Chisinau, Moldova’s lively capital, is a surprisingly great place for wine tours. Its proximity to some of the world’s largest wine cellars — like the Milestii Mici — and the chance to explore historic sites like Old Orhei make it a top destination for wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re into underground labyrinths, scenic vineyards, or cultural landmarks, there’s a tour that suits your style. We particularly like the full-day Best of Moldova tour — it combines wine tasting at Cricova with visits to Old Orhei and the stunning Curchi Monastery, giving a well-rounded taste of Moldova’s culture and viniculture. For a more intimate experience, the private Cricova underground Winery – with wine tasting offers personalized service and a chance to explore the cellar at your own pace.
Quick Overview
The list below features a variety of tours blending wine tasting, archaeological exploration, and cultural visits. You’ll find full-day excursions like Best of Moldova: Cricova Winery & Old Orhei, combining multiple sites, as well as shorter, more focused trips such as Milestii Mici Underground Winery Tour INCLUDING Wine tasting. There are private options, themed biking adventures, and even tours that include Transnistria, Moldova’s autonomous breakaway region. Each offers something different in terms of depth, exclusivity, and experience style.
1. Best of Moldova: Cricova Winery & Old Orhei Tour including Curchi Monastery
This full-day tour is a favorite for its blend of wine, history, and architecture. Start by visiting Cricova Winery, famously set 60-80 meters underground, forming a sprawling labyrinth of wine cellars you can explore for 2.5 hours. The wine tasting included here is a highlight, with guests savoring local reds and whites in a truly unique setting. The tour also incorporates a visit to the Old Orhei archaeological complex, with its cave monasteries and ancient ruins, perfect for history lovers. The last stop, the Curchi Monastery, offers insight into Moldova’s religious heritage with its impressive architecture. The tour is offered in multiple languages and is praised for its well-organized nature, with reviews often noting the friendly guides and smooth logistics. Expect a comfortable, enriching experience in Moldova’s cultural heartland.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those craving a full immersion into Moldova’s wine culture and historical sites, with a flexible group setting and excellent reviews.
2. From Chisinau: Old Orhei complex and Cricova Wine Tasting
This 7-hour tour offers a perfect snapshot of Moldova’s highlights, combining the Old Orhei archaeological complex with a visit to Cricova Winery. The underground galleries of Cricova stretch over 120 km, and during this guided tour, you’ll explore caves, rock monasteries, and learn about Moldovan wine production. The experience includes wine and sparkling wine tastings and a traditional lunch at a rural guesthouse. What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to taste 4 wines plus one sparkling wine, making it a wine lover’s dream. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the intimate feel of the group, often noting the stunning underground tunnels and the authenticity of the Moldovan countryside.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a compact, well-rounded day with a mix of archaeology, wine, and local hospitality.
3. Milestii Mici Underground Winery Tour INCLUDING Wine tasting
Just 20 km south of Chisinau, Milestii Mici boasts the world’s largest wine cellar, with over 200 km of underground tunnels holding nearly 2 million bottles. This 4-hour tour focuses on the vast underground complex, where you’ll walk through cool, dark corridors lined with aging wine. The guided tour includes tasting three different wines and traditional Moldovan dishes like bruschetta, all while learning about local viticulture. The highlight is the sheer scale of the cellar, officially recognized by the Guinness World Records. Guests often comment on how impressive the bottle collection and the history behind it are. The tour is a great value considering the extensive underground environment and the excellent wine selection.
Bottom Line: A must-do for wine collectors and those interested in the largest wine cellar in the world, offering a memorable tasting experience.
4. Chisinau: Cricova Wine tour & Old Orhei Archeological Complex
This full-day adventure combines Moldova’s top two attractions: the underground Cricova Winery and the Old Orhei archaeological complex. The tour begins with a guided visit through Cricova’s extensive tunnels, tasting some of Moldova’s best wines. Then, at Old Orhei, explore ancient ruins, cave monasteries, and natural scenery. The tour also visits the Bodie Cave Monastery, adding a spiritual and architectural dimension. Perfect for history and wine lovers alike, this trip provides a rundown of Moldova’s cultural landscape. Reviewers highlight the personal touch of guides and the ability to see multiple sites without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want an all-in-one experience that covers both wine and historical sites comfortably.
5. Cricova underground Winery – with wine tasting
This private luxury wine tasting tour is perfect for those seeking an intimate experience. With private transfers and a personalized guide, you’ll explore Cricova’s underground maze of tunnels and learn about the complex winemaking processes, including sparkling wine production. Guests get to sample multiple wines, enjoy nuts and biscuits, and have plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere. The tour is especially suited for couples or small groups wanting a tailored experience. Reviewers praise the guide’s professionalism and the exclusive nature of the tour, making it feel special compared to larger group visits.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wine connoisseurs or travelers celebrating a special occasion.
6. New! All Moldova: Cricova Winery, Old Orhei and Curchi in one day
This all-in-one package covers Cricova’s underground cellars, the Old Orhei archaeological complex, and the Curchi Monastery. The full-day, private tour takes you through Moldova’s key religious and wine sites, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your pace. Highlights include the impressive Curchi Monastery, renowned for its architecture, and the extensive underground wine caves of Cricova. The guides are praised for their local knowledge and personal touch. This tour offers great value and convenience, especially for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of planning logistics.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culturally curious travelers wanting a comprehensive, personalized experience.
7. Transdniestria Tour & Milestii Mici Winery
This adventurous 7-hour tour explores Transnistria, Moldova’s unrecognized breakaway region, along with a visit to Milestii Mici. It’s ideal for those interested in exploring beyond the usual tourist spots, combining Soviet-era sights like Tiraspol and Bender Fortress with Moldova’s premier underground wine cellar. The tour is small, with a maximum of six people, providing a personal and flexible experience. Reviewers mention how the guide’s friendliness and local insights make the experience memorable. It balances wine, history, and culture in a way that’s perfect for travelers looking for something a bit different.
