Kakheti, Tbilisi & Mtskheta: 2-Day Tour with Wine Tasting offers a well-rounded glimpse into Georgia’s famed wine traditions, historic sites, and vibrant city life. For $666 per person, you’ll spend two days exploring some of the country’s most treasured places, tasting authentic wines, learning culinary skills, and experiencing Georgia’s legendary hospitality. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience balances cultural exploration with sensory delights—making it a great choice for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Georgia.
What really makes this tour stand out are the intimate visits to family-run wineries in Kakheti, which give you a taste of local life alongside the wine. Another highlight is the dinner in the sky, where you’ll enjoy Georgian wines paired with snacks while floating above the picturesque landscape—an experience that sounds as memorable as it is unique.
A potential consideration is the packed itinerary, which covers quite a lot in just two days; travelers should be comfortable with a full schedule and some time on the road.
This tour suits those who love a mix of history, culture, and culinary experiences—it’s perfect if you’re interested in authentic Georgian traditions, with a good dose of scenic beauty and good wine along the way.
Key Points
- Authentic Wine Experiences: Visit family-run wineries and learn about traditional Georgian winemaking methods.
- Cultural Highlights: Explore UNESCO sites like Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.
- Culinary Workshops: Participate in making churchkhela, khinkali, and bread, gaining hands-on skills.
- Scenic Sights: Enjoy views from Turtle Lake, the waterfalls of Leghvtakhevi, and the confluence of rivers at Mtskheta.
- Unique Sky Wine Tasting: Experience wine tasting in the sky with snacks and cheese, guided by a professional sommelier.
- Balanced Itinerary: Combines city, countryside, and cultural sites, offering a well-rounded look at Georgia.
Exploring the Full Experience of the Tour
Planning more time in Mtskheta? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Day 1: From Kakheti’s Vineyards to Tbilisi’s Historic Heart
The adventure begins early with a pick-up from your hotel in Tbilisi, setting you on a scenic drive towards Kakheti, Georgia’s wine heartland. The drive itself might be part of the charm—rolling hills and vineyards stretching out as far as the eye can see. Your first stop is the KTW Wine Cellar, a site that immerses you in the ancient traditions of Georgian winemaking, which dates back over 8,000 years. Here, you’ll see how local artisans still use clay vessels called qvevris, a technique that’s UNESCO-listed, and taste a variety of regional wines. This visit underscores Georgia’s distinction as a country with over 530 indigenous grape varieties—something wine lovers will appreciate.
Next, you’ll visit Giuaani Wine Room, a family-run operation that makes for a more personal experience. Here, you get to explore a traditional cellar and taste local wines and the fiery Chacha, Georgia’s famous grape vodka. The highlight? A hands-on cooking masterclass in which you’ll learn how to make churchkhela—a sweet, sausage-shaped treat made of nuts and grape juice—while also baking bread and enjoying a local light lunch paired with wine. The combination of tasting and making allows you to connect deeply with Georgia’s culinary culture, which is as much about community as it is about ingredients.
After a hearty day in Kakheti, you’ll return to Tbilisi and visit the Abanotubani district, famous for its natural sulfur baths. Walking through this historic neighborhood, you’ll see traditional architecture, colorful balconies, and perhaps even take a quick soak in one of the thermal baths, which have been used for centuries for both health and socializing. A short walk takes you past the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall, a peaceful spot amid the city’s bustling streets, illustrating the harmony between urban beauty and nature.
The evening’s highlight is the Wine Tasting & Dinner in the Sky. Hosted by a professional sommelier, this experience combines education with spectacle. You’ll sip three different wines—white, red, and rosé—while enjoying Georgian snacks and cheeses like Sulguni and Chechil. The setting in the sky? It’s as captivating as it sounds, offering panoramic views of the city and mountains. Past guests describe it as “an unforgettable way to enjoy Georgian wine, paired with stunning scenery,” though some note it might be a bit of a splurge or a short window of time.
