If you’re someone who appreciates a good glass of wine and loves uncovering unique places, then the Cricova & Milestii Mici Winery tour might just be your perfect day out in Moldova. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and details that paint a pretty inviting picture. What really stands out are the underground labyrinths and the impressive wine collections—these are features that set this experience apart from typical vineyard visits. Plus, the fact that it’s a small-group tour means you’ll get more personalized attention, which many travelers appreciate.
On the flip side, keep in mind that the tour lasts around six hours, which is a fair chunk of your day, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, since it involves underground caves at about 85 meters deep, bringing some warm clothes is advisable. This tour is best suited for wine lovers and curious travelers who want to see Moldova’s famous underground wineries with knowledgeable guides and enjoy tasting some excellent local wines.
Key Points
- Outstanding underground wineries at Cricova and Milestii Mici, both known worldwide
- Expert-guided tastings with snacks included, perfect for wine enthusiasts
- Hassle-free transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off in Chisinau
- Limited group size (up to 6 people), ensuring more personal interaction
- Value for money at about $235 per person, considering the visits, tastings, and transportation
- Pre-booking is recommended, usually booked around 38 days in advance
What Makes This Tour Special?
This experience offers a fascinating glimpse into Moldova’s decorative underground wine cellars, a feature that makes it stand out globally. Cricova is often described as an underground city, with tunnels and galleries that stretch for miles. You’ll travel through these tunnels on small electric trains—think of it as a scenic ride through wine history, with the cool, dark atmosphere adding to the sense of discovery. The cellars house a significant collection of wines, including sparkling and maturing varieties, all stored at a constant, optimal temperature.
Milestii Mici, on the other hand, is officially documented by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest underground wine collection in the world. Imagine walking through galleries about 85 meters beneath the ground, where barrels and bottles covered with dust await their moment of enjoyment. The guided tour here helps you understand the process of aging wine and explains the history behind the world’s biggest wine collection.
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The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
This is a full-day adventure, roughly six hours, giving you ample time to soak in the sights, enjoy tastings, and learn about the craft of wine-making. The tour begins with hotel pickup, which makes it easy and stress-free—no need to worry about finding your way or arranging transport. Once at Cricova, you’ll be taken into the underground tunnels via small electric trains, a highlight that many reviews mention with enthusiasm. During this part of the tour, your guide will explain the different sections—maturing wines and sparkling varieties—and you’ll get to sample some snacks along with the wine tastings.
The tasting experience is well-rated, with reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer expressed that the guide made the trip “fun” and that it encouraged them to return to Moldova. Expect to learn about the tasting notes of Moldovan wines and get a sense of the country’s winemaking tradition.
After Cricova, the group heads to Milestii Mici. Here, you’ll walk through the cool, dimly lit tunnels, exploring the world’s largest wine collection. You’ll see barrels and bottles stored in the underground caves, many covered in noble dust, giving a sense of history in every corner. The guided tasting here emphasizes the variety and quality of Moldovan wines, with many reviewers noting the excellent selection.
Highlights That Keep Coming Up
- Stunning underground cellars at both Cricova and Milestii Mici
- Knowledgeable guides who are praised for their care and explanations
- Great wine selection for tasting, from sparkling to aged wines
- Convenient pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Chisinau
- Snacks included to complement the wine tastings
- Tour size is small, with a maximum of 6 travelers, which enhances the overall experience
The Value of This Experience
At $235.25 per person, this tour might seem pricey on the surface, but when you consider the transportation, guided tours, multiple tastings, and the chance to explore two of Moldova’s most famous wineries, it starts to feel like a good deal—especially since most travelers book it around 38 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. The tour is designed to offer a comprehensive taste of Moldovan wine culture without the hassle of organizing separate visits or transport.
Many reviews rave about the quality of the experience. One reviewer mentioned that their driver was “amazing,” and they thoroughly enjoyed the experience from start to finish. Another highlighted that the tour is suitable for anyone from wine experts to casual taster, thanks to the knowledgeable guides and friendly atmosphere.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Bring some warm clothes, as the underground tunnels can be chilly.
- Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
- Make sure to arrive with an open mind and a willingness to learn about Moldova’s wine tradition.
- Remember that your ID should be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings.
- The tour lasts about six hours, so plan comfortably for the day—bring water and perhaps a light jacket.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal if you’re passionate about wine or curious about underground cellars and wine collections. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy guided tours and want a hassle-free way to explore Moldova’s top wineries. If you’re traveling with someone who’s new to wine or simply appreciates good scenery and history, they’ll likely find this tour engaging.
It’s also perfect if you prefer smaller groups, as the maximum is six travelers, which means more personal interaction and tailored attention from your guide. While not explicitly family-focused, older teens or adults with an interest in wine or underground architecture will find it fascinating.
If you’re someone who values high-quality tastings, expert guides, and a hint of adventure underground, this tour checks a lot of boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Chisinau, making it very convenient and stress-free.
How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately six hours, giving plenty of time to explore and taste without feeling rushed.
What is the price per person?
The tour costs about $235.25 per person, which covers transportation, guide, tastings, and snacks.
Are children allowed on this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but the minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s not suitable for younger children or those who don’t drink alcohol.
How many people are in the group?
The group is small, with a maximum of six travelers, which makes for a more personalized experience.
What should I bring?
Bring some warm clothes to stay comfortable underground, and a good appetite for tasting Moldovan wines.
Cricova & Milestii Mici Wineries
“This was my second tour with the Hi Moldova. The tour guide (Mtvarisa) was really nice and caring. Next to bringing me to the winery's she also mad…”
Final Thoughts
This Cricova & Milestii Mici Winery tour delivers a solid dose of Moldova’s famed underground wine culture, guided expertly and with good attention to detail. It’s a fantastic choice for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking to explore Moldova’s unique wine-making scene without the fuss of organizing logistics themselves.
The combination of cool tunnels, excellent wine, and knowledgeable guides makes it an experience you’ll remember—and perhaps inspire a new appreciation for Moldovan wines. It’s a well-rounded, immersive day that balances education, taste, and comfort, making it more than just a typical winery visit.
If you’re after a lively, authentic, and memorable way to spend a day in Chisinau, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to book ahead, pack some warm clothes, and prepare for a journey underground that’s as fascinating as the wines you’ll taste.
