Chisinau: Cricova Wine tour &Old Orhei Archeological Complex

Experience Moldova’s best in a single day with a tour that takes you from ancient villages to underground wineries. You’ll visit Old Orhei, a site rich in history and stunning landscapes, and then descend into Cricova’s world-famous underground cellars, where wine tasting is part of the adventure. Guided by knowledgeable local guides, this tour offers a balanced mix of cultural sights, authentic experiences, and delicious wine.

What we love about this trip is how it combines the rustic charm of village life with the modern sophistication of Cricova’s vast wine tunnels. We also appreciate the chance to visit Butuceni, with its cave monastery, and wander through picturesque villages. The tour’s compact schedule means you get a full taste of Moldova without feeling rushed.

The only thing to consider is the small group size — limited to just four participants, which is great for personalized attention but might mean you need to book early. This experience suits those who want a comprehensive taste of Moldova’s history, culture, and wines in one day, especially if you appreciate guided insight and authentic locations.

Key Points

Authentic experiences combining history, wine, and countryside scenery
Small group tours ensure personalized attention and flexible pacing
Underground wine cellars offer a unique glimpse into Moldova’s wine production
Guides are knowledgeable and praised for their friendly approach
Physical activity includes some walking and climbing (about 200 steps at the cave monastery)
Ideal for culture, history, and wine enthusiasts wanting a full Moldova experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in Moldova: From Ancient Villages to Underground Cellars

If you’re looking for a way to see the essence of Moldova in just one day, this tour is a fantastic pick. It’s designed to give you an overview of Moldova’s cultural, historical, and vinicultural highlights, all in a manageable, well-organized schedule.

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Chisinau, a convenient start that saves you the hassle of navigating alone. From there, you’ll head toward Old Orhei, a site that’s part archaeological complex, part open-air museum. Here, we loved the way the guide explained the ancient history while you enjoy the panoramic views of the lush landscape. As one guest put it, “Old Orhei and the monastery were spectacular.” This stop is ideal for history buffs and those who enjoy scenic ruins with a story to tell.

Next, the tour continues to Butuceni, a village known for its unique cave monastery. We appreciated the guided walk through this unusual site, which involves climbing around 200 steps. It’s a bit of a workout but well worth it for the chance to see this one-of-a-kind religious site carved into the rock face. The visit offers a glimpse into rural life and religious heritage, with enough time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

A brief stop back at Old Orhei allows for further exploration or simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Then, you’ll visit Bodie Cave Monastery for a guided tour of this smaller but equally intriguing cave site. It’s a short, 30-minute visit that adds another layer of historical intrigue.

The tour then offers a relaxed break in Butuceni, where you might choose to enjoy local snacks or simply rest before the highlight of the day: the Cricova Winery.

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Cricova: The Underground Wine Wonderland

Cricova is, without doubt, Moldova’s crown jewel for wine lovers. The largest wine cellar in the world, Cricova’s underground tunnels stretch for over 120 km beneath the town, forming a city of wine. Walking through the cool, dimly lit avenues named after famous wine varieties like Cabernet and Riesling feels like stepping into a mysterious wine-themed labyrinth.

The guided tour covers various sections: the wine maturation rooms, the sparkling wine production area, and the National Collection and Tasting Rooms. We loved the way the guides explained the French traditional methods, especially the production of champagne-style wine, which is a point of pride for Cricova. You’ll also get to see the underground cinema, which adds a touch of novelty to the experience.

The highlight is the wine tasting, which includes four different types of wines accompanied by nuts and biscuits. The tasting is generous and informative, making it a perfect way to appreciate Moldova’s winemaking heritage. Guests consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Practicalities and What to Expect

This tour runs from Chisinau, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, which is a real plus. The small group size (limit of four participants) fosters a more intimate experience, with plenty of room for questions and personal interaction. The transportation is a comfortable car, making the journey smooth and relaxed.

Price-wise, considering the entry tickets, guided tours, wine tasting, and transport, this is a good value. The tour lasts roughly a full day, around 8 hours, which makes it ideal for those wanting to see a lot without committing multiple days.

In terms of physical activity, expect some walking and climbing—about 200 steps at the cave monastery—which might not suit everyone. The tour is not recommended for non-swimmers or those with altitude sickness, though most participants find it manageable.

The tour is offered in English, Russian, and Romanian, so language options are flexible. It’s a full-service experience, with tickets and transportation arranged, so you can focus on enjoying the sights.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic, meaningful experiences. You’re not just visiting tourist sites—you’re learning about Moldova’s cultural identity through its villages, religious sites, and wineries. The guides are praised for their deep knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience feel personal and genuine, not just a checklist.

The wine tastings at Cricova are a highlight, especially for those curious about Moldova’s reputation as a wine-producing country. The underground tunnels are fascinating, and the chance to sample local wines in such a setting makes for memorable moments.

While the small group size means you get more personalized attention, it also emphasizes the importance of early booking. The tour’s length and pace are paced well, with enough time at each stop to absorb and enjoy without feeling rushed.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, wine lovers, and those interested in rural Moldova. If you enjoy guided tours that combine storytelling with hands-on experiences like wine tasting, this will suit you well. It’s also excellent for travelers who prefer a comfortable, all-in-one day trip rather than trying to piece together different visits on your own.

However, if you’re not comfortable with walking or climbing, or if you prefer a very leisurely pace with more free time, you might want to consider other options or ask if shorter visits are available.

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Final Words

This full-day Moldova tour offers an excellent balance of culture, history, and viniculture wrapped into one package. The guided approach ensures you get insightful stories and expert explanations, making each stop more meaningful. The wine tasting at Cricova alone is worth the price, but the added visits to Old Orhei and Butuceni give you a genuine taste of Moldova’s rural roots.

For anyone eager to see the highlights without fuss, and to taste some of the best wines Moldova has to offer, this tour delivers a memorable experience in a compact, well-organized way. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small groups, authentic sites, and expert guidance.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and wine tasting.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, your guide will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel in Chisinau.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since there’s some walking and climbing involved. No strollers or baby carriages are allowed.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, you should be prepared to climb around 200 steps at the cave monastery. The tour isn’t suited for non-swimmers or those with altitude sickness.

What language is the tour available in?
The tour guide speaks English, Russian, and Romanian. Check availability when booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

This Moldova tour combines the best of history, scenery, and wine in one practical, engaging day. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history lover, or simply curious about Moldova’s rural charm, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into this often-overlooked corner of Europe.