Day 2: From Mtskheta’s Religious Heritage to Nature’s Calm at Turtle Lake
Day two kicks off with a visit to Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a hill overlooking the confluence of the Kura and Aragvi rivers. This 6th-century church, with its simple yet elegant mosaics, provides stunning panoramic views. It’s a perfect place to appreciate Georgia’s spiritual history and enjoy some quiet reflection amid historic stonework.
Next, your group moves to Chumber of Wine in Mtskheta, where you’ll get a hands-on khinkali-making masterclass. Khinkali, Georgia’s famous dumplings, are a staple, and making them from scratch adds a personal touch to your culinary experience. The wine tasting here features local wines stored in qvevris, giving you an authentic taste of Georgian viticulture. Lunch on the terrace, with its sweeping views, offers a chance to relax and reflect on the morning’s sights.
A visit to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral follows—another UNESCO site, renowned for its architecture, stone carvings, and frescoes. Inside, you’ll have the chance to admire Georgia’s finest religious art and perhaps browse some local shops nearby, where handmade souvenirs and icons await. Travelers often comment on how these sites are more than just sightseeing—they’re part of Georgia’s living history.
The tour wraps up at Turtle Lake, a favorite local spot that sits 700 meters above sea level. With plenty of space for walking, renting boats, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, Turtle Lake provides a gentle conclusion to your whirlwind trip. Many visitors find it a welcome escape from the busy cities, perfect for unwinding and taking in the views of the forested hills surrounding Tbilisi.
The Practicalities and Value
This tour provides a comprehensive look at Georgia’s diverse appeal—wine, history, culture, and nature—within just two days. The inclusion of private transportation makes logistics simple, so you don’t have to worry about navigating or scheduling. The guides’ local insights add depth, helping you understand Georgia’s traditions and stories behind each site and bottle.
The cost of $666 per person might seem steep at first glance, but it covers a lot: all meals, wine tastings, masterclasses, entrance fees, transportation, and even the unique dinner in the sky experience. Past travelers have appreciated the quality of the experiences, noting that the wineries felt authentic, and the activities like bread baking and churchkhela making provided a tangible connection to Georgia’s food culture.
One important note: this is a full schedule, with some long driving stretches and a variety of activities packed into two days. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering. But for active travelers keen to maximize their time and see a lot, this tour offers excellent value for the diverse experiences packed into a relatively short span.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re someone who loves to combine history, culture, and culinary experiences, this tour is a perfect fit. Wine enthusiasts will especially enjoy the visits to Kakheti’s wineries and the sky tasting. Food lovers will relish the hands-on masterclasses, gaining skills they can replicate at home. The scenic stops like Turtle Lake and Jvari Monastery make it ideal for those who appreciate beautiful views along with cultural depth.
It’s suited for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule and eager to learn about Georgia’s traditions firsthand. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking an immersive experience will find this tour offers genuine insight and memorable moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
It’s a two-day experience, including transportation, guided visits, tastings, and activities, with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel.
What’s included in the price?
Transportation in a private vehicle, all meals (including lunch in Kakheti and dinner in the sky), guided tours of sites, tastings, masterclasses, and some tickets, such as cable cars to Narikala.
Are the wine tastings authentic?
Yes. The tour visits family-run wineries and traditional cellars, featuring local wines and Chacha, Georgia’s grape vodka.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine and food, children might enjoy the cultural and scenic stops like Turtle Lake and the monasteries. Non-drinkers can enjoy the meals and learn cooking skills.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and some outdoor activities; layers are recommended as weather can vary.
Georgia’s combination of age-old wine traditions, vibrant city life, and serene countryside makes this 2-day tour a well-balanced introduction. Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or culinary enthusiast, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of what makes Georgia so special—plus a few new recipes and plenty of stories. For those craving an authentic, immersive experience that combines all these elements, this tour offers a memorable and worthwhile journey.
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