Day trip to Moldova – visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery

Planning a quick escape from Iasi to see Moldova’s highlights? This day trip offers a perfect balance of culture, history, and indulgence, all packed into approximately 10 hours. Based on glowing reviews and comprehensive itineraries, it’s clear this tour delivers authentic experiences and expert guidance, making it a fantastic choice for curious travelers with a taste for wine and history alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides like Iulian and Leonard bring Moldova’s stories to life with warmth and insight. Second, the chance to explore Cricova’s underground wine city, with its impressive tunnels and storied collections, feels like stepping into a secret world. Third, the visit to Capriana Monastery offers a glimpse into Moldova’s spiritual and medieval past, beautifully preserved through centuries.

A potential consideration is the travel time—at around 10 hours, it’s quite a full day, so energy levels and time management matter. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so travelers with mobility needs might want to explore other options. This experience appeals best to those eager to combine cultural sightseeing with wine tasting, especially if you enjoy guided tours that are both informative and relaxed.

Ideal for travelers who want a manageable day trip from Iasi, lovers of history and architecture, and anyone keen to taste Moldovan wines in their original setting.

Good To Know

• Expert guides like Iulian and Leonard make the experience engaging and informative
• Underground Cricova Winery offers a unique exploration into wine storage tunnels and collections
• Historical sites, such as Capriana Monastery and Chisinau landmarks, enrich your cultural understanding
• Wine tasting included, with opportunities to sample high-quality, elite Moldovan wines
• Comfortable transport ensures smooth travel between locations
• Flexible options include the possibility of a lunch at Cricova, adding value to the experience

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This day trip from Iasi to Moldova is a well-rounded journey, blending history, architecture, and oenology into a single memorable outing. The tour is operated by Rolandia, with a reputation for professional service, modern transportation, and knowledgeable guides.

The Pickup and Transportation

Your day begins with a hotel pickup—convenient for those staying in Iasi. The transport is a modern vehicle, well-equipped for a comfortable ride, which means you can relax during the roughly 2-hour drive to Moldova. The group size tends to foster a friendly atmosphere, with the guide available for questions and conversation. Ensuring you have your passport or ID card on hand is essential for crossing the border smoothly—a process that past travelers noted was surprisingly effortless thanks to the guide’s translation skills.

Exploring Capriana Monastery

First stop is Capriana Monastery, a site steeped in religious and cultural significance. This monastery was once the residence of the Metropolitan of Moldova and was patronized by rulers like Stefan the Great. As you walk through its grounds, you’ll notice the peaceful ambiance and well-preserved architecture. The guide shares stories of its history and importance, giving you a sense of Moldova’s spiritual roots. Reviewers like Carmela appreciated Leonard’s broad knowledge here, mentioning how he took them to exactly where they wanted to go and kept the experience engaging.

Discovering Chisinau

Next, your guide takes you on a stroll through Chisinau’s main attractions. You’ll see landmarks such as their version of the Arc de Triomphe and the Holy Gates, built in 1841 and located centrally. The city’s architecture is a patchwork—an eclectic mix of Soviet-era utilitarian buildings and more modern structures. The city was first documented in 1420, but much of it was destroyed or damaged during WWII and an earthquake in 1940. The rebuilding in the 1950s gave it that characteristic Soviet-style look, which today offers a fascinating visual contrast to the city’s historic sites.

A highlight for many is Prince Stefan’s statue, symbolizing Moldova’s medieval nobility. The guides share stories about his significance, making history feel tangible. Jeffrey, one reviewer, praised guide Iulian for his knowledge and storytelling, which added depth to the sightseeing.

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Cricova Winery: A Subterranean Wonder

After exploring Moldova’s capital, it’s time for the highlight: Cricova Winery. Situated 50-80 meters underground, Cricova is like a city beneath the earth—miles of tunnels, cellars, and chambers where some of Moldova’s finest wines are produced and stored. The scale is impressive; some of the cellar complexes are so extensive that visitors need to drive through them.

