Highlights of Moldova – 3 destinations in 1 day-Small Group Tour

Exploring Moldova in a Day: An Honest Look at the Highlights of Moldova Tour

If you’re considering a trip to Moldova and want to get a taste of what this charming country has to offer, this Highlights of Moldova tour could be just what you need. It promises to cover three major destinations—Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei, and Cricova winery—all in a single day. Since it’s a small-group, private experience, it offers a more personalized touch compared to larger, fixed-itinerary tours.

What really makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You can customize your stops, decide whether to enjoy a wine tasting, or stop for lunch (for an extra fee). Plus, with round-trip transfers from Chisinau hotels, it’s a straightforward way to see some of Moldova’s best sights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and a curiosity for culture, history, and wine. If you’re after a highly structured day or traveling with mobility issues, you might find the flexible nature slightly less predictable. Overall, it appeals to travelers looking for an immersive, comfortable experience that balances sightseeing with local flavors.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: You get to choose what to focus on during the day, making it more tailored to your interests.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers a monastery, archaeological site, and winery—offering a well-rounded glimpse into Moldovan culture and history.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, plus air-conditioned transportation.
• Wine tasting options: You can select between a 1-wine or 4-wine tasting at Cricova, which can be paid at the winery.
• Authentic connections: Guided by knowledgeable locals, enhancing your understanding of Moldova’s heritage.
• Cost and value: Around $125 per person, with many reviews praising the tour’s balance of cost and quality.

A Closer Look at What You Can Expect

Starting in Chisinau

The day kicks off with a pickup from your hotel, making it easy to transition from your accommodation to the adventure ahead. The drive to Curchi Monastery takes about an hour, giving you a relaxed start and time to get to know your guide. It’s a good way to ease into the day, especially if you’re traveling early or arriving the night before.

Visiting Curchi Monastery

First stop: Curchi Monastery, often called one of Moldova’s most beautiful religious sites. The complex boasts stunning architecture, including the Virgins Assumption Cathedral, designed by the renowned architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli. The guide highlights that this monastery is a true religious gem, and visitors are free to explore the churches and grounds at their own pace.

We loved the way this stop combines beauty with tranquility. It’s easy to forget the outside world here, immersed in the peaceful atmosphere of the Orthodox churches. According to reviews, the guide brings history to life with insights about the monastery’s significance and architecture. It’s a serene beginning, especially if you appreciate religious art and architecture.

Exploring Old Orhei

Next, the focus shifts to Old Orhei, an archaeological site that’s fascinating for its mix of history and scenery. Here, you’ll find the ruins of two medieval towns from the 14th to 16th centuries, with a fascinating Tatar history connection. The site also features a well-preserved Cave Monastery that monks expanded over centuries. Monks carved churches into the cliffs, and the scenery through the monastery windows offers really striking views.

You’ll have about three hours for this stop, including a lunch break (which isn’t included but can be arranged). Many reviews mention the good quality of the local restaurants, which can be booked through the tour if you prefer not to self-arrange. The site combines history, stunning natural surroundings, and a chance to experience the spiritual ambiance of the cave monastery.

One reviewer expressed that Oleg, the guide, shared interesting stories about Moldova’s past, making the experience both educational and engaging. Expect to walk around, take photos, and soak in the peaceful yet historic atmosphere.

The Wine Experience at Cricova

In the afternoon, the tour moves underground to Cricova Winery, famous for its extensive underground galleries—over 70 streets covering 53 hectares. The tour itself (without tasting) is a chance to see the labyrinth of cellars where Moldovan wine is stored and aged. The guide mentions that each street is named after the types of wines it contains like Sauvignon or Cabernet, adding a fun, almost whimsical touch to the tour.

Here’s where you can opt for a wine tasting, which many reviewers agree is a highlight. You can choose a 1-wine tasting for 25 euros or 4 wines for 37 euros, payable at the winery. The tasting experience is not included in the price but seems worthwhile given the quality of the wines and the fun stories, like the humorous Gagarin legend.

Multiple guests emphasize how friendly and informative the Cricova guides are, making the tasting a relaxed and enjoyable part of the day. The cool temperature of around 12°C in the cellars means you’ll want to bring a light jacket or sweater—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to cold.

Returning to Chisinau

After the winery visit, the group is driven back to Chisinau, with an estimated one-hour drive. Many reviews mention how smoothly the day runs and how the guide remains friendly and knowledgeable until the very end.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At roughly $125 per person, this experience packs a lot in. You’re getting a personalized itinerary, beautiful scenery, historical insights, and optional wine tasting—all with hotel transfers included. The flexibility to skip or add activities makes it a good choice for those who prefer to set their own pace or focus on particular interests.

While it’s not the cheapest tour out there, many reviews highlight the quality of the guide and the variety of sites as worth the price. Plus, the fact that it’s limited to seven travelers offers a more intimate experience and personalized attention.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, culture, and wine without feeling rushed. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided tours but also want some flexibility. If you’re curious about Moldova’s religious sites, archaeological treasures, and wine culture—this tour hits all those marks.

It’s also suitable for those comfortable with walking and moderate physical activity, as the sites involve some walking and exploration. If you’re traveling solo, the small-group setting offers a safe, friendly environment, with reviews confirming the guides make everyone feel welcomed and comfortable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children with moderate physical fitness who enjoy sightseeing and open spaces should be fine. Keep in mind that some sites involve walking and exploring, and wine tasting is not included for minors.

Can I customize what I do during the tour?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible, so you can decide whether to focus on certain stops or include lunch and wine tasting options.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 8 hours, including driving time, so expect a full day of sightseeing with a relaxed pace.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking around historical sites and archaeological areas, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility constraints.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, and as the wine cellars are cool (~12°C), pack a light jacket or sweater.

How do I pay for wine tasting?
You can choose between 1 or 4 wines, paying at the winery with cash or card, depending on your preference.

What’s the best way to book this tour?
It’s recommended to book about 43 days in advance, as the tour is popular, and confirm your preferences for activities and optional extras beforehand.

In Summary, this Highlights of Moldova tour offers a well-rounded, flexible way to experience some of Moldova’s best sights in one day. The combination of beautiful religious architecture, archaeological wonders, and world-class wineries—guided by knowledgeable locals—makes it a solid choice for travelers who want to explore without the fuss of self-planning. It’s especially suitable for those looking for a comfortable, informative, and customizable experience that touches on Moldova’s history, culture, and flavors.