Iasi might not be as famous for wine as its neighbors in Moldova, but it’s a surprisingly good base for exploring some top-tier wine experiences. Thanks to its proximity to Moldova, you can enjoy full-day excursions into the legendary Cricova Winery or savor local wine tastings just a short drive from the city center. If you’re curious about tasting wines in an authentic setting, one of the tours below offers a blend of history, culture, and, of course, excellent wine. We particularly like how the day trips across the border combine sightseeing with wine tasting, giving you a broader taste of the region’s traditions and legends. Whether you’re after a comprehensive experience or a quick, quality tasting, these tours provide a balanced mix of education and enjoyment.
Quick Overview
This list features full-day trips to Moldova, which include visits to Chisinau and Cricova Winery, as well as a local wine tasting tour in Iasi. The full trips (one priced around $303 and the other at $288) explore Moldovan landmarks and underground wine cellars, while the half-day option ($141) focuses on sampling wines at Gramma Winery alongside a scenic tour of Iasi’s highlights. Each offers a different way to experience the region’s winemaking heritage—whether you prefer crossing borders or staying closer to home.
1. Day trip to Republic of Moldova – visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery
At number one, we recommend the Day trip to Republic of Moldova – visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery. Priced at $303.51 per person, this private, full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at Moldova’s capital and its celebrated underground wine cellars. The tour kicks off with visits to two medieval monasteries, including the historic Capriana Monastery, once the residence of the Metropolitans of Moldova. Then, the journey continues into Chisinau, a city that looks like it was designed during the Soviet era but hides plenty of charming surprises, including a look at the Arc of Triumph and Alexander Pushkin’s exile house.
The highlight is the Cricova Winery, situated 50-80 meters underground, forming what is effectively an underground city of wine tunnels. You’ll walk through tunnels large enough for cars and learn how Moldova produces wines enjoyed by European leaders—plus, you get to sample some of their best offerings. The tour is well-rated, with a 5.0/5 from 27 reviews, and travelers love the knowledgeable guide and the chance to see the unique underground cellars. It’s ideal for wine lovers who want a full day of sightseeing, history, and tastings. The tour offers excellent value considering the depth of experience, logistics, and included visits.
Bottom line: For a full day crossing borders, exploring historical sites, and tasting world-class wines, this trip is hard to beat—bring your curiosity and your palate.
2. Day trip to Moldova – visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery
At number two, the Day trip to Moldova – visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery offers a slightly shorter but equally engaging experience. For around $288, you’ll spend about 10 hours enjoying Moldova’s capital and its renowned wine cellars. This tour emphasizes cultural, religious, and architectural attractions of Chisinau, along with a visit to Capriana Monastery—the same historic site featured in the full-day tour.
The focus here is on wines and local traditions, with the guide introducing you to the steps of wine tasting. The small group size and personable guide make this a relaxed way to explore Moldova without the full border crossing adventure. Reviewers comment on the guide’s broad knowledge and the enjoyable experience, making this a good choice for those short on time but eager to sample Moldovan wines and learn about its culture.
Bottom line: This tour offers a solid introduction to Moldova’s highlights, especially if you’re more interested in wine tasting and cultural sights than extensive sightseeing.
3. Half-Day Gramma Wine Tasting Tour in Iasi
Coming in at number three is the Half-Day Gramma Wine Tasting Tour in Iasi. At just over $141, this 4-5 hour experience gives you a taste of local wines right in the city. Only 8 km from Iasi’s center, Gramma Winery is a modern, innovative vineyard that stands out for its fresh attitude and creative approach—they even feature wines dressed in Romanian NFTs and a collection with labels designed by Horatiu Malaele.
The tour begins with a wine tasting session, where you’ll sample three different wines and learn about the local winemaking tradition. Afterwards, your guide will take you on a panoramic tour of Iasi, visiting landmarks like the Palace of Culture and the Orthodox Cathedral. This tour is perfect for those who want a quick, relaxed introduction to wine and the city’s highlights, with an emphasis on urban viniculture.
Guests appreciate the informative tasting and the personalized tour of Iasi’s main sights. It’s a great way to combine local wine with sightseeing without committing a full day.
Bottom line: Ideal for those visiting Iasi who want to enjoy a casual wine tasting paired with a scenic city tour.
$141.35 per person
How to Choose the Perfect Wine Tour in Iasi
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interest level. The full-day Moldova trips offer a deep dive into Moldovan wine and history, perfect if you enjoy crossing borders and exploring new places. The half-day local tasting is better suited for travelers who prefer staying within Iasi and focusing on local wines and city sights.
If you’re short on time but want a rich wine experience, the Gramma Winery tour provides a quick but meaningful taste of the region’s wines. For those seeking an immersive trip with historical sites and underground cellars, the Moldova full-day trips are worth booking early—these tours tend to fill up, especially during peak travel months.
Final thoughts
Iasi offers a surprisingly diverse range of wine experiences, from exploring Moldova’s underground cellars to sampling fresh wines at a local vineyard. If your schedule allows, the full-day Moldovan tours are excellent for combining history, wine, and culture in one package. For a shorter, more relaxed taste, the local wine tasting in Iasi will satisfy your curiosity without requiring a full day.
No matter your choice, booking early guarantees you a spot on these popular tours. Whether crossing borders or staying closer to home, each experience promises a memorable sip of regional tradition. Cheers to discovering Iasi’s wine scene!