Uncover the Charm of Old Orhei and Chateau Vartely Winery for $171

This 7-hour tour from Chisinau takes you into Moldova’s cultural and vinicultural heart. Priced at $171 per person, it offers a balanced blend of history, natural beauty, and wine tasting. Guided by professionals, this small-group experience (limited to 8 participants) is ideal for those eager to explore Moldova’s unique heritage and award-winning wines.

We like how this tour combines cultural exploration with gastronomic delights. The itinerary is well-paced, with manageable stops that include Old Orhei and Chateau Vartely Winery. While the tour involves walking and climbing, it’s accessible for most and provides an authentic taste of Moldova’s traditions. This experience suits history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and curious travelers seeking an engaging, full-day adventure.

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Key Points

Duration: 7 hours, from pickup in Chisinau to return
Price: $171 per person, includes all entry tickets and tastings
Highlights: Old Orhei’s cave monasteries, scenic landscapes, and Chateau Vartely’s wine tour
Wine Tasting: Sample 6 wines, some of which have won international awards
Inclusions: Air-conditioned transport, professional guide, entry tickets, and wine tasting with appetizers
Limitations: No lunch at Old Orhei, and the tour is not suitable for children under 2 or those with mobility issues

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Starting from Chisinau: Convenient Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickup and drop-off in Chisinau, making it easy for travelers to join without extra planning. An air-conditioned vehicle transports the group comfortably between stops. The small-group setup ensures a more personalized experience, with only 8 participants maximum. This arrangement helps keep the pace relaxed and allows for more interaction with the guide.

The tour is designed to operate rain or shine, so travelers should prepare accordingly. Since the route includes some walking and about 80 steps to reach the Cave Monastery Bosie, it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes. The group size and well-organized logistics make it suitable for travelers seeking intimacy and expert guidance.

Exploring Old Orhei: Monasteries and Scenic Vistas

The first major stop is Old Orhei, one of Moldova’s most striking cultural sites. The tour includes a guided exploration of the complex, which features monasteries built into towering cliffs. The Orthodox cave monastery of Orheiul Vechi, dating back to the 13th century, forms a centerpiece of the visit.

Visitors walk through the mystical landscape of Old Orhei, where each turn reveals breathtaking views of the landscape and ancient ruins. The walking tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving enough time to appreciate the natural beauty and historical significance. The visit involves some uphill walking, climbing about 80 steps to reach the Cave Monastery Bosie, which adds a bit of physical activity but rewards with stunning scenic vistas.

While the site is rich in history, the tour does not include lunch at Old Orhei, allowing travelers flexibility to explore local eateries on their own later. The guided tour ensures that the story behind the site is clearly explained, enhancing the overall experience.

Discovering Chateau Vartely: Moldova’s Premier Wine Destination

After exploring Old Orhei, the group heads to Chateau Vartely Winery, one of Moldova’s most celebrated wine producers. The winery is set in beautiful landscape, offering a picturesque backdrop for the wine tasting experience.

At Chateau Vartely, the tour includes a guided walk through the winery, where you’ll learn about winemaking traditions and the process behind Moldova’s famous wines. The highlight is the tasting session of 6 wines, some of which have earned gold medals at international competitions. These wines are paired with delicious appetizers, carefully selected to complement the flavors.

The 105-minute wine experience offers a chance to appreciate Moldova’s craftsmanship and sample award-winning wines. The tasting includes a variety of red, white, and sparkling wines, providing a well-rounded flavor profile. The setting and the expert guidance help deepen understanding and enjoyment of Moldova’s wine culture.

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The Itinerary in Detail: From Cultural Heritage to Viticulture

The tour kicks off in Chisinau with pickup and transport to the Old Orhei archaeological complex. Visitors spend 2.5 hours exploring the caves, monasteries, and scenic outlooks. The guided walk provides insights into the history and architecture of the site.

Next, the group travels to Orhei District for wine tasting at Chateau Vartely, which lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes. This segment includes sampling 6 wines with appetizers, making it a flavorful and educational experience. The entire journey wraps up with travel back to Chisinau, completing the 7-hour schedule.

This carefully curated itinerary balances culture with leisurely wine tasting, ensuring travelers get a comprehensive experience without feeling rushed.

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Practical Details: What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour’s price of $171 covers entry tickets to both Old Orhei and Chateau Vartely, the guided tours, all wine tastings with appetizers, and transportation. The small-group size enhances the experience, providing personalized attention from the professional guide.

It’s important to note that lunch at Old Orhei is not included, giving flexibility to explore local food options independently. Souvenirs are also not included in the package. Travelers should bring comfortable shoes for walking and climbing, as the tour involves some physical activity.

The tour is available in Romanian, Russian, English, and Italian, with live guides facilitating the experience. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexible planning.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

Since the tour involves walking and climbing about 80 steps to reach the Cave Monastery Bosie, it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs. Children under 2 years are also not recommended to join, due to the physical nature of the excursions.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for outdoor walking in varied weather conditions. The operational schedule is fixed, and the tour runs rain or shine.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This combination of cultural heritage and wine tasting distinguishes the tour from others in Moldova. The visit to Old Orhei offers a glimpse into the country’s historical landscape and religious sites, while Chateau Vartely showcases Moldova’s globally recognized wine craftsmanship.

The small group size and professional guides ensure an engaging and intimate experience. The award-winning wines and scenic settings make this an appealing choice for travelers seeking both education and relaxation in a single day.

Final Thoughts on the Old Orhei and Chateau Vartely Tour

For $171, this seven-hour experience delivers a well-rounded view of Moldova’s cultural and vinicultural treasures. It suits those interested in history, architecture, and wine, especially if they appreciate guided insights and tastings of internationally recognized wines.

While the tour does require some walking and climbing, the overall pace is manageable, and the setting is memorable. Flexibility in timing and a focus on quality make this a solid choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive introduction to Moldova’s heritage.

Travelers should plan for a day of enriching sights, flavorful wines, and scenic landscapes, all within a convenient, guided small-group experience.

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From Chisinau: Old Orhei and Chateau Vartely Winery Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include lunch at Old Orhei?
No, lunch is not included, giving travelers freedom to explore local dining options on their own.

How many wines are tasted during the Chateau Vartely visit?
Visitors taste 6 wines, some of which have won gold medals at international competitions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 2 years or for those with mobility impairments, due to walking and climbing involved.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because of walking and stairs, and weather-appropriate clothing is advisable.

How long is the wine tasting session?
The wine tasting lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, including sampling and appetizers.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
Guides speak Romanian, Russian, English, and Italian.

Is transportation included?
Yes, air-conditioned transport is part of the package, with pickup and drop-off at your Chisinau accommodation.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.