Day trip to Moldova – visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery

Planning a day trip from Iasi to Moldova might seem like a brief escape, but this tour offers a surprisingly rich taste of what Moldova has to offer. It’s ideal for those who want to combine cultural sights, historical insights, and a sip of the country’s renowned wines—all in just a single day.

What makes this tour stand out is its well-rounded itinerary. You’ll visit not only the bustling Moldavian capital, Chisinau, but also the historic Capriana Monastery, a site that echoes the spiritual and political history of Moldova. Then, you get to explore Cricova Winery, famous for its vast underground cellars and high-quality wines, providing a genuine taste of Moldovan craftsmanship.

A potential consideration is that the tour lasts about 10 hours, which can be a long day if you prefer relaxed sightseeing or have limited energy for travel. Plus, the journey involves crossing the border, which tends to go smoothly but still warrants some patience.

This experience is perfect for travelers interested in history, architecture, wine, and local culture. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided tours that combine education with tasting experiences and don’t mind a full day on the road.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines city sightseeing, monastery visits, and world-class wine tasting.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Leonard and Iulian are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility.
• Authentic Cultural Insights: Tour stops reveal Moldova’s religious, historical, and modern identities.
• Impressive Underground Cellars: Cricova’s extensive tunnels provide a memorable setting for tasting high-quality wines.
• Smooth Border Crossing: Guides handle the crossing efficiently, making the day stress-free.
• Good Value: For around $288, you get transport, entrance fees, wine tastings, and a well-organized itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Taste of Moldova in One Day

This tour from Iasi is a thoughtfully curated introduction to Moldova, perfect for those short on time but eager to experience the essentials. From the moment your guide picks you up, the day is filled with engaging sights and stories, making the most of your long day on the road.

Comfort and Transportation

Transport is provided in a modern, well-equipped vehicle, whether a car, minibus, or coach. This ensures a comfortable ride through the scenic countryside and city streets. The focus on transportation quality makes a big difference on a 10-hour expedition, so you won’t arrive at each site exhausted.

Early Start and Long Day

Since the tour runs about 10 hours, expect an early start — check availability for specific starting times. The day is packed with sightseeing, so being prepared for a full schedule is wise. There’s a mix of walking, driving, and sightseeing, with plenty of opportunities to rest and take photos.

Guided Tour and Local Knowledge

The guiding team receives high praise from travelers. Leonard and Iulian are among the guides, both known for their broad knowledge, friendliness, and ability to manage the group’s pace. Multiple reviews mention their ability to share interesting stories, translate smoothly at the border, and treat travelers like family. This personal touch significantly enhances the experience, turning a simple sightseeing day into a memorable journey.

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Visiting Capriana Monastery

The first major stop is Capriana Monastery, an important religious site that was historically the residence of Moldova’s Metropolitan. It’s a peaceful place with a history intertwined with Moldova’s rulers, including Stefan the Great. We loved the way guides emphasize the monastery’s significance, making it more than just a pretty building.

Discovering Chisinau

Next, you’ll explore Chisinau, Moldova’s capital. Highlights include their own Arc de Triomphe and the Holy Gates from 1841. The city’s architecture reflects its layered history—from Soviet-style high-rises to restored historic buildings. The city park offers a pleasant walk, and your guide will share stories about Prince Stefan, a noble symbol of Moldova’s medieval past.

While the city was heavily damaged in WWII and an earthquake in 1940, what remains and what has been rebuilt offers insight into Moldova’s resilience. The guided walking tour ensures you see the key sights without getting lost, and you’ll learn about the city’s past and present.

Cricova Winery: Underground Wonder

The highlight for many is Cricova Winery, famous for its underground tunnels stretching 50-80 meters beneath the surface—an underground city of wine. It’s so expansive that you might find Vladimir Putin’s wine cellar or Herman Göring’s private collection within its depths.

The winery’s design reflects influences from Ancient Greece and Rome, visible in the reliefs and architecture inside. The guide will walk you through the steps of wine tasting, and you’ll get to sample a selection of their best wines, offering an authentic taste of Moldova’s national drink.

Considering the size of the cellars, a drive through them is a must—they’re so vast that you might feel like you’re on a small tour within a city of wine. This part of the tour offers an immersive experience, blending history, craftsmanship, and flavor. Some travelers opt to enjoy a lunch here, which can be arranged for about 12 EUR, adding to the overall value.

The Return Journey

After a full day of sightseeing and tasting, your guide will take you back to Iasi. The border crossing is usually smooth, thanks to experienced guides who handle the paperwork and translation. The trip back is a good time to relax, reflect, or ask questions, as the memories of Moldova’s sights and tastes settle in.

Practical Details and Value

At $288 per person, this tour offers good value considering everything included: transport, entrance fees, wine tasting, and guide services. The price might seem high at a glance, but it covers a full day of guided exploration, making it convenient and educational without the hassle of planning each step independently.

Travelers should note that lunch isn’t included but can be enjoyed at Cricova for around 12 EUR, which is a reasonable price for a quality meal in such a setting. Personal expenses, additional drinks, or souvenirs are not included.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers should bring comfortable shoes and their passport or ID for border crossing. Pets aren’t allowed, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those interested in history, architecture, wine, and local culture. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip with a knowledgeable guide to help piece together Moldova’s story through its sights and flavors. It suits first-time visitors to Moldova or those with limited time in the region, offering a snapshot of the country’s charm and complexity.

If you enjoy guided tours, quality tastings, and walking through historic sites, you’ll find this trip both informative and enjoyable. It’s also a great choice for wine lovers eager to explore one of Europe’s most famous underground cellars.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and tastings.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transport is modern, well-equipped, and chosen to ensure a comfortable ride throughout the day.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, guide services, entrance fees, wine tasting, and a bottle of water are included. Lunch is not included but can be purchased at Cricova.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, bring your passport or ID card for border crossing.

Can I get a vegetarian or special meal?
The tour description doesn’t specify meal options, so it’s best to plan for your own meal if needed. Lunch can be enjoyed at Cricova for about 12 EUR.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s more suitable for those who can handle a full day of walking and travel; not recommended for wheelchair users.

How do guides handle border crossing?
Guides handle the crossing smoothly, translating and managing paperwork, making the process hassle-free for travelers.

Final thoughts

This full-day Moldova trip from Iasi offers an excellent blend of history, culture, and wine that will leave you with a richer appreciation of this often-overlooked country. The knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and high-quality wine tastings make it a worthwhile adventure for curious travelers.

If you’re seeking an efficient, well-organized way to experience Moldova’s highlights without the stress of planning, this tour delivers genuine value. It’s best suited for those eager to learn about Moldova’s past, enjoy its wines, and explore its sights in a single, memorable day.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this experience promises a beautifully balanced snapshot of Moldova—full of stories, flavors, and sights that you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: