Tbilisi: Full-Day Kakheti & Sighnaghi Tour with Wine Tasting

Discover Georgia’s East on a Full-Day Kakheti & Sighnaghi Tour with Wine Tasting

This 10-hour adventure takes you from Tbilisi into the heart of Georgia’s famous wine country, Kakheti. With friendly guides leading the way, you’ll visit scenic villages, a historic monastery, and the enchanting town of Sighnaghi—dubbed the “City of Love.” Along the journey, you’ll enjoy local delicacies like Georgian bread and cheese, and sample some of the best amber wines Georgia has to offer.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see genuine rural life and taste traditional foods that are often overlooked in larger, more commercialized visits. The highlights—like learning how orange wine is made and wandering the cobbled streets of Sighnaghi—really bring the region’s unique culture alive. Plus, the visit to Bodbe Monastery offers a spiritual and visual treat, framed by stunning mountain views.

A possible consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of moving around—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and standing. As always, weather can be unpredictable, so dressing appropriately is advisable. This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences, enjoy wine and food, and want a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and local flavor without feeling rushed.

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Visit local villages, taste homemade bread and cheese, and learn about traditional wine-making.
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of mountains, cobbled streets, and historic monasteries.
Cultural Insights: Guides share legends and history, making each stop informative and lively.
Taste of Georgia: Indulge in local wines, spices, and sweets, with expert insights into viticulture.
Balanced Itinerary: The day combines sightseeing, tasting, and cultural visits for a well-rounded experience.
Small Group: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personal and flexible atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Kakheti & Sighnaghi Tour in Depth

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Sighnaghi

The Journey Begins in Tbilisi

Starting from the center of Georgia’s capital, this tour promises an early start but also a seamless pickup—if you choose the private option, your guide will collect you directly from your hotel. Traveling in a comfortable vehicle, you’ll leave behind the city’s hustle for the lush, rolling hills of Kakheti, Georgia’s premier wine-producing region.

This region is renowned for its ancient vineyards and traditional methods, which you’ll get to witness firsthand on this full-day trip. The drive itself offers scenic views that set the tone for the day—think mountains, lush green fields, and small villages that seem frozen in time.

First Stop: Badiauri and Homemade Cheese

Your first taste of authentic rural life comes at Badiauri, a village famous for its cheese. Here, we loved the chance to try a variety of local cheeses paired with crusty bread, all freshly made and served in a laid-back setting. A real highlight was the opportunity to participate in bread baking—getting your hands into dough and understanding why Georgian bread is so vital to local life.

Reviews mention how helpful and friendly guides make these experiences feel personalized. One traveler shared, “Our guide Tamar brought the magic of Georgia to life, showing us how traditional bread and cheese are made and even buying us fresh local fruits from a street vendor.” This focus on hands-on experiences makes the visit more than just a sightseeing stop; it becomes a chance to connect with local culture.

The Sacred Site: Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino

Next, a scenic 45-minute stop takes you to Bodbe Monastery, one of Georgia’s most revered religious sites. You’ll see the St. George Cathedral, which holds the remains of St. Nino, and explore the monastery grounds—an atmosphere of tranquility and spiritual history. The views here are breathtaking, framed by mountains and lush greenery.

Visitors often describe this as a peaceful break: “We learned about the monastery’s significance and enjoyed the beautiful vistas,” one reviewer noted. It’s a chance to reflect or simply enjoy Georgia’s spiritual heritage.

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Panoramic Views and the Town of Love

A quick 15-minute stop at a scenic viewpoint offers a perfect photo opportunity—so don’t forget your camera. Then, the tour continues to Sighnaghi, the charming hilltop town famous for its cobbled streets, vibrant market, and breathtaking views of the Caucasus.

Walking through Sighnaghi, you’ll hear stories and legends from your guide about its romantic history. Many travelers mention the town’s enchanting atmosphere: “The cobbled streets, colorful houses, and fortress walls make you feel like you’re strolling through a fairy tale.” Climbing the wall and visiting the towers gives you a complete picture of the town’s picturesque setting.

While in Sighnaghi, here are other experiences we've covered

Sighnaghi Wall and Local Market

The walk along the Sighnaghi fortress wall adds a dramatic perspective—great for photos and soaking in the landscape. The market provides an authentic look at local life, with stalls offering spices, sauces, sweets, and fresh produce. Sampling local fruits and snacks here is often a favorite moment, as one traveler put it: “Khatuna bought us the juiciest local fruits, and it was a delightful taste of Georgia’s bounty.”

Wine Tasting at KTW Factory

The final highlight is the visit to a local winery, where you’ll taste a variety of Georgian wines—an experience that’s both delicious and educational. The guide explains the secrets of Georgian wine-making, including the unique process of making orange wine, which uses skin contact and natural fermentation to produce a distinctive amber color and complex flavors.

Reviews praise the quality and variety of wines offered, with many mentioning the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the tasting informative and fun. “We learned how to appreciate Georgian wines and discovered new favorites,” one guest said.

Optional Extras and Practicalities

While the tour includes one wine tasting, additional tastings are available for a small fee—around $10 per person—if you want to sample more varieties. Lunch isn’t included but is available with options for vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets, making this tour flexible for different dietary needs.

Logistics and Value

The whole trip is around 10 hours, including transportation, entrance fees, and guided commentary. The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and the transport is comfortable, making the day enjoyable rather than rushed. For those who value authentic cultural experiences, the mix of scenic views, local food, and wine makes this tour a good deal.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re passionate about wine, love exploring charming towns, or appreciate genuine local experiences, this trip is perfect. It’s especially suited for those interested in tasting traditional foods and hearing stories that bring Georgian culture to life. Travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace, scenic landscapes, and small-group intimacy will find this tour a highlight of their Georgia visit.

The Sum Up

This full-day Kakheti & Sighnaghi tour offers a genuine taste of Georgia’s countryside, culture, and wine. It balances sightseeing with tasting and storytelling, making it perfect for curious travelers who want to go beyond the typical tourist spots. Guides like Tamar and Khato are praised for their knowledge and personal touch, making each stop meaningful.

For those who value authentic experiences, stunning scenery, and delicious local flavors, this tour delivers just that. It’s a chance to enjoy Georgia’s warmth and charm in a relaxed, well-organized setting—an experience that will linger long after the day ends.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and tasting stops.

Is food included?
Lunch is not included, but there are options available to suit vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free preferences. You’ll also sample local cheese, bread, and snacks along the way.

Can I do additional wine tastings?
Yes, additional tastings are available starting from $10 per person at the winery.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there will be walking and some uneven surfaces, especially in towns like Sighnaghi and Bodbe Monastery.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best for those who can manage walking and standing, as it involves some physical activity. It’s not suitable for mobility-impaired or wheelchair users.

Will I learn about wine-making?
Absolutely, guides share insights into Georgia’s unique wine traditions, including the making of orange wine, adding educational value to the tasting.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
While the schedule operates in all weather conditions, spring and fall offer the best weather for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor views.

This full-day journey into Georgia’s wine country is a splendid way to see the country’s rural beauty, taste its delicious foods, and understand its vibrant culture—all in just one day.