Plizio Visual Lab

Mileștii Mici

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Mileștii Mici is a titan of the wine world, located just 20 km south of Chișinău. Established in 1969 in former limestone galleries, it holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wine collection in the world, the 'Golden Collection', which consists of more than 1.5 million bottles. The underground network spans an incredible 200 kilometers, with about 55 kilometers currently dedicated to wine storage and maturation. One of the most unique aspects of Mileștii Mici is its scale; the tunnels are wide enough to accommodate cars and bicycles. The underground 'streets' are named after wine varieties like Cabernet, Merlot, and Fetească to help visitors navigate the labyrinth. The natural limestone environment maintains a constant year-round temperature of 12-14°C and a humidity level of 85-95%, excellent for aging premium wines. Guided tours take visitors through the vast corridors, past towering oak barrels, leading to grand tasting halls situated 60 meters below the surface. These halls are decorated with stone and wood, reflecting national motifs. Guests can sample award-winning vintages paired with traditional Moldovan cuisine. The complex is also famous for its underground fountain and monumental entrance. It serves as a symbol of Moldova’s deep-rooted viticulture and is for any wine enthusiast.

Location: Moldova
Top sights: Costești · Moara de Vânt din Mileștii Mici · Agrici Wine
Nearby: Ialoveni (5 km)
Population: ~14.915 (2026)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-4	-2	4	10	17	21	24	24	18	10	4	-2
Rain mm	41	33	38	40	52	70	61	36	39	46	42	40

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Mileștii Mici welcomes visitors for guided tours of its enormous underground wine cellar network. The tours include a ride through the tunnels and a wine tasting.

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Typical hours

Visits are possible only with advance booking. Opening hours vary seasonally; more availability in summer. Plan ahead.

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Photography

Photography is allowed during the cellar tour, but flash is prohibited to protect the wine. Tripod shots require special permission.

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Time needed

A standard guided tour lasts 2-3 hours. Longer tours are also available that include extensive exploration of the tunnels.

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Combine with

Mileștii Mici is near Chișinău. Combine the visit with a winery tour at Cricova or a visit to the National Museum of History.

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Getting there

Located about 20 km south of Chișinău, accessible by car or taxi. Organized tours often include transport from the city. Public transport is not direct.

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Insider tip

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket; the tunnels maintain a constant 12°C temperature year-round.