Old Orhei offers more than just ancient ruins and scenic landscapes; it’s also a fantastic place to explore Moldova’s wine culture. With its underground cellars, historic cave monasteries, and traditional villages, the area provides a rich backdrop for memorable wine tours. Whether you’re interested in tasting aged wines in subterranean caves or combining wine with visits to monasteries and archaeological sites, Old Orhei has options that cater to different interests. Our favorite? The tour that blends Old Orhei’s ancient charm with Moldova’s iconic wineries—a genuine experience that captures the essence of the region.
If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of Moldova’s highlights, the Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei, and Cricova Winery trip is a top pick—offering a full-day experience with a bit of everything. For a more focused visit to cave monasteries and local wine tastings, the Branesti wine and cave monasteries tour provides a deeper dive into Moldova’s history and terroir. And if a shorter day trip suits you better, the Chisinau: Orheiul Vechi, Butuceni Eco Village, and Wine tour offers a compact yet diverse experience. Below, we explore each option in detail to help you choose the perfect fit.
1. Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei and Cricova Winery (Optional)
At number one on our list, this full-day tour combines three top Moldovan destinations into one seamless experience. Starting from Chisinau, you’ll visit the impressive Curchi Monastery, then explore the Old Orhei archaeological site, and finally venture underground into the famous Cricova wine cellars, which stretch over 120 kilometers. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day, blending history, religion, and wine.
What makes this tour stand out is its variety. The Cave Monastery at Old Orhei offers an authentic glimpse into Moldova’s spiritual past, carved into limestone cliffs. The Cricova underground wine town is a must-see for wine lovers, with its vast labyrinth of tunnels holding millions of bottles. The tour includes a guided walk through these cellars, making the tasting experience even more immersive. The traditional village of Butuceni provides a taste of local rural life, with the chance to enjoy traditional Moldovan food.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guide and the well-organized itinerary. One reviewer called it “an amazing experience,” highlighting the underground wine tour and the chance to ride through massive cellars as unforgettable. The trip is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive Moldova experience without multiple bookings. The price reflects the full-day adventure, making it a great value considering the diverse sights and activities.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of cultural, religious, and wine experiences in one day, with excellent reviews and a comprehensive itinerary.
2. Moldova: Old Orhei cave monasteries Branesti wine tasting
At number two, this tour focuses on Moldova’s ancient cave monasteries and local wine production, providing a uniquely historical perspective. Spanning about 7 hours, it combines visits to Branesti cellar and cave monasteries with stops at Butuceni village and other cultural sites. This tour is ideal if you want an immersive experience into Moldova’s wine history and spiritual heritage.
The highlights include a guided tour of the unusual cave monasteries at Branesti, where the stone-age cellar produces a variety of wines—white, red, sparkling, and dessert wines. The tour also includes a visit to Pestere, Moldova’s oldest Orthodox skete, offering insight into centuries-old monastic life. The wine tasting at Branesti is a key moment, with the opportunity to sample local wines in the very cellars where they’re made.
Guides are praised for their depth of knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. One reviewer described it as a “wonderful activity,” noting the interesting wine tasting and insightful visits. The tour balances cultural sightseeing with wine education, making it a rich, full-day outing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those interested in history, spirituality, and wine tasting in a setting that feels both ancient and authentic, with a focus on Moldova’s cave monasteries and wine heritage.
3. Chisinau: Orheiul Vechi, Butuceni Eco Village, and Wine
Rounding out our list is this 6-hour tour exploring Moldova’s natural beauty and wine culture through the lens of Old Orhei and the eco village of Butuceni. It’s a shorter, more relaxed option for those who want a taste of Moldova’s archeological sites and local wine without a full day’s commitment.
The tour begins with a guided walk around the Old Orhei Archaeological Complex, where ancient ruins and caves tell stories of Moldova’s past. It then moves to Butuceni, a charming village emphasizing eco-tourism and traditional ways of life. The highlights include a wine tasting at the Brâneşti Cellar Cave, where you can sample some of Moldova’s best wines directly from the source.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on scenery and local culture. The visit to the Old Stone Museum Restaurant for a meal adds a delicious local flavor, and the overall pace appeals to travelers who prefer a more relaxed day. Reviewers have called it a “wonderful activity,” appreciating the balance of cultural and wine experiences.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a shorter, relaxed tour with a focus on natural beauty, local food, and wine tasting.
How to Choose Your Ideal Wine Tour in Old Orhei
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, time availability, and budget. The first option offers a full-day adventure with a perfect mix of archaeology, religion, and wine—great for those wanting variety. The second provides a deeper dive into Moldova’s cave monasteries and wine production, perfect if history and spirituality intrigue you. The third is best if you prefer a more relaxed, shorter experience with a strong emphasis on scenery and local wine.
For example, if you’re a history buff who loves exploring ancient sites, the Branesti cave monasteries tour offers immersive monastic history and wine tasting in one compact trip. If your goal is comprehensive exploration, the Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei, and Cricova Winery tour provides the most diverse experience in a single day.
Remember to book early, especially for the most popular options, and check availability to find the best starting times for your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Old Orhei is a fantastic destination for wine enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Whether you choose a full-day tour that hits all the major sites, a specialized trip into cave monasteries and vineyards, or a shorter experience focusing on scenery and local wine, you’ll find plenty to explore. The best choice depends on how much time you have and what aspects of Moldova’s culture excite you most.
For travelers eager to learn about Moldova’s wine traditions and explore ancient caves, options like the Curchi Monastery and Cricova tour or the Branesti wine experience are excellent picks. If a quick, scenic escape fits your plans, the Chisinau to Orheiul Vechi and Butuceni tour won’t disappoint.
Whatever your preference, booking early and considering your interests will ensure a memorable Moldovan wine adventure.