Best of Moldova: Cricova Winery & Old Orhei Tour Including Curchi Monastery

Exploring Moldova’s rich cultural tapestry and renowned wine heritage is an opportunity not to be missed. The Cricova Winery and Old Orhei tour promises an immersive experience, delving into the country’s storied past while indulging in its finest vintages. From the underground city carved from limestone to the historic monasteries and scenic landscapes, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Moldova’s captivating essence. With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and an array of included experiences, travelers can embark on a seamless journey of discovery, unveiling the essence of this fascinating destination.

Key Points

• Explore the expansive underground wine cellars of Cricova Winery, an intricate labyrinth of streets carved out of limestone housing millions of aging wine bottles.
• Visit the historic Old Orhei reservation featuring ancient ruins and archaeological excavations, as well as the stunning Curchi Monastery with its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
• Savor an authentic local lunch at an ethnic village, showcasing traditional Moldovan cuisine and local hospitality, with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and time-honored cooking methods.
• Enjoy a private, professionally-guided tour with all transportation, entrance fees, and wine tastings included for an exclusive and seamless experience.
• Discover Moldova’s vibrant wine culture and gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich history and culinary traditions.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore one of the oldest wineries in Moldova and enjoy the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Travelers will discover the awe-inspiring Cricova wine cellars, a vast underground city with a labyrinth of streets.

The tour also includes a visit to the Old Orhei reservation and the stunning Curchi Monastery, must-see sites for history buffs.

Along the way, guests will savor excellent local wines and enjoy a delicious lunch at an ethnic village.

With private transportation, a professional guide, and all entrance fees covered, this tour provides an exclusive and seamless experience for just you and your group.

Inclusions

The tour includes private transportation, a wine tasting, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a professional guide.

Entrance fees, a local lunch at Old Orhei, and souvenirs are also part of the package.

This comprehensive tour provides an exclusive experience for just you and your group.

You’ll have the convenience of being picked up from your accommodation in Chisinau and transported to the various sites.

The knowledgeable guide will offer insights into the rich cultural heritage along the way.

Enjoy excellent wines and a delicious local lunch as you learn about Moldova’s history and traditions.

With all the key inclusions covered, you can simply relax and soak up the experience.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel, motel, hostel, or apartment in Chisinau. You’ll want to confirm the exact start time with the local provider in advance. The tours are offered in English, Italian, and Russian, so you can choose the language that works best for you.

Tour Details	Information
Meeting Location	Pickup from hotel, motel, hostel, or apartment in Chisinau
Start Time	Confirm with local provider in advance
Languages Offered	English, Italian, Russian
Tour Group Size	Exclusive experience for just you and your group

This ensures a personalized and convenient start to your Moldova adventure.

Additional Info

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this tour. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation. Infant seats are available for those who need them. Most travelers can participate in this experience, which accommodates a maximum of 10 people per tour group.

This tour offers several convenient features:

1. Easy access to public transportation.
2. Infant seats for families.
3. Suitable for most travelers.
4. Small group size for a more personalized experience.

The tour is designed to provide an exclusive and enjoyable experience for you and your group. Whether you’re a history buff or a wine enthusiast, this tour promises to deliver a memorable journey through Moldova’s rich cultural heritage.

Wine Cellar Exploration

One of the highlights of this tour is the opportunity to explore the expansive underground wine cellars of the Cricova Winery, a renowned Moldovan wine producer with a rich history dating back centuries.

You’ll descend into an intricate labyrinth of streets and alleys, all carved out of limestone and home to millions of aging wine bottles. It’s a truly unique experience, allowing you to see how these world-class wines are carefully stored and matured in the cool, constant temperatures of the underground city.

As you wander the cellars, you’ll learn about the winemaking process and have the chance to sample some of Cricova’s finest offerings, giving you a deeper appreciation for Moldova’s vibrant wine culture.

Historic Site Visits

Along With exploring the renowned Cricova Winery, this tour offers the opportunity to visit the historic Old Orhei reservation and the stunning Curchi Monastery, providing an immersive experience into Moldova’s rich cultural heritage.

The Old Orhei reservation is a must-see site for history lovers, featuring ancient ruins and archaeological excavations that offer a glimpse into the region’s past.

The Curchi Monastery, with its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings, is another highlight of the tour. Visitors can:

1. Wander through the monastery’s tranquil grounds
2. Admire the intricate frescoes and iconography
3. Learn about the site’s religious and historical significance
4. Soak in the peaceful ambiance

Culinary Experiences

Aside from the cultural and historical highlights, this tour offers a delightful culinary experience. Travelers will savor an authentic local lunch at an ethnic village, providing a taste of Moldova’s traditional cuisine and hospitality.

The meal showcases the region’s fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and time-honored cooking methods. Hearty staples like mamaliga, a cornmeal porridge, are served alongside seasonal vegetables, cheeses, and smoked meats.

This convivial dining experience allows visitors to enjoy the local way of life, complementing the exploration of Moldova’s rich heritage.

Whether sampling acclaimed Moldovan wines or savoring a rustic village lunch, this tour seamlessly combines culture with culinary enjoyment.

Guest Reviews

Travelers rave about the exceptional experience offered by this tour, with over 100 glowing reviews across popular booking platforms.

Reviewers highlight several standout elements:

• The knowledgeable, personable guide who brings the history and culture to life.
• The opportunity to explore the fascinating Cricova underground wine city and taste excellent local wines.
• The breathtaking scenery and architectural gems at the Old Orhei reservation and Curchi Monastery.
• The delicious traditional Moldovan lunch served in an authentic village setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary for the Tour?

Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary. The provider offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests and preferences. Simply discuss any changes with the local provider before your trip.

What Languages Do the Tour Guides Speak?

The tour guides offer tours in English, Italian, and Russian. They’re fluent in these languages and can provide an engaging, personalized experience for visitors from various backgrounds.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code. Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended, as you’ll be spending time outdoors and in wine cellars. Avoid formal wear or anything too fancy – just dress for a day of exploring.

Are There Any Discounts Available for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer any standard discounts, but the provider may provide special offers or promotions from time to time. It’s best to check with them directly about any current deals or discounts before booking.

How Far in Advance Should I Book the Tour?

You should book the tour at least a few days in advance to ensure availability. The tour’s popularity means spots can fill up quickly, so planning ahead is recommended to get the date and time you prefer.

Recap

This comprehensive Moldova tour provides an immersive experience, blending the country’s rich history, captivating wine culture, and authentic culinary delights.

Explore the underground Cricova wine cellars, discover the ancient Old Orhei site, and visit the serene Curchi Monastery.

With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all inclusions, this tour offers an exclusive and seamless exploration of Moldova’s wonders, leaving travelers with a deep appreciation for the nation’s heritage and vibrant spirit.