Uncorking the Underground: The 4 Best Wine Tours in Moldova

Moldova may be one of Europe’s less-traveled destinations, but its wine heritage is nothing short of world-class. With the world’s largest underground cellars, traditions dating back centuries, and a countryside often called "Little Tuscany," this small nation is a hidden paradise for oenophiles. Based on expert recommendations and traveler experiences, here are the four best wine tours to book for an unforgettable Moldovan journey. Let us look at wine tasting  holidays in Moldova.

1. The Megastructure: Milestii Mici

If you only have time for one winery, this is the one. Milestii Mici holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wine collection in the world . Beneath the surface lies a limestone labyrinth stretching over 200 kilometers, housing nearly 2 million bottles . Many of these wines are part of the "Golden Collection," which is priceless.

The Experience: You will drive (or ride an electric train) through streets named after grape varieties. The tour usually concludes in a subterranean tasting room where you sample three premium wines—typically a dry white, a dry red, and a vintage dessert wine—paired with appetizers like prosciutto and local cheeses .

• Best for: Record-breakers and history buffs.

• Practical tip: It stays a chilly 12–14°C (54–55°F) underground, so bring a jacket .

2. The Iconic Landmark: Cricova

Cricova is Moldova's most famous export. Declared a national cultural heritage site, this "underground city" has its own streets, warehouses, and even a tasting hall. Established in 1952, it is famous for hosting world leaders like Yuri Gagarin and Angela Merkel . Unlike the industrial scale of Milestii Mici, Cricova focuses heavily on the traditional method of sparkling wine production.

The Experience: Tours often include a drive through the vast galleries in a small train, followed by a robust tasting of four still wines and one sparkling wine. Due to its proximity to Chisinau, Cricova is easily paired with cultural sightseeing .

• Best for: First-time visitors and sparkling wine lovers.

• Practical tip: Book a combo tour that includes the Old Orhei Archaeological Complex to see a 6th-century cave monastery carved into cliffs above a meandering river .

3. The Elegant Revival: Castel Mimi

While the Soviet-era cellars are impressive, Castel Mimi offers a different kind of magic: Belle Époque elegance. This winery has been meticulously restored to its former glory, resembling a French château rather than a industrial plant. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful wineries in the country for its architecture and manicured grounds.

The Experience: Tours here feel more like a luxury retreat. You will explore the historic manor, learn about winemaking in state-of-the-art facilities, and enjoy tastings in refined surroundings. It is often combined with a tour of Chisinau’s city center, making for a relaxed half-day trip .

• Best for: Romantics, architecture enthusiasts, and Instagrammers.

• Practical tip: Combine this with a walking tour of Chisinau to see the contrast between Soviet history and modern Moldovan revival .

4. The "Little Tuscany": Mircești Winery

For those wanting to escape the underground and see the rolling hills, head to Mircești in the Ungheni region. Dubbed "Little Tuscany," this winery is set on 15 hectares of picturesque hills 270–340 meters above sea level. It represents the new wave of Moldovan wine tourism, focusing on sustainability and community .

The Experience: Mircești offers a complete rural escape. You can hike the 80 km "Little Tuscany of Moldova" trail, dine in a traditional restaurant, or stay overnight in their renovated manor. They specialize in native varieties and orange wines, offering a taste of modern Moldovan viticulture .

• Best for: Nature lovers and hikers.

• Practical tip: If you are tired of tunnels and want to feel the sun on your face while drinking wine, this is the choice.

  
  

  How to Choose Your Tour

  • For the "Grand Slam": Do a combo tour that includes both Cricova and Milestii Mici in one day to see the two titans of underground wine .

  • For Culture & Wine: Choose the Cricova + Old Orhei tour. You get a monastery, a cave village, and a wine cellar in one 8-hour trip .

  • For Relaxation: Stay above ground with Castel Mimi or the rolling hills of Mircești.

  Moldova offers incredible value for money—tastings are generous, and the hospitality is warm. Just remember to book ahead for Milestii Mici, as it fills up quickly. Noroc! (Cheers!)

  Enjoy your wine tasting in Moldova.