If you’re heading to Moldova and want to experience its world-famous wine culture, this tour offers a fascinating peek into two of its most renowned wineries. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed descriptions, reviews, and practical insights, it promises a memorable day of underground exploration, tastings, and local delicacies.
What makes this experience particularly appealing are Cricova’s labyrinth of over 120 km of underground galleries and Milestii Mici’s claim as the largest wine cellar in the world, with a staggering 200 km of tunnels. Both are living museums of Moldova’s wine heritage. One standout is the guided nature of the tour, which ensures you’ll learn about the winemaking process from grape to bottle, adding depth to each sip.
However, a potential consideration is the fact that you’ll spend around 80 meters underground and traverse tunnels in golf carts, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues. Plus, the tour duration of about 6 hours means it’s a full-on day, so it’s best suited for travelers ready to dedicate several hours to wine discovery—perfect for wine lovers or curious travelers eager to learn about Moldovan traditions.
This tour is ideal for those who appreciate authentic cultural experiences, guided insights, and delicious wine tastings paired with local snacks. If you’re traveling from Chisinau and want a comprehensive, well-organized culinary and cultural outing, this will likely be a highlight of your Moldova trip.
Key Points
- Two of the world’s largest wine cellars: Cricova with 120 km of underground galleries, and Milestii Mici with over 200 km of tunnels.
- Expert-guided tours: Learn about the winemaking process and the history of each cellar from knowledgeable guides.
- Tastings included: Sampling of 4 wines and a sparkling wine at Cricova, plus 3 wines paired with local appetizers at Milestii Mici.
- Authentic local flavors: Typical Moldavian snacks like prosciutto, salami, and nuts accompany the tastings.
- Comfortable transportation: Travel between sites in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Balanced experience: A mix of underground exploration, wine tasting, and cultural insight, suitable for most adult travelers.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
Starting Point and Convenience
The tour begins with hotel pickup in Chisinau, making it a hassle-free way to start your day. You’ll be transported comfortably to your first destination—Cricova Winery—about 14 km north of the city. The duration of each visit is well-paced, allowing enough time to absorb what you’re seeing without feeling rushed.
Cricova Winery: An Underground Wine Odyssey
Arriving at Cricova, you’ll step into a world of underground galleries that stretch over 120 km. This is a true underground city, with winding corridors lined with countless wine bottles. Founded in 1952, Cricova has earned an international reputation, especially for its sparkling wines.
Your private guided tour will take you through key sections: the Wine Maturation Area, where wine ages in cellars; the Sparkling Wine Production Area, where bubbles are crafted; and the National Collection and Tasting Complex. Each step reveals Moldova’s dedication to quality and tradition.
The highlight? A tasting session featuring 4 different wines plus a sparkling wine, all served with local snacks like nuts and biscuits. You’ll appreciate learning about each wine’s unique story and production process, which adds a layer of appreciation beyond the taste.
Milestii Mici: The World’s Largest Wine Cellar
Next, you’ll head about 20 km south to Milestii Mici, famed for having over 200 km of tunnels and a collection exceeding 2 million bottles. This underground “city” of wine is a sight to behold, with temperatures holding steady between 12-14°C, ideal for wine aging.
Here, the focus is on pairing three wines—a dry white, a dry red, and a vintage dessert wine—with a selection of local snacks like prosciutto, salami, and dried prunes. The tour includes a guided walk through the tunnels, where you’ll get a sense of the scale and history of this impressive cellar.
You’ll also receive a gift of a bottle of wine, Univers, as a token of your visit—an appreciated souvenir to remember your Moldova visit.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Value
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, a good length to explore both wineries without feeling overwhelmed. The price covers all transportation, entry tickets, tastings, and professional guides, offering good value given the scope of the experience. The tours are private, so you’ll enjoy personalized attention, which enhances the learning and tasting moments.
Authenticity and Reviews
The tour has a perfect rating of 5/5 based on six reviews, with travelers praising the attention of guides and the overall value. One reviewer called it “highly recommend,” emphasizing the memorable experience, while another appreciated the “super attentive guide,” which is key to making the most of such a detailed, sensory exploration.
Getting underground in golf carts adds fun and helps cover the tunnels comfortably, although some travelers might find the altitude and enclosed space a bit challenging if they are sensitive or have mobility issues. The tour’s focus on local wine and snacks makes it not only an educational experience but also an enjoyable feast of Moldovan culture.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This wine-focused tour is best suited for adults with an interest in wine, history, or Moldovan culture. It’s ideal for foodies, cultural travelers, or anyone wanting an in-depth look into the country’s vinicultural achievements.
Given the full duration, it’s most suitable for those prepared for a full-day activity. If you prefer more leisurely or outdoor adventures, this might feel a bit intensive, but for those who love tasting and learning, it’s a prime choice.
Final Thoughts
This private tour from Chisinau offers a rare opportunity to explore Moldova’s two most famous wine cellars in a single day. You’ll gain insights into the country’s wine-making traditions, enjoy guided visits through impressive underground tunnels, and sample an array of local wines paired with authentic Moldovan snacks.
The combination of underground adventure, expert guidance, and delicious tastings makes it a well-rounded experience for those eager to understand Moldova’s proud winemaking heritage. The tour’s high ratings and authentic reviews suggest it delivers on its promises, making it a worthwhile addition to your Moldova itinerary.
If you’re a wine lover, a curious traveler, or someone wanting a meaningful cultural experience, this tour will add flavor—and depth—to your visit.
From Chisinau: visit Cricova and Milestii Mici Wineries
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes comfortable private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t need to worry about logistics.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 6 hours, giving ample time at both wineries for guided tours and tastings.
What is included in the tasting?
You’ll sample four wines and one sparkling wine at Cricova, plus three wines paired with local snacks at Milestii Mici, including prosciutto, salami, nuts, and dried prunes.
Are the tours suitable for children?
This experience is designed for adults. It’s not suitable for children under 4, and those with mobility issues or who are sensitive to underground environments should consider their comfort.
Do I get any souvenirs?
At Milestii Mici, you’ll receive a complimentary bottle of wine called Univers as a gift.
Is the tour flexible?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.