Cricova / Old Orhei

Chisinau Day Tour: Cricova Wine Cellar & Old Orhei Archaeological Complex

“Be our guest!”
Spend a full day discovering the authentic charm of Moldova — a land of rolling hills, historic villages, and world-class wine. This tour combines the country’s two most iconic experiences: the world-famous Cricova wine cellars and the breathtaking Old Orhei Archaeological Complex, set in the heart of the Moldovan countryside.

🌟 Tour Highlights

✅ Visit the Cricova Cellars, the largest and most beautiful wine cellars in Europe
✅ Learn about Moldova’s unique winemaking traditions and taste premium wines, including sparkling wine made with French Champagne methods
✅ Explore the lush landscapes, cliffs, and cave monasteries of the Old Orhei Archaeological Complex
✅ Discover rural Moldovan life in picturesque villages and valleys
✅ Enjoy the expertise of a professional guide and travel in comfort

📍 Itinerary

🚐 09:00 – Departure from Chisinau

Meet your guide at your hotel or a central meeting point. Drive north to Cricova, located just outside Chisinau.

🍷 09:30 – Cricova Wine Cellars Tour & Tasting

Start your day with a visit to the legendary Cricova wine cellars — one of Moldova’s proudest treasures.
Beneath the surface lies an underground city of more than 120 km of tunnels, where millions of bottles of wine age in perfect conditions.

• Drive through underground avenues named after wine varieties like Cabernet, Feteasca, and Sauvignon.
  
  

• Learn about Cricova’s unique history and its use of the French “Méthode Champenoise” for sparkling wines.
  
  

• Tour the Grand Cellar, wine production halls, and tasting rooms.
  
  

• Enjoy a guided tasting of premium wines and sparkling wine, accompanied by light snacks.
  
  

📌 Duration: approx. 2 hours
🎟 Admission & tasting included

🚐 11:30 – Transfer to Old Orhei

Continue your journey through Moldova’s picturesque countryside, passing charming villages, orchards, and lush green hills en route to Orheiul Vechi (Old Orhei).

🏞️ 12:30 – Old Orhei Archaeological Complex

Explore one of Moldova’s most iconic cultural and natural landmarks.
This ancient complex, perched on dramatic cliffs over the Răut River, blends history, spirituality, and scenic beauty.

• Visit the famous cave monastery, dug into the limestone cliffs and still in use today.
  
  

• Walk through the ruins of ancient fortresses and settlements that tell stories from the Dacian and medieval eras.
  
  

• Enjoy panoramic views of the valley and take in the serene atmosphere of the Moldovan countryside.
  
  

📌 Duration: approx. 2 hours
🎟 Admission included

🥘 14:30 – Optional Traditional Lunch (not included)

Optionally, enjoy a delicious traditional Moldovan lunch at a nearby guesthouse or restaurant, sampling local specialties and wine (can be arranged on request).

🚐 15:30 – Return to Chisinau

After an unforgettable day, relax on the return drive to Chisinau. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or a preferred location.

✅ What’s Included

• Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Chisinau
  
  

• Professional English-speaking guide
  
  

• Private transportation with driver
  
  

• Entry fees to Cricova Cellars & Old Orhei Complex
  
  

• Wine tasting at Cricova with light snacks
  
  

• Bottled water
  
  

❌ Not Included

• Optional lunch
  
  

• Personal purchases (wine, souvenirs, etc.)
  
  

• Tips for guide/driver (optional)
  
  

🕒 Duration: Approx. 7–8 hours