From Iai: Mimi Castle Wine Tasting Day Trip

Travelers eager to explore Moldova’s wine culture and historic sights will find this day trip from Iași to be a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and wine tasting. It’s a thoughtfully designed experience that offers a taste of the country’s rich traditions without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

What we love about this tour is the chance to visit Mimi Castle, a stunning architectural gem with an equally impressive winery, coupled with an engaging guide who knows wine and history alike. The trip also includes a walk through Chisinau’s central streets, providing a glimpse of the city’s charming architecture and lively atmosphere. The only real consideration might be the duration—12 hours can feel long if you’re not a big traveler or prefer shorter outings.

This tour is ideal for those interested in wine, history enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate immersive experiences that blend scenic drives with cultural discovery. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive day out that balances learning, tasting, and sightseeing.

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Key Points

Authentic Wine Tasting: Enjoy a guided session at Mimi Castle with 4-5 different wines paired with tapas.
Architectural & Cultural Highlights: Visit the beautifully renovated Mimi Castle and its winery, and explore Chisinau’s main attractions.
Expert Guide: Led by a guide with WSET Level 2 and 3 qualifications, blending wine expertise with historical knowledge.
Scenic Journey: Cross borders and see Moldova’s lush landscapes and traditional scenery along the way.
Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Iași, making the experience seamless.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

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Starting From Iași

The day begins with a hotel pickup in Iași, where a friendly driver will be waiting in the lobby, holding a sign with your name. This small but crucial detail ensures a smooth start—no stress about finding your way or navigating border crossings. The journey to Moldova takes about 3-4 hours, which gives plenty of time to settle in, chat with your guide, and admire the landscapes outside the window.

Crossing Borders and Encountering Moldova

The border crossing is part of the adventure—your driver will handle the formalities, leaving you free to take in the views. Expect to see places where the lines between Moldova and Romania (or Moldova and Transnistria) blur, revealing how intertwined their histories are. Your guide, who’s passionate about both history and wines, will add context, explaining the complex past that makes Moldova’s land and wine so unique.

Visiting Mimi Castle and its Winery

The highlight of the trip is the visit to Mimi Castle, built at the end of the 19th century by a prominent boyar. The castle’s architecture is striking, with detailed facades and lush surroundings that make for great photos. Inside, the winery is considered one of the most beautiful in Moldova. It’s more than just a production site; it’s a piece of living history, thanks to Mimi’s efforts in researching and developing local vineyards.

The guided tour of the castle and winery lasts around two hours, allowing enough time for a detailed exploration. The guide’s knowledge shines here—having completed WSET Level 2 and 3 courses, they are well-equipped to explain winemaking techniques, grape varieties, and the historical significance of the region’s viticulture.

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Wine Tasting & Tapas

After the tour, you’re invited to a wine tasting session featuring 4-5 different wines, each paired with simple tapas. The wines offered are carefully selected, giving a good representation of Moldova’s diverse styles—think light whites, robust reds, perhaps a sparkling or rosé. Reviewers mention the “excellent wine selection,” which suggests the tasting is both ample and thoughtfully curated.

The guide’s background in wine makes the tasting informative and engaging, often sharing insights about each wine’s flavor profile, ideal serving conditions, and pairing tips. Many guests note that the wines are high-quality and that the tapas complement the tasting experience well—making it a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

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Exploring Chisinau’s Center

Post-wine, the tour continues into Chisinau, Moldova’s capital, with a relaxed walking tour of its main landmarks. Highlights include the Cathedral, the Arch of Triumph, and the City Hall—each representing distinct architectural styles and historical periods. The guide points out interesting facts—like how the city’s architecture reflects various influences, from Soviet-era monoliths to elegant churches.

This segment lasts about 1.5 hours, enough to enjoy a leisurely stroll, snap photos, and get a sense of the city’s atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the “charming and authentic” feel of Chisinau’s city center, which feels surprisingly vibrant yet relaxed.

Return to Iași

After a full day of exploration, the journey back to Iași begins. The driver will ensure a comfortable ride, and the entire experience wraps up with you being dropped at your hotel or designated location. It’s a long day but packed with worthwhile sights, tastes, and insights.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets to Mimi Castle, and the wine tasting session with tapas—a package that offers good value considering the depth of experience. The only extra cost is lunch, which you might want to plan for during your time in Chisinau or pack snacks for the road.

Practical Tips

Bring your passport or ID, as the border crossing requires it.
Wear comfortable shoes—both for walking around the castle and the city.
Dress in casual, comfortable clothes suitable for a full day of sightseeing.
Booking in advance is recommended, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This day trip balances historical interest, scenic beauty, and wine tasting with expert guidance, making it ideal for curious travelers wanting a comprehensive Moldova experience. The combination of a beautifully restored castle, high-quality wines, and the charming streets of Chisinau delivers a well-rounded snapshot of the country’s culture and heritage.

We particularly appreciate the knowledgeable guide, whose passion and expertise elevate the experience. The wine tasting, with its pairing tapas and selection of wines, is genuinely enjoyable and provides insight into Moldova’s growing reputation as a wine-producing nation.

The scenic drive, border crossing, and city walk contribute to a sense of discovery and adventure, making this trip suitable for those who prefer a full, engaging day rather than a rushed overview.

Final Thoughts

This trip offers excellent value for those interested in exploring Moldova’s wine culture without the hassle of organizing transport, border crossings, or guided tours independently. It’s especially appealing if you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or simply someone looking to experience Moldova in a relaxed, guided setting.

The itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate various interests—whether you want to focus more on the wine, the architecture, or the city’s vibe. The comfortable transport and expert guidance ensure you gain a meaningful understanding while enjoying beautiful scenery and quality wines.

For travelers who want a mix of education, scenic views, and tasting delights, this tour hits the mark. It’s a perfect day out for those seeking an authentic, memorable experience in Moldova.

FAQ

Do I need a passport for this tour?
Yes, you will need your passport or ID card to cross the border between Moldova and Romania, as the tour crosses a state border.

How long is the drive from Iași to Mimi Castle?
The drive takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving plenty of time for sightseeing, resting, and enjoying the scenery along the way.

What is included in the tour price?
Your tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets to Mimi Castle, and a wine tasting session featuring 4-5 wines paired with tapas.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you may want to plan for a meal in Chisinau or bring snacks.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and casual clothes are best, as there is walking involved at both the castle and the city.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Can the guide speak other languages?
The tour is conducted in English, with the guide possessing extensive knowledge of both wine and local history.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers will enjoy the sightseeing and tasting, minors might find the wine tasting less appealing; check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

This well-rounded day trip offers a taste of Moldova’s heritage, scenic charm, and wine craftsmanship, making it a superb choice for a cultural and gastronomic adventure.