National Wine Day Celebrations In Moldova

If you’re looking for a trip that combines world-class wines, offbeat history, and a touch of Soviet nostalgia, then a 5-day tour in Moldova during its National Wine Day might just be the experience for you. While it’s not the most obvious European destination—no crowds, no rip-offs, just genuine local culture—it’s a place that offers surprises at every turn.

What we love about this tour is its unique focus on wines and spirits, the chance to explore Transnistria’s bizarre Soviet relics, and the affordability that makes indulging in all the tastings and adventures feel like a steal. Plus, the quirky underground cellars and the unfiltered, raw feel of Moldova’s lesser-trodden spots are hard to beat.

The only caveat might be the intense schedule and some border crossings, which can be a bit unpredictable. But if you thrive on authentic experiences and offbeat adventures, this trip hits all the right notes. It’s best suited for travelers who love good food, wines, and cultural quirks—or for those curious to see a country that still feels like a secret waiting to be uncovered.

Good To Know

• Authentic Moldovan culture with no tourist traps
• Extensive underground wine cellars for true connoisseurs
• Soviet relics and quirky history in Transnistria
• Affordable prices for wine, food, and drinks
• Small group size (limited to 12) for personalized experiences
• Includes all tastings and accommodations for convenience

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour promises a comprehensive dive into Moldova’s lesser-known charms, especially centered around its celebrated National Wine Day. You’ll spend five days exploring vineyards, underground cellars, Soviet-era sites, and charming towns—all with a knowledgeable guide by your side. The price of $1,150 per person offers good value considering the inclusions like all tastings, accommodation, transport, and a daily bottle of wine.

The tour is designed for those who want to go beyond typical sightseeing. Think sampling wines from nearly 200 km of tunnels at Milestii Mici, wandering through Tiraspol’s Lenin statues, and sharing hearty Moldovan meals that fuel the day’s adventures. It’s a full immersion into Moldova’s quirkiness and authenticity.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1: Arrival in Chisinau & Welcome

Your trip kicks off with an arrival in Moldova’s capital, Chisinau. The centrally located hotel means you’re within walking distance of bars and the lively city vibe. Guests have appreciated the relaxed start, with many mentioning the opportunity to sneak in a beer or nap before the evening festivities.

The welcome evening features a hearty Moldovan feast—think meats, dumplings, stews, pies, and polenta—perfect for fueling up before a lively bar crawl. Some reviewers noted the divin brandy shots included in the night’s activities, setting the tone for the spirited days ahead.

Day 2: National Wine Day Celebrations

The highlight of the tour is the National Wine Day festival. The morning begins with an opening ceremony—parades, folk music, and possible appearances by local officials or even the president. This lends a festive, patriotic atmosphere, which visitors find charming.

After a breakfast with pies and wine snacks, the group heads to Milestii Mici, renowned for its 200 km of underground tunnels housing 2 million bottles. A guided tour through this subterranean wonderland is a highlight, with many appreciating the chance to see one of the world’s largest wine cellars.

In the evening, the festival continues with tastings from across Moldova, Balkan-Eurovision style entertainment, and dancing with locals. The lively, unpretentious vibe makes this a memorable experience. Reviewers praise the well-organized event and the chance to mingle with Moldovan locals.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Day 3: Pridnestrovie – The Country That Doesn’t Exist

A trip to Transnistria offers a surreal glimpse of a de facto independent state that’s effectively a Soviet time capsule. Expect border checks, and a landscape dotted with Lenin statues, hammer-and-sickle flags, and Soviet architecture.

Tiraspol, the capital, charm lies in its wide boulevards, war memorials, and kitschy museums, including the Bottle Museum with oddities like animal-shaped bottles and one shaped like Jeremy Corbyn. Some guests have commented on the strange charm of Soviet kitsch, making for an unusual but fascinating day.

Lunch is at a Back to the USSR café, featuring dumplings, borscht, and vodka—an authentic, hearty experience. The Kvint Brandy Tasting offers vintage spirits that are noteworthy for their smoothness, according to numerous reviews.

Day 4: Exploring Moldova’s Underground and Soviet Oddities

The day begins at Cricova Winery, which boasts a staggering 120 km of tunnels. Here, you’ll see why underground cellars are such a big deal in Moldova—the cool climate and extensive storage make it a wine lover’s paradise. Tour guides often comment on the impressive scale and the fun of wandering through the tunnels.

