Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Chisinau: Cricova Wine Tour & Old Orhei Archaeological Complex
Looking for an authentic Moldovan experience that combines history, stunning scenery, and world-class wine? This carefully curated day trip offers just that. We’re reviewing this tour because it consistently receives top marks — a perfect choice for those keen to see Moldova’s highlights without fuss.
What really sets this tour apart is the seamless blend of cultural discovery with indulgence — from wandering ancient villages and cave monasteries to exploring the world’s largest underground wine cellars. The visit to Cricova, especially, is a highlight that wine lovers and history buffs alike will appreciate.
One thing to consider is the pace — it’s a full day packed with sightseeing, so if you prefer a slower, more relaxed experience, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, note that you’ll need to climb about 200 steps to reach the Bodie Cave Monastery, which could be a consideration for those with mobility issues.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy cultural excursions, scenic landscapes, and tasting local wines, especially if you’re after a comprehensive day out in Moldova that balances history with flavor.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary: Combines cultural sites, scenic villages, and world-renowned wine tasting.
- Expert guides: Guides like Vasilii and Liliya are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
- Underground marvels: Cricova’s vast underground streets are a highlight, offering a unique setting for wine tasting and exploration.
- Authentic Moldova: Visits to Old Orhei and Butuceni bring you close to traditional village life and ancient history.
- Value for money: Included transportation, entry tickets, guided tours, and tastings make this a well-rounded experience.
- Small group: Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
This tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Chisinau, setting a comfortable tone for the day. The first major stop is Old Orhei, an archaeological site that combines ancient ruins with stunning natural scenery. Here, you’ll get a guided tour that lasts about two hours, enabling you to soak in the history and appreciate the views of the surrounding landscape. Reviewers mention how guides like Vasilii make this part memorable with insightful commentary, making history come alive.
From Old Orhei, the journey continues towards Butuceni, a charming village known for its traditional crafts and serene atmosphere. The guided tour here lasts around an hour, but what many travelers love is the free time to wander and absorb the authentic rural vibe. Expect narrow streets, rustic houses, and perhaps a chance to chat with locals. Some reviewers highlight the kindness and deep knowledge of guides like Liliya, who provide helpful context and personal touches.
Next, you’ll revisit Old Orhei for an additional hour of exploration, perhaps to see areas you might have missed earlier or to enjoy the panoramic views. The highlight for many is the Bodie Cave Monastery, a 30-minute guided visit that involves climbing approximately 200 steps to reach this ancient cave monastery. Reviewers with mobility considerations may want to prepare for this ascent, but the spectacular view and spiritual ambiance make it worthwhile.
After a short break at Butuceni to refresh and enjoy the peaceful countryside, the tour moves to Cricova, Moldova’s most famous winery, just a few kilometers north of Chisinau. This part of the day is a true highlight, lasting nearly three hours with a guided tour through the underground streets, wine maturation sections, and sparkling wine production areas.
The Cricova cellar is a marvel of engineering, with its labyrinth of tunnels, streets, and avenues that resemble a subterranean city. The tour here is comprehensive, including visits to the National Collection, the Tasting Rooms, and even the underground cinema — yes, a cinema built into the cellars.
The wine tasting itself is a delightful experience, featuring four types of wines paired with nuts and biscuits. Reviewers like Giuseppe Giancarlo praised the “kindness and deep knowledge” of the guides, making the tasting both educational and enjoyable. The wines are of good quality, and the variety means there’s something for all, whether you prefer reds, whites, or sparkling options.
The entire day wraps up with the comfort of a drop-off back in Chisinau, leaving you with a wealth of impressions from Moldova’s rich traditions, stunning landscapes, and delicious wines.
Looking for more options in Chisinau? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
Transport and Group Size
Transportation is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with a small group size limited to four participants. This ensures a more intimate experience, allowing guides to tailor the commentary and pace to your preferences. The round-trip transfer is smooth and reliable, with pickup and drop-off included, which takes the hassle out of arranging your own transport.
Price and Value
Considering the included entry tickets to Cricova and Old Orhei, guided tours, wine tasting, and transportation, this tour offers excellent value. The price reflects the quality of guides, the experience, and the comprehensive nature of the itinerary. Many reviewers express satisfaction, highlighting how smoothly the day runs and how much they learned and enjoyed without worrying about logistics or additional costs.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, especially since you’ll be climbing 200 steps at the Bodie Cave Monastery. The tour starts early, so arriving a few minutes before your pickup is advisable. If you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll especially appreciate the detailed visits to Cricova’s various sections, including the sparkling wine production.
While the tour is suitable for most, non-swimmers or those with mobility issues should consider the physical activity involved, like the stairs. Also, as the tour involves walking through narrow underground passages, those prone to claustrophobia might want to keep that in mind.
Who Should Book This Tour?
If you’re after a balanced mix of history, culture, nature, and wine, this experience ticks all the boxes. It’s ideal for first-timers to Moldova, curious travelers, and those who appreciate guided insights from knowledgeable hosts. Families with children over the age of 12 might also find it rewarding, but the stairs and walking may be less suitable for very young kids or those with mobility concerns.
This tour is especially good for people seeking authentic local experiences beyond the capital city’s urban environment, offering a genuine taste of Moldova’s heritage and flavors in one day.
You might also want to explore these Chisinau activities
FAQs
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately a full day, with the itinerary including multiple stops, guided tours, and tastings.
What’s included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off, entry tickets to Cricova and Old Orhei, guided tours, wine tasting, and transportation in a small group vehicle are included.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch in Butuceni village is not part of the package, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during the break.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking and climbing stairs. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if it’s hot or rainy.
Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, you can still enjoy the sights and learn about Moldova’s history and culture, but you might skip the wine tasting.
How many people are in the group?
The group is limited to 4 participants for a more personalized experience.
What is Cricova famous for?
Cricova is known as the largest wine cellar in the world, with underground streets, and employs classic French champagne production methods.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for older children (over 12), especially those interested in history and wine. However, the stairs at the cave monastery might be challenging for some.
How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves some walking and climbing stairs but is manageable for most with average fitness.
What makes Cricova special compared to other wineries?
Its massive underground network, historical cellars, and the underground cinema make it a unique experience.
This tour packs quite a punch for a single day — blending Moldova’s ancient sites, scenic rural villages, and legendary wine cellars into one memorable experience. If you’re eager to see the country’s best with a knowledgeable guide and small group, it’s an excellent choice. Expect to leave with a deeper understanding of Moldova’s traditions and a few bottles of local wine to remember the trip by.
