From Tbilisi: Kakheti & Sighnaghi Guided Day Trip with Wine

From Tbilisi: Kakheti & Sighnaghi Guided Day Trip with Wine

This full-day tour from Tbilisi to Georgia’s renowned wine region of Kakheti offers a mix of scenic views, cultural stops, and delicious local flavors. For around 9 hours, you’ll explore the quaint streets of Sighnaghi, visit the spiritual Bodbe Monastery, and learn about Georgia’s ancient wine traditions through tastings and cellar visits. The trip typically includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a guided experience that has earned a solid 4.3/5 from over 100 reviews.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the opportunity to wander through picturesque villages and to taste authentic Georgian wines in their traditional setting. The views of the Alazani Valley from Sighnaghi are stunning—and you’ll get plenty of time to enjoy them during the stops. On the downside, some travelers mention that timing can be a bit tight, especially around the winery and lunch stops, so pacing your day might require some flexibility.

This tour suits those who love historic architecture, beautiful landscapes, and are eager to learn about Georgia’s wine-making roots. If you’re interested in local culture and cuisine and enjoy a relaxed but engaging day out, this trip offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and storytelling.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences: Walk through traditional streets of Sighnaghi and learn bread-making at Badiauri.
• Wine focus: Sample regional wines and visit Kakheti’s famous wine cellars, guided by knowledgeable vintners.
• Cultural heritage: Visit Bodbe Monastery and explore local museums to deepen your understanding of Georgia’s spiritual and historical tapestry.
• Scenic landscapes: Enjoy sweeping views of the Alazani Valley and picturesque mountain scenery throughout the day.
• Comfortable transportation: Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with pick-up and drop-off from central Tbilisi.
• Value for money: With multiple stops, guided insights, and wine tastings included, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Kakheti at a fair price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Out: From Tbilisi to Kakheti

Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup from either the I Love Tbilisi Sign at Vakhtang Gorgasali Square or one of the designated locations. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride through Georgia’s countryside as you head east toward Kakheti, the country’s heart of wine-making.

The journey itself is part of the charm, with scenic views and local anecdotes shared by your guide—more on them later. The first stop, around 30 minutes in, is in Manavi, a small village that provides a perfect photo opportunity and a taste of rural life. Here, you might also get a chance to try some local snacks, setting the tone for the day’s flavors and culture.

Discovering Badiauri and Bread-Making Traditions

Next, the group stops in Badiauri for about 35 minutes. This is where the experience gets tactile and delicious. The guided visit includes a peek into a local cheese-making process and a chance to taste fresh cheese paired with regional wines. Many reviews highlight the “tasty food” and “interesting bread-making” as some of the high points—if you’ve never tried real Georgian bread, this is a great introduction.

Spiritual and Cultural Heritage at Bodbe Monastery

The next major stop is Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino, a sacred site that draws pilgrims for its spiritual significance. You’ll explore the tranquil grounds, admire the architecture, and enjoy the sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors often mention the serene atmosphere and the chance to glimpse Georgia’s Christian heritage. The stop lasts about an hour, giving you ample time to walk around, take photos, and absorb the peaceful vibe.

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Sighnaghi: The City of Love and Its Enchanting Streets

After Bodbe, you’ll visit the charming Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love” thanks to its romantic atmosphere and stunning setting. You’ll walk through narrow cobblestone streets, enjoy panoramic vistas over the Alazani Valley, and perhaps get a little lost exploring its colorful houses and historic walls. One reviewer raved about this stop, noting that Angelina, their guide, was “very knowledgeable” and made the experience memorable.

You’ll have about an hour to explore freely, soak in the views, or grab a coffee. The Sighnaghi city wall, with its scenic vantage points, is a popular photo spot, and many travelers appreciate the chance to wander at their own pace.

Wine Tasting and Regional Food in Tokhliauri

The highlight for many is the visit to Tokhliauri, where around 2.5 hours are dedicated to regional food and wine tasting. This is where Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions come alive. You’ll sample a variety of wines—often guided by an expert who explains the nuanced flavors—and enjoy a hearty Georgian lunch featuring local dishes and cheeses.

Reviews praise the “tasty wine” and the “good organization,” noting that the experience feels authentic and relaxed. The opportunity to try home-made wine and traditional cheese in a scenic setting is a real highlight—most guests find it worth the wait.

Wrapping Up the Day

The tour concludes with transportation back to Tbilisi, dropping you off at your original pickup point. While the overall experience is full, some travelers mention that the schedule can be tight, especially at the winery or during lunch, so be prepared for a busy but rewarding day.

Authentic Experiences That Matter

Throughout the trip, guides like Angelina and David receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness. Their insights help turn sightseeing into storytelling, making history and culture more tangible. The visits to local museums, the bread-making demonstration, and the wine tastings are not just tourist stops—they’re windows into the everyday life and traditions of Kakheti.

The scenic stops, notably along the way to Sighnaghi and Bodbe, offer breathtaking views that you’ll want to photograph—so don’t forget your camera. The panoramic vistas aren’t just beautiful; they’re a reminder of how Georgia’s landscape shapes its culture and agriculture.

The wine tastings are often praised as a highlight, especially given the chance to sample some of Georgia’s finest wines without having to visit the wineries independently. Many reviews mention the guides’ expertise in explaining the nuanced differences between wines, making each sip an educational experience.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While this tour offers a great overview, remember that timing can be tight, especially at the winery and lunch stops. If you’re someone who likes to linger or explore at your own pace, be prepared for a more structured day. Also, note that food and drinks are not included outside the tastings and meals at the winery. It’s wise to carry some extra snacks or water, especially if you have dietary restrictions.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 or pregnant women, so plan accordingly. Wheelchair users may find some difficulty navigating narrow streets or historic sites, and pets are not allowed.

Weather-wise, the tour operates rain or shine, so dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes—especially since some walking is involved.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone eager to discover Georgia’s rural charm. If you enjoy authentic local cuisine and want to experience scenic landscapes with cultural depth, this tour delivers. Families with older children who are comfortable walking and open to tasting local wines will find it especially rewarding.

Travelers seeking a well-organized, value-packed day that combines sightseeing, tasting, and storytelling will leave satisfied. It’s especially appealing if visiting Kakheti independently seems daunting—this guided experience simplifies logistics while offering genuine insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, with flexibility depending on group size and traffic.

What’s included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, wine tastings, and entry to Bodbe Monastery are included.

Are meals provided?
Not exactly—lunch, snacks, and additional drinks are not included but are available for purchase at the winery stop.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, and pregnant women or those with mobility issues should consider their comfort with walking and certain sites.

Can I pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with a full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in English and Russian, ensuring a good level of narration for most travelers.

To sum it up, this guided day trip from Tbilisi to Kakheti and Sighnaghi offers a thoughtful blend of scenery, culture, and flavor—perfect for travelers wanting to experience the best of Georgia’s wine country without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. You’ll enjoy engaging guides, stunning vistas, and authentic tastes that bring the region’s traditions to life. It’s especially well-suited for those who value storytelling, scenic beauty, and a relaxed yet comprehensive day out in Georgia’s countryside.

You can check availability for your dates here: