National Wine Day Celebrations In Moldova

Traveling in Moldova might not be on everyone’s radar, but for those seeking a genuinely different experience, this tour offers a delightful mix of wine, history, and oddities. For $1,152 per person, you’ll spend a week exploring Transnistria’s borderlands, underground wine cellars, and Soviet relics—all with a focus on authenticity and fun. Led by guides who know their stuff, you’ll taste world-class wines, enjoy hearty Moldovan food, and dance to Balkan beats, all while avoiding the tourist crowds that plague more popular European destinations.

What draws us most to this experience is how it combines an offbeat journey into Moldova’s underground wine tunnels with a peek into its Soviet-era history. Plus, the chance to visit Transnistria, a semi-recognized breakaway region that feels like stepping into a time capsule, promises a level of raw, unfiltered adventure. The cost also makes it surprisingly accessible—think cheap drinks, hearty meals, and memorable experiences without breaking the bank.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour involves some border crossings into Transnistria, which can be unpredictable at times, and is not suitable for children under 18. The pace is lively, with a lot packed into each day, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and plenty of tasting opportunities.

This tour is perfect for those eager to explore hidden Europe, uncovering places few travelers see, and who don’t mind getting a little off the beaten path. If you love wine, history, quirky sights, and lively local festivals, this adventure offers a genuine taste of Moldova’s unusual charm.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Combines wine tasting, Soviet nostalgia, and visiting Transnistria, a region that doesn’t often welcome travelers.
• Authentic Culture: No tourist traps—just genuine, unfiltered Moldovan life, food, and traditions.
• Underground Cellars: Visit Milestii Mici, the world’s largest wine cellar, featuring 200 km of tunnels and 2 million bottles.
• Affordable Luxury: Wines, beers, and food are priced so low you’ll be tempted to toast more than once.
• Travel Ease: Accommodation is in central hotels, with transport arranged between sites—no walking 200 km of tunnels on your own.
• Full Schedule: From Friday’s city exploration to Sunday’s Soviet relics, you’ll get a comprehensive look at Moldova’s hidden treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A vibrant journey through Moldova’s wine and weirdness

If you’re wondering what this tour is really like, we’ll start with the itinerary, then dig into why it’s a fantastic choice for travelers craving something different from the usual European fare.

Arrival in Chisinau and the First Night

We arrive in Moldova’s capital, Chisinau, welcomed by warm, leafy streets and a relaxed vibe. The hotel is centrally located, making it easy to stroll to local bars and cafes—perfect for getting a feel for Moldova’s laid-back pace. The first night is a welcome dinner featuring hearty meat stews, dumplings, and pies, giving a delicious glimpse of Moldova’s comfort food.

The evening kicks off with a bar crawl, where we sample dives and craft beer spots, including shots of divin, the local brandy. It’s a fun way to loosen up and get inside the local drinking culture. Our guide is quick with recommendations and stories, helping us understand how these spirits are woven into Moldovan life.

Celebrating National Wine Day

Saturday is the highlight—National Wine Day. The day begins with a big parade, folk music, and perhaps even a toast from the president himself. We stop for a Pie and wine snack—think of it as the most Moldovan breakfast—before heading to a craft beer tasting that showcases Moldova’s growing brewing scene.

The afternoon is spent at Milestii Mici, a staggering 200 km of underground tunnels, holding what is believed to be the world’s largest wine cellar. It’s an eerie, cool labyrinth filled with millions of bottles—a surreal experience that makes you feel like you’re walking through a wine museum on steroids. Our guide explains that this site is a UNESCO-listed site, and it’s easy to see why.

Evening festivities feature a lively festival with wines from across Moldova, Balkan-Eurovision-esque performances, and plenty of dancing with locals. The atmosphere is contagious, and we find ourselves clinking glasses and trying new wines—an experience that’s as much about the culture as the taste.

Exploring Transnistria: The Land That Doesn’t Exist

Sunday takes us into Transnistria, a breakaway region that “technically” doesn’t exist, making it one of Europe’s most unusual destinations. We cross borders with border checks, passing Lenin statues and Soviet flags—a reminder you’re stepping into a different world. The city of Tiraspol features wide boulevards, Soviet-style architecture, and quirky war memorials.

