Dive into Moldova’s captivating history and vibrant culture with this comprehensive full-day tour. Uncover the subterranean wonders of Cricova Winery, explore the ancient ruins of Old Orhei, and learn about the serene beauty of Curchi Monastery. From exceptional wine tastings to insightful cultural insights, this expertly curated experience promises an unforgettable journey through Moldova’s natural and architectural gems. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll have the opportunity to truly connect with the heart and soul of this fascinating destination. The stage is set for an exploration you won’t soon forget.
Key Points
- This full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Moldova’s top attractions, including Cricova Winery, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery.
- Visitors can enjoy Moldova’s winemaking heritage by touring the underground city and cellars of Cricova Winery.
- The tour includes visits to the historical sites of Old Orhei reservation and Curchi Monastery, providing insights into Moldova’s cultural and religious traditions.
- The tour is customized for the traveler’s group, ensuring a personalized experience with an English, Italian, or Russian-speaking guide.
- The tour includes transportation, wine tasting, local lunch, and all entrance fees, making it a hassle-free and inclusive experience.
Tour Overview
This full-day tour takes travelers to explore the renowned Cricova Winery and the historic Old Orhei site, including a visit to the Curchi Monastery.
Guests will have the opportunity to taste excellent wines at the Cricova Winery and discover the underground city and wine cellars.
The tour also includes visits to other historical landmarks such as the Old Orhei reservation.
An English, Italian, or Russian-speaking guide will provide commentary throughout the day.
The tour is offered exclusively for the traveler’s group, ensuring a personalized experience.
Pickup and drop-off at the traveler’s accommodation in Chisinau, as well as entrance fees, lunch, and souvenirs, are all included in the tour.
Included in Tour
The tour includes private transportation, wine tasting at Cricova Winery, hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, all entrance fees, a local lunch at Old Orhei, and souvenirs.
This exclusive experience is perfect for just you and your group, with a maximum of 10 travelers.
The tour highlights include:
- Explore Cricova Winery’s unique underground city and wine cellars
- Visit the historical sites of Old Orhei reservation and Curchi Monastery
- Enjoy a local lunch at an ethnic village and learn about Moldovan culture
With a 5.0 out of 5 rating and highly recommended by travelers, this full-day tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Moldova.
Tour Logistics
The tour is available daily from April 1, 2022 to December 31, 2024, with pickup from hotels, motels, hostels or apartments in Chisinau.
Travelers should confirm the start time with the provider in advance, as the tour has a maximum of 10 participants.
Cancellation is easy – guests can receive a full refund if they cancel 24 hours before the tour.
The tour’s logistics ensure an exclusive experience for small groups, allowing for personalized attention from the professional guide.
Whether you’re coming from near or far, this carefully planned itinerary makes the most of your day, providing a seamless and hassle-free exploration of Moldova’s top sights.
Tour Highlights
Visitors can explore Cricova Winery’s unique underground city and wine cellars, where they’ll discover the intricacies of Moldovan winemaking.
The tour also includes a visit to the Old Orhei reservation, an archaeological site with historical significance, and the serene Curchi Monastery, known for its beautiful architecture and religious artifacts.
Highlights of the tour include:
- Tasting excellent wines at Cricova Winery
- Exploring the Old Orhei reservation and learning about Moldovan history
- Visiting the Curchi Monastery and admiring its impressive architecture
These engaging experiences provide an in-depth look into Moldova’s rich cultural heritage and winemaking traditions, offering travelers a truly authentic and memorable encounter.
Exploring Cricova Winery
At the heart of the tour lies Cricova Winery, where visitors can enjoy the captivating world of Moldovan winemaking.
This underground city, with its vast network of tunnels and cellars, boasts a remarkable collection of over 1.3 million bottles, some dating back centuries.
Guests will explore the winery’s unique labyrinth, learning about the intricate process of wine production and aging.
They’ll sample a variety of exceptional wines, each with its own distinct character, guided by knowledgeable staff.
From the famous Merlot to the crisp Chardonnay, the tasting experience promises to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Discovering Old Orhei Reservation
After exploring the captivating Cricova Winery, the tour delves into the historical treasure trove of Old Orhei Reservation, a site steeped in Moldova’s rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can expect to:
- Discover the awe-inspiring 13th-century cave monastery, which was carved directly into the limestone cliffs
- Explore the remnants of an ancient Dacian fortress, offering a glimpse into the region’s pre-Roman history
- Wander through the quaint ethnic village, seeing the traditional way of life and local crafts
This UNESCO-protected site provides a fascinating window into Moldova’s past, allowing travelers to connect with the country’s deep-rooted cultural identity and the resilience of its people.
Visiting Curchi Monastery
Following the exploration of Old Orhei Reservation, the tour takes visitors to the captivating Curchi Monastery, a religious landmark that stands as a testament to Moldova’s rich architectural and spiritual heritage.
Located just a short drive from Old Orhei, the 17th-century monastery complex impresses with its beautiful frescoes, ornate iconostasis, and intricate carvings.
Guests have the opportunity to wander the serene grounds, admire the impressive stone architecture, and learn about the monastery’s history and significance from the knowledgeable guide.
The visit to Curchi Monastery provides a deeper understanding of Moldova’s cultural and religious traditions, complementing the wine tasting and exploration of historic sites earlier in the tour.
Reviews and Recommendations
According to the provided information, this tour of Cricova Winery and Old Orhei has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from travelers, with a 5.0 out of 5 rating based on 111 reviews.
Reviewers have consistently praised the tour as a highly recommended exclusive experience that allows visitors to deeply enjoy Moldova’s rich history, culture, and renowned wine-making traditions.
The private transportation and personal guide provide a seamless and personalized experience.
The opportunity to explore the unique underground city and wine cellars of Cricova Winery is a must-see.
The inclusion of a local lunch at an ethnic village adds an authentic cultural element to the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. No formal attire is required, as the focus is on exploring historical sites and enjoying the wine tasting.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?
The tour provider accommodates various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, for the lunch at Old Orhei. Travelers should inform the provider of any dietary restrictions when booking the tour.
Can We Take Photos Inside the Cricova Winery?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the Cricova Winery. However, it’s best to check with the tour guide or staff upon arrival as there may be some restricted areas where photography is not permitted for preservation reasons.
Is There an English-Speaking Guide Available for the Tour?
Yes, there is an English-speaking guide available for the tour. The tour overview states that the tour is offered in English, Italian, and Russian, indicating that an English-speaking guide is provided to lead the tour.
Can We Purchase Additional Wine at the End of the Tour?
Yes, travelers can purchase additional wine at the end of the tour. The tour includes a wine tasting, but visitors are welcome to buy more bottles of the excellent wines from the Cricova Winery to take home.
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Recap
This full-day tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover Moldova’s highlights.
Visitors can explore the underground city and renowned wine cellars of Cricova Winery, uncover the historical treasures of Old Orhei, and visit the stunning Curchi Monastery.
With a knowledgeable guide, wine tastings, and local cuisine, the tour offers a seamless and memorable exploration of Moldova’s natural and cultural wonders.