Inside, you’ll see ancient relics and collections, including bottles once owned by notable figures like Hermann Göring. The walls are adorned with reliefs inspired by Ancient Greece and Rome, reflecting the cultural influences that have shaped Moldovan winemaking. The wine tasting experience is a true treat, offering a selection of high-quality, elite wines. Travelers like Paul Robert mentioned that their guide, Iulian, was friendly, flexible, and attentive, making the day feel more like a visit with friends than a typical tour.

Optionally, some groups opt for a delicious lunch inside Cricova, which adds a culinary dimension to the trip. The wines are not only tasty but also tell stories of Moldova’s long-standing tradition of quality wine production, considered among the best in the region.

Wrap-up and Return

Post-wine tasting, you’ll begin your journey back to Iasi, with plenty of time to relax and reflect on the day’s sights. The return trip is smooth, with guides translating and sharing additional insights along the way. The entire experience is designed to maximize your time and enjoyment, making sure you leave with memories and perhaps a few bottles of Moldova’s finest.

Practical Details and Value

At $288 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package. The price includes transportation, a professional guide, entrance fees, wine tasting, and a bottle of water—making it quite competitive considering the breadth of experiences. Lunch is not included but can be added optionally at the winery for around 12 EUR, which many find to be good value considering the quality and setting.

The tour lasts about 10 hours, which means you’ll see a lot without feeling rushed. The flexible booking options, including “Reserve now & pay later,” offer peace of mind. Remember to bring your passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and be prepared for the border crossing process.

Accessibility and Considerations

While the tour offers a rich experience, it is not suitable for wheelchair users, due to the nature of some sites and walking involved. The organized transport and guided commentary are great for those new to Moldova, but travelers who prefer independent exploration might find this guided format limiting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of historical sightseeing and wine tasting without the hassle of organizing their own day trip. It’s ideal if you’re curious about Moldova’s cultural landmarks and enjoy discovering local wines in a historic underground setting. Those with limited time in the region will appreciate how much you can see and learn in just one day.

If you’re a foodie or wine lover, Cricova’s underground cellar will be a highlight. History buffs will enjoy the stories about Moldova’s past, especially at Capriana Monastery and the city’s landmarks. It’s also an excellent choice for travelers staying in Iasi who want a well-organized, hassle-free way to explore Moldova.

FAQs

Do I need a passport or ID to join this tour?
Yes, you should bring your passport or ID card for crossing the border into Moldova. It’s a simple process, but necessary for security checks.

How long is the drive from Iasi to Moldova?
The transfer takes approximately 2 hours each way, giving you ample time to relax or chat with your guide on the way.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included in the base price but can be added at Cricova for around 12 EUR, offering a good opportunity to enjoy local cuisine.

Are the sites accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to site and transportation limitations.

What should I wear on this tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, especially at the monastery and city sightseeing. Dress appropriately for the weather.

How many people typically join this tour?
Group sizes tend to be small to medium, creating a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

Can I purchase wine at Cricova?
Yes, the wine tasting includes a selection of high-quality wines, and you can often buy bottles to take home.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for children, older kids who enjoy history and wine tasting might find it interesting. Check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Iasi to Moldova packs a lot into a single day, offering an excellent mix of cultural sights, historical insights, and wines that speak to Moldova’s centuries-old tradition of winemaking. The knowledgeable guides, like Iulian and Leonard, consistently receive praise for their friendliness and expertise, elevating the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The underground Cricova Winery is truly unique—a subterranean city where you can walk among relics, reliefs, and barrels of elite wine, making it a highlight for many. Meanwhile, the visit to Capriana Monastery provides a peaceful, spiritual pause amidst the tour’s more lively moments.

This tour offers great value for money, especially for those eager to combine history, architecture, and wine in one manageable day. It’s best suited for curious travelers, lovers of good wine, and anyone wanting a taste of Moldova’s charm without the hassle of planning it all themselves.

Whether you’re a first-timer in Moldova or a seasoned traveler seeking a well-organized day out, this tour promises memorable moments, expert guidance, and a delicious journey into Moldova’s soul.

You can check if your dates are available here: