Day Trip to Moldova - Visit Chisinau and Cricova Winery

Setting out on a day trip from Iasi to Moldova opens the door to an unforgettable exploration of Chisinau and the renowned Cricova Winery. This guided tour promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and the renowned underground wine cellars. From the tranquil Capriana Monastery to the iconic Arc de Triomphe, visitors will enjoy the vibrant essence of Moldova’s capital. But the true highlight awaits beneath the surface, where a wine tasting experience in Cricova’s vast tunnels promises to leave a lasting impression.

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Key Points

A day trip from Iasi, Romania to Chisinau, Moldova’s capital, including visits to the Capriana Monastery, Chisinau city highlights, and the renowned Cricova Winery.
The tour is priced from Kč 6,387 per person and lasts approximately 10 hours, with hotel pickup and free cancellation options.
Highlights of the tour include exploring the Byzantine architecture of Capriana Monastery, visiting the Arc de Triomphe and Holy Gates in Chisinau, and experiencing a wine tasting at Cricova Winery.
The Cricova Winery is an underground wine city with over 120 kilometers of tunnels, known for its historical wine collections and elite wines.
An optional lunch pairing at the Cricova Winery is available for approximately 12 EUR per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The day trip from Iasi to Chisinau, Moldova’s capital, offers a rundown of the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Priced from Kč 6,387 per person, the 10-hour tour includes hotel pickup, a visit to the historic Capriana Monastery, and an exploration of Chisinau’s landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and Holy Gates.

The highlight is the tour of Cricova Winery, an underground city with deep cellars renowned for its elite wines and collections.

With free cancellation and a reserve now & pay later option, this tour provides a seamless and immersive experience in Moldova.

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Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins with pickup from the hotel, followed by a visit to the historically significant Capriana Monastery.

Next, travelers explore Chisinau, including the Arc de Triomphe, Holy Gates, and local parks.

The tour then continues to the renowned Cricova Winery, an underground city with cellars 50-80 meters deep, known for its elite wines and historical collections.

Here, guests learn the steps of wine tasting and sample a variety of wines.

Lunch at the winery is an optional add-on, providing a delicious culinary experience to complement the wine exploration.

Capriana Monastery

Capriana Monastery, historically significant and once the residence of Moldova’s Metropolitan, stands as a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the monastery’s stunning architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and Byzantine-style frescoes. The grounds feature lush gardens and a peaceful atmosphere, inviting guests to step back in time.

| Key Facts | |

| — | — |

| Established | 1429 |

| Architectural Style | Byzantine |

| Notable Features | Ornate frescoes, ornamental carvings |

| Historical Significance | Residence of Moldovan Metropolitans |

The monastery’s tranquil setting and well-preserved heritage make it a must-visit destination on the day trip to Moldova.

Exploring Chisinau

After exploring the serene Capriana Monastery, the day trip continues with a visit to Chisinau, Moldova’s vibrant capital.

Travelers will discover the Arc de Triomphe, a grand neoclassical structure commemorating Moldova’s independence. Nearby, the Holy Gates stand as a symbolic entrance to the city.

Wandering through the local parks, visitors can enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere and observe daily life. Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into Chisinau’s history and culture, enriching the experience.

This stop offers a glimpse into Moldova’s urban landscape before venturing to the renowned Cricova Winery.

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Cricova Winery

Following the tour of Chisinau, the day trip takes visitors to the renowned Cricova Winery, an underground wine city with an impressive network of tunnels stretching over 120 kilometers.

At Cricova, guests learn the steps of wine tasting and sample a variety of the winery’s elite wines. There’s also an option for a delicious lunch at the facility, which costs around 12 EUR per person.

Cricova is known for its historical wine collections and cellars that reach depths of 50-80 meters underground. The winery provides a unique and memorable experience for visitors on the Moldova day trip.

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Wine Tasting Experience

At Cricova Winery, guests enjoy an engaging wine tasting experience. They learn the steps of proper wine tasting from the knowledgeable staff, who guide them through sampling a variety of the winery’s finest vintages.

The tasting experience includes:

Swirling and sniffing to appreciate the wine’s aroma
Sipping and savoring the flavors on the palate
Evaluating the wine’s finish and overall impression

Guests can also opt for a delicious lunch at the winery, pairing their tastings with local cuisine.

The wine tasting provides a unique opportunity to explore Cricova’s exceptional wine collections in an immersive, educational setting.

Inclusions and Transportation

The day trip includes transportation provided via modern, well-equipped car, minibus, or coach. A knowledgeable travel guide accompanies the group throughout the journey.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a seamless experience. Entrance fees to the Capriana Monastery and Cricova Winery are covered, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the cultural and historical aspects of the tour.

Plus, a complimentary bottle of water is provided. While personal expenses, such as meals, aren’t included, an optional lunch at the Cricova Winery is available for approximately 12 EUR per person.

Customer Feedback

Travelers who’ve experienced the day trip to Moldova have overwhelmingly positive impressions. Based on 14 reviews, the tour received a 5/5 overall rating.

Highlights of the customer feedback include:

Knowledgeable and friendly tour guides who provided an enjoyable and informative experience.
Smooth border crossings between Romania and Moldova.
Memorable visits to the historic Capriana Monastery and the remarkable Cricova Winery.

The tour’s combination of cultural sights, renowned wine tasting, and efficient transportation has consistently delighted travelers, making it a must-do excursion for those visiting the region.

Common Questions

What Additional Activities Can Be Booked for the Day Trip?

According to the provided information, there aren’t any additional activities explicitly mentioned that can be booked for this day trip. The tour focuses on visiting Capriana Monastery, exploring Chisinau, and experiencing the Cricova Winery and its wine-tasting.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum number of participants required. Travelers can book the day trip from Iasi to Chisinau, Moldova’s capital, with flexible group sizes as the tour is available for individual bookings as well as for small groups.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Personal Preferences?

The tour can be customized to personal preferences. Travelers can choose to add or modify activities, adjust the itinerary, or request special arrangements like private transportation. The tour operator is willing to accommodate individual preferences.

Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider, who’ll accommodate requests to modify the itinerary and length of the day trip within reasonable limits, subject to availability and additional fees.

Are Any Dietary Requirements Accommodated for the Lunch at Cricova?

The tour’s website doesn’t explicitly mention accommodating dietary requirements for the lunch at Cricova Winery. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to see if they can cater to any special dietary needs.

The Sum Up

This day trip to Moldova promises an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic Capriana Monastery, discover the vibrant capital of Chisinau, and explore the underground world of the renowned Cricova Winery. With convenient hotel pickup and the option to enjoy a local lunch, it’s an unforgettable journey that showcases the best of Moldova’s rich heritage and world-class wine production.