Just 15 km from Chisinau lies one of the most extraordinary wine experiences in the world — Cricova, a vast underground wine city carved from limestone, with more than 120 km of tunnels forming streets with names like “Cabernet Street” and “Champagne Street.” A Cricova winery tour is the single most popular excursion in Moldova, and for good reason.
This guide covers everything you need to know before booking — what you’ll see, how to get there, what it costs, and how to make the most of your visit.
What Is Cricova?
Cricova is a Moldovan winery famous for its underground cellars, which stretch for over 120 kilometers beneath the town of Cricova. The tunnels are used to age both still wines and sparkling wines using the traditional French method. The cellars maintain a constant temperature year-round, making them ideal for winemaking — and for visitors, they feel like stepping into another world.
Quick facts:
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Located 15 km / ~30 minutes from Chisinau
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Over 120 km of underground tunnels
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Famous for sparkling wines made in the traditional method
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Guided tours available in Romanian, Russian, and English
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One of Moldova’s top-rated tourist attractions
What to Expect on a Cricova Winery Tour
The underground drive
Most tours begin with a drive through the tunnels themselves — yes, you drive through the wine cellars. It’s one of the most surreal experiences in Eastern Europe.
The cellars and aging rooms
You’ll walk through sections lined with thousands of bottles, including the famous “National Collection” with wines dating back decades.
The tasting
Tours typically end with a guided tasting of 3-5 wines, often paired with local cheese, nuts, and traditional Moldovan snacks.
Duration
Most tours last 2-3 hours, including the tasting. Add travel time from Chisinau.
How to Get to Cricova from Chisinau
You have three options to get to Cricova from Chisinau :
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Join a guided tour (recommended) — includes round-trip transport from Chisinau, English-speaking guide, and pre-booked entry. Cricova requires advance booking, and tours sell out.
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Take a taxi — possible but you’ll need to book the winery tour separately in advance, and return transport can be unreliable.
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Drive yourself — doable, but you’ll miss the local context and can’t fully enjoy the tasting.
Our recommendation: Book a Cricova Winery tasting Tour from Chisinau— we handle transport, tickets, and tastings so you just enjoy it.
Best Time to Visit Cricova
The best times to visit Cricova and Moldova :
Cricova is open year-round and the underground temperature stays constant. Autumn (September-October) coincides with the grape harvest and is especially atmospheric. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Book at least a few days in advance in summer.
How Much Does a Cricova Winery Tour Cost?
Costs vary by tour type and tasting package:
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Basic tour + tasting: entry fees start around €15-25 per person
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Cricova guided tour from Chisinau with transport: typically €50-90 per person depending on group size and inclusions
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Private tours: higher, but customizable
Combine Cricova With Other Moldova Highlights
Cricova pairs well with:
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Milestii Mici Winery Tour— the world’s largest wine cellar by Guinness World Records
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Chisinau City Tour— explore the capital before or after
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Transnistria Tour— for travelers wanting the full Moldova experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book Cricova in advance?
Yes. Cricova does not accept walk-ins for tours. Book at least 2-3 days ahead, longer in peak season.
Are the tours in English?
Yes, English-language tours are available. Confirm when booking.
Is Cricova suitable for children?
The tour is generally family-friendly, but tastings are for adults. Check with your tour operator.
How long does a Cricova tour take?
Plan for 3-4 hours total including travel from Chisinau.
Can I buy wine at Cricova?
Yes, there’s a shop where you can purchase bottles to take home.
Ready to Visit Cricova?
We run Cricova Winery Tours from Chisinau with hotel pickup, English-speaking guides, and tasting packages. [Contact us] to book, or browse all our Moldova tours to see what else we offer.
Enjoy your Cricova wine tour with Moldova tours.
