A full-day, well-rounded journey into Georgia’s famous wine and cultural heartland—Kakheti. Priced at just $29 per person, this tour from Tbilisi takes you through picturesque towns, historic monasteries, and two unique wineries. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll explore Bodbe, Badiauri, and Sighnaghi, sampling some of Georgia’s best wines along the way.
What we love most? First, the inclusion of seven wine tastings — not just in wineries but also at a traditional bakery — which gives you real insight into Georgia’s wine culture. Second, the beautiful vistas of the Alazani Valley combined with charming towns like Sighnaghi, often called “The City of Love,” make this a memorable experience.
One potential consideration is the duration—a full 12-hour day—so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with long days on the road. While the trip is packed with stops and sights, some might find the return journey a bit lengthy, especially if you prefer more relaxed pacing.
This tour suits those eager to see Georgian countryside, taste authentic wines, and learn about local traditions in a single day, making it perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a taste of Georgia’s rural charm.
Key Points
- Affordable & Value-Packed: For just $29, you gain access to scenic towns, monasteries, and multiple wine tastings.
- Authentic Experiences: Sampling bread, cheese, and wine at local family wineries and bakeries.
- Stunning Visuals: Lush landscapes, historic walls in Sighnaghi, and panoramic views of Kakheti.
- Expert Guides: Engaging guides like Zora, Luka, or Gigi bring local stories to life and answer all your questions.
- Well-Organized Itinerary: A carefully curated route with entrance fees, tastings, and lunch included, saving you time and surprise expenses.
- Long Day, Rich Rewards: Expect a full 12-hour schedule that balances sightseeing, tasting, and culture.
An In-Depth Look at the Day Trip to Kakheti
This tour from Gamarjoba Georgia Tours is designed for travelers who want a complete taste of what Kakheti offers without the hassle of organizing transportation or navigating unfamiliar roads. For just $29, you get a guided exploration that balances scenic beauty, historic sites, and, of course, wine.
Planning more time in Tbilisi? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Morning Departure & Logistics
The adventure kicks off at 8:30 am outside Avlabari Metro Station in Tbilisi. The small group size (up to 100 travelers, but often much smaller) ensures a comfortable experience, guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff like Zora, Dimitri, or Gigi, who are praised for their enthusiasm and insight. The bus ride is not just transportation but part of the journey, with scenic views of Georgia’s rolling landscape along the way.
You’ll appreciate the organized check-in process and the clear meeting point, making the start smooth. The transportation is modern and reliable, a critical factor when spending a long day on the road.
Stop 1: Badiauri Bakery
Your first stop is a local bakery in Badiauri, where you’ll see traditional Georgian bread being made. This is more than just a snack; it’s an authentic culinary experience. Reviews mention the delicious bread and cheese, paired with a tasting that costs around 3 GEL (roughly $1 USD). Many travelers say this is a highlight because it offers a genuine taste of local life and food culture—not something you get in tourist traps.
We loved the way this stop immediately immerses you in Georgia’s food traditions, setting the tone for the cultural richness ahead. Watching the bakers work and then tasting fresh bread and cheese feels like a warm welcome into the region.
Stop 2: Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino
Next, the tour visits the Bodbe Monastery, a spiritual and historical site believed to be the burial place of Saint Nino, credited with converting Georgia to Christianity. The views from the monastery are stunning, offering sweeping vistas of the Kakheti landscape, which makes for excellent photo opportunities.
The guided tour provides insights into Georgia’s Christian heritage and the significance of Saint Nino, making it more than just a pretty church. Visitors often comment on the peaceful ambiance and the impressive architecture. The free entrance fee is a bonus, but the moments of reflection make this stop meaningful.
Stop 3: Sighnaghi — “The City of Love”
After Bodbe, you head to Sighnaghi, known as “The City of Love.” The town’s intact city walls and watchtowers are a standout feature, and walking along them gives you incredible views of the Alazani Valley. The narrow streets, colorful houses, and cozy cafes create an atmosphere that’s both lively and romantic.
Many reviews rave about the charming vibe here and the chance to explore at your own pace. You might spend some time wandering the cobblestone streets, shopping for local crafts, or simply soaking in the scenery. Afterward, a lunch overlooking the valley is included, offering a hearty taste of Georgian cuisine—think khachapuri, khinkali, and fresh salads—paired with local wine.
The lunch with a view is often highlighted as an excellent value, with many travelers noting it’s a calming break in a beautiful setting.
Stop 4: Winery Tour at Kindzmarauli Corporation
The highlight for many is the visit to Kindzmarauli Corporation, a historic winery dating back to 1533. Here, you’ll tour the winemaking process, learn about the region’s tradition of producing wine for Georgian royalty, and sample four different wines. The tasting includes a variety of styles, giving you a broad idea of Georgian viniculture.
Reviewers say the wine tastings are superb, with many remarking on the quality and diversity of wines like Saperavi and Rkatsiteli. The guide explains the process, making it educational but accessible. The entrance fee is included, ensuring no surprises.
Stop 5: Visiting a Family Winery in Kvareli
The final stop is at a local family winery, where you’ll meet a traditional winemaker using Qvevri, large clay jars buried underground. This ancient method contributes to the distinctive flavors of the wines. You’ll sample two wines—Rkatsiteli and Saperavi—and Chacha, Georgia’s grape vodka, which many find surprisingly smooth.
This visit offers an authentic peek into small-scale, traditional winemaking. Travelers often say this is the most personal part of the tour, a chance to connect with local producers and hear their stories. It’s a real highlight for wine lovers seeking genuine craftsmanship.
The Return Journey & Final Thoughts
After a full day, you’ll head back to Tbilisi, arriving around 8:30 pm. While the two-hour drive can feel long, many reviews mention that guides like Roman or Gigi make the trip entertaining with stories and local jokes.
Why You Should Consider This Tour
This trip offers an excellent balance of cultural sites, natural beauty, and wine tasting for a very reasonable price. The itinerary is carefully curated to show you the highlights of Kakheti, from historic monasteries to scenic towns and authentic wineries.
The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge are often praised, and they bring a personal touch that elevates the experience beyond just a sightseeing list. Plus, the included entrance fees and tastings add real value, saving you money and hassle during your day.
However, if you’re not keen on long days or if you prefer a slower pace, this might feel a bit rushed. The tour’s focus on multiple stops means a lot of moving parts, but for many travelers, this is part of the charm—an energetic, information-packed day.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This experience is perfect for first-timers to Georgia wanting a rundown in one day. It’s also ideal for wine lovers, foodies, or those interested in history and architecture. If you’re on a budget but still want a full, authentic taste of Kakheti, this tour delivers excellent value for money.
Travelers who enjoy guided tours with expert hosts will appreciate the personable guides, who share stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks. It’s a great way to meet other curious travelers and make your Georgian adventure both easy and memorable.
FAQ
Is there any option for lunch on this tour?
Yes, there’s an optional Georgian restaurant lunch included in the itinerary. It costs around 45 GEL (about $15 USD) and is considered good value, especially with the wine.
How many wine tastings are included?
You get a total of seven wine tastings: one at the bakery, four at the Kindzmarauli winery, and two at the local family winery.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the wineries and the Bodbe Monastery are covered, so you won’t face unexpected costs on the day.
What is the starting point and time?
The tour begins at 8:30 am outside Avlabari Metro Station in Tbilisi, with a prompt start to make the most of the day.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 5 years old, making it family-friendly, though keep in mind the long day may be tiring for younger children.
How long is the return trip?
The drive back to Tbilisi takes about two hours, so pack snacks or enjoy the views along the way.
To sum it up, this full-day Kakheti wine tour offers a hearty dose of Georgia’s scenic landscapes, historic sites, and world-renowned wines—all at an accessible price. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a structured, informative taste of the region with plenty of opportunities to connect with local traditions. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, history buff, or simply looking for a memorable day out, this tour has something to offer—just be ready for a long, lively day with lots of sights and sips.