Cricova Winery & Old Orhei & Curchi Monastery

Exploring Moldova’s Cultural and Culinary Gems: Cricova Winery, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery

If you’re looking to get a well-rounded taste of Moldova in one day, this tour offers an excellent option. For around $223 per person, you’ll spend about 6 to 7 hours visiting some of the country’s top sights, including the famous Cricova Winery, the ancient Old Orhei archaeological complex, and the beautiful Curchi Monastery. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it’s a relaxed way to explore Moldova’s rich tradition of wine, history, and architecture without the hassle of planning each stop.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances luxury and authenticity—from the underground tunnels of Cricova, which feel like stepping into a wine lover’s dream, to the traditional ambiance of the Old Orhei villages, and the serene beauty of Curchi Monastery. The guiding is praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

A potential consideration is that lunch isn’t included, so you may want to budget extra for a meal. Also, the tour involves some walking and moderate physical activity, especially at Old Orhei, which might be worth noting if you have mobility concerns.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic cultural sites, love wine, and enjoy scenic landscapes. It’s particularly well-loved by those who value knowledgeable guides and thoughtful commentary, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive Moldova experience.

Key Points

• Luxury underground wine cellars at Cricova provide a memorable tasting experience.
• Historic and archaeological sites like Old Orhei reveal Moldova’s ancient roots.
• Beautiful religious architecture at Curchi Monastery offers peaceful, photo-worthy moments.
• The tour is private, ensuring a personalized experience with a guide.
• Pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying logistics.
• Snacks are provided, but lunch is an extra expense to plan for.

A Deep Dive into the Moldova Experience

What’s Included and Why It Matters

At $223.40, this tour offers solid value considering the price covers admission tickets, snacks, wine tasting, transportation, and guides. For those who prefer a hassle-free day, the hotel pickup and drop-off make mornings and evenings more relaxing and less stressful—no need to negotiate taxis or public transport. The private tour format ensures that you get personalized attention from your guides, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

Cricova Winery: A Underground Marvel

Our first stop, Cricova Winery, is not just a winery but the largest underground wine cellar in the world, with miles of tunnels extending beneath the city of Chisinau. You’ll spend about two hours here, exploring the labyrinth of wine cellars and tasting some of Moldova’s best wines. The experience goes beyond mere tasting; it’s about walking through history, as these tunnels have been used since the 15th century.

Guests rave about the complimentary wine tasting, with reviews highlighting the quality and variety of wines. One reviewer, Mark, mentioned how their guide Nicolai made the visit both educational and fun, adding that it was a “great way to see the countryside.” The tour allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship behind Moldova’s world-class wines—an experience that’s both indulgent and culturally enlightening.

Old Orhei: Moldova’s Open-Air Museum

Next, you’ll travel roughly 60 km from Chisinau to visit Old Orhei, an archaeological complex perched on the Raut River. This site is a living museum, combining ancient ruins, rocky churches, and traditional villages. It’s a place where the landscape itself tells stories of Moldova’s past, with panoramic views and peaceful surroundings.

Your guide will share insights into the site’s significance, and you can wander freely among the ancient structures and scenic vistas. Reviewers mention how much they appreciated the quiet and authentic atmosphere—a perfect spot for photography or just soaking in Moldova’s rural charm. The admission is included, but be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain.

Butuceni Eco Resort: A Glimpse of Rural Moldova

Just a short drive from Old Orhei, the Butuceni Eco Resort offers a chance to see local rural life and traditional Moldovan hospitality. You might enjoy homemade placinta (pies), homemade wine, and the chance to interact with farm animals. The setting—rocky hills and lush greenery—makes for memorable photos and a relaxed break from sightseeing.

Although this stop is brief—about an hour—it provides an authentic taste of Moldovan village life and local hospitality, often highlighted as a highlight by previous guests.

Curchi Monastery: Architectural Serenity

Your last stop is the Curchi Monastery, located in the picturesque Buzesti village. Built on two terraces and surrounded by stone walls, this monastery features two churches—the summer Svyatodmitriyevskaya and the winter Christmas of Our Lady—both of which showcase classicist and baroque influences.

Visitors are often struck by the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful architecture. The site is perfect for quiet reflection, photography, and absorbing Moldova’s religious heritage. Admission is included, and the guide will point out details that elevate the experience from simply visiting to truly appreciating the craftsmanship.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive snapshot of Moldova in one day—combining wine, history, scenic landscapes, and religious architecture. It’s especially suitable for those who value guided experiences with knowledgeable hosts, and who enjoy a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. The fact that it’s a private tour makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a flexible, intimate setting rather than a large group.

If you’re curious about Moldova’s ancient sites, love tasting regional wines, or simply want a well-organized way to see the countryside, this tour hits all those marks. Reviewers consistently praise the guides, the stunning views, and the quality of wine—a combination that makes for a memorable day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

In essence, this Moldova tour offers an approachable, well-rounded experience. The luxury underground wine cellar at Cricova is a highlight for any wine enthusiast, and visiting Old Orhei provides a tangible connection to Moldova’s past. The Curchi Monastery adds a peaceful, spiritual dimension, rounding out a day of diversity and discovery.

The value in this tour lies in its ease of logistics, personalized guidance, and the opportunity to see a variety of landmarks without the stress of planning each detail yourself. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want an authentic taste of Moldova’s culture and scenery, with enough comfort and guidance to make the most of their day.

This tour is less suitable if you prefer independent exploration or have mobility issues, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain. Also, since lunch isn’t included, be prepared to budget for a meal — but with the included snacks and wine tastings, you’ll still enjoy a fulfilling day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 6 to 7 hours, including travel between sites and guided visits.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple for travelers.

Are lunch and drinks included?
No, lunch is an extra expense. Snacks are provided, and wine tastings are included in the price.

What’s the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized experience.

How much walking is involved?
There’s some walking, especially at Old Orhei, on uneven terrain. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, all site entrance fees for Cricova, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery are included.

Can children participate?
The minimum drinking age is 18, so this tour is suited for adult travelers.

Is there a dress code?
There’s no strict dress code, but modest clothing is respectful at religious sites like Curchi Monastery.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

To sum it up, this full-day tour from Chisinau offers a well-balanced blend of wine, history, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic introduction for those eager to see Moldova’s highlights without the hassle of independent planning. Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or simply curious about this lesser-known destination, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—and remember—here.