Things To Do
in Cricova
Cricova is a small town just north of Chișinău, renowned for its vast underground wine cellars that wind beneath the streets. The surrounding countryside is a quiet tapestry of vineyards, converging with Moldova’s winemaking heritage. Visitors can ride through candle-lit corridors lined with bottles and enjoy curated tastings that showcase local varietals.
The area offers a convenient combination of winery immersion and easy access to Moldova’s capital for additional culture and dining options.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided tour of Cricova's famous underground wine cellars, where you'll learn about the wine-making process and the history of this remarkable place. Marvel at the intricate tunnels that stretch for miles beneath the surface, illuminated by soft lighting that adds to the ambiance. Don't forget to sample some of their exquisite local wines during the tour to appreciate Moldova's viticulture.
After the tour, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Cricova's local restaurants, sampling traditional Moldovan dishes to fuel your afternoon. Post-lunch, visit the nearby vineyards for an interactive experience where you can try your hand at grape picking and learn about sustainable wine practices. The lush landscapes provide perfect photo opportunities, capturing the essence of Moldovan rural life.
In the evening, unwind at a cozy wine bar in Cricova, where you can relax with a glass of wine while soaking in the local atmosphere. Consider attending a cultural performance or live music event to immerse yourself in Moldova's rich artistic scene. Enjoy the company of locals and tourists alike as you share stories and toast to your adventures.
Begin your day by visiting the Cricova Monastery, a tranquil site that offers stunning architecture and serene gardens. Take a guided tour of the monastery, learning about its history and significance in Moldovan culture while appreciating the peaceful surroundings. Spend some reflective time in the chapel, soaking in the spiritual ambiance.
For lunch, try a nearby café that serves traditional Moldovan fare, opting for local specialties that highlight the region's culinary heritage. Post-lunch, embark on a nature walk through the picturesque hills surrounding Cricova, where you can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, making it a perfect outing for nature enthusiasts.
As the sun sets, head back to Cricova to explore the charming streets lined with quaint shops. Choose a restaurant for dinner that offers both local and international cuisine, allowing you to compare flavors and styles. Wind down your evening with a leisurely stroll, soaking in the night atmosphere, and perhaps indulge in a dessert made from local ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-35 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🎟️Winery tour or museum entrance | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class underground wine cellars and wine-tasting culture
- Proximity to Chișinău for additional cultural experiences
- Beautiful vineyards and tranquil countryside
- Limited nightlife within Cricova itself; is best paired with Chișinău
- Wine-focused experiences can be seasonal and weather-dependent
- Public transportation from Cricova to distant sites requires planning
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Cricova
Visit one of these nice places.
The winding, candlelit wine tunnels lined with bottles offer dramatic lighting and moods for atmospheric photography.
Small streets and charming façades provide intimate street photography opportunities and local life scenes.
Rolling Moldova countryside with rows of vines, particularly picturesque at sunrise or sunset.
Interior spaces featuring wine displays and cellar architectures ideal for still-life and architectural shots.
Dramatic cliffs and cave monasteries offer expansive landscape photography and historical context.
Food in Cricova
Cricova Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cornmeal porridge served with cheese and sour cream; a staple accompaniment to many Moldovan meals.
Must-Try!
Cabbage rolls filled with seasoned meat and rice, a classic Moldovan dish often served with polenta or sour cream.
Roasted red peppers and eggplant spread, typically enjoyed on bread as a starter or light snack.
Cheese and cured meat boards designed to pair with local wines.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh produce, dairy, smoked meats, and traditional snacks.
Small outlets where you can sample and purchase local wines directly from producers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake common in formal settings; address people as domn/dnă (sir/madam) or with 'dumneavoastră' in formal situations.
Casual but neat attire is fine; modest dress for religious sites and formal venues.
Polite topics; avoid overly personal questions in initial conversations; respect wine and food traditions.
Safety
Tipping in Cricova
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% at restaurants if service is not already included; small tips for guides and drivers are appreciated.
Cash (MDL) is common for small vendors, while credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and wineries; ATMs are available in Chișinău and Cricova.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with budding vines; great for outdoor vineyard walks and early-season winery events.
Warm to hot days; ideal for full winery tours, tastings, and scenic drives; stay hydrated and plan afternoon shade breaks.
Harvest season brings vibrant vineyard colors and bustling cellar activities; perfect for photography and wine tastings.
Cold with occasional snow; indoor winery tours and cozy taverns are appealing with warm drinks and hearty dishes.
Cricova at Night
Hiking in Cricova
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails near the Codru region offering easy to moderate hikes with forest canopies and scenic overlooks.
Day-trip hiking along the canyon with dramatic cliffs, caves, and historical monastic sites.
Urban forested paths and lakefront routes in Chișinău for relaxed walks and light hikes.
Airports
How to reach Cricova by plane.
Main international gateway to Moldova, located near Chișinău and about 15-25 km from Cricova; taxis or airport shuttles connect to Cricova.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group; Romanian-speaking population with diverse local traditions.
A noticeable minority in urban areas and across the country.
A historical minority with presence in cities and industry; Russian is sometimes used in signage and older communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Moldova with local clubs and friendly matches.
A growing sport with community leagues and courts in cities.
Accessible on public courts and clubs; a good outdoor activity in the countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cricova.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian options exist in salads, cheeses, vegetables, and egg dishes; ask for cheese and egg-based meals and avoid meat sauces.
Bread is common; request gluten-free options and opt for corn-based mămăligă and grilled meats/vegetables when possible.