KUTAISI, WINE & DINE – Group tour from Tbilisi

Discover Georgian Charm on the KUTAISI, WINE & DINE Tour from Tbilisi

This full-day excursion offers an excellent taste of Georgia’s cultural and culinary traditions, starting early from Tbilisi and ending in the historic city of Kutaisi. For $84.91 per person, we’re treated to about 15 hours of immersive experiences, including a scenic drive, a walking tour of Kutaisi’s highlights, and a delicious, family-owned winery lunch. The tour is perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with genuine local flavor, all delivered in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

What we particularly appreciated are the personal touches at Baia’s vineyard, where we could see the grapes growing just behind the house, and the chance to taste a diverse array of traditional Georgian wines. The friendly hospitality at the winery felt authentic and warm, making us feel like part of the family. Plus, the walking tour through Kutaisi’s historic center introduces you to landmarks like the Mon Plasir arch and central market, giving a real sense of the city’s vibrant life.

One consideration: The day is quite packed, so if you prefer a slower pace or more time exploring at each stop, this tour might feel a bit hurried. It’s best suited for travelers eager to get a broad overview and experience Georgia’s food and wine culture firsthand. If you love trying local wines and enjoy a mix of history, culture, and good food, this tour will hit the mark.

Ideal for those who want an authentic taste of Georgian life, enjoy excellent wine and food, and appreciate guided walks that highlight local history. It’s also well-suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road with some active walking.

Key Points

• Authentic Family Winery Experience: Visit a small, family-run vineyard where you can see the vines and taste homemade wines.
• Diverse Wine Tasting: Sample a variety of traditional Georgian wines like Tsolikouri, Ojaleshi, and Otskhanuri Sapere.
• Historical City Walk: Explore Kutaisi’s highlights, gaining insight into Georgian history and architecture.
• Local Culinary Delights: Enjoy a hearty Georgian lunch prepared by the hosts’ mother, featuring traditional dishes.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with a small group for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

Starting Point and Transport

We met early morning at 8:00 am, and the tour kicks off with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that seats up to 20 travelers. This small group size helps keep the experience intimate and makes it easier to interact with the guide and fellow travelers. The journey from Tbilisi to Kutaisi takes roughly two hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic Georgian countryside.

Baia’s Family Winery in Obcha

The first highlight is the visit to Baia’s winery in the Bagdati municipality. We loved the way Baia and her sister Gvantsa warmly welcomed us, showing us the vineyard just behind their house—an authentic setting that instantly made us feel at home. The wine cellar was charming, and the tasting was relaxed yet informative, with several wines to try, including local varieties like Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Ojaleshi, and Otskhanuri Sapere.

The hosts also poured Chacha, a potent Georgian grape brandy, which is often a favorite among wine lovers. What sets this part apart is the genuine hospitality—the family’s pride in their wine and food was palpable. The highlight, however, was sitting down to a large table filled with traditional Georgian dishes, made by Baia’s mother. The food was described as “the most delicious Imereian food you’ll ever try” by a reviewer, and it truly was a hearty, flavorful experience that complemented the wines perfectly.

Exploring Kutaisi’s Historic Center

After the vineyard visit, we headed into Kutaisi for a walking tour of the city. The guide was knowledgeable, providing a lively overview of Georgia’s history, politics, and culture. The city’s architecture is a mix of old and new, with notable sites like the city hall, Opera house, and the iconic Mon Plasir arch. We enjoyed photo stops at the fountain group and the statue of sister Ishkhnelebi, giving us a good sense of local life and history.

We also explored central Kutaisi’s market, Mtsvane Bazari, where the vibrant stalls showcased local produce, herbs, and homemade treats. This lively market offers an authentic glimpse into daily life, and you might find yourself tempted by fresh fruit or fragrant spices.

The Food and Wine Experience

The lunch at Baia’s family winery was a highlight. The setting was informal, warm, and full of laughter. We loved the chance to taste multiple wines—including some that are hard to find outside Georgia—and paired them with delicious homemade dishes. One reviewer mentioned, “The wine and food were the best we had while in Georgia,” and we couldn’t agree more.

Throughout the day, the tour balances cultural insight, beautiful scenery, and culinary delights. The wine tasting alone offers great value, especially given the variety and authenticity of the wines. It’s clear that the tour prioritizes genuine local experiences over commercialized tourism.

Final Thoughts

The tour wraps up around late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The careful balance of guided sightseeing, intimate winery visits, and local cuisine makes this a well-rounded experience. The moderate price reflects both the quality of the activities and the small-group intimacy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an authentic Georgian experience—something more personal than just visiting landmarks. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the variety and quality of the tastings, while food lovers will relish the home-cooked Georgian dishes. History buffs will enjoy the guided city walk, and all should appreciate the warm hospitality at Baia’s family winery.

If you’re after a full day packed with culture, history, and flavors, and don’t mind a bit of travel time, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for those who like to combine learning with tasting and want a relaxed yet comprehensive taste of Kutaisi.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to start your day without fuss.

How long is the travel time from Tbilisi to Kutaisi?
The drive takes roughly two hours, giving you some scenic views along the way.

What is the group size?
The tour typically has up to 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample a range of Georgian wines, including Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Ojaleshi, and Otskhanuri Sapere, plus Chacha.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the city tour, and casual attire is suitable for the winery visit.

To sum it up, the KUTAISI, WINE & DINE tour from Tbilisi stands out as a well-organized, authentic introduction to Georgian culture. It combines the charm of a family winery with the lively atmosphere of Kutaisi’s streets, all wrapped in a friendly, small-group setting. Whether you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about Georgia’s culinary traditions, this tour offers a memorable and worthwhile experience. It’s best suited for those who want to taste local wines, enjoy hearty regional food, and explore a city rich in character—all in one full, engaging day.