National Wine Day Celebrations In Moldova

Planning a trip that combines Europe’s least visited country, underground wine cellars, and quirky Soviet relics? This five-day Moldova tour offers a unique blend of tastings, history, and offbeat adventures. It promises an authentic experience away from crowds, with plenty of local flavor, all for around $1,150 per person.

What we love about this tour is how it balances luxury and authenticity—you’ll stay in central hotels (no Soviet bunk beds here!), enjoy all tastings included, and have a chance to explore two very different sides of Moldova. However, the itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer slow travel, this might feel intense. This experience suits adventurous souls eager to uncover hidden Moldova, especially wine lovers, history buffs, and those curious about Soviet-era quirks.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visit Transnistria, a de facto independent region with Soviet relics and no tourist overload.
• Wine Wonderland: Explore the massive Milestii Mici cellar, the largest in the world, and Cricova’s extensive underground tunnels.
• Soviet Nostalgia & Weirdness: From Lenin statues to abandoned hotels, the tour dives into Moldova’s Soviet past.
• All-Inclusive Value: Tastings, accommodations, transport, guides, and even a free Moldovan wine bottle daily are included, making it highly cost-effective.
• Unique Local Flavors: Enjoy hearty Moldovan dishes, craft beers, brandy, and traditional pies that will make your jeans regret coming along.
• Small Group Size: With just 12 participants, you’ll get a personalized experience and more interaction with guides.

This tour promises a mix of celebrating Moldova’s National Wine Day and uncovering both its vibrant and bizarre sides. We’ll break down what makes each part of the itinerary special, along with insights that can help you decide if this is the right adventure for you.

Day 1: Arrival in Chisinau and a Hearty Welcome

Upon landing, you’re whisked to a centrally located hotel—no Soviet dorms here, just comfy, modern accommodations within walking distance of bars and cafes. The first evening invites a Moldovan feast featuring hearty meats, dumplings, stews, and pies—think of it as a full-on welcome to Moldovan comfort food.

Later, a lively bar crawl kicks off, starting from divey cellars to craft beer hotspots—complete with shots of divin (local brandy). According to reviews, the guides know their way around, making sure everyone gets a taste of Moldova’s spirited side. Guests have noted the tour’s relaxed start, perfect for easing into the adventure.

Day 2: National Wine Day Extravaganza

The highlight of the weekend is the National Wine Day celebrations. Starting with an opening ceremony featuring parades and folk music, the atmosphere buzzes with excitement. Some guests mention the possibility of the President raising a glass, adding a regal touch.

Throughout the day, you’ll sample wines from across Moldova, often paired with live Balkan-Eurovision-inspired music and dancing with locals. One reviewer loved the festival vibe, emphasizing the diversity of wines and the lively, genuine interactions with Moldovan families.

The day includes a snack stop with pies and wine, giving you a taste of the country’s most-loved breakfast. Lunch features craft beer tastings, supporting Moldova’s growing beer scene. In the evening, the festival’s energy continues—think dancing, singing, and lots of toasts.

Day 3: Exploring Transnistria – The Country That Doesn’t Exist

A trip to Pridnestrovie, or Transnistria, offers a Soviet-era trip through a country that only partially recognizes itself. Expect border checks, Lenin statues, and hammer-and-sickle flags—an absolute highlight for those interested in Cold War nostalgia.

In Tiraspol and Bender, you’ll see wide boulevards, war memorials, and kitschy Soviet architecture. One guest noted the “weird charm” of the Bottle Museum, housing over 10,000 bottles, including some shaped like Jeremy Corbyn and animals. Lunch at a Back to the USSR café promises traditional dishes like borscht and dumplings, with vodka to match.

A visit to Kvint Brandy’s vintage cellar offers tastings of decades-old spirits—smooth as Sinatra, as one reviewer put it—highlighting Moldova’s proud distilling tradition. Returning to Chisinau, a bar crawl and karaoke night wraps up the day, ensuring a lively, unfiltered experience.

