Moldova might not be the first country that comes to mind for a travel adventure, but it offers a surprising mix of wine culture, ancient sites, and authentic local charm. Its wineries are world-famous, and exploring them gives travelers a chance to taste some exceptional wines, often made using centuries-old techniques. Plus, the country’s historical landmarks, like the wooden churches and ancient monasteries, add a layer of depth you won’t find everywhere. Among these experiences, we especially enjoyed the Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour for its blend of city sights and vineyard charm, and the Old Orhei Archaeological Complex for a glimpse into Moldova’s medieval past. To learn more about Moldova’s wine-making traditions, visit the Milestii Mici Winery Tour.
If you’re wondering what kind of tours Moldova offers, you’re in luck. From wine tastings and historic site visits to cultural museums, this list covers the top options. Whether you’re a wine lover, history enthusiast, or simply curious about Moldova’s lesser-known gems, there’s a tour designed for you. Let’s dive into the details of each experience.
1. Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour – With Wooden Monastery
This tour is a great way to combine urban exploration with a visit to Moldova’s most elegant winery. Starting in Chișinău, the guide takes you on a city tour that highlights monuments like Stefan cel Mare and the oldest wooden church in Hirișeni, providing a deep dive into Moldova’s past. Afterward, you’ll head to Castel Mimi, a stunning wine estate known for its impressive architecture and lush vineyards. At Castel Mimi, you’ll enjoy a guided wine tasting session where local wines take center stage, along with a tour of the winery’s historic cellars.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of sightseeing and tasting. The guide is praised for being friendly and knowledgeable, answering all your questions about Moldova’s culture and history. The visit to the wooden church in Hirișeni adds a spiritual and architectural touch that’s quite unique. Plus, the entire experience lasts about 4 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time but a strong interest in Moldovan wine and history.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a balanced mix of city sights and wine exploration, with a personal touch that makes Moldova’s heritage come alive.
2. Moldova: Old Orhei Archeological Complex & Curchi
For a full immersion into Moldova’s medieval past, this 6-hour tour offers an in-depth look at one of the country’s most iconic sites. Starting from Chișinău, you’ll visit the Old Orhei Archaeological and Cultural Complex, a place where history is layered deep beneath the earth. You’ll explore the Cave Monastery, which is carved into the limestone cliffs, and walk through the nearby Butuceni village, where traditional life persists. The tour also visits the Curchi Monastery, renowned for its stunning architecture, and the Museum of the Old Orhei at the reserve.
What makes this tour special is the mix of natural landscapes and cultural monuments. You’re guided through sites that reveal Moldova’s medieval and religious history in a way that photos alone can’t capture. The guide provides insights into the monastic life and the historical significance of each location. The tour also includes time at the Ethnography Museum in Butuceni, which offers a deeper understanding of local traditions.
Guests praise this trip for its comprehensive itinerary and engaging guides. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy walking, historical stories, and exploring authentic villages. The only potential downside is the longer duration, so it suits those with a full day available.
Bottom line: A rich experience for history buffs and curious travelers eager to see Moldova’s archaeological and religious treasures.
3. Chisinau: Milestii Mici Winery Tour with 3 Tastings
This guided tour of Milestii Mici is a must for wine enthusiasts. For around $148, you’ll explore the world’s largest wine collection, stored in underground tunnels that stretch for over 120 kilometers. During the approximately 4-hour visit, you’ll enjoy tasting three different wines, including a vintage dessert wine, paired with light appetizers like bruschetta and prosciutto crudo, enhancing the drinking experience.
What sets this tour apart is the sheer scale of the winery—over 1.5 million bottles, some dating back decades, stored in a maze of underground galleries. The guide shares fascinating stories about the history and traditions of Moldovan winemaking, which has been going strong for centuries. The tour provides an excellent value for money: tasting premium wines and touring the site that’s recognized as the largest in the world.
This experience is ideal for wine lovers who want a deep dive into Moldovan wine culture without leaving Chișinău. The tour is fairly straightforward but offers a luxurious taste of Moldova’s winemaking prowess.
Bottom line: A top choice for wine aficionados seeking a memorable tasting experience with outstanding historical context.
$148 per person
4. from Moldova: Manuc Bei mansion – Milesti Mici wine cellar
This 6.5-hour tour combines visits to the largest wine cellar in the world with a step into history at the Manuc Bei Mansion. Starting from Chișinău, the tour first takes you to the historic Manuc Bei Mansion, a 19th-century estate that offers insight into regional aristocratic life. After a guided visit that lasts about 1.5 hours, you’ll proceed to Milestii Mici, where you’ll explore the underground wine cellar, which claims to be the biggest in the world.
This tour is particularly appealing because it blends history, architecture, and wine in a single day. The cellar tour includes a wine tasting session, giving you a chance to sample local wines in a setting that’s as impressive as the collection itself. The historic mansion visit adds a cultural dimension that elevates the experience beyond just tasting.
Guests mention the well-organized tour and the informative guides. The combination of two major wine destinations makes it great for those with a full day to indulge in Moldova’s wine heritage. If you’re looking for a luxury experience that combines history and wine, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who enjoy history and want to experience Moldova’s most impressive wine locations.
5. Gallery of Petru Costin of the Ialoveni District Council
For a different kind of experience, this museum offers a deep look into Moldova’s cultural and historical artifacts. The Gallery of Petru Costin features over 25 collections spread across 4 floors, including USSR memorabilia and Guinness Certificates for unique achievements. It’s a place where you can learn about Moldova’s past and present, with a focus on local stories and artifacts.
Travelers who appreciate history museums and visual storytelling find this museum a surprisingly enriching stop. The friendly guide makes the experience engaging, and the various exhibits provide a tangible connection to Moldova’s heritage. It’s a top attraction in Ialoveni, especially for those interested in Soviet-era memorabilia or wanting a quiet, reflective activity.
At just a day-long visit, this museum complements the other tours by highlighting local culture in a more relaxed setting. It’s also highly rated for its informative content and unique collections.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for history lovers and museum enthusiasts wanting a closer look at Moldova’s cultural identity.
How to Choose Your Moldova Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and travel style. If you want a quick taste of city sights and wine, the Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour offers a balanced experience. For those eager to explore archaeological sites and monasteries, the Old Orhei & Curchi tour provides a comprehensive look at Moldova’s medieval heritage.
Wine lovers should consider the Milestii Mici tour for its massive collection and quality tastings, while history buffs will appreciate the blend of aristocratic and local stories in the Manuc Bei & Milestii Mici tour. If you prefer a more relaxed cultural experience, the Petru Costin Museum offers a quiet way to connect with Moldova’s art and history.
When booking, consider the duration of the tour, your interest in wine or history, and whether you prefer guided tours or self-exploration. The best time to go is during spring or fall, avoiding colder winter months if possible.
Final Thoughts
Moldova offers a surprisingly diverse range of tours, from wine tastings at Castel Mimi to exploring ancient monasteries and cultural museums. For a quick cultural fix, the Chișinău city tour pairs well with a visit to a vineyard. History buffs and wine enthusiasts alike will find something to love, especially with options like Milestii Mici that showcase the country’s world-class wine production.
If you’re planning a trip, try to book early, especially for popular tours like Chișinau & Castel Mimi and Milestii Mici. Each offers something unique, ensuring your Moldova experience is authentic, memorable, and well worth the time.