Chisinau: Cocktail Bar & Pub Crawl and Wine Bars

Imagine wandering through the charming streets of Chisinau’s Old Town, discovering its secret bars and lively pubs with a friendly local guide. This 3-hour walking tour offers an engaging way to experience Moldova’s capital after dark, focusing on wine, craft beer, and signature cocktails in some of the city’s most authentic spots. For approximately €50, you’ll visit three carefully selected venues, taste one local wine, one artist cocktail, and one craft beer, all while soaking in the city’s history and local vibe.

What we love about this experience? First, the guided insight into Chisinau’s hidden corners—places you’d never find on your own. Second, the quality of tastings—each drink is thoughtfully chosen, revealing the diverse flavors of Moldova’s burgeoning beverage scene. The only thing to consider? It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must. Perfect for travelers who enjoy good drinks, local stories, and a relaxed evening of exploring off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods.

This tour is especially ideal for those curious about Moldova’s wine culture and craft beer scene, or anyone wanting a fun, authentic night that balances history, local flavor, and lively social spots. If you’re after a structured, yet relaxed, way to experience Chisinau’s nightlife with a knowledgeable guide, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Authentic Access: Discover hidden bars and alleys away from tourist crowds.
• Local Flavor: Taste a local wine and learn about Moldova’s wine culture.
• Expert Guides: Guides share interesting stories and insights about the city.
• Quality Tastings: Enjoy specially selected drinks, including artisan cocktails and craft beers.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about Chisinau’s history and local life through storytelling.
• Flexible and Social: End the evening in a lively local club, perfect for socializing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chisinau Cocktail & Wine Tour

The Experience in Brief

Starting at the monument of Stephen the Great in Grdina Public, this tour promises a lively, friendly atmosphere with a small group atmosphere. Your guide—who speaks Russian, English, and Romanian—will lead you through some of the most established wine and cocktail bars in the city. The aim is to give you a taste of authentic Chisinau life, away from the typical tourist spots.

Over the course of three hours, you’ll explore hidden alleyways, historic streets, and charming courtyards. What makes this experience appealing is the balance of tastings, storytelling, and local ambiance. You’ll sample a local wine, a special artist cocktail, and a craft beer—all served with traditional snacks to complement the drinks.

The Stops and What Makes Them Special

First stop: A traditional wine boutique or bar. Here, your guide will introduce you to Moldova’s extensive wine culture, often considered the heart of the country’s traditions. The wine tastings are thoughtfully curated, offering a firsthand look at some local varieties. As one reviewer noted, “Learn a bit about the city of Chisinau and try some of the most popular wine bars, pubs, and cocktail bars from downtown.” This is a great chance to understand why Moldova is increasingly recognized for its quality wines.

Second stop: A courtyard cocktail bar. Set in a historical mansion with a pergola covered with grapevines, this spot is a hidden gem. The signature cocktails here are crafted with care, and the unique setting makes for a memorable experience. The guide will reveal some “secrets” about the place, making it more than just a bar stop—it’s an experience.

Third stop: A modern cocktail bar opened in 2024 or a popular pub. The focus here is on craft beer and innovative drinks, providing a taste of Moldova’s dynamic beverage scene. Many visitors enjoy the relaxed vibe, and some might even extend their night at the small club nearby, which comes alive on weekends with music and lively crowds.

The Tasting Experience and Why It Matters

The tastings are more than simple sips—they’re designed to introduce you to Moldova’s diverse beverage landscape. The local wine gives an insight into Moldova’s storied winemaking traditions, while the artist cocktail showcases the creative twists happening in the city’s bar scene. The craft beer reflects Moldova’s modern brewing trends, often featuring local ingredients and innovative flavors.

Participants consistently praise the quality of these tastings. One reviewer said, “The pub crawl was really worth it. Three locations I would never have found on my own.” Another enthusiast simply called it “spectacular,” highlighting how memorable and engaging the stops are.

This curated approach emphasizes local culture, giving you a deeper appreciation for Moldova’s beverage craftsmanship. Plus, the traditional snacks provided enhance the experience, balancing out the flavors and making each sip more enjoyable.

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The Guides and Their Role

The knowledgeable guides are a highlight. Their stories bring the city’s history and bar scenes alive, making the experience informative and fun. Reviewers like “Maria, the guide,” are praised for her friendly demeanor and “interesting and fun stories about Chisinau that only locals know.” Their local insights add richness to each stop and help you connect with the city’s character beyond just drinks.

The Vibrant Nightlife and Atmosphere

After the tastings, many guests stay on at the local club, which is small but lively, especially on weekends. The music and informal parties give a real taste of local nightlife, making this tour not just about drinking but experiencing city life.

Practical Details: Timing, Cost, and Group Size

The tour typically lasts around three hours, starting at flexible times depending on availability. It’s a private group, which means you get personalized attention and a more relaxed pace. The price (~€50) is quite reasonable given the curated stops, tastings, and insider access you receive—in many ways, it’s a good investment for a memorable night out.

While the tour is accessible for most, comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods on foot. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, but it offers a genuine glimpse into local life.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience particularly suits curious travelers who want more than just a pub crawl—they seek authentic, local experiences paired with quality drinks. If your idea of a good evening involves learning about local traditions, enjoying expertly crafted beverages, and discovering hidden corners of a city, then this tour hits the mark.

On top of that, the small group setting fosters a friendly atmosphere, perfect for meeting fellow travelers or just having a relaxed, personalized adventure with your guide. Reviewers emphasize the quality of guides and tastings, making it a worthwhile choice for those who want a well-rounded, engaging night.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 3 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of the monument of Stephen the Great at Grdina Public and finishes back at the same spot.

What is included in the price?
Your tour includes a local guide, one artist special cocktail, one local wine, one craft beer, and traditional snacks.

Are additional drinks or food included?
No, additional food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring extra cash or plan to buy more if you wish.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
This tour is designed around tastings, so it’s best suited for those over 18 who enjoy alcohol. It’s not suitable for guests who prefer non-alcoholic options.

Can I join if I don’t speak Romanian?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, Russian, or Romanian, depending on your preference.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private group, which ensures personalized attention and a tailored experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are needed, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is it accessible for all mobility levels?
No, this tour involves walking through narrow streets and alleyways, so it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

This Chisinau cocktail and wine tour offers a well-balanced, authentic glimpse into Moldova’s vibrant beverage scene with an emphasis on local flavor, history, and hidden spots. For those seeking a relaxed yet engaging way to spend an evening—sampling unique drinks, hearing local stories, and exploring off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods—this tour provides real value.

You’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s story to life, and the high-quality tastings that showcase Moldova’s growing reputation for wine and craft drinks. It’s an excellent choice for adventurous travelers eager to go beyond typical tourist fare and experience the city like a local.

If you enjoy authentic experiences, friendly atmospheres, and tasty drinks, this tour might just be your perfect introduction to Chisinau’s lively night scene. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and be ready for some memorable stories and sips.

In summary, whether you’re a wine lover, craft beer enthusiast, or simply enjoy discovering local flavors in unique settings, this tour delivers a friendly, informative, and tasty introduction to Chisinau’s evening life. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the city’s culture, meet new people, and enjoy the best of Moldova’s beverage offerings—all in a relaxed, authentic setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: