Cricova Winery - Image 1
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Cricova Winery

4.7
·5k reviews·Cricova, Moldova

Explore Cricova, a vast underground wine city with 120 km of tunnels, housing Moldova's finest wines and sparkling vintages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal experience.

CrowdLow
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Cricova Winery - Image 1

Cricova Winery

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal experience.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Cricova, a vast underground wine city with 120 km of tunnels, housing Moldova's finest wines and sparkling vintages.

4.7
(5k reviews)

"A once in a lifetime (at least!) experience! Thank you, Liliana, our guide, for making the experience even more memorable."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Easy Taxi Access

Taxis from Chisinau are a convenient way to reach Cricova.

🧥 Bring a Sweater

The underground cellars are cool year-round. Stay comfortable!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Underground City

The Underground City

Cricova Winery

Explore 120 km of limestone tunnels, a subterranean world of wine storage and aging.

Sparkling Wine Production

Sparkling Wine Production

Cricova Winery

Discover Moldova's first winery to produce sparkling wine using the traditional French method.

Themed Tasting Rooms

Themed Tasting Rooms

Cricova Winery

Enjoy wine tastings in uniquely decorated rooms deep within the cellars.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for smaller groups, as Cricova operates by appointment. Booking ahead ensures your spot and a smoother experience. Reddit

Dress for the Underground

The underground cellars maintain a constant cool temperature of 10-12°C (50-54°F) year-round. Bring a jacket or sweater to stay comfortable during your tour. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal experience.
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for guided tours and tastings.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Покажем вам самые красивые места Молдовы и Румынии 😍 организуем интересные экскурсии и не только! #экскурсиимолдова #экскурсиямолдова #молдова🇲🇩 #экскурсиипомолдове #красотамолдовы #румыния #турыкишинев
@md.top100.travel
20.8K likes • 285.6K views

🚗 Easy Taxi Access

Taxis from Chisinau are a convenient way to reach Cricova. Reddit

🧥 Bring a Sweater

The underground cellars are cool year-round. Stay comfortable! Reddit

reddit.com

Wineries reservations

reddit.com

Going with my GF to Moldova in a few days. What do you recommend me to do?

📅 Book Ahead

Reservations are essential, especially for smaller groups. Reddit

🍽️ Amazing Restaurant

Don't miss the incredible food at the on-site restaurant. Reddit

reddit.com

First time in Moldova - plan for 6 days trip

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Easy Taxi Access

Taxis from Chisinau are a convenient way to reach Cricova. Reddit

🧥 Bring a Sweater

The underground cellars are cool year-round. Stay comfortable! Reddit

📅 Book Ahead

Reservations are essential, especially for smaller groups. Reddit

🍽️ Amazing Restaurant

Don't miss the incredible food at the on-site restaurant. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Cricova Winery, calling it a 'once in a lifetime experience' with fascinating history and delicious wines. The underground cellars are a major highlight, offering a unique and memorable journey. While the accent of some guides might require attention, the overall experience, including the food at the restaurant, is highly recommended. Booking in advance is essential for a smooth visit.

"A once in a lifetime (at least!) experience! Thank you, Liliana, our guide, for making the experience even more memorable with all the knowledge you shared during the trip and also, during the wine tasting experience! Please book in advance! P.s. the restaurant food is amazing!"

Mona Turcitu

"Excellent wine tour. In English. Fascinating history and setting with great wine. It is easy to get to and from Chisinau by taxi (e.g. Letz). Highly recommend"