In the afternoon, the tour shifts to Soviet relics, including the abandoned Cosmos Hotel, an eerie amusement park, and brutalist apartment blocks. Reviews describe these sites as strange yet fascinating, offering a glimpse into Moldova’s Soviet past.

Evenings are spent enjoying local taverns and bars, where older women (babushkas) serve up pie and spirits—an authentic scene that travelers find heartwarming and unpretentious.

Day 5: Last Day & Surprises

The final day is full of fun surprises—some might visit a countryside feast with accordion music, others explore a Soviet bunker or shop for Lenin busts and Soviet coins. The unpredictability keeps things lively and authentic.

A farewell dinner caps off the trip—endless toasts, laughter, and perhaps a drunken vow to move to Moldova. Guests highlight the tour’s value for money, given the inclusiveness of tastings, accommodation, and transport, which make it a cost-effective way to see the country.

Highlights & Why It Matters

Wine & Underground Cellars: Visiting Milestii Mici or Cricova offers a rare chance to walk through thousands of bottles stored underground—an experience more akin to exploring a subterranean city than a winery. This is a major draw, especially as many reviews mention the sheer size and scale.

Transnistria’s Soviet Charm: The day trip to this de facto state is a real highlight—border checks included—and offers a quirky mix of history, kitsch, and nostalgia. The Bottle Museum and the Soviet architecture provide a different lens on Moldova.

Authentic Local Feast & Culture: From hearty Moldovan dishes to lively folk music, the tour emphasizes real local life rather than tourist traps. Many guests appreciate the warmth of the locals and the opportunity for genuine connections.

Cost & Value: At $1,150, with all tastings, accommodation, transport, and a daily bottle of wine included, the tour provides excellent value for an immersive experience. Guests often comment on how affordable the food and drinks are—making indulgence guilt-free.

Practical Considerations

While the experience is packed with highlights, keep in mind that border crossings (notably into Transnistria) can sometimes be slow or unpredictable. The group size is small (up to 12), which fosters a more personalized vibe but also means you’ll want to be comfortable with a busy schedule.

The hotels are centrally located, so you’ll have easy access to nightlife and local eateries. The tour is designed for over-18s, so it’s best suited for adult travelers who appreciate wine, history, and quirky adventures.

Transportation is included—crucial, given the vast underground tunnels and distances between sites. The itinerary’s pace might feel intense for some, but it ensures you see a broad spectrum of Moldova’s hidden charms.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers with a love of wine and local culture. History buffs will enjoy the Soviet relics and border stories, while foodies can indulge in hearty Moldovan flavors.

Travelers wanting a small, intimate group and an offbeat, unfiltered look at Moldova will find this tour rewarding. However, those looking for a relaxed, slow pace or traveling with young children should probably consider other options.

The Sum Up: Why You Should Consider This Tour

This National Wine Day celebration in Moldova offers a rare blend of underground wine adventures, Soviet nostalgia, and lively local culture—all at a surprisingly accessible price. The experience promises a full immersion into Moldova’s quirks and traditions, away from tourist-heavy spots.

You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Moldovan life, a stash of unique spirits, and stories that will make your friends jealous. The tour’s focus on authenticity, value, and fun makes it an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to explore a country still flying under the radar.

For anyone craving a combination of wine, history, and eccentricity, this tour ticks all the boxes—offering genuine, raw, and memorable moments in one of Europe’s most surprising hidden gems.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While mainly focused on tastings, many sites and attractions can be enjoyed without drinking. However, the overall experience is centered around wine, spirits, and local food.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking at the wineries, city streets, and during sightseeing, but the transport is provided for longer distances.

Are the underground cellars safe?
Yes. They are large, well-maintained tunnels open to visitors, with guided tours explaining safety and features.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Does the tour include flights?
No, flights are not included. Travelers need to arrange their own flights to Chisinau.

Are meals included?
Not all meals, but breakfasts and key tasting stops are included. You can enjoy plenty of affordable local food during free time.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Absolutely. Many wineries and shops offer bottles for purchase—some of which are included in the tour’s tastings.

Is this tour suitable for older travelers?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable with the pace and border crossings. It’s designed for adults over 18.

What language is the tour guide?
English-speaking guides are provided, ensuring clear explanations and local insights.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for wine and stories. Don’t forget your camera for the stunning underground views!

This tour offers a compelling look at Moldova’s hidden wonders, making it perfect for adventurous, curious travelers eager for an authentic journey filled with wine, history, and a dash of Soviet quirkiness.

You can check if your dates are available here: