Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
Style: Private Guided Tour in a comfortable vehicle
Highlights: An architectural jewel at Curchi Monastery, the archaeological complex of Old Orhei, and the vast underground galleries of Cricova Winery.
What is included
Booking: Essential to book in advance, especially for securing your preferred time slot at Cricova Winery.
Attire for Curchi & Old Orhei: Modest dress is required for the monasteries (shoulders and knees covered for both men and women). For Old Orhei, wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven paths and descending/ascending steps to the cave monastery.
Cricova Cellar Temperature: The underground tunnels maintain a constant cool temperature of 12-14°C (54-57°F). Bring a light jacket or sweater.
Note: This itinerary is geographically efficient, forming a loop from Chișinău to maximize your experience within 8 hours.
This is a private tour for yourself or private party
09:00 – Pickup from your Chișinău accommodation
Meet your private guide and driver. Depart northwards into the rolling Moldovan countryside.
09:45 – 11:15: Curchi Monastery (Mănăstirea Curchi)
What to Expect: Often called the “Moldavian Versailles,” this 18th-century monastery is an architectural masterpiece. Severely damaged in the Soviet era, it has been magnificently restored. You’ll explore the grand “Winter Church” (Buna Vestire) with its stunning frescoes and intricate stonework, and the beautifully landscaped grounds. It’s a serene and visually stunning start to the day, offering deep insight into Moldova’s Orthodox faith and architectural revival.
11:15 – 11:45: Scenic Drive to Old Orhei
Travel through traditional villages and picturesque hills towards the Răut River valley.
12:00 – 13:30: Old Orhei (Orheiul Vechi) Archaeological Complex
What to Expect: A spectacular open-air museum where nature and history collide. From the panoramic viewpoint, you’ll see the dramatic limestone ridge meandered by the river. You will descend to visit the cave monastery, carved directly into the cliff face by Orthodox monks centuries ago, and still an active site of worship. You’ll also see the ruins of medieval fortifications and get a sense of the many civilizations (Geto-Dacian, Golden Horde, Moldavian) that have inhabited this strategic site.
13:45 – 14:45: Lunch in a Local Restaurant
Your guide will take you to a traditional restaurant, either in the nearby village of Butuceni (with a rustic, authentic feel) or in Orhei town, to savor Moldovan specialties like mămăligă, grilled meats, and fresh salads.
15:00 – 16:15: Drive to Cricova Winery
A comfortable transfer back towards Chișinău, heading to the legendary underground city of wine.
6:30 – 18:15: Cricova Winery Tour & Tasting
What to Expect: Prepare to be amazed. Cricova is not just a winery; it’s a vast underground labyrinth of streets, tasting halls, and storage galleries stretching over 120 km. You’ll take a guided mini-train or vehicle tour through the dimly lit tunnels, learning about the sparkling wine production method (méthode champenoise) for which Cricova is famous. See the impressive state collections and enjoy a guided tasting of 3-4 prestigious wines, including their renowned sparkling wines.
18:15 – 18:45: Return Drive to Chișinău
Relax after your tasting as you are driven back to the city.
18:45 – 19:00: Drop-off at your accommodation
Your tour concludes at your hotel in Chișinău.
Booking: Essential to book in advance, especially for securing your preferred time slot at Cricova Winery.
Attire for Curchi & Old Orhei: Modest dress is required for the monasteries (shoulders and knees covered for both men and women). For Old Orhei, wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven paths and descending/ascending steps to the cave monastery.
Cricova Cellar Temperature: The underground tunnels maintain a constant cool temperature of 12-14°C (54-57°F). Bring a light jacket or sweater.
Included: Private vehicle & driver, professional English-speaking guide, all entrance fees (Curchi Monastery, Old Orhei complex, Cricova tour & tasting package).
Not Included: Lunch costs at the restaurant, optional gratuities.
Note: This itinerary is geographically efficient, forming a loop from Chișinău to maximize your experience within 8 hours.
There is no single supplement surcharge for single travellers as this is a private tour. The more travelers in your private group the bigger the discount for the private tour.
Cancellation fees – Cancellation fees may apply to any cancellations by the traveller of a service provided by Get-Locals.com. Unless otherwise specified, the cancellation policy is as follows:
Cancellations for custom itineraries (“Create Your Own”) are as follows:
In the event of bad weather forecast we will contact you the day before and offer you either a refund or an amended tour for the following day.
We always advice to wear suitable clothing for the day of the tour as not every day is guaranteed sunshine.
Our guide will meet you in your hotel lobby