Day 4: Underground Cellars & Soviet Oddities

Cricova Winery is a must-see. We loved the way the 120 km of underground tunnels felt like a labyrinth of history and wine, with bottles stored in corridors that stretch as far as the eye can see. Guides describe how this massive cellar is a true wine wonderland, perfect for exploring in a car if you want to see it all.

In the afternoon, the tour takes a sharp turn into Soviet relics—abandoned hotels like the Cosmos Hotel, an eerie amusement park, and brutalist towers. These sites are both bizarre and fascinating, offering a stark contrast to Moldova’s lush vineyards. Guests mention that the “quirky mix of wine, history, and decay” is what makes this experience unique.

Evenings are spent in taverns filled with babushkas serving pie, adding a cozy, local touch.

Day 5: Last Day Shenanigans and Farewell

The final day might surprise you with a countryside feast, complete with accordion players, or visits to Soviet bunkers—Moldova’s way of keeping us guessing. You’ll have free time to shop for Soviet coins, Lenin busts, or even a big suitcase for your wine haul.

The farewell dinner is a lively banquet with endless toasts, laughter, and nostalgia—possibly the highlight for many guests who felt the tour’s authentic and humorous spirit. Reviewers agree that this final night wraps up the experience with a sense of genuine connection and fun.

Absolutely, if you’re seeking a cost-effective, authentic experience combining wine, history, and quirky adventures. The included tastings, accommodations, and transport make it a good value, especially considering access to exclusive sights like the Cricova tunnels and Transnistria’s Soviet relics.

While the itinerary is full, many guests have appreciated how it offers a comprehensive glimpse into Moldova’s hidden charms—from the underground wine cellars to the offbeat Soviet sites. The small group size (limited to 12) ensures a personal touch, with guides like Stefan and Maria providing insightful commentary and a sense of camaraderie.

The tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who love tasting local wines, exploring unusual destinations, and don’t mind a busy schedule. Be prepared for some travel time and a good dose of Soviet nostalgia.

This Moldova tour offers a rare peek into a country few travelers see, making it perfect for those craving something different. With inclusive tastings, quirky sites, and lively celebrations, it balances fun with cultural insight. The value for money is strong, especially given the variety of experiences packed into just five days.

If you enjoy wine, history, and offbeat adventures, this trip will leave you with stories you’ll be telling for years. Just bring your curiosity, your sense of humor, and maybe a spare suitcase for wine.

Who is this tour best for?

It’s ideal for adventurous wine lovers eager to explore a lesser-known part of Europe. Great for those curious about Soviet-era relics and hidden corners of the continent. Perfect if you want an authentic, crowd-free experience with plenty of local flavor and quirky surprises.

For travelers seeking a relaxed pace or more traditional sights, this might feel a little intense, but for the curious and spirited, it’s a memorable journey through Moldova’s best-kept secrets.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 due to the nature of the activities and alcohol tastings.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers accommodation in central hotels, transport (including to and from the underground cellars), all tastings (wine, beer, spirits), breakfasts, guides (local and Western), and one free bottle of Moldovan wine per day.

Are flights included?
No, participants need to arrange their own flights to Chisinau.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
The tour focuses on tastings and alcohol-related activities, so non-drinkers might find it less suitable.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Comfortable, centrally located hotels—no Soviet bunk beds—ensuring a good night’s sleep after busy days.

How big are the groups?
Limited to 12 participants, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

What is the tour duration?
It runs for 5 days, with check-in times depending on your flight schedule.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in English, with guides able to explain and translate local details.

Will I have free time during the tour?
Yes, there are periods of free time, especially on the last day for shopping or exploring at your own pace.

In summary, this Moldova adventure is a well-rounded, fun-filled journey into one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. With a mix of wine, Soviet relics, offbeat sites, and lively local celebrations, it offers genuine value and memorable experiences for those craving something truly different.