Moldova might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of wine, but it should be. This small Eastern European nation has a surprisingly rich wine tradition, with some of the oldest vineyards in the world and a reputation for producing excellent reds and whites. What makes Moldova stand out is its combination of historic wineries, authentic experiences, and very reasonable prices. We especially enjoyed a visit to Castel Mimi for its elegant ambiance, and a trip to Milestii Mici to see the world’s largest wine collection. These tours offer a genuine taste of Moldovan culture and a chance to explore some fantastic sights beyond just wine.
If you’re planning a trip, you’ll find a variety of options—whether you want a quick city and winery combo, a deep dive into the country’s largest winery, or a visit to the historic Manuc Bei mansion paired with underground cellars. Each offers a different way to experience Moldova’s wine scene, so below is a detailed look at the best wine tours on offer.
1. Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour – With Wooden Monastery
At number one, this Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour takes you on a well-rounded journey through Moldova’s capital and a historic winery. The tour includes a guided walk of Chișinău, where you’ll see key landmarks like the monument to Stefan cel Mare, and a visit to the oldest wooden church in nearby Hirișeni. The highlight, however, is the visit to Castel Mimi, an elegant estate with a storied past and beautiful architecture. Here, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting and tour of the winery, learning about Moldova’s wine traditions from a knowledgeable guide.
What makes this tour stand out is its mix of city sightseeing, cultural heritage, and wine tasting—all packed into around four hours. The wine tasting at Castel Mimi is especially memorable because the winery combines refined elegance with an authentic Moldovan atmosphere. Expect to see Soviet-era art exhibits during your walk, adding a unique twist to the experience. The reviews highlight the friendly guide and personal touches, like visiting a heritage church and enjoying a wine bar in the city. It’s a great choice if you want a comprehensive introduction to Moldova’s sights and wines in a short time.
Bottom Line: An excellent tour for first-timers who want a taste of Chișinău’s history and culture along with a memorable wine experience at Castel Mimi.
2. Chisinau: Milestii Mici Winery Tour with 3 Tastings
Number two on our list is the Milestii Mici Winery Tour, which focuses entirely on Moldova’s biggest wine attraction. For around $148 per person, this four-hour tour offers a deep dive into the world’s largest wine collection—over 1.5 million bottles stored in underground tunnels stretching 120 kilometers. The guided tour lasts about 110 minutes, during which you’ll learn about the history and methods of Moldovan winemaking.
The real highlight is the three wine tastings, which include a vintage dessert wine, and a selection of appetizers like bruschetta and prosciutto crudo. This experience suits those who want a thorough exploration of Moldova’s wine heritage in a relaxed setting. The winery’s vast cellar and extensive collection make it a visual and educational feast, while the tasting offers a chance to sample some of the country’s best wines.
Many visitors appreciate the value here—$148 includes the tour, tastings, and appetizers, all in a modern setting with friendly staff. If you’re a wine lover who appreciates history and quantity, this tour is hard to beat.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Moldova’s largest winery and sample an impressive variety of wines in a single visit.
$148 per person
3. from Moldova: Manuc Bei mansion – Milestii Mici wine cellar
Heading number three, this From Moldova: Manuc Bei mansion to Milestii Mici tour combines history, culture, and wine tasting over a full 6.5 hours. It begins with a visit to the 19th-century Manuc Bei mansion in Hincesti, where you can explore the grand estate and learn about its storied past. Afterward, you’ll head to the Milestii Mici winery, the world’s largest underground wine cellar, for a guided tour and tasting.
What makes this tour special is the combination of a historical mansion—beautifully preserved and rich in stories—with a visit to one of Moldova’s most famous wineries. The underground wine cellar at Milestii Mici stretches over 120 kilometers, filled with millions of bottles, and offers a fascinating look at Moldova’s winemaking prowess. During the tour, you’ll sample wines in the cellar and enjoy a guided visit that explains the unique underground storage techniques.
Rated at 4.9/5, reviews praise the professional guides and the chance to see both historic and modern sides of Moldovan wine culture. It’s best suited for travelers with a full day to spare who want a comprehensive experience, blending heritage and wine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and wine lovers wanting a full-day adventure with a focus on Moldova’s largest winery and historic estate.
How to Choose the Right Moldovan Wine Tour
Deciding between these tours depends on what you’re after. If you prefer a short, city-focused experience that includes cultural sights and a visit to Castel Mimi, then the Chișinău & Castel Mimi tour fits perfectly. For those who want to enjoy Moldova’s massive wine collection and taste a variety of wines, the Milestii Mici tour offers incredible value and depth. If you’re interested in combining historic architecture with wine tasting in a full-day trip, the Manuc Bei mansion and Milestii Mici combo delivers a well-rounded experience.
Consider your budget—the Milestii Mici tour is priced at $148 with multiple tastings, while the other two tours are shorter and less expensive. Think about your time availability; the full-day tour is more suitable if you have a full day to spare, while the city tour is ideal for a quick overview. If you love history and heritage, the Manuc Bei mansion adds an extra layer of interest.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel months in spring and fall, when Moldova’s wineries are busiest. Each experience offers something unique, so choose based on your interests—whether it’s exploring Moldova’s largest wine cellar, enjoying a scenic winery visit with cultural sights, or combining city life with wine tasting.
To sum it up, Moldova offers a surprising variety of wine tours that highlight its rich winemaking tradition and historical sites. For a quick taste, the Chișinău & Castel Mimi tour provides a balanced introduction. For wine lovers craving an extensive collection and tastings, Milestii Mici is hard to beat. And for those interested in a full-day, heritage-rich experience, the Manuc Bei and Milestii Mici combo is perfect.
No matter which you pick, early booking ensures you don’t miss out on these authentic Moldovan experiences. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a dedicated connoisseur, Moldova’s wine scene is ready to impress.