from TBILISI to Sighnaghi, Bodbe Telavi & 9 Free Wine

Discover Georgia’s Kakheti region in style and comfort with this well-rounded day trip from Tbilisi. For just $30, you’ll get a taste of local traditions, spectacular views, and authentic hospitality all in one package. The tour covers must-see sites like Sighnaghi—the so-called “City of Love”—plus Bodbe Monastery and Telavi’s wine culture, with plenty of opportunities to sip and savor along the way.

There’s a lot to love about this experience. The knowledgeable guides and cheerful driver help make the day flow smoothly. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, offering a great mix of history, nature, and local flavors. Plus, the inclusion of 9 free wine tastings adds excellent value for wine lovers.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour can feel a bit hectic, especially if you prefer a slow, relaxed pace. Some reviewers also mention that the bread-making and tasting classes aren’t as hands-on as advertised, which might be frustrating if you’re hoping for a more interactive experience.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Kakheti’s highlights—history, scenery, food, and wine—without the hassle of planning it all independently. If you’re after a way to see Georgia’s beautiful countryside while tasting its best offerings, this trip could be just right.

Good To Know

• Full-day exploration of Kakheti’s main sights for an affordable price
• Expert guides and friendly driver making the experience smooth and informative
• Multiple wine tastings — including nine free samples—highlighting Georgian wine traditions
• Visit iconic landmarks like Sighnaghi and Bodbe Monastery for culture and history
• Authentic food experiences with local bakery visits and traditional snacks
• A mix of sightseeing and adventure, such as the zipline option in Kakheti (not included but available in other experiences)

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Tour Special

This trip is designed to take you through the heart of Georgia’s wine country, blending cultural sites, natural beauty, and culinary delights into one accessible package. For many travelers, the way the tour balances these elements is a significant plus, especially considering the price point of just $30 per person.

Transportation in a comfortable Mercedes Benz VIP Sprinter ensures a smooth journey that minimizes fatigue while maximizing sightseeing. The guides are touted as very knowledgeable—one reviewer specifically praised Levan for his insights and responsiveness. Having a guide who can answer questions and share stories about Georgian traditions enriches the experience far beyond just ticking off sites.

The itinerary includes stops at Bodbe Monastery, famous for Saint Nino’s tomb, offering a spiritual and historical perspective. From here, climbing into Sighnaghi, the “City of Love,” reveals its cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and sweeping views of the Caucasus Mountains. It’s a scene straight out of a fairy tale, perfect for photos or a romantic stroll.

In Telavi, you’ll walk under mighty ancient Platanus trees and visit a local winery, where you’ll learn about the traditional Qvevri wine-making process that’s been practiced for over 8,000 years. The wine tastings here are a highlight, with popular varieties like Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, and Mtsvane on offer.

One particularly cheerful part of the day involves tasting churchkhela, cheeses, honey, and chacha, giving you a true taste of Georgian flavors. The bread-making demonstration adds to the authenticity, though a reviewer notes that the classes may be brief and less interactive than some expect.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting at Tripster Georgia’s designated meeting point in Tbilisi, the day begins early. The first stop is at Manavi, where you’ll enjoy a quick photo and possibly some shopping. The guide might tell you more about the region’s history and traditions here, setting the tone.

Next, a short break in Badiauri offers time for photos and a visit to a local bakery, where you’ll see how the famous Georgian Shoti bread is baked in traditional clay ovens. While the bread-making class is brief—about 20 minutes and not as hands-on as some might hope—it’s still a delightful glimpse into local culinary customs. Reviewers mention that the tasting of tiny cheese pieces afterward was the extent of the “class,” which might disappoint those expecting a full workshop.

The tour then moves on to the Bodbe Monastery, a major religious site with panoramic views of the Alazani River Valley. Here, you’ll have 45 minutes for a guided tour, shopping, and a walk around the grounds. The peace and spiritual significance make it a calming contrast to the bustling cities.

