Wine Tour in Kakheti, Telavi town, Georgia

A Taste of Georgia’s Wine Heritage: Kakheti in a Day

If you’re after a well-rounded glimpse of Georgia’s famed wine region—Kakheti—this private day tour from Tbilisi is a solid choice. For $99 per group (up to four people), you get to explore significant towns like Signagi and Telavi, visit iconic sites, and indulge in wine tastings and Georgian cuisine. The tour lasts roughly 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day packed with sights, flavors, and stories.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the personalized character—it’s a private tour, so you’re not just another face in a crowd. Plus, the inclusion of hands-on food experiences adds a layer of authenticity that you won’t find on most cookie-cutter excursions. The comfort of air-conditioned transport, WiFi access, and thoughtful touches like bottled water make the day pleasant, even in Georgia’s warm climate.

One thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include accommodation, so if you’re planning a longer stay, you’ll want to arrange your lodgings separately. Also, the tour at the Tunnel Winery Khareba’s involves wine tasting and a food masterclass but does not include the cost of food — so be prepared for some extra spending if you want a full meal.

This experience is best suited for wine lovers, culture enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to enjoy authentic Georgian hospitality. If you’re interested in history, scenic landscapes, and hands-on food and wine experiences, this tour ticks those boxes beautifully.

Key Points

• Private, Personalized Experience: Your group has the entire tour to yourselves, allowing for a relaxed, tailored visit.
• Cultural and Historical Highlights: Stops at Signagi and Telavi offer a glimpse into Georgia’s charming towns and their historic sites.
• Wine and Food: The tour includes multiple tastings and a masterclass, plus the chance to make local food yourself.
• Comfort and Convenience: Modern, air-conditioned transportation with WiFi, bottled water, and all parking and fuel fees included.
• Authentic Local Flavor: A chance to enjoy Georgia’s renowned wines and traditional cuisine, highlighted by the reviews of excellent hosts and wines.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to a day in advance offers peace of mind.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Signagi: The “City of Love”

Your day kicks off around 9:00 am with a pickup from Tbilisi, followed by a scenic drive to Signagi, often called the “City of Love” thanks to its romantic, picturesque setting. Spending around three hours wandering its cobbled streets, you’ll appreciate the well-preserved city walls and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The entrance fee is included, so you can fully enjoy the sights without additional costs.

Signagi is known for its charming, pastel-colored houses, flower-filled balconies, and narrow alleys. It’s a perfect spot for memorable photos, and the relaxed pace allows you to soak in the ambiance. We loved the way local artisans keep traditional crafts alive here, and you might find yourself tempted by souvenirs.

Telavi and Batonis-Tsikhe Fortress

Next, you head to Telavi, the regional capital, where you’ll spend about three hours exploring the Batonis-Tsikhe Fortress. The fortress offers a glimpse into Georgia’s medieval past, with impressive stone walls and towers, and stunning views over the Kakheti plains. The included ticket makes it easy to wander freely and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

Telavi itself is a lively town where local life continues amid historic sites. While not specified if a guided narration is included here, the fortress’s setting alone makes it worthwhile, especially if you enjoy exploring historic architecture.

Tunnel Winery Khareba’s and Food Masterclass

The highlight for many visitors is the two-hour stop at Tunnel Winery Khareba’s. Here, you’ll experience wine testing in a fascinating tunnel system carved into the mountain—an unusual and atmospheric setting. The wine tasting is complemented by a food masterclass where you get to learn how to prepare traditional Georgian dishes. Keep in mind, food isn’t included in the ticket price, so you may want to budget for a meal or snack.

The winery’s reputation for quality wines means you’ll get to sample a variety of local options, many of which have been praised by past guests as “to die for.” The cooler underground setting makes the tasting even more enjoyable and memorable.

Final Touch: A Gift and Authentic Hospitality

At the end of the tour, you’ll receive a gift, adding a thoughtful touch to your Georgian adventure. The hosts, including Gia, a winemaker and artist, and Lika, an excellent cook, are often praised for their warmth and expertise, creating an intimate experience that feels more like visiting friends than a commercial tour.

Transport, Value, and Practicalities

The private transportation ensures a comfortable and flexible experience, allowing you to move at your own pace and enjoy the scenic drives between stops. The vehicle is air-conditioned, with WiFi on board, so you can share your photos or plan your next destination during the journey.

The $99 price point is quite reasonable when you consider it covers transport, entrance fees, bottled water, and WiFi. Additional costs may include food at the winery, but the overall value is high given the depth of experiences.

The tour’s timing from 9:00 am gives you a full day of exploration without feeling rushed, and the flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to taste authentic Georgian wines in a scenic setting. It also suits those who appreciate small-group, personalized experiences and enjoy combining cultural sights with culinary adventures. If you’re seeking a relaxed day out that offers both history and flavors, this tour hits the mark.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors to Georgia who want a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to Kakheti’s highlights. Travelers with a love of local traditions, scenic views, and good wine will find this tour well worth the investment.

Final Thoughts

Georgia’s Kakheti region is one of those places that sticks with you long after the trip ends. This tour offers a safe, enjoyable, and authentic way to taste its wines, walk its historic streets, and learn about local traditions. The personalized approach, coupled with knowledgeable guides and unforgettable wine tastings, makes it a standout choice for anyone wanting a genuine Georgian experience.

While it’s a full-day adventure, the mix of sightseeing, tasting, and hands-on food experiences keeps things lively and engaging. The value for money is clear when you consider all the included features and the chance to enjoy a slice of Georgia’s hospitality.

If you’re a curious traveler with a palate for wine and a love for authentic local culture, this tour will serve you well. It’s a perfect blend of scenic beauty, history, and delicious flavors—just what you need to deepen your appreciation for this remarkable country.

FAQs

How much does the tour cost?
The full price is $99 per group, accommodating up to four people, which makes it quite affordable for a private, personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, bottled water, WiFi on board, air-conditioned vehicle, all parking fees, fuel surcharge, and admission tickets for Signagi and Telavi fortress.

Are meals included?
No, the tour includes wine tastings and a food masterclass at Tunnel Winery Khareba’s, but the actual food is not part of the ticket price. You might want to budget extra for a meal.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing and tasting.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, especially those interested in wine, culture, and scenic landscapes. The tour is private, so it’s flexible to your pace and interests.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

In essence, this wine tour offers an engaging, authentic taste of Georgia’s Kakheti, perfect for those eager to enjoy local wines, explore historic towns, and make some delicious memories.