or delicacies, making the experience more immersive. Though the tasting fee isn’t included, the overall price still offers very good value considering the quality and scope of the cellar tour.
More Great Tours NearbyWho’s This Tour For?
This trip suits travelers who want to see Moldova’s essence in one day—history buffs, architecture lovers, and wine enthusiasts alike. It’s perfect if you prefer guided tours that handle transportation and logistics, freeing you to focus on the sights. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and many reviews praise guides like Oleg for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling ability.
While the tour isn’t tailored for children under four or those with mobility issues, older travelers who can handle walking and uneven surfaces will find it manageable. If you like a mix of outdoor sightseeing, culture, and tasting local wines, this tour delivers a satisfying snapshot of Moldova.
Practical Tips
- Book in advance: Tours are limited to seven participants, so secure your spot early.
- Prepare for walking: Some sites involve uneven terrain, especially at Old Orhei and within the caves.
- Bring extra cash: Wine tastings are paid separately, and prices range from €20 to €37 depending on your package.
- Dress comfortably: Modest clothing is respectful at religious sites, and comfortable shoes are a must.
- Consider the weather: Outdoor parts of the tour are best enjoyed in good weather; always check the forecast.
Final Thoughts
This Moldova tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending architectural beauty, ancient history, and world-class wine. The carefully curated stops mean you leave with a deeper understanding of Moldova’s culture and traditions, all while enjoying local hospitality and expert guiding. It’s a tour that balances value with quality, giving you a meaningful day without the frills or hype.
If you’re curious about Moldova’s past and present, enjoy small-group touring, and want a taste of authentic Moldovan wine and architecture, then this is the trip for you. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling, scenic views, and cultural depth over superficial sightseeing.
FAQs
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation in a comfortable van or car is included, which takes away the hassle of logistics.
How long does each stop last?
You’ll spend about 45 minutes at Curchi Monastery, 1.5 hours exploring Old Orhei, and additional time at Cricova for the cellar tour and tasting, making for a full but manageable day.
Can I visit Cricova for free?
No, the winery entrance fee and tasting are extra, with packages from €20 to €37 per person. You pay at the winery, either cash or card.
What should I wear?
Dress modestly and comfortably, especially at religious sites. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 or those with mobility impairments or claustrophobia, due to walking and cave environments.
How much wine can I taste?
Depending on the package you choose, you can taste one or four wines, with the tasting fee paid separately at Cricova.
Are there any restrictions on the group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 7 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While not specified, Moldova’s climate favors spring and early fall visits, when weather is mild and landscapes are especially beautiful.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, small-group tours are welcoming for solo travelers wanting to explore with others and have a knowledgeable guide.
What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of spectacular sites, expert guides like Oleg, and authentic experiences such as wine tasting and visiting a cave monastery make it a comprehensive Moldovan adventure.