Day trip to Moldova – visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery

Thinking about exploring Moldova but don’t want to commit to a long stay? This day tour from Iasi offers a compact yet immersive experience, combining the charm of Chisinau’s city streets with the impressive depths of Cricova Winery. It’s a popular choice for those who want to get a taste of Moldova’s culture, history, and wine without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What really makes this trip stand out are the knowledgeable guides who bring stories of Moldova’s past to life and the stunning underground tunnels of Cricova, which feel more like a secret city under the earth. We also love the chance to enjoy a wine tasting experience, tasting some of Moldova’s best wines—an activity that pairs beautifully with the scenic stops along the way.

One thing to consider is that the tour is quite full, with a packed itinerary that runs for about 10 hours. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility issues, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget around 12 EUR if you plan to dine at Cricova.

All in all, this trip suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, wine, and history, especially if you enjoy guided tours and don’t mind a full day out. It’s particularly good for anyone curious about Moldova’s cultural sites and its world-famous wine traditions.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines city highlights, historical sites, and a underground winery experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to translate at the border.
• Wine Tasting: Offers a chance to sample Moldova’s elite wines in the impressive Cricova underground cellars.
• Historical Context: Learn about Moldova’s development, including the impact of WWII and Soviet rebuilding.
• Flexible Booking: Book now, pay later, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for Curious Travelers: Ideal for those interested in culture, history, and wine, with some walking involved.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Moldova in a Day: What to Expect

If you’re like us, thinking about whether a single day can really give you a meaningful glimpse of Moldova, this tour might just surprise you. It’s designed to offer a little bit of everything—history, architecture, religion, and of course, wine. The logistics are well thought out, with hotel pickup included, and the transportation is comfortable and modern.

The Journey Begins: From Iasi to Chisinau

The morning kicks off early, with your guide picking you up right outside your hotel. It’s worth noting that the journey from Iasi to Moldova is smooth—border crossings are described as seamless, thanks in part to guides who are well-versed in navigating the process. Once in Moldova, the first stop is the Capriana Monastery.

Visiting Capriana Monastery

This historic site was once the residence of the Metropolitan of Moldova and has been patronized by rulers including Stephen the Great. It’s a peaceful place where you can soak in the architecture and imagine the centuries of history that unfolded here. The monastery’s significance adds a layer of depth to your trip, especially if you’re interested in religious architecture or Moldova’s spiritual past.

Chisinau: The Capital’s Highlights

Next, you’ll explore Chisinau itself. The city’s architecture is a mix of Soviet-style high-rises and remnants of its older, more classical past. You’ll see the city’s own Arc de Triomphe and the Holy Gates from 1841, which are focal points in the city center.

A walk through one of Chisinau’s parks offers a break from the urban vibe, and your guide shares stories of Prince Stefan, a noble figure representing Moldova’s medieval history. The city’s history took a lot of hits—leveled during WWII and an earthquake in 1940—but the reconstruction, starting around 1950, has created a city that’s both resilient and layered.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cricova Winery: An Underground Wonder

The highlight for many is the visit to Cricova Winery, which is truly a spectacle—located 50-80 meters underground, it’s almost like an underground city. These tunnels are so extensive that you might find yourself driving through them. The winery’s size and depth are impressive, and you might recognize the fact that even Vladimir Putin keeps wine here, adding a touch of intrigue.

The winery’s interior is decorated with reliefs inspired by Ancient Greece and Rome, reflecting the winery’s focus on producing elite wines. Here, you’ll get to understand the steps of wine tasting—a fun and flavorful part of the day—and sample a selection of their best offerings. If you’re hungry, you can opt to enjoy a lunch at Cricova, which is often praised for being delicious.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently highlight how knowledgeable and friendly guides like Iulian and Leonard make the day special. One reviewer shared, “Iulian was an amazing guide, very knowledgeable and fun stories,” which shows how personal and engaging the experience can feel. Others appreciated that everything was well-organized and smoothly run, from border crossings to winery tours.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour includes transportation in a modern vehicle, entrance fees, a wine tasting, and a bottle of water—all of which adds value for $288 USD per person. Lunch isn’t included, but you should budget around 12 EUR for a meal, especially if you want to indulge at Cricova.

Since the tour lasts about 10 hours, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and bring your passport or ID card. The entire experience is tailored for those who don’t mind a full day of sightseeing and walking, but it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Who is this tour best for?

If you love history, architecture, and wine, you’ll find this trip rewarding. Guided by knowledgeable hosts who can share stories and translate at the border, you’ll get a well-rounded picture of Moldova’s culture in a single day. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the main sights without the hassle of planning, but be prepared for a busy schedule.

While not designed specifically for families, it’s a good outing for curious adults or groups interested in sampling Moldova’s wine and learning about its past. If you’re after a casual, relaxed day, this might feel a bit brisk; but for those eager to pack a lot into one trip, it hits the mark.

Final thoughts

This day trip offers an engaging way to experience Moldova’s highlights without the need for a lengthy stay. The combination of city sightseeing, historical stops, and the awe-inspiring Cricova underground tunnels creates a memorable and diverse itinerary. The guides are a real asset—friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled at making the day both fun and informative.

The wine tasting at Cricova is a highlight that will appeal to lovers of good wine and history alike. If you’re seeking a full, well-organized day that combines culture, history, and a bit of indulgence, this tour could very well be a perfect choice.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to dip your toes into Moldova’s offerings, especially if you’re coming from nearby Iasi. Just be ready for a full day, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories—and probably a few bottles of wine to bring home.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is mainly geared toward adults who enjoy walking and sightseeing. It might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, as it involves some walking and a full day schedule.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, and some cash for lunch if you plan to eat at Cricova.

Are there any restrictions on pets?
Pets are not allowed on this tour.

How long is the drive from Iasi to Moldova?
The tour includes transportation, and border crossing is described as smooth, thanks to experienced guides.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased at Cricova for around 12 EUR.

What is the price per person?
It costs $288 per person, which includes transport, entrance fees, wine tasting, and a bottled water.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 10 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is the tour bilingual or in English?
Yes, the live tour guide speaks English.

Will I have free time to explore on my own?
The schedule is quite full, but you may have some free moments at the winery or city stops to take photos or browse.

If you’re curious about Moldova and want a hassle-free way to see its top sights and sip some wine, this tour is a solid pick. Just remember it’s a big day, but one packed with stories, sights, and flavors you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: