Best of Moldova: Cricova Winery & Old Orhei Tour including Curchi Monastery

Traveling through Moldova? You’re in for a treat with this well-rounded day tour that hits some of the country’s most captivating sights. From exploring Cricova’s labyrinthine underground wine tunnels to wandering among ancient monasteries and archaeological sites, this experience offers a taste of Moldova’s culture, history, and, of course, its wine.

What we love about this tour is how it combines both culture and delicious wine tasting in a seamless way. Plus, the small-group feel promises a more personalized experience, and the knowledgeable guides make every stop meaningful.

That said, one thing to consider is the length of the winery visit, which some might find a bit lengthy or touristy, especially if you’re more interested in sightseeing than tasting. This tour suits anyone wanting a comprehensive introduction to Moldova’s heart and soul — perfect for history buffs, wine lovers, or curious travelers wanting a snapshot of what makes Moldova special.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences with small group intimacy and expert guides
• Diverse stops combining religious sites, archaeological ruins, and underground wineries
• Tasting included with a variety of Moldovan wines, biscuits, and nuts
• Cultural insights delivered by guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Time management is generally well-done, but the winery visit can feel a bit long for some
• Price point offers good value for those interested in a full-day exploration
• Tour flexibility includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Limited group size (max 10 travelers) enhances the personalized experience

A Deep Dive into the Full-Day Moldovan Experience

Starting the Day: Curchi Monastery

The tour kicks off around 9:00 am with a visit to the Curchi Monastery complex, located about 30 km from Old Orhei. This site isn’t just a religious monument; it’s a symbol of Moldovan religious architecture with over two centuries of history. According to reviews, the admission is included, and visitors often comment on its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere.

Expect to spend roughly 45 minutes here. Guides typically provide insights into its cultural significance, making it a worthwhile start to the day. Reviewers mention that the guide Ecaterina was particularly friendly and careful in explaining the monastery’s background, which added depth to the visit.

Exploring Old Orhei: Archaeological and Cultural Marvels

Next, the tour moves to the Old Orhei archaeological complex—a true highlight for history enthusiasts. Here, you’ll see the famous Cave Monastery, the Butuceni Ethnographic Museum, and the ruins of Shehr al-Djedid, a Tartar city dating from the 14th to 16th centuries.

Spending approximately an hour and a half, this site offers a peek into Moldova’s layered past. Reviewers highlight that the natural landscape combined with historic ruins creates a picture-perfect setting. One traveler called it “a unique natural and historical complex in the open air,” emphasizing how the site feels like stepping back in time.

The Underground Marvel: Cricova Winery

The third part of the tour is the Cricova Winery, often the star of the day. Situated 60 to 80 meters underground, the winery resembles a sprawling underground city of tunnels. This site is famed worldwide for its enormous labyrinth of streets and its exceptional wines.

The tour here lasts about 2.5 hours, including an excursion through the wine cellars and a tasting session. Visitors usually sample three different wines, complemented by biscuits, nuts, and water. Many reviewers praise the quality of the wines and the fascinating underground environment—some noting that Cricova’s wines are both tasty and affordable considering their quality.

A comment from a reviewer describes the visit as “fabulous” and notes that the price of the wines was surprisingly low given their quality, making it a great value. However, some mention that the winery visit can feel a bit crowded or touristy, especially if large groups are present, which also affects the ability to hear guides clearly.

Lunch in the Ethnic Village

Post-winery, you’ll stop at a local old-fashioned restaurant for a traditional Moldovan meal. While lunch isn’t included in the price, reviewers recommend the authentic, eco-friendly food, which adds an authentic taste of local cuisine to the day.

The brief stop here is an opportunity to relax, enjoy hearty Moldovan dishes, and reflect on the morning’s sights.

Final Stop: Curchi Monastery & Reflection

After lunch, the tour wraps up with a visit back to the Curchi Monastery, giving travelers a second chance to soak in its peaceful atmosphere or explore more.

Transportation & Guide

A key feature of this tour is private transportation, which reduces stress and helps keep the schedule on track. The guides receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience, often going beyond surface facts to make the experience memorable.

Reviews mention guides like Slava and Ecaterina as being particularly engaging and well-informed, which enhances the value of the tour. Small group sizes mean that you get more personalized attention, and there’s plenty of time for questions and discussion.

Practical Considerations

The tour starts at 9:00 am and lasts approximately 8 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included—great for those who want a hassle-free experience. The price of $160 per person offers good value considering the inclusion of all entrance fees, a comprehensive itinerary, and wine tasting.

Most travelers book this tour around 24 days in advance, suggesting it’s popular and well-organized. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, Italian, and Russian, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

Authentic Experiences & Authenticity

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of cultural insight, historic landmarks, and wine tasting—all delivered in a personable manner. Reviewers often mention how guides like Ecaterina and Slava are informative, friendly, and attentive, making the experience more engaging.

Many travelers appreciated visits to hidden gems like Old Orhei and the uniqueness of Cricova’s underground tunnels. The authentic Moldovan food at the ethnic restaurant is another highlight, giving visitors a taste of local life and flavors.

Limitations to Consider

Some reviewers point out that the wine tour can feel a bit lengthy or crowded, which might impact those wanting a more relaxed sightseeing experience. Also, a few mentioned that the price might be steep for a Moldovan tour, especially considering additional costs like lunch and souvenirs.

There are comments about the advertised private tour sometimes feeling more like a group experience, but overall, the small group size still provides a relatively intimate setting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who wants a balanced mix of cultural sites, historical landmarks, and wine, then this tour hits the spot. It’s ideal for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, or travelers keen on exploring Moldova’s hidden corners without the hassle of planning every detail.

Those interested in authentic local experiences, combined with knowledgeable guides and good value, will find this tour particularly satisfying. However, if you’re more focused on relaxing or nature, some of the stops might feel a bit rushed or touristy.

This tour is also perfect for first-time visitors who want a rundown of Moldova in a single day, especially given the convenience of transportation and the inclusion of key highlights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the package, making it easy to start your day stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding in the late afternoon, depending on traffic and group pace.

What languages are tours offered in?
The tour is available in English, Italian, and Russian, so check with your provider for availability in your preferred language.

Is wine tasting included?
Yes, the tour includes a wine tasting of three different wines, along with biscuits, nuts, and water.

Can I expect a small group?
Absolutely. The maximum group size is 10 travelers, which helps create a more personalized experience.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees for Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei, and Cricova Winery are covered in the price.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but the tour stops at a local restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Moldovan cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though the tour involves some walking and exploring. Check with the provider if you have mobility concerns.

What is the overall value of this tour?
Considering the comprehensive itinerary, expert guides, entrance fees, and tastings, many reviewers feel the price is fair for what’s offered, especially for those wanting a thorough introduction to Moldova.

Final Thoughts

This Best of Moldova tour presents a balanced package of culture, history, and wine, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to see the country’s highlights in one day. You’ll love the personalized guidance, the chance to walk through historic sites, and the unique underground winery experience.

It’s a well-organized, engaging trip that offers great value, especially if you’re eager to get a true taste of Moldova without the stress of planning. The mix of authentic sites and high-quality wine tasting makes this tour particularly appealing for first-timers and curious explorers alike.

While the winery visit might be a bit long for some, the overall experience is highly praised, and the small-group setting ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd. This is a fantastic way to discover Moldova’s lesser-known treasures with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

Whether you’re a history lover, wine enthusiast, or simply want a comprehensive introduction to Moldova’s most iconic sights, this tour offers a memorable, value-packed day out.