After Bodbe, you’ll proceed to Sighnaghi, where nearly an hour is allotted for wandering cobblestone streets, admiring the city walls, and soaking in view after view of Georgia’s lush landscapes. It’s a picturesque spot perfect for photos or buying handmade crafts. Reviewers highlight the charm of Sighnaghi’s architecture and the friendly atmosphere.

Moving on to Telavi, the largest city in Kakheti, you’ll visit historic sites and walk under ancient trees. The highlight here is the wine tasting at a local winery, where you’ll learn about traditional Georgian winemaking techniques and sample several varieties. One reviewer noted the guide, Jimmy, was cheerful and shared plenty of local stories that added flavor to the experience.

Finally, the group heads to a local restaurant for a substantial meal, where you might try regional dishes and enjoy local wines or mulled wine. The timing here can be extended or cut short, and some reviews suggest that the restaurant choice felt somewhat disconnected from the charming locations visited earlier.

The trip wraps up with a scenic stop at Gombori, giving you a final look at Kakheti’s diverse landscape before returning to Tbilisi.

What to Expect and Considerations

The tour lasts about 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day. The transportation in a VIP Sprinter keeps the journey comfortable, and the group size tends to be small enough for personalized attention.

Timing can be tight; some reviews mention the schedule feels rushed, especially at lunch or during site visits. If you prefer a leisurely pace, it might feel a little hurried in some spots.

The wine tastings are a major highlight, with nine samples included, meaning you’ll get a good sense of Georgian wine varieties. However, some visitors found prices at the shopping stops to be inflated, so it’s wise to browse carefully.

Language: Guides speak both English and Russian, which works well for most travelers, although some noted that explanations could sometimes be basic or delivered loudly, which might be distracting.

Food and meals are not included in the tour price, so you should budget for your own lunch. The restaurant options are part of the itinerary, but some travelers found the experience less than ideal due to the restaurant’s ambiance or food quality.

The reviews reflect the variety of experiences; some mention the tour’s chaotic start and the limited interactivity of the bread class, while others appreciated the professionalism of the guide and the scenic stops. That said, the overall feedback is positive, with a 4.5-star rating based on 48 reviews.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a thorough introduction to Georgia’s Kakheti wine region in a single day. If you’re eager to see Sighnaghi’s fairy-tale streets, visit Bodbe Monastery’s spiritual grounds, and sample authentic Georgian wines, this trip packs a lot into a reasonable price. The inclusion of nine free tastings and expert guides ensures you’ll leave with a good understanding of local traditions and flavors.

While the schedule can feel a bit rushed at times, the overall experience is well-organized, and the stunning views, friendly guides, and authentic tastings make it worth considering. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, budget-friendly taste of Georgia’s culture, gastronomy, and scenery without fussing over arrangements.

For those seeking a relaxed, immersive day or more interactive classes, this might not be ideal. But if you’re after a good value, well-rounded trip that balances sightseeing, history, and wine, it’s a smart choice. Prepare for a lively, scenic adventure that captures the essence of Kakheti.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transport is in a comfortable Mercedes Benz VIP Sprinter, making the journey smooth and enjoyable.

How long is the tour?
The full day lasts around 10 hours, covering multiple stops across Kakheti.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but a stop at a local restaurant is part of the schedule. You should budget separately for lunch.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample popular Georgian varieties like Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, and Mtsvane during the wine tasting session.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size tends to be small, and guides are friendly, making it ideal for solo travelers seeking social experiences.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Guides speak both English and Russian; some reviews mention that explanations can be basic or delivered loudly.

Can I buy souvenirs or local products?
Yes, shopping stops are included, and you can buy local crafts, wine, cheese, and churchkhela. Beware that some prices might be marked up.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, there’s designated free time for exploring, shopping, or taking photos, typically between 30 to 55 minutes per site.

Will I experience local customs or traditions?
While the bread-making and tasting classes are brief, you will see traditional food and drink practices, plus learn about Georgian wine-making.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
Spring to early fall offers the best weather for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor views, but the tour runs year-round, weather permitting.

This full-day tour from Tbilisi offers a fantastic overview of Georgia’s wine, history, and scenery, perfect for travelers wanting a meaningful and affordable introduction to Kakheti.

You can check if your dates are available here: