Day Trip to Republic of Moldova - Visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery

Nestled between Romania and Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. For those seeking an enriching day trip, the capital city of Chisinau and the renowned Cricova Winery promise an unforgettable experience. Explore the city’s captivating Soviet-era architecture, discover historical landmarks, and uncover the secrets of Moldova’s thriving wine industry. From the Arc of Triumph to the underground wine cellars, this journey promises to transport you through time and leave you yearning to explore more of this enchanting nation.

Contents hide

1 Good To Know

2 Tour Overview

3 Visiting Medieval Monasteries

4 Exploring Chisinau Highlights

5 Cricova Winery Experience

6 Guided City Tour

7 Subterranean Wine Tasting

8 Tour Inclusions Explained

9 Participant Guidelines and Reviews

10 Frequently Asked Questions

Good To Know

A private full-day tour from Iasi, Romania to Chisinau, Moldova, visiting two medieval monasteries and exploring Chisinau’s highlights, including Soviet-style architecture and historic landmarks.
The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, a wine tasting experience at the renowned Cricova Winery, and a comprehensive package with hotel pick-up, lunch, and entrance fees.
Visitors can explore the intricate frescoes and historical significance of the 18th-century Curchi Monastery, as well as the 13th-century Orheiul Vechi Monastery, showcasing monastic traditions and cultural heritage.
The guided tour of Chisinau features the iconic Arc of Triumph, Pushkin’s exile house, neoclassical government buildings, and the lush greenery of Cathedral Park and local outdoor markets.
The Cricova Winery experience allows visitors to journey through the extensive 34-mile underground tunnel network, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a variety of the winery’s finest vintages.

Tour Overview

This private, full-day tour from Iasi to Chisinau, Moldova, allows visitors to explore the highlights of the region, including two medieval monasteries en route and the vibrant capital city of Chisinau.

The tour features a guided city tour showcasing Soviet-style architecture and historic landmarks.

Travelers will also visit the renowned Cricova Winery, known for its wines enjoyed by European leaders, and embark on a wine tasting in the winery’s 34-mile long underground storage.

The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, wine tasting, entrance fees, lunch, and a complimentary bottle of water, making it a comprehensive and convenient way to discover Moldova.

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Visiting Medieval Monasteries

On the way to Chisinau, the tour visits two medieval monasteries that offer a glimpse into Moldova’s rich religious heritage.

The first stop is the Curchi Monastery, a stunning example of 18th-century Moldavian architecture. Guests will explore the intricate frescoes and learn about the monastery’s long history.

Next, the tour visits the Orheiul Vechi Monastery, a complex of Orthodox churches and cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs. This 13th-century site provides a unique opportunity to understand the country’s monastic traditions and the role of the church in Moldovan culture.

These monastery visits add depth and cultural context to the day’s exploration of Chisinau and the renowned Cricova Winery.

Exploring Chisinau Highlights

The guided city tour of Chisinau features the iconic Arc of Triumph, a Soviet-era landmark commemorating Moldova’s independence.

Visitors explore Pushkin’s former exile house, where the renowned Russian poet spent years in political banishment.

Throughout the tour, the guide shares insights into Chisinau’s unique blend of Soviet architecture and historic landmarks, offering a comprehensive introduction to Moldova’s capital city.

Marvel at the grand, neoclassical-style government buildings that line the city’s central boulevards.
Stroll through the lush greenery of the Cathedral Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Stop by the Eternal Flame, a solemn memorial honoring Moldova’s fallen soldiers.
Admire the striking, modernist design of the National Opera House.
Discover the vibrant energy of the city’s outdoor markets, bustling with locals and vendors.

Cricova Winery Experience

Visitors to Cricova Winery embark on an underground wine-tasting adventure, exploring the vast network of tunnels and cellars that stretch for over 34 miles. The winery, known for wines enjoyed by European leaders, offers an immersive experience that showcases its rich wine-making heritage.

