Old Orhei is a fascinating place for wine lovers, especially because it blends historical sites with Moldova’s renowned winemaking tradition. The region’s cave monasteries, underground wine cellars, and rustic villages make for memorable tour stops. We particularly love how some tours combine visits to ancient caves with tastings of local wines, giving travelers both a cultural and gustatory experience. When you combine these elements, you get a genuine taste of Moldova’s soul. For example, exploring the Cave Monasteries while tasting wines from Branesti cellar makes for an unforgettable day. To get a full picture, check out the Moldova: Old Orhei cave monasteries Branesti wine tasting.
Here’s a quick overview of our top three Wine Tours in Old Orhei. Each offers something special—from full-day excursions with multiple stops to more focused half-day experiences. Whether you want a guided adventure through historic caves, a visit to underground wine towns, or a combination of natural beauty and local flavors, these tours will help you decide what’s best for your trip.
1. Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei and Cricova Winery (Optional)
At number one, this comprehensive day trip covers three of Moldova’s top destinations. The tour begins with a visit to the spectacular Cave Monastery at Old Orhei, a site that blends religious history with stunning natural formations. Afterward, you’ll explore the traditional village of Butuceni, where peace and rustic charm abound. The highlight is the visit to Cricova, the underground wine town famous for its labyrinth of cellars stretching over 120 km. This tour is especially appealing because it combines cultural, spiritual, and vinous experiences in one day, making it perfect for travelers who want variety.
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with a flexible starting time from Chisinau. The guide is praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, bringing Moldova’s history and wine culture to life. Guests love riding through massive underground cellars and tasting wines in Cricova’s subterranean halls. One reviewer described it as “an amazing experience,” highlighting Oleg’s expertise and the intimate group size as big bonuses.
Bottom Line: This tour offers exceptional value, mixing historic sights with world-famous underground wine cellars, all in one day. Ideal for travelers seeking a full immersion.
2. Moldova: Old Orhei cave monasteries Branesti wine tasting
Number two on our list is a 7-hour tour focusing on the unique cave monasteries and local wine tasting at Branesti. It’s particularly special because it combines historic cave complexes with a stone age winery — “Pivnițele din Brănești” produces white, red, sparkling, dry, semi-dry, and dessert wines. The tour includes a visit to the old Orthodox skete Pestere, giving insight into religious life carved out of stone.
This trip also features a stop at Butuceni village, where you can enjoy authentic Moldovan food, along with a detailed visit to the Branesti cellar, with time for wine tasting and exploration. Guests frequently comment on how knowledgeable the guide is and how the experience feels authentic without touristy gimmicks. The tour is well-paced, with stops for photos, sightseeing, and wine tasting, making it suitable for history enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.
One reviewer called the guide “very helpful and interesting,” emphasizing the rich history of the caves and excellent wines. The tour is best suited for those who want a deep dive into Moldovan wine culture and ancient religious sites.
Bottom Line: This is a well-rounded tour for those who want a combination of historic cave exploration and wine tasting in a relaxed, informative setting.
3. Chisinau: Orheiul Vechi, Butuceni Eco Village, and Wine
Coming in at number three, this 6-hour tour is perfect for travelers interested in natural beauty and local traditions. It starts with a guided visit to the Old Orhei archaeological complex, where the landscape itself tells stories of ancient settlements and religious sites. Afterward, you’ll visit Butuceni, a charming eco village that showcases Moldova’s rural lifestyle.
The highlight is the visit to the Brănești Cellar Cave, famous for its excellent wines and historic significance. The tour includes a wine tasting session in the cellar, giving you a chance to sample some of Moldova’s finest wines. Guests report that the tour offers great value — especially because it combines cultural sights with wine experiences in a manageable half-day trip.
This tour is best for those with limited time or travelers who want a relaxed pace while enjoying beautiful scenery and local flavors. The guide’s stories and the authentic atmosphere make it a highlight for many.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a taste of Moldova’s countryside and wine culture without a full day’s commitment.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Old Orhei
When selecting your perfect wine experience, consider your interests and time. If you want a full-day adventure with a mix of historic caves, religious sites, and underground cellars, the Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei and Cricova Winery tour offers the most comprehensive experience. For those keen on cave monasteries and authentic wine tasting, the Branesti wine tour provides a deep dive into Moldova’s ancient religious sites and local wines. If your schedule is tighter but you still want cultural sights and wine, the Chisinau: Orheiul Vechi, Butuceni Eco Village, and Wine tour is a smart choice.
Think about your interests—whether it’s underground caves, rustic villages, or wine cellars—and your budget, as each tour offers different levels of depth and variety. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure spots on these popular trips.
Final Thoughts
Old Orhei offers a diverse array of wine tours that combine history, culture, and tasting in ways that appeal to different types of travelers. For a full-day experience that covers multiple highlights, the Curchi Monastery and Cricova tour is excellent. If you’re passionate about ancient cave monasteries and local wines, the Branesti wine tasting is perfect. For those seeking a shorter but enriching trip, the Chisinau eco village and wine tour delivers.
Whichever tour you choose, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Moldova’s cultural treasures and its world-class wines. Remember to book early, plan your visit during good weather, and bring your curiosity along — Moldova’s wine stories are worth tasting.