Day trip to Republic of Moldova – visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery

An Engaging Day Trip from Iasi to Moldova’s Capital and Wine Cellars

This full-day private tour offers a fascinating look into Moldova’s history, culture, and wine heritage. Starting from Iasi, Romania, the tour costs $303.51 per person and lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, making it ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional English-speaking guide, and a personalized experience with a private vehicle.

The tour stands out because of its well-curated itinerary, which balances historic sites with wine tasting in the legendary Cricova cellars. With a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 27 reviews, it’s highly recommended by all who have experienced it. The only consideration is that most travelers book this tour 16 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity. This trip suits those eager for a personalized, educational, and flavorful day exploring Moldova beyond its borders.

Key Points

• Private, full-day experience from Iasi to Moldova’s capital, Chisinau
• Visit two medieval monasteries rich in history and art
• See key landmarks like the Arc of Triumph and Pushkin’s exile house
• Tour the underground Cricova Winery cellars, some up to 80 meters deep
• Wine tasting included, with insights into wine production
• Group size limited to 14 travelers for a more personalized feel

Starting the Adventure: Pickup and Journey from Iasi

The tour kicks off promptly at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup arranged for convenience. A modern vehicle transports the group across the border into Moldova, setting the stage for a day filled with history and flavor. The small, intimate group size ensures plenty of space for questions and interaction with the professional guide.

Travel time from Iasi allows for some engaging conversation about Moldova’s culture, politics, and history, making the journey as interesting as the stops. The flexibility of a private tour means the guide can adapt the pace and include any special requests or sights not in the standard itinerary.

Exploring Capriana Monastery: Moldova’s Historic Religious Center

The first stop is the Capriana Monastery, a site that has served as the residence of Moldova’s Metropolitan for many years. Historically patronized by notable Rulers like Stefan the Great, the monastery is celebrated for its beautiful paintings and tranquil setting.

Spending about an hour here, visitors appreciate the architectural details and the religious artifacts that have endured centuries of political change. Admission is included, and the site provides a peaceful introduction to Moldova’s spiritual heritage before heading into the more urban parts of Chisinau.

Discovering Chisinau’s Soviet-Style Landmarks and Historical Icons

Next, the tour moves into the city center of Chisinau, where the Arc of Triumph stands as a key landmark. The city’s layout reflects its reconstruction in the 1950s after devastating WWII bombings and an earthquake in 1940.

The two-hour city tour showcases these Soviet-designed streets, alongside notable sites such as Pushkin’s exile house, offering insights into Moldova’s complex history. Free to explore, these landmarks provide a glimpse of the city’s resilience and evolution. Travelers enjoy the informative commentary from the guide, who explains the significance of each monument and the city’s architectural style.

Visiting the Legendary Cricova Winery’s Underground Cellars

The highlight for many is the visit to Cricova Winery, which lies 50 to 80 meters underground. Known for its vast underground city of tunnels, the winery’s storage facilities stretch over 34 miles, making it one of Europe’s most impressive wine cellars.

Here, the tour includes a guided walk through the labyrinth of tunnels, learning about wine production techniques. The winery’s fame extends beyond Moldova, with world leaders and dignitaries savoring its wines. Visitors get to sample a selection of Moldova’s best wines, experiencing the rich flavors that have earned international recognition. The entrance fee is included, and the wine tasting offers a perfect end to the day’s exploration.

Personalised Experience with a Professional Guide

Throughout the day, the English-speaking guide drives and leads the group, ensuring a smooth experience. According to reviews, guides like Florin and Iulian are noted for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience. They often go beyond the basic itinerary by answering questions, sharing stories, and accommodating special requests, such as visiting a local souvenir store or a specific site.

The small group size, capped at 14 travelers, fosters a warm, conversational atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and more in-depth discussions about Moldova’s culture, history, and wine heritage.

Practical Details: Logistics, Timing, and Accessibility

The tour’s start time at 8:00 am ensures a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. Transportation is in a modern vehicle, and hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience, especially for those staying in Iasi.

The tour involves a small amount of walking at each site, making it accessible for most travelers with moderate mobility. Children aged 12 and above are welcome, provided they are accompanied by an adult, and child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

Balancing the Experience: Highlights and Considerations

The combination of religious, historical, and culinary experiences makes this tour well-rounded. The Capriana Monastery offers a peaceful, spiritual start, while the city landmarks reveal Moldova’s Soviet-era architecture and resilience. The Cricova Winery provides a sensory delight with its extensive underground tunnels and excellent wines.

Some reviews mention delayed starts due to traffic stops by Moldovan police, which may cause minor delays but do not detract significantly from the overall experience. The professional guides and well-organized itinerary help keep the day on track, making it a reliable and enjoyable option.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What truly makes this tour special is the personalized approach and the depth of experiences packed into one day. From the medieval monastery to the Soviet landmarks and the underground wine caves, each stop highlights a different aspect of Moldova’s character. The wine tasting in Cricova’s massive tunnels is a memorable feature, especially given the famous wines enjoyed by European leaders.

The high ratings and positive reviews underscore the quality of guides and organization. The small group size fosters a more intimate ambiance, perfect for curious travelers who want to learn and sample at their own pace.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This full-day experience suits history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and cultural explorers. It’s particularly recommended for those who value personalized service and want an in-depth look at Moldova’s highlights without the hassle of organizing separate visits. The tour is ideal for adults and older teens, given the walking involved and the nature of the sites.

Final Thoughts on the Moldova Day Trip from Iasi

The $303.51 price point reflects a comprehensive experience, including entrance fees, wine sampling, transportation, and a guide. Its stellar reviews attest to consistent quality, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides, exciting stops, and delicious wine tasting.

While it’s best to book in advance, this tour delivers a balanced, engaging day that showcases Moldova’s historic monasteries, urban landmarks, and legendary wine cellars. It’s a value-packed way to explore Moldova’s rich culture, especially for those traveling from Iasi.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 16 days in advance to secure a spot, as the tour is quite popular.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to monuments, wine tasting, and a bottle of water.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children aged 12 and above can participate when accompanied by an adult, with child rates applying if sharing with two adults.

What are the main stops on the itinerary?
The tour features Capriana Monastery, Chisinau’s landmarks like the Arc of Triumph and Pushkin’s house, and the Cricova Winery underground cellars.

Is there any physical activity involved?
There is a small amount of walking at each site, making it accessible for most travelers with moderate mobility.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, with no penalties if canceled in time.