Moldova is a wine country, and three wineries are on almost every visitor’s list: Cricova, Mileștii Mici and Château Purcari. Here is how far they are and how to visit them without worrying about driving.
Cricova — the underground wine city
About 15 km north of Chișinău, roughly 20 minutes by car. Cricova is famous for its underground galleries of around 120 km, with “streets” named after grape varieties, and for its tasting halls dozens of metres below ground. Tours must be booked in advance.
Mileștii Mici — the largest wine collection
About 17 km south of Chișinău, around 30 minutes away. The underground galleries stretch for around 200 km, and the wine collection is recognised by Guinness World Records as the largest in the world. Here too, tours are booked in advance.
Château Purcari — a full day in the south
About 110 km south-east of Chișinău, roughly two hours’ drive. The historic estate, founded in 1827, offers cellar tours, tastings and a restaurant. Being further away, Purcari is usually visited on a separate day, possibly with an overnight stay.
Other wineries near Chișinău
If you have more time, there are other estates with tours and tastings within an hour’s drive — for example Castel Mimi, Asconi or Château Vartely. Ask us when booking and we will suggest a route.
How to combine wineries in one day
- Short option (half a day): Cricova or Mileștii Mici, return trip from Chișinău.
- Classic option (one day): a winery in the morning, then Old Orhei in the afternoon.
- Long option: Purcari, possibly with a stop at another winery in the south.
Why with a driver
At a tasting, no one in the group has to drive. With hourly booking, the driver waits for you at every stop and brings you back to the hotel. For large groups we have minibuses and a coach.
FAQ
How far are Cricova and Mileștii Mici from Chișinău?
Cricova — about 15 km north (around 20 minutes); Mileștii Mici — about 17 km south (around 30 minutes).
Do I need to book the winery tour in advance?
Yes. Cricova, Mileștii Mici and Purcari require advance booking for tours and tastings.
Can I visit Purcari in one day?
Yes, but it takes a full day: Purcari is about 110 km away, roughly two hours’ drive each way.
Will the driver wait for me while I’m at the tasting?
Yes, with hourly booking the driver stays with you for the whole route and brings you back to the hotel.