Bottom Line: A distinctive option for those wanting to experience Moldova’s complex political landscape alongside top-tier wine.
8. Moldova: Wine tour to Mileștii Mici cellar with Tasting
This 4-hour tour offers a deep dive into Mileștii Mici, the largest wine cellar in the world. You’ll walk through the 200 km of underground galleries, see the vast collection of bottles, and enjoy a wine tasting featuring three types of wine and snacks. It’s a straightforward, value-packed option perfect for a quick yet thorough experience of Moldova’s winemaking prowess. Travelers appreciate the tour’s efficiency and the impressive scale of the cellar.
Bottom Line: Great for those short on time but eager to see the largest wine collection on Earth.
9. Chisinau: Transnistria Soviet Era & Castle Mimi Winery by car
This 6.5-hour full-day tour combines Castle Mimi Winery with a trip into Transnistria, Moldova’s breakaway republic. It explores Soviet relics, including Tiraspol’s monuments and Bender Fortress. The castle and winery offer a mix of history, architecture, and wine tasting. Reviewers enjoy the local stories and the relaxed pace, making it suitable for travelers interested in both wine and Cold War history. The tour includes wine tasting at Castel Mimi and visits to key sites, all with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Suitable for history buffs and wine lovers seeking a relaxed, informative day outside Chisinau.
10. 4 Hours Cricova Winery Tour with Tasting
This shorter tour offers a taste of Cricova’s underground gallery with a focus on sparkling wines made via traditional methods. You’ll explore tunnels, see the wine production areas, and sample 4 different wines, including sparkling varieties. It’s an excellent option for travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful wine experience. Reviewers highlight the fascinating tunnels and the high-quality tastings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those curious about sparkling wine and who prefer a condensed but enriching visit.
11. Biking a Guinness Book Winery
For active travelers, this 3-hour bike tour of Milestii Mici offers a fun way to experience Moldova’s largest wine cellar. Pedal through the vast tunnels, see the bottles, and finish with a guided wine tasting. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine exercise with wine exploration. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make it personal and engaging. Reviewers mention the impressive scale and how the biking adds a memorable twist.
Bottom Line: A unique, energetic way to see the world’s largest wine collection, especially suited for active travelers.
12. MIMI Castle with wine Tasting
This 3-hour tour takes you to Castel Mimi, Moldova’s most famous castle, known for its architecture and vineyard. You’ll tour the winery, learn about its history dating back to 1893, and enjoy a wine tasting. An upgrade option includes sampling local wines and snacks. It’s a convenient half-day trip focused on history, architecture, and wine. Reviewers praise the guide’s storytelling and the beautiful setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a quick visit to a historic castle with quality wine tasting.
13. Chisinau Car City Tour and Milestii Mici Winery
This 5-hour tour combines city highlights of Chisinau with a visit to Milestii Mici. You’ll see parks, memorials, and neighborhoods, then venture underground to explore the world’s largest wine cellar. It’s a good choice for those who want a quick city overview plus a memorable wine experience. Reviewers appreciate the personalized guiding and the chance to combine sightseeing and wine in one trip.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers interested in both urban exploration and Moldova’s winemaking.
14. Cricova Winery – Old Orhei & Cave Monastery
This 6-hour tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience, visiting Cricova’s cellar, Old Orhei, and a cave monastery. It’s perfect for those wanting an in-depth look at Moldova’s archaeology, religious sites, and wine culture. The guided visits include wine tasting and free time at Old Orhei, making it flexible for different interests. Reviewers mention how well the guide personalized the experience, making it memorable.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a balanced mix of wine, history, and religious architecture.
15. Chisinau: Milesti Mici largest wine collection in the world
This 3-hour tour focuses on the largest wine collection globally. Walk through the 200 km of underground tunnels, see bottles dating back decades, and taste a selection of wines, including sparkling varieties. It’s a quick but immersive experience, perfect for wine lovers wanting to marvel at the scale of Moldova’s wine industry.
Bottom Line: Short on time but big on impact, offering a deep look into Moldova’s wine storage marvel.
16. Milestii Mici is the largest cellars of wine in the World! tour
This private tour emphasizes personalized exploration of Milestii Mici’s enormous underground wine cellars and historic vineyards. The tour includes snacks and bottled water and visits to two ancient monasteries, making it ideal for those who want a flexible, private experience. Reviewers highlight the impressive bottle collection and the friendly, knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a custom, private tour with a focus on Moldova’s wine heritage.
How to Choose Your Perfect Moldova Wine Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you want a comprehensive experience covering both wine and archaeology, Best of Moldova offers excellent value. For those who prefer a private, luxurious experience, Cricova private wine tasting might be best. On a tighter schedule, the 4-hour Cricova tour delivers a condensed but memorable visit.
If you’re keen on exploring Transnistria, the Transnistria Tour with Milestii Mici combines political history with wine tasting, perfect for history buffs. For active travelers, the Biking a Guinness Book Winery offers an energetic twist on wine exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid missing out on Moldova’s exceptional wine experiences.
To sum it up, Chisinau offers a wonderful mix of underground wine cellars, archaeological sites, and historic monasteries. Whether you choose a full-day adventure like Best of Moldova, or a private, tailored experience such as Cricova private tour, there’s something for every wine lover. Don’t forget to book early and plan your trip around Moldova’s best vintages and cultural highlights. Cheers to discovering Moldova’s wines and stories!