Moldova might not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but this Eastern European nation punches well above its weight in wine tourism. With centuries-old traditions, underground wine cellars that hold over a million bottles, and charming historic sites, Moldova offers a genuine wine experience away from the crowds. We particularly enjoyed the Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour for its balance of city sights and vineyard elegance, and the Milestii Mici Underground Winery Tour for its impressive scale and tasting. These tours showcase Moldova’s unique approach to winemaking—combining history, culture, and outstanding flavors in one visit. For those who want a more comprehensive day out, the Cricova winery combined with Old Orhei and Curchi Monastery offers a deep dive into Moldova’s spiritual and vinicultural heritage.
Below, we’ve rounded up the four best wine tours in Moldova, each with its own distinct appeal—whether you’re after underground cellars, historic castles, or scenic monasteries. Read on to find the one that fits your travel style.
1. Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour – With Wooden Monastery
This tour combines a lively city exploration of Chișinău with a visit to the historic Castel Mimi winery. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of cultural sightseeing and wine tasting without spending all day in a cellar. The tour begins with a guided walk through Chișinău, including a stop at the oldest wooden church in Hirișeni, giving insight into Moldova’s traditional architecture and religious history. Afterward, the group heads to Castel Mimi, an elegant 19th-century castle set amidst vineyards, offering a guided tour and tastings of their finest wines.
What sets this tour apart is its personal touch—your guide is well-versed in Moldova’s history of wine and the local landmarks. The visit to the monument of Stefan cel Mare and Soviet-era art adds cultural layers to the experience. Guests rave about the personalized attention and the ability to see multiple sides of Moldova in just four hours. The highlight for many is the private wine tasting at Castel Mimi, where you can sample a variety of local wines, including some aged in oak barrels.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers who want an overview of Moldova’s capital, history, and wine in a half-day, private tour setting. It’s well-rated and offers a genuine taste of Moldova’s cultural spirit.
2. Milestii Mici Underground Winery Tour INCLUDING Wine tasting
If size matters, this tour hits the mark: Milestii Mici is the world’s largest wine cellar, with over 1.5 million bottles stored 60 meters underground. During this four-hour guided tour, you’ll explore its extensive tunnels, marveling at the sheer scale and the cool 12°C temperature that keeps the wine perfectly preserved. You’ll taste three different wines, including a vintage dessert wine, paired with some local appetizers like bruschetta and prosciutto crudo—making this a delicious dive into Moldova’s winemaking traditions.
The unique aspect here is, of course, the scale of the collection. It’s a history lesson and a sensory experience rolled into one. The tour is intimate, with groups limited to 15 people, ensuring you get plenty of time to ask questions and savor each sip. Guests frequently mention the cool underground environment as a refreshing break from the summer heat and noting how the collection’s size is truly impressive.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers who want to see the largest wine collection in the world and enjoy a relaxed tasting in a subterranean cathedral of wine. It’s a memorable, educational experience packed with local flavor.
3. from Moldova: Manuc Bei mansion -Milesti Mici wine cellar
For those craving a full-day, immersive experience, this 6.5-hour tour combines a visit to the Manuc Bei Mansion and the Milestii Mici winery. The tour starts with a guided walk through the historic Manuc Bei Mansion, built in the 19th century, where you’ll learn about its role in Moldova’s trade and diplomacy. After a short drive, the group explores Milestii Mici, the largest underground wine cellar in the world, with a guided tour and tasting.
This tour is especially appealing for travelers interested in both architecture and winemaking. The mansion’s stately rooms and history give a glimpse into Moldova’s aristocratic past, while the winery’s underground tunnels showcase the modern side of Moldova’s wine industry. The tasting includes multiple wines, and the tour includes a walk through the wine cellar’s impressive network of tunnels.
Guests who’ve taken this tour praise its depth and the combination of cultural and vinicultural stories, with one noting, “Visiting the mansion and the winery in one day gave me a complete picture of Moldova’s heritage.” The longer duration means it’s best suited for those with plenty of time and curiosity about Moldova’s history.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a comprehensive day to explore Moldova’s historic mansions and the massive Milestii Mici winery, perfect for history and wine buffs seeking a detailed experience.
4. Moldova: Cricova Winery, Old Orhei and Curchi Monastery
If you want a well-rounded day that combines Moldova’s spiritual, cultural, and wine heritage, this 8-hour guided tour is the way to go. It kicks off with visits to the Curchi Monastery and the Old Orhei Archaeological Complex, where scenic walks and panoramic views of the Răut River Valley introduce you to Moldova’s religious and historical sites. After a traditional lunch (paid separately), the tour finishes with a visit to Cricova, often called the “Capitol of Moldovan wine.”
The highlight is the Cricova winery, famous for its extensive underground tunnels, tasting a variety of wines, and exploring cellars that stretch for miles. The tour also includes a stop at a local souvenir shop, perfect for picking up authentic crafts. The combination of monasteries and wineries offers a glimpse into Moldova’s spiritual and vinicultural life.
Reviews note the well-organized schedule and the scenic walks. “Visiting both Curchi Monastery and Old Orhei added a cultural dimension to my wine trip,” said one traveler. The long duration allows for a full immersion in Moldova’s diverse heritage, making it ideal for dedicated travelers with a full day to spare.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a deep cultural experience with wine, history, and scenic views, this tour offers a balanced, full-day itinerary that showcases Moldova’s spiritual and vinicultural roots.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Moldova
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and time. If you’re after a quick overview combining city highlights and a fairytale castle, the Chișinău & Castel Mimi tour provides a great mix. For a wine-centric experience with the largest underground cellar, the Milestii Mici tour is unbeatable. History enthusiasts or those with a full day might prefer the Manuc Bei mansion and Milestii Mici combo for its cultural depth. Finally, if you want a comprehensive day exploring monasteries, archaeological sites, and several wineries, the Cricova, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery tour is your best bet.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Also, check the details about what’s included—some tours include lunch or optional tastings, and others focus solely on the wine experience. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, especially for tours that involve walking through underground tunnels or historic sites.
Final Thoughts
Moldova offers a surprising diversity of wine experiences packed into a small country—whether you’re tasting in the largest underground cellar in the world or wandering through scenic monasteries. For a quick, personal intro, the Chișinău & Castel Mimi tour hits the spot. For those who want an immersive dive into underground wine storage, Milestii Mici is a must. And if you’d like a full cultural and spiritual experience, the combined Cricova, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery tour is hard to beat.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance ensures you’ll secure a spot for these memorable Moldova wine adventures. Cheers to discovering the hidden wine treasures of Moldova—you’ll leave with more than just a glassful of local flavors.