If you’re considering a day trip through Moldova, a tour that combines Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei, and Cricova Winery offers a fantastic way to see some of the country’s highlights. This guided experience promises a well-rounded glimpse into Moldova’s spiritual sites, ancient ruins, and legendary wine cellars—all packed into roughly eight hours.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guide helps bring each location to life, making the history and stories more engaging. Second, the variety—covering religious, archaeological, and vinicultural sights—means you’ll get a taste of Moldova’s diverse attractions. That said, the tour is quite full-packed, and you’ll need to be ready for a busy day. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced visit, or if mobility is an issue since some sites involve walking and uneven terrain.
This tour suits travelers who love history, architecture, and wine, and who appreciate a structured but flexible experience. It’s a particularly good choice for those who want to maximize their day and see the highlights without the hassle of planning each stop independently.
Key Points
- Diverse itinerary covering religious sites, archaeological ruins, and wine cellars
- Expert local guide enhances the experience with engaging stories and insights
- Comfortable transportation included with hotel pickup and drop-off
- Entry fees included for Old Orhei, but winery tasting packages are optional and paid separately
- Small group setting limits participants to seven, promoting a more personal experience
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later feature
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
Starting Point: Hotel Pickup in Chisinau
Your day begins with convenient pickup from your hotel in Chisinau. The friendly guide will meet you in the lobby, setting a welcoming tone for the day ahead. The transportation is in a comfortable vehicle, which means you can relax between stops and enjoy the countryside views as you head out.
First Stop: Curchi Monastery
The first stop is Curchi Monastery, considered the largest monastic complex in Moldova. This site feels like stepping into a peaceful retreat. The monastery’s architecture is impressive, with the Virgins Assumption Cathedral drawing attention for its design—reportedly based on plans by the renowned architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli.
Visitors often mention how the monastery is a true religious and cultural gem, offering a serene atmosphere and beautiful views. It’s a place that radiates calm and spirituality, making it a perfect start for those interested in Moldova’s religious architecture and monastic life.
Exploring Old Orhei
Next, your tour moves to the Old Orhei archaeological complex. Here, you’ll find ruins from two historic cities dating from the 14th to 16th centuries, where Tatars once settled during their westward expansion. This site offers a fascinating peek into Moldova’s layered history.
The guided tour lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll see remnants of ancient structures, defensive walls, and perhaps some reconstructed buildings. But what truly makes Old Orhei special is the Orthodox Cave Monastery situated within the cliffs. Monks have expanded and modified this site over centuries, creating a unique blend of ancient ruins and active religious practice.
Expect to see Christian churches that give striking views through their windows—the kind of scenery that makes history feel very alive. Many travelers comment on how well-maintained the site is and how the blend of nature and architecture creates a memorable experience. As one reviewer said, “It’s a fabulous area,” and the guide Cornelius is often praised for his knowledge and friendliness.
More Great Tours NearbyOptional: Cricova Winery & Tasting
In the afternoon, the tour heads underground to Cricova Winery, famous for its vast network of tunnels—over 70 streets covering nearly 53 hectares. This “underground city of wine” is truly a unique sight. You’ll see cellars with names like Sauvignon and Cabernet, and learn about Moldova’s long tradition of winemaking.
A highlight here is the story of Yuri Gagarin, the Russian astronaut, who in 1966 got lost in the tunnels after a visit, ending up spending the night in a tasting room that now bears his name. Visitors also get the chance to taste some of Moldova’s finest wines; the optional tasting packages range from 1 to 4 wines, costing €20 to €37 depending on your choice.
Many reviews mention that the wine tour and tasting are worth the extra cost, especially given the historical significance and the chance to sample local wines in an extraordinary setting. Keep in mind, the entrance fee and tastings are paid separately, so it’s a good idea to have some cash or card ready.
Final Return to Chisinau
After the winery, you’ll be transported back to your hotel, ending a day filled with diverse sights and stories. The small group size makes for a more intimate experience, letting you ask questions and share impressions comfortably.
What Travelers Love About This Tour
The majority of reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guide is, with many saying that Oleg or Cornelius brought Moldova’s culture alive with engaging storytelling. The stunning views and historical sites get consistent praise, with visitors noting that Old Orhei and Curchi Monastery are “must-see” highlights.
The wine tasting in Cricova often emerges as a favorite part, with many travelers remarking on the cool, labyrinthine tunnels and the stories shared about Moldova’s winemaking traditions. The experience is considered excellent value, especially given the small group size and the convenience of hotel pickup.
Potential Drawbacks
The tour is quite full, with around 8 hours of activity, so it might feel rushed for some. Participants with mobility issues or claustrophobia should be aware of the site’s uneven terrain and underground tunnels. Also, the wine tasting is an optional add-on, and the cost isn’t included in the base price, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge.
Pricing and Value
The tour itself costs between 20 and 35 euros per person, depending on the package you select. That’s a fair price considering the transportation, guided commentary, and entry fees for Old Orhei are included. The wine tasting adds an extra expense, but many find it well worth it for the chance to enjoy Moldova’s renowned wines in a setting that’s both historic and atmospheric.
For travelers eager to see Moldova’s top three attractions without fuss, this tour strikes a good balance between convenience and depth. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided experience, freeing them from the logistics but still wanting to learn and savor the local culture.
The Sum Up
This Moldova day trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into the country’s religious heritage, ancient ruins, and wine culture. The combination of Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei, and Cricova Winery covers a lot of ground, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want to see the highlights without planning each detail themselves. The small group setting and expert guide ensure a personal touch, and the stories shared along the way make the experience engaging and informative.
While it’s a busy day—perfect for those with limited time or eager to explore—it’s not suited for anyone needing a slower pace or with mobility limitations. The optional wine tasting is a highlight for many, offering a taste of Moldova’s storied vinicultural scene in an unforgettable underground setting.
If you’re after a trip that balances history, culture, and a bit of indulgence, this tour really delivers. Just be prepared for a full, active day that leaves you with plenty of stories and memories to take home.
Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei and Cricova Winery (Optional)
“It was an amazing experience, Oleg was a perfect guide – really knowledgable, friendly, and easy to talk to. The group was a lovely size and the ac…”
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the guide will meet you in your hotel lobby in Chisinau for pickup.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, including travel and sightseeing.
What is the group size?
Limited to 7 participants, making for a more personalized experience.
Are entry fees included?
Yes, the fee for Old Orhei is included. The Cricova Winery tastings are optional and paid separately.
Can I choose the wine tasting package?
Yes, options range from 1 to 4 wines, costing between €20 and €37.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years, and it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a good idea, especially for Old Orhei’s uneven terrain.
Is the wine tasting worth it?
Most reviews say yes—especially considering the historic tunnels and the opportunity to sample local wines.
How do I pay for the optional extras?
You can pay in cash MDL or by card at the winery.
Is the tour flexible?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
If you’re eager to see Moldova’s highlights without the hassle, this tour is a solid choice—offering a satisfying blend of history, culture, and local flavor.
You can check availability for your dates here: