From Tbilisi: Town Treasures & Wine Pleasures Tour

A Day in Kakheti: Town Treasures & Wine Pleasures from Tbilisi

If you’re looking to escape the buzz of Tbilisi and step into Georgia’s countryside, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded taste of Kakheti’s highlights. For approximately 12 hours, you’ll visit the picturesque town of Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love,” stroll through its cobbled streets, and soak up stunning views of the Alazani Valley. Then, a short drive takes you to the Kardanakhi Estate, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Georgian lunch, explore the estate’s Qvevri winemaking, and even get your hands dirty with bread baking and Churchkhela making.

What we love about this tour is the chance to combine heritage sightseeing with authentic wine tasting — Georgia’s renowned for its ancient wine traditions, and this tour makes it accessible and engaging. The small group setting (limited to only 3 participants) means you get a more personal experience, with guides who are knowledgeable and friendly. Plus, the scenic drives and stunning views truly make this a feast for the senses.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour involves some walking and religious site dress codes— modest clothing is expected in churches like Bodbe Monastery. Also, since wine tasting is part of the experience, those who prefer to limit alcohol might want to plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want a full culture in Georgia’s wine country, combining history, nature, and gastronomy in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Heritage & Scenery: Charming Sighnaghi and Bodbe Monastery offer stunning views and spiritual tranquility.
Authentic Wine Experience: Guided tastings of estate wines and a microlearning session reveal Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions.
Hands-on Activities: Bread baking and Churchkhela making add an interactive element to your cultural journey.
Small Group Focus: Max 3 participants for a personalized and relaxed experience.
Inclusive Travel: Comfortable transport, pick-up and drop-off in Tbilisi, with guides speaking multiple languages.
Value for Money: Combines sightseeing, food, wine, and hands-on workshops, making it a well-rounded day for a reasonable price.

Planning more time in Sighnaghi? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Early Start

You’ll be collected from your Tbilisi accommodation around 9:00 AM, setting out for a full day of exploring. The early start ensures you beat the crowds and get the most out of your Kakheti experience.

Bodbe Monastery: A Spiritual Gateway

Your first stop is Bodbe Monastery, a revered site dedicated to St. Nino, Georgia’s beloved saint. Expect about 30 minutes of sightseeing here. The monastery’s peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding hills make it a perfect introduction to Kakheti’s spiritual side. The historic significance is palpable; it’s a pilgrimage site for many Georgians, and you’ll see pilgrims and locals alike. Remember, modest dress is required— women should cover their heads, and everyone should wear respectful clothing.

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Sighnaghi: The “City of Love”

Next, you’ll arrive in Sighnaghi, a town famous for its well-preserved city walls, colorful houses, and sweeping vistas. With about 1.5 hours to explore, you can wander its narrow cobblestone streets, browse local shops, and take in the stunning views over the Alazani Valley. We loved the way Sighnaghi feels like a living postcard—romantic, lively, and steeped in history. Guides often point out the 18th-century fortifications and tell stories of the town’s role in Georgia’s past.

Kardanakhi Estate: Culinary and Cultural Delights

After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at Kardanakhi Estate, where the day shifts from sightseeing to hands-on experience. First up is a traditional Georgian lunch—think hearty dishes like khachapuri (cheese bread), khinkali (dumplings), and local produce. The meal is paired with estate wines, including six different varieties, giving you a real taste of Georgia’s wine diversity.

Following lunch, you’ll participate in a wine microlearning session and guided tasting. Here, your guide will introduce you to Qvevri wine-making—Georgia’s ancient method of fermenting wine in large clay vessels buried underground. You’ll get to taste six wines and learn what makes Georgian wine unique.

Hands-On Workshop: Bread Baking & Churchkhela

The afternoon continues with interactive workshops—you’ll get your hands busy making bread in a traditional oven and crafting Churchkhela, a fun and delicious Georgian candy made from grape juice and nuts. These activities are not only enjoyable but also give you a deeper appreciation for Georgian culinary traditions.

Return to Tbilisi

By around 9:00 PM, your guide will take you back to your accommodation in Tbilisi, tired but enriched by a day filled with culture, flavors, and stunning scenery.

The Experience: What Makes It Special

This tour excels at blending diversity—history, nature, food, and wine—into one package. We particularly appreciated the small group size, which fostered intimate conversations and allowed guides to tailor explanations. The scenic drives offer some of the best views in Georgia, with rolling vineyards and mountain backdrops, making every moment picture-worthy.

The cultural activities—bread baking and Churchkhela making—are simple but meaningful ways to connect with local traditions, especially if you enjoy hands-on learning. The wine tasting is more than just sipping; it’s an educational journey into Georgia’s ancient winemaking practices, which set Georgia apart from most other wine regions.

Authenticity & Value

For the price, you get an impressive amount of diverse experiences. The inclusion of transportation, guided tours, food, wine, and workshops makes this a good value for travelers who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Considerations

While the tour’s pace is comfortable, it does involve some walking—mainly around Sighnaghi and Bodbe. Religious sites like Bodbe demand modest dress, so be prepared. Also, as wine tasting is part of the experience, those who prefer to avoid alcohol should consider this aspect.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to get a taste of Georgian culture with a scenic backdrop, this tour is perfect. It’s well-suited for history buffs, foodies, and wine lovers alike. Those who appreciate small group experiences will find the personal attention and relaxed atmosphere a plus. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full day’s worth of highlights without the stress of self-planning.

However, if you’re seeking adventure activities or extensive sightseeing beyond the Kakheti region, you might want to look elsewhere. Also, travelers with mobility constraints or those under 18 should note the physical aspects and age restrictions related to wine tasting.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced glimpse into Georgia’s history, spirituality, cuisine, and winemaking traditions. With its intimate setting and thoughtfully curated itinerary, it’s a great way to experience Kakheti’s charms in a single day. The stunning views and authentic activities make it stand out as a meaningful cultural outing.

For anyone wanting to explore Georgia beyond Tbilisi’s urban sprawl, this tour delivers a memorable snapshot of a region celebrated for its warmth, beauty, and centuries-old traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler eager to taste local flavors and explore charming towns, this experience is likely to leave a lasting impression.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 9:00 AM and returning around 9:00 PM.

What landmarks will we visit?
You’ll explore Bodbe Monastery, known for St. Nino’s shrine, and the charming town of Sighnaghi with its historic walls and panoramic views.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation with pick-up and drop-off in Tbilisi is included, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free journey.

Are meals included?
A traditional Georgian lunch at Kardanakhi Estate is part of the experience, paired with estate wines. Beverages are included in the tasting.

Can I participate in the workshops?
Absolutely. You’ll get hands-on experience in bread baking and Churchkhela making, adding an interactive element to your day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking. Modest clothing is required when visiting religious sites like Bodbe Monastery.

This full-day tour combines the best of Georgia’s scenic beauty, rich traditions, and warm hospitality—a perfect way to deepen your understanding of this fascinating country.