Things To Do
in Cricova

Cricova, Moldova is renowned for its extensive underground wine cellars and picturesque vineyards, making it a key destination for wine enthusiasts. The town, located just outside the capital, Chisinau, boasts a rich history dating back to the 15th century. Visitors can explore its unique wine production methods, as well as enjoy beautiful landscapes dotted with lush greenery.

Cricova's combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty offers a charming experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cricova
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Cricova Winery, where you can take a guided tour of the underground cellars and taste some of the finest Moldovan wines.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the nearby vineyards for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the scenic views and perhaps indulging in a wine tasting experience.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional Moldovan dishes while enjoying live music.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Cricova local museum to learn about the town's history and cultural significance, then explore the charming streets filled with local art.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic at the nearby parks, soaking in the natural beauty before visiting the artisan shops for handmade souvenirs.

evening
:

Experience Cricova's nightlife by visiting a local bar or club, where you can enjoy drinks and mingle with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of Local Wine$3
🚍Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$35

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich wine culture and unique underground wineries.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited English proficiency among locals.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent.
  • Fewer international amenities compared to larger cities.
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "La revedere" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Cricova

Visit one of these nice places.

Cricova Winery

Capture stunning images of the vast underground cellars lined with wine barrels.

Cricova Park

A picturesque park offering beautiful landscapes and floral arrangements, perfect for outdoor photography.

Local Streets

The charming streets of Cricova, filled with colorful houses and local art, are great for capturing the town's essence.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cricova

Cricova offers a delightful culinary experience with its traditional Moldovan dishes, often showcasing fresh, local ingredients and flavors.

Cricova Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mămăligă

A traditional cornmeal porridge, often served with cheese and sour cream.

Must-Try!

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls filled with rice and meat, typically served with sour cream.

Plăcinte

Savory or sweet pastries filled with cheese, potatoes, or fruit.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cricova Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, traditional foods, and homemade goods.

Street Vendors

Look out for vendors selling plăcinte and grilled meats near popular tourist areas.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cricova experiences a temperate continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer months (June to August) see temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone; maintain eye contact.

Invitations

When invited to a local home, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or sweets.

Personal Space

Moldovans value personal space; avoid standing too close and respect boundaries.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cricova is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuable items. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals can provide assistance if needed.

Tipping in Cricova

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

Typically, a 10% tip is appreciated at restaurants, but it’s not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures range from 10-20°C (50-68°F), perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying blooming flowers.

Summer

Warm weather with highs around 25-30°C (77-86°F); ideal for vineyard tours and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F), great for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures, often below 0°C (32°F), with snow; a cozy time to enjoy warm wines and hearty meals.

Nightlife Guide

Cricova at Night

Cricova's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with various bars and clubs offering live music and local wines. Many venues feature traditional Moldovan music and dance, creating a lively atmosphere. The nightlife typically starts late, with locals enjoying their evenings until the early hours of the morning.

Hiking in Cricova

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cricova Hills Trail

A scenic trail through the hills surrounding Cricova, offering views of the vineyards and countryside.

Codru Natural Reserve

Located a short drive from Cricova, this reserve features various trails through lush forests and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Cricova by plane.

Chisinau International Airport (KIV)

Located about 20 km from Cricova, this is the main international airport serving the region, with connections to various destinations in Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cricova is a walkable town, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a reasonable distance of each other. The charming streets invite leisurely strolls, and sidewalks are generally well-maintained. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Moldovans

The majority ethnic group, often participating in traditional customs and cultural practices.

Ukrainians

A significant minority in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Moldova, with many locals supporting their national teams and local clubs.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a growing popularity, especially among youth, with local leagues and schools participating in competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cricova is generally light, with most residents using personal vehicles or walking. Public transportation is available but may not be frequent, so it's advisable to check schedules ahead of time. Roads are usually in good condition, making it easy to navigate the area by car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cricova.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Limited gluten-free options are available; inquire with staff for specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cricova is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital available for basic medical needs. While emergency services are generally reliable, it is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance covering medical expenses. Pharmacies are available throughout the town for over-the-counter medications.

Discover Moldova

Read more in our Moldova 2025 Travel Guide.

Moldova Travel Guide