Cricova Winery & Old Orhei & Curchi Monastery

Discover Moldova’s Cultural and Historic Treasures with a Full-Day Tour

This private tour in Chisinau, Moldova, offers a comprehensive glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and scenic beauty. Priced at $223.40 per person, it spans approximately 6 to 7 hours, perfect for those wanting to see key sites without rushing. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward, and features professional guides who bring local history and culture to life.

What sets this experience apart is the combination of wine tasting at Cricova, the archaeological and picturesque Old Orhei complex, and the tranquil Curchi Monastery. While lunch is an extra expense, snacks and drinks are included, ensuring you stay refreshed during the day. This tour is ideal for visitors interested in Moldova’s wine, history, architecture, and rural landscape. With 3 glowing reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating, it clearly strikes a chord with travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Cricova Winery, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery
• Private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off offers comfort and flexibility
• Wine tasting and snacks included; lunch is an optional extra
• A well-paced 6 to 7-hour itinerary suitable for moderate physical activity
• Learn about Moldova’s history, architecture, and geography from knowledgeable guides
• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 rating from three reviews

Cricova Winery: The Underground Wine Palace

The tour begins with a visit to Cricova Winery, renowned as one of the largest and most luxurious underground wine cellars in the world. Visitors spend around 2 hours exploring this impressive subterranean complex, which features extensive tunnels and wine vaults. The admission, included in the tour, allows guests to enjoy complimentary wine tasting, sampling some of Moldova’s best local wines in a stunning setting.

Cricova offers an extraordinary experience, with its reputation as a luxury wine cellar. The guide explains the history of winemaking in Moldova while walking through the labyrinth of tunnels. The tasting session provides a chance to appreciate the flavors and craftsmanship of local wines, a highlight for wine lovers and those curious about Moldova’s vinicultural reputation.

Exploring Old Orhei and Its Archaeological Riches

Next, the tour heads to Old Orhei, located about 60 km from Chisinau. This archaeological complex is famous for its rocky landscape, ancient churches, and museums. The area is part of Moldova’s heritage, with two museums and a rock-cut church offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.

The 3-hour visit includes a stop at the village of Butuceni, where the eco resort provides a peaceful retreat amid scenic greenery. Visitors can enjoy tasty homemade pies and local wine in a setting designed to evoke traditional Moldovan hospitality. The farm with animals and birds adds a charming rural touch, making this stop both educational and relaxing.

Visiting Butuceni Eco Resort: Authentic Village Life

The Butuceni Eco Resort, located 47 km from Chisinau and 18 km from Old Orhei, showcases how Moldovan villagers live and farm. The rocky terrain and lush green spaces surrounding the resort highlight Moldova’s natural beauty. Visitors can experience home-style hospitality, including fire-heated beds in clay-walled houses, homemade pies, and local wines.

This free 1-hour stop emphasizes Moldova’s rural traditions and offers a chance to see local animals and farm life firsthand. It’s a highlight for those interested in traditional lifestyles and scenic countryside views.

Admiring the Beauty of Curchi Monastery

The tour concludes at Curchi Monastery, situated in the village of Buzesti. The complex features two churches—the summer Svyatodmitriyevskaya and the winter Christmas of Our Lady—dating back to the early 19th century. The winter church, erected in 1810, displays classicism with baroque touches, reflecting Moldova’s religious architectonic heritage.

Surrounded by a stone wall with corner towers, the monastery’s serene setting makes it an ideal spot for reflection. The 1-hour visit allows guests to appreciate the monastic architecture and spiritual atmosphere of this significant religious site.

Practical Details: Logistics, Inclusions, and Additional Considerations

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably. The private nature of the experience means it’s tailored to your group, with group discounts available. While snacks are included, lunch is not included and is an extra expense, so plan accordingly.

The tour features wine tasting, snacks, and expert guides—both professional and local—who enrich the experience with their knowledge. It operates daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with confirmation at booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The Experience of a Moldova Private Tour in Detail

This tour balances cultural, historical, and scenic highlights, pacing the day so you have ample time at each stop without feeling hurried. The walks through underground wine cellars, archaeological sites, and religious complexes are mostly accessible for those with moderate physical activity levels. The guides’ storytelling brings each site to life, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Being a private tour, it offers the flexibility to focus on your interests or adjust the schedule slightly with your guide. The cost of $223.40 per person includes many key experiences, but keep in mind that lunch and any additional drinks are not covered.

Who Will Love This Tour and Who Should Consider Alternatives

This full-day private tour is ideal for visitors seeking a comprehensive Moldova experience with an emphasis on wine, history, and rural scenery. It suits those who appreciate guided trips, cultural insights, and scenic stops without the hassle of organizing transportation.

However, travelers with limited mobility might find some sites challenging, especially the underground wine cellars and uneven terrain in Old Orhei. The average physical activity level required is moderate, so it’s best suited for most healthy visitors.

Final Thoughts on the Moldova Full-Day Private Tour

This well-rounded tour in Moldova effectively combines wine tasting, archaeological exploration, and religious architecture for a full picture of the country’s heritage. The expert guides and comfortable logistics ensure a smooth experience, while the scenic stops offer memorable photo opportunities. The $223.40 price point covers many key highlights, making it a convenient way to see Moldova’s top sights in one day.

If you want a comprehensive, guided, and personalized experience with a focus on Moldova’s cultural gems and delicious wine, this tour offers excellent value. Just remember that lunch is extra, and some walking is involved, making it best suited for those with a moderate level of mobility and interest in the country’s history and traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring easy access to all the stops.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 6 to 7 hours, providing a full-day experience.

What is included in the tour price?
The admission tickets for Cricova Winery, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery, wine tasting, snacks, and the guides are included. Lunch is not included and is an additional cost.

Are there any physical requirements to join this tour?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as some site exploration involves walking and uneven terrain.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time, with a full refund.