During the guided tour, guests learn about the intricate wine production methods as they wander through the cavernous underground storage facilities. The highlight of the visit is the exclusive wine tasting, where visitors sample a selection of the winery’s finest vintages.

From the moment they step into the cool, dimly lit cellars, guests are captivated by the unique atmosphere and the opportunity to savor the exceptional wines that have made Cricova a renowned destination.

Guided City Tour

A guided city tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of Chisinau’s highlights, showcasing the city’s unique Soviet-style architecture and historic landmarks.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the city, sharing fascinating insights and stories that bring the past to life.

Witness the iconic Arc of Triumph, a symbol of Moldovan independence, and visit the exile house of the renowned Russian poet Alexander Pushkin.

Stroll through the bustling central square, marveling at the striking mix of old and new.

The tour provides a captivating glimpse into Chisinau’s rich history and cultural heritage, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for this vibrant capital city.

Discover Chisinau’s iconic landmarks
Explore Soviet-era architectural gems
Learn about the city’s storied past
Gain insider knowledge from a local guide
Experience the lively heart of the capital

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Day Trip to Republic of Moldova – Visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery

Subterranean Wine Tasting

After exploring the vibrant streets of Chisinau, the tour takes travelers on an unforgettable journey deep underground to the renowned Cricova Winery.

Descending into the vast network of tunnels, guests discover a subterranean world where time seems to stand still.

The guided wine tasting leads them through the impressive 34-mile-long storage, revealing the secrets behind the exceptional wines enjoyed by European leaders.

Travelers learn about the intricate winemaking process and have the opportunity to sample a variety of the winery’s finest vintages.

The underground tasting is a truly unique experience, showcasing Moldova’s rich wine heritage in an extraordinary setting.

Cricova’s captivating cellars leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Tour Inclusions Explained

Included in the all-encompassing day trip is transportation via a modern vehicle, along with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide who’ll provide insightful commentary throughout the journey.

The tour package also includes:

Hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to your adventure.
Wine tasting at the renowned Cricova Winery, where you’ll explore the vast underground cellars and learn about the intricate wine production methods.
Entrance fees to all the featured attractions, so you can fully learn about the history and culture without additional out-of-pocket costs.
A delectable lunch, allowing you to savor the flavors of the region.
A complimentary bottle of water to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

Participant Guidelines and Reviews

The tour has a maximum group size of 14 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible or recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions. Children must be accompanied by an adult, with a minimum age of 12 years. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. The experience has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with a 5.0 rating from 15 reviews. Guests highlighted the knowledgeable guides and comfortable trips, as well as the personalized experience and flexible itinerary adjustments. The Cricova Winery tour was commonly praised as a memorable highlight.

Participant Guidelines	Reviews
– Max group size: 14	– 5.0 rating (15 reviews)
– Not wheelchair accessible	– Knowledgeable guides
– Minimum age: 12 (with adult)	– Personalized experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour doesn’t explicitly state if it accommodates vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions. Travelers with specific dietary needs should inquire about meal options when booking to ensure the tour can meet their requirements.

Can We Make Additional Stops or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour allows for some customization. Travelers can discuss additional stops or adjustments to the itinerary with the tour operator before the trip. The guide will try to accommodate reasonable requests within the tour’s timeframe.

What Should We Bring for the Winery Tour and Tasting?

For the winery tour and tasting, visitors should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and an appetite for exploring the vast underground cellars and sampling the renowned wines. They’ll also want to dress warmly, as the cellars maintain a cool, constant temperature.

Are Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour provider offers discounts for seniors (10%) and students (15%) with valid identification. These discounts can be applied at the time of booking to reduce the overall tour cost.

How Do We Get Our Refund if We Need to Cancel the Tour?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. To get a refund, simply contact them and request a cancellation. They’ll process the refund promptly, so you can easily recoup your investment if needed.