Old Orhei stands out as one of Moldova’s most captivating destinations for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and authentic local flavor. Its archaeological sites, ancient cave monasteries, and traditional villages make it a perfect spot for immersive tours. Among the choices, we particularly enjoy tours that combine cultural sights with local wine experiences—like the Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei and Cricova Winery for its full-day coverage or the Moldova: Old Orhei cave monasteries Branesti wine tasting for its focus on wine and cave history. These tours offer a rich taste of Moldova’s spiritual, agricultural, and artisanal traditions, perfect for travelers wanting a well-rounded experience.
For visitors interested in exploring the natural beauty and scenic landscapes along with history, tours like the Chisinau: Hiking, Cave Monastery and Curchi Monastery Tour provide an active day in the countryside. Each of these experiences offers a different lens on Moldova’s heritage, whether through religious sites, wine cellars, or archaeological wonders.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of tours from full-day excursions combining multiple highlights like Old Orhei, Curchi Monastery, and Cricova Winery (see more here) to specialized wine and cave monastery visits such as the Branesti wine tasting tour (details here). There are also active hiking options (check it out) and shorter cultural-heritage trips (see this one). Below, we’ll walk through each of these to help you decide which fits your interests and travel style best.
1. Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei and Cricova Winery (Optional)
At number one, this full-day tour blends Moldova’s spiritual, archaeological, and vinicultural highlights into one memorable trip. It begins with the Curchi Monastery, the largest monastic complex in Moldova, famous for its impressive architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, you’ll explore Old Orhei, an open-air archaeological site with ancient cave monasteries carved into limestone cliffs—an awe-inspiring glimpse into monastic life over centuries.
The tour’s highlight is the visit to Cricova Winery, known for its sprawling underground wine cellars that stretch over 120 kilometers. Riding through the underground tunnels and tasting some of Moldova’s finest wines makes this experience unforgettable. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, like Oleg, who share stories about Moldova’s history and wine-making traditions. Guests mention that the wineries’ underground cellars are a major highlight—and the perfect way to end a day full of cultural discovery.
This trip is ideal for travelers wanting a well-rounded Moldova experience in just one day—combining religious sites, archaeological exploration, and wine tasting—at a good value considering the multiple attractions covered. The small group size and expert guide make it both personal and engaging.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive Moldova day trip that includes a bit of everything—monasteries, archaeology, and wine—this tour is hard to beat.
2. Moldova: Old Orhei cave monasteries Branesti wine tasting
Number two on our list is a focused trip that combines Old Orhei’s cave monasteries with a visit to the Branesti cellar stone age and wine tasting. This tour is perfect for those who want an in-depth look at Moldova’s ancient cave monasteries and its winemaking traditions. The Branesti cellar produces a variety of wines—red, white, sparkling, dry, and dessert—making it a great stop for wine lovers.
What makes this tour stand out is the visit to the oldest Orthodox skete, Pestere, and the opportunity to explore underground cave monasteries that have served as spiritual retreats for centuries. The guide provides insights into the history of these cave complexes, which are both mysterious and awe-inspiring. The wine tasting at Branesti is a highlight, offering a hands-on experience with Moldova’s wine culture.
Guests appreciate the comprehensive itinerary, which includes stops in Butuceni village, St. Mary’s Church, and the ethnography museum. The total duration is just over 7 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time yet eager for a rich experience. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the lively, engaging atmosphere.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts and history buffs eager to learn about Moldova’s cave monasteries and sample local wines in a compact, well-organized day.
3. Chisinau: Hiking, Cave Monastery and Curchi Monastery Tour
Looking for an active day immersed in Moldova’s natural and spiritual landscapes? This tour offers hiking, visits to the carved cave monasteries, and the stunning Curchi Monastery. It’s designed for travelers who enjoy a more physical experience combined with cultural sights.
Starting from Chisinau, you’ll head to Old Orhei to explore its open-air archaeological site with guided insights into its history. Then, the journey continues to Trebujeni, where scenic views of the countryside are perfect for photos and a gentle walk through local villages. The tour also includes a visit to a hidden gem—a lesser-known monastery or site that adds a touch of discovery.
Highlights include trekking through scenic countryside and visiting mystical sites carved into the rocks, with a relaxed pace perfect for those who like to combine walking with sightseeing. The guide’s local knowledge shines, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a bit of adventure beyond the usual sights.
Bottom Line: If you’re keen on combining hiking with cultural exploration in Moldova’s countryside, this tour is an excellent pick.
4. Chisinau: Orheiul Vechi, Butuceni Eco Village, and Wine
Number four offers a shorter but rich experience focused on natural beauty, traditional villages, and wine tasting. This 6-hour trip from Chisinau includes visits to the Orheiul Vechi Archaeological Complex and the Butuceni Eco Village, where you can see how Moldovan traditions are kept alive today.
A particular highlight is the Wine tasting at Branesti, where you can sample some of Moldova’s top wines and learn about local production methods. The Old Stone Museum Restaurant offers a chance to enjoy local cuisine in a rustic setting. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see the natural landscapes and learn about Moldovan wine and crafts in one trip.
This experience suits travelers with limited time but a desire to combine archaeology, rural culture, and wine. The guided tours are engaging, and the stops are well-paced, making it an excellent option for family or casual travelers who still want a meaningful experience.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a well-rounded, shorter trip that emphasizes Moldova’s rural charm and viticulture, this tour is a smart choice.
5. Chisinau: Orheiul Vechi Cultural-Natural Reserve Tour
Rounding out our list, this 3.5-hour cultural and natural tour dives into Old Orhei’s key sites, including monasteries, churches, and museums. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick but meaningful introduction to Moldova’s most famous archaeological and religious sites.
From Chisinau, you’ll visit the Monasteries and Churches of Old Orhei, including the Monastery Peștera and the Medieval Mosque and Caravanserai—a fascinating glimpse into the region’s diverse heritage. The guide shares insights into the history behind each site, with plenty of time for photos and questions.
This shorter tour is ideal for those on a tight schedule or looking for an overview rather than a deep dive. It’s praised for its friendly guide and well-organized itinerary, making it a reliable choice for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, enriching experience of Moldova’s heritage sites, this tour fits the bill.
How to Choose Your Perfect Old Orhei Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, available time, and physical readiness. If you’re after a full-day adventure with wine, archaeology, and monasteries, the Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei and Cricova Winery is hard to beat. For wine lovers and cave explorers, the Branesti wine tasting offers a focused, in-depth experience.
If you’d prefer an active day with hiking and scenic countryside, then the Chisinau: Hiking, Cave Monastery and Curchi Monastery Tour is perfect. Shorter options, like the Old Orhei Cultural-Natural Reserve, are ideal for quick visits or those traveling on tight schedules.
Consider your interest in history, wine, outdoor activity, or culture, and select the tour that best matches your trip style. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.
A variety of tours await in Old Orhei, each offering a different slice of Moldova’s charm. Whether you choose a comprehensive day trip, a wine-focused adventure, or a quick heritage tour, you’re sure to leave with memorable stories and a deeper appreciation for this fascinating country.