Milestii Mici is the largest cellars of wine in the World! tour

This experience made our article of The 16 Best Wine Tours In Chisinau.

A Tour of the Largest Wine Cellars in the World: Milestii Mici Experience

When you think of Moldova, you might picture picturesque vineyards and rustic charm, but this tour takes you far beneath the surface—literally. For $89 per person, we get to explore the world’s largest cellar of wine, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records, located just 20 km south of Chisinau. This private excursion lasts about 3 to 4 hours and includes a comfortable drive, a guided underground journey, and a generous wine tasting. What makes this experience truly special is the chance to walk through endless underground streets named after wine varieties like Cabernet, Merlot, and Pinot, and to sample some of the finest Moldovan wines paired with local snacks.

Two standout aspects are the personalized nature of the private tour and the opportunity to discover rare vintage wines stored in the vast cellars. The fact that snacks and bottled water are included means you can relax and focus on the flavors, rather than worrying about logistics. Plus, the optional visits to ancient Moldovan monasteries could add a spiritual dimension to your trip, should you choose to extend your experience.

One consideration to keep in mind is that this tour requires booking at least six days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot. Also, while the tour is well-suited for most travelers, those with mobility issues should check with the provider about navigating underground pathways. Overall, if you’re a wine lover or simply curious about Moldova’s hidden treasures, this tour offers authentic, memorable moments in a uniquely impressive setting.

Key Points

• Largest Wine Cellars: Visit the Guinness World Record holder with an extensive underground network.
• Personalized Experience: A private guide ensures tailored attention and cultural insights.
• Wine & Food Pairing: Sample 3-4 premium wines paired with traditional Moldovan snacks.
• Convenient Transport: Private car pickup and drop-off from Chisinau make logistics simple.
• Unique Atmosphere: Walk streets named after wine varieties in a cool, historic underground city.
• Extra Options: Opportunity to visit two historic Moldovan monasteries.

Exploring Moldova’s Underground Wine World

If you’re traveling through Moldova, this Milestii Mici tour offers a fantastic way to combine culture, history, and tasting into a single memorable experience. The journey begins in Chisinau, where your private guide and driver pick you up from your accommodation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. As you head out of the city, your guide will likely share insights about Moldova’s wine heritage, which is surprisingly rich for a country that often sits under the radar for wine lovers.

Within about 30 minutes, you arrive at the gates of Milestii Mici, a sprawling complex that’s more than just a cellar—it’s a subterranean city of wine. The staff greets you warmly, and you’re given a brief overview of why this place has earned its Guinness World Record. This initial introduction sets the stage for what’s to come: a fascinating walk through underground streets like Cabernet, Merlot, and Pinot, each lined with bottles aged for decades.

The Underground Wine City

Once inside, you’ll spend roughly an hour exploring the vast tunnels and chambers. The temperature and humidity are carefully controlled, creating perfect conditions for aging wine. We loved the way the underground environment adds a sense of mystery and history—it’s easy to imagine how this could be a secret well-kept for generations. You’ll see prized bottles, vintage collections, and rare wines that have been stored for decades, offering a glimpse into Moldova’s winemaking prowess that’s often overlooked on the international stage.

Your guide will explain the storage conditions, emphasizing the steady temperature of around 12-14°C and the humidity levels that help preserve these treasures. Walking through these seemingly endless corridors, some travelers might feel like they’ve stepped into a wine labyrinth—and that’s exactly what makes this experience so memorable.

Tasting in Style

After the underground exploration, you’ll settle into an elegant tasting hall inside the cellar. Here, the focus is on sampling 3 to 4 wines, ranging from reds and whites to a sweet dessert wine. The guided tasting is both educational and enjoyable, with your guide providing tips on how to appreciate Moldovan wines and how to pair them with local snacks, such as cheese, bread, and cured meats.

Reviews highlight how well-organized and insightful the guide is; one said, “Well organized, good communication, and excellent English,” making the whole experience smooth and engaging. The wine itself is often praised—local wines are clearly of high quality, and the pairing snacks add a satisfying touch, transforming the tasting into a mini culinary experience.

Scenic Return and Reflection

After the tasting, your private driver will take you back to Chisinau, giving you a chance to reflect on the underground adventure. The ride offers scenic views of Moldova’s countryside, which might be a good moment to think about the country’s hidden gems and understated beauty.

Beyond the Cellars: Optional Monastery Visits

While the main focus is the wine cellar, the tour offers an optional extension to visit two ancient Moldovan monasteries. These visits could add a layer of cultural and historical depth, especially for those interested in Moldova’s religious architecture and traditions. Although not included in the standard itinerary, they can be a meaningful addition if time permits.

Valuing the Experience

At $89, this tour provides excellent value. The price includes transport, the underground tour, wine tastings, snacks, bottled water, and even a complimentary bottle of wine to take home. Considering the scale and uniqueness of Milestii Mici, it’s a reasonable investment for wine enthusiasts or curious travelers wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Moldova’s viticulture. The private nature of the tour means you’ll receive focused attention, making it more personalized than group excursions.

What truly elevates this experience is the combination of spectacular underground sights and quality wine. It’s not just a tasting; it’s an immersion into Moldova’s wine-making culture—something many visitors find unexpectedly charming and memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers, history buffs, and those interested in authentic cultural experiences. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy private tours, personalized attention, and learning about local traditions. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner, the relaxed, intimate setting makes for a delightful day out.

If you’re after a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience in Moldova, this tour provides a fascinating glimpse into a world most people never get to see—the underground vaults where history, culture, and wine intertwine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including transport, the underground walk, and tasting.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers private transportation, the underground cellar visit, wine tastings (3-4 wines), snacks, bottled water, and a gift bottle of wine.

Can I visit the monasteries during this tour?
Visiting the monasteries is optional and can be added depending on your schedule, but they are not part of the standard itinerary.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
It’s primarily focused on wine tasting, so non-drinkers can enjoy the sightseeing and snacks, but the main activity involves wine.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking at least 6 days in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised because you’ll explore underground tunnels, which can be cool and uneven in spots.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you have specific concerns about age or mobility.

Is there a dress code for the tasting?
No strict dress code, but neat and casual attire is appropriate.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 8 travelers, keeping the experience intimate and personalized.

Final Thoughts

This Milestii Mici wine tour offers a rare opportunity to see the largest underground wine collection in the world and enjoy some of Moldova’s best wines in a setting that’s both historic and atmospheric. From the guided underground walk through streets of wine to the tastings paired with local snacks, it’s a well-rounded experience that appeals to those seeking authentic, cultural adventures.

For wine enthusiasts or travelers who enjoy discovering hidden gems, this tour promises a memorable day in Moldova’s less-explored landscape. The combination of spectacular sights, knowledgeable guides, and quality wine makes it a stand-out choice.

In short, it’s an excellent value for those wanting a personalized, immersive, and fun introduction to Moldovan wine—a true highlight of any trip to Chisinau.