Day 01
Round-Trip Transfers:
Enjoy convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off in Chisinau, making the trip hassle-free and allowing you to relax.
Old Orhei Monastery
Old Orhei is an archaeological and historical complex, located about 60 km (37 miles) north of Chișinău, the capital of Moldova. It is a unique place where history, culture, and nature converge.
- Monastic Cave Complex: The highlight of Old Orhei is the cave monastery carved into the limestone cliffs along the Răut River. You’ll explore ancient caves that were used by monks and see small, active chapels where local monks still worship.
- Scenic Views: As you walk through the site, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding valley and the river below. The landscape itself is tranquil and picturesque, with steep hills and rolling fields.
- Historical Significance: The site dates back to the 13th century and has layers of historical importance, from medieval Christian monasticism to its role in the region's culture.
- Traditional Architecture: At the site, you’ll see the Church of the Assumption, a restored church that features traditional Moldovan architectural style.
- Cultural Immersion: Expect to hear about Moldova’s ancient traditions, including its religious history, archaeological findings, and the blending of different cultures over centuries.
Cricova Cellar
Cricova is one of Moldova's most famous wineries and the second-largest underground wine cellar in the world, located about 15 kilometers north of Chișinău.
- Wine Cellar Tour: Cricova’s cellars stretch for about 120 km (75 miles) underground. You'll take a guided tour through its vast network of tunnels, which is like exploring a subterranean world. The cellars are so expansive they even have roads for cars.
- Wine History & Production: Cricova has been making wine since 1952 and is known for its exceptional wine production, particularly in sparkling wines. You’ll learn about the winemaking process and see how they age their wines in perfect conditions.
- Tasting Experience: You’ll likely be offered a tasting of Cricova's finest wines. Depending on the tour, this might include a selection of red, white, and sparkling wines paired with local delicacies. It's a great way to immerse yourself in Moldovan wine culture.
- Wine Museum: Cricova also has a museum where you can learn about the history of Moldovan winemaking and view collections of rare wines. One of the most famous parts of Cricova is its wine collection, which includes bottles that date back decades, some even from the Soviet era.
- Impressive Atmosphere: The atmosphere inside the cellars is a mix of history, mystery, and luxury. The walls of the cellars are lined with bottles of wine, and you may even pass by famous brands' private collections.
