Cricova & Milestii Mici Wineries

If you’re considering a wine-themed trip and want to go beyond the usual vineyards, the Cricova & Milestii Mici tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Moldova’s wine-making traditions. This experience combines the thrill of exploring two of the world’s most impressive underground wine cellars with tasting some of the country’s best wines. It’s a well-organized, intimate excursion that’s perfect for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to add a distinctive flavor to their Moldova visit.

What’s especially appealing about this tour is the guided experience—you won’t be wandering aimlessly amid the tunnels. Plus, the small group size (maximum of six travelers) ensures you get plenty of personalized attention. The hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off eliminate logistical stress, so you can focus on soaking in the sights and flavors. One thing to keep in mind is the price—at just over $235 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but one that many find justified by the quality and uniqueness of the experience.

This tour is best suited for adults who appreciate good wine, are comfortable with underground environments (it can be cool, so bring a sweater), and enjoy guided, educational outings. If you’re after a behind-the-scenes look at Moldova’s legendary wine vaults, this tour will deliver in spades.

Key Points

• Two world-record wineries: Cricova’s labyrinths and Milestii Mici’s enormous underground caves.
• Expert-guided tours: Learn about wine making and history from knowledgeable guides.
• Tastings and snacks included: Enjoy local wines paired with light snacks.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make it easy to participate.
• Limited group size: More interaction and personalized attention.
• Great for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers.

Moldova might not be the first country that springs to mind when you think of wine, but its underground cellars tell a different story. These are more than just storage spaces—they are labyrinths and caverns that hold some of the most extensive wine collections in the world. The Cricova & Milestii Mici tour takes you behind the scenes inside these subterranean treasures, revealing both their scale and their significance.

The Cricova Experience: A City Beneath the City

Starting at Cricova, you’re stepping into what’s often called an underground city. Over 120 kilometers of tunnels carve their way beneath the outskirts of Chisinau. These tunnels are not just functional—they’re a spectacle, filled with wine bottles stacked in perfect rows, some covered with a noble dust that hints at age and nobility. The tunnels can reach depths of 70 to 80 meters, and a small electric train whisks visitors through the maze, adding a sense of adventure.

Cricova is renowned for its sparkling wines and the National Oenotec, Moldova’s national wine collection. The guide’s commentary illuminates the history of wine here, including the stories behind some of the most celebrated bottles. The atmosphere inside is cool (around 12-14°C), which is ideal for preserving wine but a reminder to bring warm clothing.

Many reviewers emphasize how informative and engaging the guide is. One praised the guide’s caring manner, mentioning that this personal touch made the experience more memorable. The tour includes a tasting session with a selection of wines and some snacks, so you can sample the flavors that make Moldovan wine special. The tasting is relaxed but educational, offering a chance to learn about different notes and wine styles unique to Moldova.

Milestii Mici: The Largest Wine Collection on Earth

Next, you’ll visit Milestii Mici—home to the world’s largest underground wine collection, officially recorded by the Guinness Book of World Records. These caves are about 85 meters underground and stretch for over 200 kilometers, a true marvel of wine storage. Walking along the cool, dark corridors, you’ll see rows of barrels and bottles, some aging gracefully while others await their turn to be enjoyed.

Milestii Mici’s tunnels are more than just storage—they’re an experience in themselves. The guides here are equally knowledgeable, sharing insights into the history of Moldova’s wine industry and the significance of their record-breaking collection. The guided tasting allows you to savor different Moldovan wines, each with its own character and story.

One reviewer highlighted how impressed they were by the scenery and the knowledgeable guide. The bottles covered with dust have a sense of history, and the cool environment makes it easy to imagine the wines aging for years before reaching your glass.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the impressive underground settings, what truly elevates this experience are the guides and the quality of the tastings. Both Cricova and Milestii Mici have curated selections of wines, with knowledgeable guides explaining their origins, tasting notes, and pairing suggestions. The inclusion of snacks enhances the tasting experience, making it more than just a quick sip—it’s about appreciating Moldova’s wine culture.

The small group size—no more than six travelers—increases the interaction, allowing guides to tailor explanations and answer questions. This personalized approach gives you a richer understanding of the wines and the history behind them.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour lasts about six hours—a manageable length that makes for a relaxed day without feeling rushed. The hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which is a definite plus given that public transport in Moldova might not be as straightforward for travelers. The cost, at $235.25 per person, reflects the value of the private transport, expert guides, and access to these exclusive sites.

It’s worth noting that most travelers book this tour about a month and a half in advance—a sign of its popularity. The daily opening hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. fit well into a day of sightseeing in Chisinau, leaving enough time for other activities.

Authenticity and Experience

Multiple reviewers have commented on the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One appreciated the guide’s detailed explanations, which made the experience more meaningful. Another mentioned how the scenery and wines exceeded expectations, emphasizing the visual and tasting delights. These insights reinforce the idea that this isn’t just a touristy stop; it’s a genuine, educational, and enjoyable dive into Moldova’s wine culture.

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to see some of the world’s largest and most impressive underground wine cellars. It’s also suitable for curious travelers wanting an authentic look into Moldova’s winemaking heritage. If you enjoy guided experiences, appreciate good wines, and don’t mind a cool environment, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Moldova trip.

It’s worth mentioning that the tour is accessible most travelers, but bringing warm clothes is recommended—especially because the tunnels are cool year-round. The maximum group size keeps things intimate, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions and learn.

For anyone interested in wine, history, or underground adventures, the Cricova & Milestii Mici tour offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see the world’s largest underground wine collection and explore a remarkable subterranean landscape. The guided tastings and personalized attention make it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking an immersive experience, rather than just sightseeing.

While it’s a bit pricier than a casual wine tasting, the value lies in the access, the educational component, and the chance to see two of Moldova’s most famous wineries. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about Moldova’s wine legacy, this tour delivers a memorable day beneath the earth’s surface.

This experience is best for curious, wine-loving travelers looking for a well-organized, insightful, and immersive exploration of Moldova’s underground wine treasures. It’s a great way to combine learning, tasting, and sightseeing—all in one compact, memorable package.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within Chisinau, making the experience hassle-free.

How long does the tour last? The entire tour is approximately six hours, giving you enough time to explore both wineries comfortably.

What is the group size? The maximum number of travelers is six, which ensures a more personal and engaging experience.

Are snacks and drinks included? Yes, the tour includes wine tastings paired with snacks, providing a well-rounded tasting experience.

Do I need to bring anything special? It’s recommended to bring some warm clothes since the tunnels can be cool, even in summer.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, giving flexibility if plans change.

This tour offers a memorable journey into Moldova’s underground wine culture—perfect for those seeking authentic, engaging, and delicious experiences.