M C

"​Cricova is a renowned winery in Moldova, famous for its massive underground cellars and a vast collection of wines. Here's a breakdown of what makes it so special
Cricova is located in the town of the same name, about 15 kilometers north of the capital city, Chișinău.
​The winery's most distinctive feature is its "underground city" of wine cellars. These are former limestone mines that have been converted into an extensive network of tunnels, stretching for an estimated 120 kilometers (75 miles), with about 80 kilometers used for wine storage and maturation.
​The tunnels are so large that visitors can drive through them, and the "streets" are even named after different grape varieties like Cabernet, Feteasca, and Sauvignon.
​The constant temperature of 10-12°C (50-54°F) and high humidity (97-98%) in the cellars provide ideal conditions for aging wine.
Cricova is a major producer of a wide range of wines, including red, white, and rosé.
​They are particularly known for being the first winery in Moldova to produce sparkling wine using the traditional French method (Méthode Traditionnelle), which involves a second fermentation in the bottle.
​The winery produces wines from both local Moldovan grape varieties like Fetească Neagră, Fetească Regală, and Viorica, as well as classic international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Grigio.
​Some of their notable products include Amplius, Cuvée Prestige, and Rose de Cricova.
Cricova offers various tours that allow visitors to explore the underground city, learn about the winemaking process, and, of course, enjoy wine tastings.
​Some tours even include meals served in beautifully decorated tasting rooms within the cellars."

Jayachandran VS

What People Like

Unique underground city
Fascinating history
Excellent wine tasting

What People Dislike

Guide's accent (occasional)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cricova Winery is located about 15 km north of Chisinau. The easiest way to get there is by taxi, which is readily available from the capital. Some visitors also mention using ride-sharing apps. Reddit

While taxis are the most recommended option, local buses might be available, but they can be less direct and more time-consuming. Checking local transport schedules is advised if opting for public transport. Reddit

Yes, you can drive to Cricova Winery. There is parking available. However, if you plan on participating in wine tastings, it's best to arrange alternative transportation or designate a driver. Reddit

The journey from Chisinau to Cricova typically takes around 20-30 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. Reddit

Some tour agencies in Chisinau offer organized trips to Cricova, which can include transportation and guided tours. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to arrange transport yourself. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tour and tasting in advance, as Cricova operates by appointment only. This is especially true for smaller groups. Reddit

Tour prices can vary depending on the package chosen (e.g., length of tour, number of wines tasted, inclusion of food). It's best to check the official Cricova website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing. Reddit

Cricova Winery typically offers tours throughout the day, but specific hours can vary. It's essential to check their official schedule when booking your reservation. Reddit

Cricova is primarily set up for guided tours to explore its vast underground cellars. Spontaneous visits without a prior booking might be difficult, especially for tours. Reddit

Yes, Cricova offers various tour options, including different durations, wine tasting selections, and some that include meals. You can choose the one that best suits your interests and time. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The underground cellars maintain a constant temperature of 10-12°C (50-54°F) and high humidity (97-98%) year-round, ideal for wine aging. Reddit

Visitors typically explore the cellars via electric vehicles or a special electric 'train' that drives through the tunnels. Some parts may involve walking. Reddit

Yes, the 'streets' within the underground city are named after different grape varieties, such as Cabernet, Feteasca, and Sauvignon, adding to the unique atmosphere. Reddit

Cricova produces a wide range of red, white, and rosé wines from both local Moldovan and international grape varieties. They are also known for their sparkling wines. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase wines directly from Cricova Winery, often at the end of your tour or from their on-site shop. Some visitors recommend buying souvenir bottles. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Cricova Winery has an on-site restaurant that is highly praised for its amazing food. It's a great place to enjoy a meal after your tour. Reddit

Some of the premium tour packages at Cricova include meals served in their beautifully decorated tasting rooms within the cellars. Reddit

The restaurant at Cricova typically offers a menu featuring local Moldovan dishes and international cuisine, often paired with their wines. Reddit

While it's best to confirm directly with Cricova, it's generally advisable to book a tour that includes dining or to make a separate reservation for the restaurant, especially during peak times. Reddit

It's recommended to inquire about dietary options when making your reservation or upon arrival at the restaurant to ensure they can accommodate your needs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside Cricova Winery, especially in the public areas and during tours. However, always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific restrictions your guide might mention. Reddit

The vast underground tunnels, the uniquely decorated tasting rooms, and the wine barrels offer fantastic photo opportunities. The 'streets' named after grape varieties are also a fun element to capture. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to avoid using flash photography in dimly lit underground environments to protect any sensitive displays and to maintain the atmosphere. Check with your guide if unsure. Reddit

Drone photography is likely restricted due to the underground nature of the facility and potential safety concerns. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly allowed. Reddit

A camera with good low-light performance and a wide-angle lens would be beneficial for capturing the expansive underground spaces. A tripod might be useful for longer exposures, but check if it's practical to use in the tunnels. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Cricova is a winery, it offers a unique experience that can still be engaging for families. The 'underground city' with its vast tunnels and 'streets' named after grape varieties can feel like an adventure for children. The ride on the electric 'train' through the cellars is often a highlight. It's advisable to check if specific tours are more family-friendly or if there are any age restrictions for tastings. Reddit

Consider booking a tour that includes a meal at the restaurant, as this provides a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. Remember to dress warmly, as the cellars are cool year-round, which is important for keeping children comfortable. Booking in advance is crucial to secure a spot for your family. Reddit

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

For true wine lovers, Cricova is a pilgrimage site. The opportunity to explore one of the world's largest underground wine cellars, with its perfectly controlled aging conditions, is unparalleled. You can learn about the history of Moldovan wine and Cricova's pioneering role in sparkling wine production. Reddit

Opt for tours that include extensive wine tastings, allowing you to sample a variety of their local and international varietals, including their acclaimed sparkling wines. The on-site restaurant also offers a chance to pair exceptional food with their wines. Don't miss the chance to purchase some of their special vintages as souvenirs. Reddit

✈️ Day-Trippers from Chisinau

Cricova Winery is an excellent day trip option from Chisinau, being only about 15-30 minutes away by taxi. This makes it easily accessible for a half-day or full-day excursion. Reddit

Plan your visit by booking a morning or afternoon tour and tasting in advance. You can combine your visit with lunch at the winery's restaurant for a complete experience. The ease of access via taxi means you don't need to worry about driving after wine tasting. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Scale of Cricova's Underground City

Cricova Winery is not just a wine producer; it's a subterranean marvel. Its origins lie in the extensive limestone mines that have been ingeniously transformed into an 'underground city' spanning an astonishing 120 kilometers (75 miles) of tunnels. Approximately 80 kilometers of this network are actively used for wine storage and maturation, creating a unique environment for aging wines. The sheer scale is breathtaking, with 'streets' named after grape varieties like Cabernet, Feteasca, and Sauvignon, making navigation feel like a journey through a viticultural map. Reddit

The constant, ideal conditions within these cellars – a stable temperature of 10-12°C (50-54°F) and high humidity (97-98%) – are crucial for the long-term aging of wine. This natural, climate-controlled environment allows Cricova to store and mature vast quantities of wine, including some of the oldest and rarest vintages in the world. Visitors can experience this unique setting by driving or taking an electric 'train' through the illuminated tunnels, a truly unforgettable aspect of the Cricova experience. Reddit

Cricova's Winemaking Heritage and Sparkling Wines

Cricova holds a significant place in Moldovan winemaking history, being renowned for its diverse range of wines. They are particularly celebrated as the first winery in Moldova to master the production of sparkling wine using the traditional French method, known as Méthode Traditionnelle. This complex process involves a second fermentation directly in the bottle, resulting in fine bubbles and a sophisticated profile. Reddit

The winery expertly crafts wines from both indigenous Moldovan grape varieties, such as Fetească Neagră, Fetească Regală, and Viorica, as well as classic international varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Grigio. Signature products like Amplius, Cuvée Prestige, and Rose de Cricova showcase the winery's commitment to quality and innovation. Visitors can learn about these winemaking techniques and sample these exquisite wines during guided tours and tasting sessions. Reddit

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