Cricova Winery – The Underground Wine City of Moldova
Cricova Winery is one of the most prestigious wineries in Moldova, known worldwide for its impressive underground galleries, stretching over 70 km. These galleries house the remarkable National Oenoteca, a treasure trove of rare and exquisite wines. Located 80 meters below ground, Cricova offers more than a visit to a winery – it’s an unforgettable journey for wine enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
The National Oenoteca – A Unique Wine Collection at Cricova
At the heart of this underground complex lies the National Oenoteca, home to over 1.3 million bottles of rare wines. Highlights include the red wine "Jerusalem Easter" from 1902 and the personal collection of German Field Marshal Hermann Göring. The Oenoteca also features wines belonging to prominent figures such as John Kerry, Angela Merkel, Traian Băsescu, and Vladimir Putin.
Sparkling Wine – Tradition and Excellence
Cricova is the pioneer of sparkling wine production in Moldova, being the first winery to adopt the traditional "Methode Traditionnelle," inspired by the monk Pierre Perignon. This sophisticated process involves secondary fermentation in the bottle and prolonged aging, resulting in sparkling wines of exceptional quality.
The Underground City – A National Cultural Heritage
More than just a winery, Cricova is a true underground city. Its streets and alleys are named after the wine varieties stored in oak barrels: Cabernet, Chardonnay, Fetească, Sauvignon, and more. Recognized as a national cultural heritage site of the Republic of Moldova, Cricova is internationally celebrated for its historical and cultural significance.
Memorable Experiences – Elegant Underground Wine Tastings
Visitors to Cricova Winery can enjoy wine tastings in one of its five underground halls, each uniquely decorated: The European Hall, Casa Mare, The Sea Bottom Hall, The Presidential Hall, and The Fireplace Hall. These elegant spaces are perfect for savoring local wines and uncovering the secrets of Moldovan winemaking.
Plan Your Visit to Cricova
Book a guided tour to explore the fascinating history of Cricova Winery, discover its unique wine collection, and enjoy an authentic tasting experience. Cricova remains an unforgettable destination for wine lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Guests can visit the Winery only with prior confirmed reservations. Tours are conducted in groups and include transportation inside the underground galleries via an electric train.
Prices are per person and do not include transport from Chișinău to the winery. Upon request, transportation can be arranged for an additional cost, ensuring a hassle-free journey to the winery.
Hotel
The winery does not provide accommodation services.
Restaurant
Cuisine Type: National and European.
Restaurant Halls: 3 halls available.
Total Capacity: 122 seats.
Terrace: Yes.
Opening Hours: Monday - Sunday, 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM.
Special Events: Valentine's Day parties, Women's Day (March 8), Christmas, New Year’s Eve, National Wine Day, Must Fest, and more.
Wine experience
Available Activities: Guided tours, wine tastings, team-building programs, private parties.
Tour Languages: Romanian, Russian, English (optional: French, Italian, German, Turkish).
Amenities and other services
Additional Facilities: Underground cinema.
| Offer | Duration | Min pax in group | Standard price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Orașul SubteranGroup guided tour through the underground galleries. Price per person. |
70 Minutes |
1 |
19.90€standard price24.90€weekend and evening price |
Book now |
BusinessGroup guided tour through the underground galleries. Snack: nuts, biscuits, water.
|
90 Minutes |
1 |
34.80€standard price39.80€weekend and evening price |
Book now |
ExpertGroup guided tour through the underground galleries. Snack: cheese platter, water. |
120 Minutes |
1 |
47.30€standard price52.20€weekend and evening price |
Book now |
NationalGroup guided tour through the underground galleries. Traditional menu: |
120 Minutes |
4 |
64.70€standard price69.60€weekend and evening price |
Book now |
PremiumPrivate guided tour through the underground galleries. Gourmet menu: |
180 Minutes |
4 |
99.50€standard price104.40€weekend and evening price |
Book now |
V.I.P.Private guided tour through the underground galleries. Gourmet menu: |
180 Minutes |
4 |
154.10€standard price159.10€weekend and evening price |
Book now |
Premium Gold (private winery tour, no wine tasting)Private guided tour through the underground wine galleries. The indicated price is per person. |
60 Minutes |
1 |
39.80€standard price44.80€weekend and evening price |
Book now |
Orașul Subteran
Group guided tour through the underground galleries.
No wine tasting.
Price per person.
Minimum group size: 1 person.
70 Minutes
1
19.90€ standard price
24.90€ weekend and evening price
Business
Group guided tour through the underground galleries.
Tasting of 4 types of wine.
Snack: nuts, biscuits, water.
Price per person.
Minimum group size: 2 people.
90 Minutes
1
34.80€ standard price
39.80€ weekend and evening price
Expert
Group guided tour through the underground galleries.
Tasting of 7 types of wine.
Snack: cheese platter, water.
Price per person.
Minimum group size: 3 people.
120 Minutes
1
47.30€ standard price
52.20€ weekend and evening price
National
Group guided tour through the underground galleries.
Tasting of 5 types of wine.
Traditional menu:
National appetizer platter (roasted pork, chicken roulade, cheese, sheep cheese, eggplant salad, vegetable rolls, cherry tomatoes);
Traditional Moldovan pastry “Învârtită” with cheese, potatoes, and cabbage;
Pork stew served with polenta, sheep cheese, sour cream, and crispy pork cracklings;
“Babă Neagră” traditional dessert.
Bread rolls.
Price per person.
Minimum group size: 4 people.
Prepayment required: 100%.
120 Minutes
4
64.70€ standard price
69.60€ weekend and evening price
Premium
Private guided tour through the underground galleries.
Tasting of 8 types of wine.
Gourmet menu:
Traditional peasant-style appetizer
Chicken liver pâté
Selection of local cheeses
Roasted pepper with tomato sauce
Eggplant salad
Traditional pies with cheese, potatoes, and cabbage
Pike-perch roll served with polenta
Duck leg confit with pear in wine sauce
“Evening Chișinău” dessert
Bread rolls
Price per person.
Minimum group size: 4 people.
Prepayment required: 100%.
180 Minutes
4
99.50€ standard price
104.40€ weekend and evening price
V.I.P.
Private guided tour through the underground galleries.
Tasting of 9 types of wine.
Gourmet menu:
Fish assortment platter
Tuna tartare with capers
Antipasti platter (local cheeses and premium cured meats)
Chicken liver pâté
International appetizer selection
Caprese appetizer
Bread with flavored butter
Shrimp salad with Burrata cheese
Trout served with Beurre Blanc sauce
Rabbit leg with potato cream and mushroom sauce
“Citrina” dessert
Bread rolls
Price per person.
Minimum group size: 4 people.
Prepayment required: 100%.
180 Minutes
4
154.10€ standard price
159.10€ weekend and evening price
Premium Gold (private winery tour, no wine tasting)
Private guided tour through the underground wine galleries.
No wine tasting included.
The indicated price is per person.
Minimum group size: 1 person.