The Bottle Museum is a highlight, with over 10,000 bottles, including some shaped like animals and even Jeremy Corbyn. At the Back to the USSR café, we indulge in dumplings, borscht, and vodka, experiencing the rustic charm of this forgotten corner of Europe.

The day wraps up with a Kvint Brandy tasting, where vintage spirits smooth as Sinatra demonstrate Moldova’s long tradition of quality spirits. Returning to Chisinau, we hit a wild bar crawl with karaoke and a lively, unpretentious atmosphere.

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Days of Wine & Weirdness

Monday is dedicated to Cricova Winery, home to 120 km of underground tunnels—more than enough to feel like exploring an underground city. The winery’s expansive tunnels are filled with bottles from every era, making it a perfect spot for wine lovers and history buffs alike.

In the afternoon, our guide takes us on a tour of Soviet relics—abandoned hotels, the Cosmos Hotel, and brutalist tower blocks—offering a contrasting view of Moldova’s recent history. This side of the tour truly adds depth to the experience, showing how the past still echoes through present-day Moldova.

The Final Day: Local Festivities and Farewell

Tuesday offers a surprise event—perhaps a countryside feast or a visit to a Soviet bunker—keeping the atmosphere unpredictable and fun. Spend your last hours shopping for Soviet coins, Lenin busts, or large wine bottles to take home.

The farewell dinner is a feast of local dishes, with endless toasts and shared laughter, often ending with a collective vow to return. As we leave, it’s clear that this tour offers more than just wine tasting; it’s a full immersion into Moldova’s personality—quirky, warm, and surprisingly rich in stories.

Why this tour offers real value

The cost of $1,152 per person covers accommodation, all tastings, transport, and guides—which is quite a bargain when you consider the number of experiences packed into these seven days. The inclusion of a free bottle of Moldovan wine per day is a lovely touch, encouraging you to sip and savor.

Travelers will appreciate how well-organized the schedule is, with transportation arranged to comfortably cover 200 km of tunnels and border crossings. The guide’s local knowledge makes these trips more insightful, and the balance of structured activities and free time means you can explore or relax as you see fit.

While the tour is not suited for children under 18 and involves some border crossings, for adults looking for a unique, offbeat adventure, it offers a chance to see Europe’s least-visited corner with genuine local flavor.

The Sum Up: Who should consider this tour?

This Moldova-focused adventure is ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventurers eager to see a region often overlooked by mainstream tourism. If you enjoy authentic experiences, quirky sights, and having stories to tell for years, this trip will be right up your alley. The value for money is impressive, especially given the access to world-class wineries and Soviet relics.

It’s especially suited for those who aren’t afraid of a little border crossing, or who want to understand Moldova beyond its reputation as Europe’s “hidden gem.” If you’re looking for a fun, lively, and memorable way to spend a week exploring Europe’s lesser-known treasures, this tour offers a compelling package.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the tour involves plenty of tastings, non-drinkers can still enjoy the sightseeing, food, and cultural aspects. However, be aware that alcohol is a significant part of the experience, so communicate with your guide if you prefer to skip tastings.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the accommodation is in central hotels in Chisinau, avoiding the less comfortable Soviet-era hostels or bunk beds. Travelers have described the hotels as conveniently located and comfortable.

How much walking is involved?
Most walking is manageable, with some exploration of underground tunnels and city streets. The tour is designed to be enjoyable without excessive walking, but comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I extend my stay in Moldova after the tour?
Absolutely. Moldova is a small country, and many travelers choose to spend extra days exploring more wineries, the capital, or the countryside.

Is the border crossing into Transnistria complicated?
Border checks are part of the experience, and while they might add some time, guides are experienced at managing the process. Keep your documents handy.

What language do guides speak?
All guides speak English, ensuring smooth communication and explanations throughout the trip.

What is the main focus of this tour?
The tour emphasizes wine, local culture, and Soviet relics, offering a well-rounded look at Moldova’s most interesting attractions.

What makes this tour stand out from other European wine tours?
Its focus on Transnistria, underground wine cellars, and the chance to see authentic Soviet-era sights make this a truly unique experience different from typical vineyard visits.

This journey through Moldova promises a blend of wine, history, and quirky sights—a rare chance to see a part of Europe often hidden behind a veil of soviet nostalgia and untouched by mass tourism. For travelers eager for genuine adventure and a toast or two along the way, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: