Moldova may be small, but it offers plenty of memorable tours and experiences that reveal its authentic charm. From its world-famous wineries to ancient archaeological sites, this country is a hidden treasure for those eager to explore off the usual tourist path. We especially like the Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour because it combines a lively city tour with a visit to Moldova’s most elegant winery — a perfect blend of culture and wine for any visitor. Plus, the tour includes a visit to the oldest wooden church in Hirișeni, giving a glimpse into traditional Moldovan craftsmanship. If you’re into deep history, the Old Orhei Archaeological Complex offers a fascinating walk through Moldova’s medieval past, while the Milestii Mici Winery provides a chance to taste wines from the world’s largest wine collection.
For travelers looking for a well-rounded experience, these tours offer a mix of culture, history, and wine, with practical itineraries that respect your time. Whether you want a short city getaway or a full-day archaeological adventure, Moldova’s tours deliver authentic experiences that bring the country’s stories to life.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of tours and experiences. You’ll find city sightseeing combined with wine tasting, archaeological explorations in ancient caves, visits to historic mansions, and museum excursions—all with detailed itineraries and reviews. For more information, check out the full descriptions below, each linked for your convenience:
- Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour
- Old Orhei Archaeological Complex & Curchi Monastery
- Manuc Bei Mansion & Milestii Mici Winery
- Petru Costin Gallery
- Milestii Mici Winery with Tastings
1. Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour – With Wooden Monastery
At number 1, this 4-hour guided tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Moldova’s capital and its premier wine estate. Starting in Chișinău, the tour includes stops at monuments dedicated to Stefan cel Mare and a walk through the city’s lively streets. The highlight is the visit to Castel Mimi, a beautifully restored castle that exudes elegance and tradition. You’ll enjoy a wine tasting at the winery, where Moldova’s wine-making skills shine.
What makes this tour special is its combination of city sights with a visit to the oldest wooden church in Hirișeni — a rare piece of Moldovan architecture []. Your guide will share stories about Moldova’s Soviet art, the history of Stefan cel Mare, and the country’s wine-making heritage. The tour’s reviews praise its personalized experience, noting that the guide answers all questions and introduces visitors to local heritage beyond the standard sites.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those wanting a brief but deep dive into Moldova’s urban culture, history, and wine. It balances sightseeing, cultural insights, and tastings, making it a well-rounded introduction.
2. Moldova: Old Orhei Archaeological Complex & Curchi
For those interested in Moldova’s medieval past, this 6-hour tour offers an immersive experience exploring the Old Orhei Archaeological Complex and the stunning Curchi Monastery. Starting from Chișinău, you’ll visit the Cave Monastery, carved into limestone and still used by monks today. This site is a fascinating example of religious adaptation and resilience.
Next, the tour takes you to Old Orhei and the Butuceni village, where traditional architecture and rural life are still alive. The Museum of the Old Orhei offers insights into the area’s ancient civilizations. The Curchi Monastery, with its intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings, provides a quiet moment of reflection and spiritual connection. Throughout the day, your guide will introduce you to sites like St. Mary’s Church and the Ethnography Museum, enriching your understanding of Moldova’s cultural layers.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on archaeological and religious history, perfect for travelers eager to understand Moldova’s origins. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and the chance to see authentic rural Moldova.
Bottom Line: This tour suits history buffs and culture seekers wanting an in-depth look at Moldova’s medieval and religious sites, combining archaeology with picturesque countryside.
3. from Moldova: Manuc Bei Mansion & Milestii Mici Wine Cellar
At number 3, this 6.5-hour tour offers the chance to visit Hincesti’s historic Manuc Bei Mansion and the world’s largest winery, Milestii Mici. It’s an ideal choice for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
The tour begins with a guided visit to the 19th-century Manuc Bei Mansion, once a stately residence of a notable Ottoman diplomat. Exploring the mansion’s elegant rooms gives insight into Moldova’s 19th-century architecture and social history. Then, you’ll head to Milestii Mici, where a guided tour of the underground cellars reveals over 1.5 million bottles of wine stored across 200 kilometers of tunnels. Tasting sessions include wine from the cellar’s extensive collection, plus a visit to the underground wine museum.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of historic mansion and vast wine cellars, making it perfect for those who want a full-day immersion into Moldova’s wine industry and noble past. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see the largest wine collection in the world.
Bottom Line: This tour balances history and wine, suited for those looking for a long, enriching day with plenty of tastings and cultural highlights.
4. Gallery of Petru Costin of the Ialoveni District Council
For art and history fans, this full-day experience provides a different perspective on Moldova’s creativity. The Petru Costin Gallery showcases over 25 collections across four floors, including some Guinness World Records for unique exhibits. Located in Ialoveni, the gallery aims to encourage local artistic expression and promote Moldova’s cultural identity.
Visitors rave about the variety of memorabilia, especially the USSR artifacts, which are displayed alongside contemporary works. The guide’s explanations make the exhibits accessible and educational. If you’re interested in cultural history and Moldova’s artistic evolution, this is a fascinating stop. The gallery also ranks among Ialoveni’s top attractions, making it a worthwhile addition to your trip.
Practical for art lovers who want a relaxing yet educational experience, this visit blends history, creativity, and local pride.
Bottom Line: Best for those interested in Moldova’s artistic and political history—a well-curated museum that offers insights into both the Soviet era and modern Moldova.
5. Chisinau: Milestii Mici Winery Tour with 3 Tastings
Rounding out our list, this 4-hour tour is a shorter, more tasting-focused version of the larger winery visit. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want to enjoy three different wines, including a vintage dessert wine, and some appetizers like bruschetta and prosciutto crudo.
Starting with a guided tour of the wine cellars, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at over 1.5 million bottles stored in the underground tunnels. The tastings are relaxed but informative, giving you a chance to sample Moldova’s classic wines in a scenic setting. The tour is priced at $148 per person, offering good value considering the quality and quantity of wines.
This experience is best suited for those who prefer shorter, wine-centric outings without sacrificing depth. It’s perfect if your main goal is wine tasting rather than sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting an efficient yet comprehensive tasting experience at Moldova’s famous Milestii Mici, with a focus on sampling.
How to Choose Your Moldovan Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and schedule. If you want a quick city overview combined with wine, the Chișinău & Castel Mimi Wine Tour offers a balanced experience. For a deep dive into Moldova’s archaeological and religious history, the Old Orhei & Curchi tour is ideal. If wine is your main focus, the Manuc Bei & Milestii Mici combo provides history and the largest wine cellar in the world**.
For those interested in art and local culture, the Petru Costin Gallery is a refreshing break from traditional sightseeing. Finally, if your time is tight but you still want to savor Moldovan wines, the Milestii Mici Tastings give you a quick, quality experience.
In choosing, think about your interests (history, wine, art), your budget, and how much time you have. Booking early is smart, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred dates.
In Summary
Moldova offers a surprising variety of tours and experiences that can suit many interests. For a quick taste of city life and wine, the Chișinău & Castel Mimi tour hits the mark. Art lovers should not miss the Petru Costin Gallery, while history buffs will appreciate exploring Old Orhei and the Curchi Monastery. And if wine is your passion, don’t skip the Milestii Mici winery tours—they’re among the world’s best for tasting and exploring underground cellars.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance and planning around your interests will ensure you get the most out of Moldova’s warm hospitality and centuries-old traditions.