An Authentic Wine Adventure in Moldova: Cricova & Milestii Mici Wineries
If you’re a fan of wine or simply curious about Moldova’s surprisingly vibrant wine scene, this tour offers a rare chance to explore two of the country’s most famous wine cellars—Cricova and Milestii Mici—in one seamless, six-hour experience. Priced at about $235 per person, it’s a well-rounded way to dive into Moldova’s vinicultural pride, including hotel pickup, guided tours, tastings, and snacks.
What we love most? First, the underground tunnels are absolutely stunning—whether it’s Cricova’s labyrinth of caves or the Guinness World Record-holding Milestii Mici. Second, the knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging and insightful, revealing secrets behind the wines and the storied history of these cellars.
One thing to keep in mind is the chilly underground climate—it’s a good idea to bring warm clothes, especially if you plan to visit during cooler months. This tour suits wine lovers, curious travelers, and anyone interested in Moldova’s local traditions. From casual tasters to connoisseurs, everyone will find something to enjoy.
Key Points
- Underground Marvels: Both Cricova and Milestii Mici are vast subterranean wine cellars—one a labyrinth of tunnels, the other the biggest wine collection in the world.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Mtvarisa and Viktor provide detailed insights, making wine history and production accessible.
- Hassle-Free Transfers: The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you from logistics headaches.
- Authentic Tasting Experience: Sample wines directly from the cellars, accompanied by snacks, in a setting that’s both historic and atmospheric.
- Limited Group Size: With a maximum of six travelers, this tour offers a more personalized experience.
- Flexible and Convenient: Book in advance, with options for mobile tickets, and free cancellations if plans change.
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A Deep Dive into Moldova’s Wine Cellars
Cricova: The Underground City of Wines
Cricova isn’t just a winery—it’s a whole underground city. Known worldwide, Cricova’s tunnels span nearly 120 kilometers beneath Chisinau, making it one of the most impressive wine storage complexes on the planet. These tunnels, carved out of limestone, create a perfect environment for aging wine—constant cool temperatures and high humidity.
What makes Cricova special is the National Oenotec, a collection of thousands of wines stored here, some dating back decades. Visitors board electric trains that glide through the tunnels, giving you a fun, almost whimsical way to see this underground maze.
During the tour, you’ll pass through areas dedicated to maturing wines and sparkling varieties, with plenty of opportunity to taste some of the wines directly from the cellars. You might find yourself amazed at the complexity and variety available—reds, whites, sparkling, and even vintage bottles stored for decades.
Milestii Mici: The World’s Largest Wine Collection
Just a short drive from Cricova is Milestii Mici, holding the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of wine bottles—an incredible 2 million stored underground. Situated at about 85 meters below ground, this vast network of caves stretches for over 200 kilometers, though only a fraction is used for wine storage.
Walking through Milestii Mici’s cool, dark galleries, you’ll see rows of big oak barrels and bottles covered with a noble dust, waiting patiently for their moment of enjoyment. The scale is staggering—you’ll likely feel like you’ve stepped into a secret wine vault. This site is not just impressive for its size but also for the diversity of wines and the storytelling provided by guides like Viktor, who keep the history alive with enthusiasm.
What the Tour Looks Like
Your day begins with hotel pickup—a comfort that saves time and hassle. Once at Cricova, expect a guided tour of the tunnels, during which your guide shares stories about the wine-making process and the history of the cellars. You’ll then enjoy a wine tasting, paired with snacks, in a quiet, atmospheric setting.
A short drive takes you to Milestii Mici. Here, you’ll walk through the caves, see the extensive wine collection, and enjoy a guided tasting of some of the finest wines. Each stop offers a different perspective on Moldova’s wine tradition, from the small, artisanal wines at Cricova to the vast, organized collection at Milestii Mici.
Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides
Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeability and warmth of the guides. Cherokee_K mentions how Mtvarisa “made the trip fun” and added a personal touch, which really enriches the experience. Viktor’s expert guidance at Milestii Mici is also praised, making the tour both educational and enjoyable.
Practical Details
- The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, beginning with hotel pickup and ending with drop-off.
- It’s designed for small groups—a maximum of six travelers—so you’ll get plenty of attention and time for questions.
- The price includes all tastings, snacks, transportation, and guides, making it a very good value considering the depth of experience.
- Be prepared for cool underground temperatures—bring warm clothes, especially in winter.
- The tour operates Monday through Saturday, with hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., allowing some flexibility in planning your day.
- This experience is suitable for travelers over 18, due to the alcohol consumption involved.
Why This Tour Is Great Value
Compared to visiting wineries independently, this guided tour offers expert insights, seamless transportation, and the opportunity to sample a wide variety of wines in atmospheric settings—something difficult to replicate on your own. The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the inclusive tasting and snacks heighten the authentic feel of each cellar.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour suits wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Moldova’s storied wine heritage, as well as casual travelers wanting a fun, informative outing. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport or navigating large wineries alone. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or even solo, the small-group setting creates a friendly environment to connect over shared passions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a wine tour in Moldova like this one offers more than just tastings; it’s about stepping inside a living history of winemaking. The guides’ passion, spectacular underground tunnels, and diverse wine selections make this a memorable experience that can easily become a highlight of your Moldova visit.
While the price might seem steep at first glance, the value is clear when you consider the expert guides, transportation, and access to two of the country’s most iconic vineyards. The combination of history, wine, and underground exploration makes this tour uniquely Moldovan—and worth every penny for those who love a good story with their glass.
This tour is ideal for adventurous wine lovers, culture seekers, and anyone who appreciates a well-organized, intimate experience. If you’re looking for a fun, authentic way to understand Moldova’s wine culture, this is it.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided visits to Cricova and Milestii Mici, wine tastings, snacks, and alcoholic beverages.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, giving you ample time to explore both wineries and enjoy tastings without feeling rushed.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum drinking age is 18 years old, so this tour is only suitable for adults.
Do I need to bring anything special?
It’s advisable to bring warm clothes, as the underground cellars can be quite chilly.
Is it possible to cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Are snacks provided?
Yes, snacks are included along with the wine tastings.
Can I buy souvenirs or photos?
Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase, but they are not included in the standard price.
What’s the best time to take the tour?
The tour runs from Monday to Saturday, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. It’s best to book in advance, as it’s popular—usually booked about 38 days ahead.
Do I need prior wine knowledge?
Not at all. Whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur, guides make the experience accessible and enjoyable.
In short, this Cricova & Milestii Mici winery tour offers a perfect combination of history, authentic wine tasting, and underground adventure. For those eager to see Moldova’s vinicultural treasures with expert guides and in a small, friendly group, it’s a highly recommended choice.