Cricova Winery & Old Orhei & Curchi Monastery

Discovering Moldova’s Hidden Gems: A Full Day Tour of Cricova, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery
This well-rounded day trip offers a taste of Moldova’s best sights—world-renowned underground wine cellars, ancient archaeological sites, and stunning monastery architecture. Designed for curious travelers, the tour is both informative and relaxed, with a professional guide ensuring you get the most out of every stop. For those interested in authentic experiences, this tour provides a balanced mix of scenery, history, and local flavor.

Two features I particularly appreciate are the included wine tasting—which allows you to sample Moldova’s famous wines without extra fuss—and the hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day seamless and stress-free. The tour’s group size ensures a personal touch, and the private format means you’re not mixed with strangers. One thing to keep in mind: lunch isn’t included, so you might want to budget for a meal or bring snacks, especially since the day is packed.

A small consideration is the length — about 6 to 7 hours — which is just enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. However, if you’re not a big fan of guided excursions or prefer more flexibility with your meals, this might require some planning. Also, the tour is quite popular; booking 17 days in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

Key points / Takeaways

• Luxury underground wine cellars: Cricova is among the largest in the world and offers a fascinating underground journey paired with complimentary wine tastings.
• Historical and cultural richness: Old Orhei is a major archaeological site that reveals Moldova’s ancient roots, with beautiful landscapes and old churches.
• Authentic local experience: The eco-resort at Butuceni gives you a chance to see traditional Moldovan farm life, taste homemade pie and wine, and meet local animals.
• Architectural beauty: The Curchi Monastery’s stunning terraced complex offers a glimpse into religious architecture with a touch of classicism and baroque elements.
• Expert guides make a difference: Reviewers praise guides like Nicolai for their knowledge and friendliness, adding value to every moment.
• Seamless logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make this a hassle-free way to explore Moldova’s countryside without coordinating transport yourself.

Entering Moldova’s Underground Wine Wonderland at Cricova

Your day begins with a visit to Cricova Winery — a place that’s often described as a luxury underground wine city. As one of the largest subterranean wine cellars in the world, Cricova stretches for hundreds of kilometers underneath the city of Chisinau. The cool, dark tunnels are lined with countless wine barrels and bottles, creating an almost magical atmosphere.

The two-hour tour usually includes a guided walk that reveals the history of Moldova’s wine industry, alongside tastings of their finest wines. According to a reviewer, guides like Nicolai make the experience educational and enjoyable, blending facts with fun anecdotes. The wine tasting is complimentary, allowing you to sample a variety of local wines—something that lovers of good vino will truly appreciate.

What I love here is how the tour combines scenery with a sense of Moldova’s tradition of winemaking, which has been cultivated for centuries. Plus, Cricova’s underground maze is a fascinating setting that’s both unique and visually striking.

Old Orhei: An Archaeological Treasure on the Raut River

Next, your journey takes you about 60 km away to Old Orhei, a site that’s a favorite for its combination of history, landscape, and tranquility. This is where Moldova’s past comes vividly alive; the complex includes ancient rock-cut churches, museums, and traditional villages.

The three-hour visit lets you stroll through archaeological exhibits and admire the rugged beauty of the landscape. It’s easy to see why visitors describe it as “an exceptionally quiet and delightful place,” with impressive vistas and deep history. You’ll walk through villages like Butuceni and Trebujeni, where traditional houses and old-fashioned inns offer a taste of rural Moldova.

One reviewer raves about the Butuceni Eco Resort, located within the area, where you can enjoy homemade pies and wine, and even pet farm animals. The experience of staying in a lejanca — a traditional clay-walled house heated by fire — offers a glimpse into local life. It’s a highlight for those who enjoy authentic, rustic settings.

Curchi Monastery: Architectural Beauty and Spiritual Serenity

Your last stop is the Curchi Monastery, perched on two terraces and surrounded by a stone wall with corner towers. Built in the early 19th century, the complex includes two main churches — the summer Svyatodmitriyevskaya and the winter Christmas of Our Lady.

The one-hour visit offers an overview of the complex’s architectural details, which blend classicism with baroque influences. The winter church from 1810 is particularly striking, with its elegant design and historical significance. It’s a peaceful end to the day, where you can take in the craftsmanship and serene spirit of Moldova’s monastic tradition.

The guides here, as one reviewer notes, are knowledgeable and passionate, making the history come alive. The monastery’s setting, with its well-preserved buildings and tranquil gardens, supports a sense of reflection.

Practical Details and Value

This tour is priced at $223.40 per person, which includes all major entrance fees, snacks, wine tastings, and professional guiding. The private format ensures an intimate experience, and the hotel pickup and drop-off eliminate the hassle of arranging transport.

Given the length and content, I’d say the value is good for anyone wanting a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Moldova’s cultural and scenic highlights. It’s especially suitable if you prefer guided tours that maximize learning and comfort, rather than trying to piece everything together independently.

Remember, lunch isn’t included, so budget for a meal or bring snacks if you prefer to keep the day flowing smoothly. And booking about two weeks ahead is wise, as this tour is popular.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys a mix of history, scenery, and good wine, you’ll find this day trip rewarding. It’s ideal for those who prefer a structured experience with knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics. It suits visitors with moderate physical fitness — most stops involve walking and some uneven terrain.

Those interested in Moldova’s rich wine culture, ancient sites, and religious architecture will find plenty to savor. It also works well for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who like personalized attention in a relaxed setting. Keep in mind, if you’re looking for an active adventure or a flexible itinerary, this may be more guided than you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 6 to 7 hours, enough time to see everything without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is an additional expense, but snacks and wine tastings are included in the tour.

What’s the price per person?
The cost is $223.40 per person, which covers entrance fees, snacks, wine, and guiding.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate.

What’s the best time to book?
It’s recommended to book about 17 days in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Are there any age restrictions?
The minimum drinking age is 18, and travelers should have moderate physical fitness.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, some snacks, and maybe a camera for the stunning views and architecture.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included, with a driver and guide ensuring a smooth day.

This tour provides a wonderful, well-rounded taste of Moldova’s traditions, landscapes, and history. Whether you’re a wine lover, history enthusiast, or someone looking for authentic cultural experiences, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day in Moldova.