Batumi to Kutaisi, Wine & Dine

Discover Kutaisi on a Wine & Dine Day Tour from Batumi

If you’re planning a trip to Georgia and looking for a way to combine culture, history, and wine in one day, this Batumi to Kutaisi, Wine & Dine tour might be just what you need. It’s been rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on six reviews, which speaks to its overall appeal. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the detailed itinerary and feedback suggest it’s a balanced experience that offers genuine local flavor, scenic sightseeing, and a good dose of Georgian hospitality.

What we love about this tour is how it manages to pack so much into a single day — from walking through Kutaisi’s charming old town, tasting superb local wines, to enjoying a traditional Imeretian lunch. We also appreciate the focus on authentic experiences, like visiting a family-owned winery, which adds a personal touch many tours lack. The convenience of transportation and the guided insights make it a flexible, worry-free way to see Kutaisi without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

That said, one thing to consider is the full day’s schedule, which runs around 12 hours. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited mobility, this might feel a bit packed. Also, since the tour is designed for groups, it’s worth noting that the experience can vary depending on the guide and group size. This tour suits travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Kutaisi’s culture, wine, and history in a single day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic local experience with visits to a family-owned winery and local markets.
• Comprehensive sightseeing covering Kutaisi’s main landmarks and historical sites.
• High-quality wine tasting with a diverse selection, including famous Georgian spirits.
• Cultural insight provided by an English-speaking guide, offering valuable context.
• Well-organized itinerary with clear timing and smooth transitions.
• Ideal for wine lovers and those interested in Georgian cuisine and history.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Day from Batumi

Your adventure begins early at 09:00, with pickup options depending on your booking. From there, a comfortable van whisks you away on a roughly 2.5-hour drive to Kutaisi. This journey is an excellent chance to relax after packing your bag with essentials for what’s ahead and to get a first glimpse of Georgia’s landscape.

Walking Tour of Kutaisi

Arriving in Kutaisi, you’ll embark on a guided walking tour through the city’s old town. Your guide, whose name isn’t specified but who clearly has a wealth of knowledge, will share insights into the city’s significance—it’s Georgia’s second-largest city and has been a cultural hub for centuries.

You’ll stroll past notable sites like Kutaisi City Hall, the Opera House, and the famous “Mon Plasir” arch, which makes for a great photo backdrop. The statues in Central Park, such as the “Ishkhnelebi” sisters and the “9 April” memorial, add a touch of local history and artistry. Walking through the park, you’ll notice the statues and memorials offer a glimpse into Georgia’s collective memory.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Landmark Highlights

Next, it’s a quick visit to the White Bridge, which is quite an elegant structure, and the Golden Marquee Palace, a symbol of Kutaisi’s rich architectural heritage. The route also passes by the first gymnasium—an educational landmark—and the Park of Love, where locals and visitors alike seek some peaceful moments or take romantic walks.

Market Visit: Mtsvane Bazari

A highlight for many is the visit to Kutaisi’s central marketplace, Mtsvane Bazari. It’s lively and bustling—an ideal place to observe everyday Georgian life and perhaps pick up some local produce or souvenirs if you’re feeling adventurous. Such markets are often overlooked by travelers, making this a genuine slice of local culture.

Wine & Dine at Baia’s Winery in Obcha

The crown jewel of the trip is the visit to Baia’s Winery, located in the charming village of Obcha. Here, the owners Baia and Gvantsa welcome guests with warmth that makes you feel like a guest in someone’s home. The vineyard tour and cellar visit give you a chance to see the wine-making process firsthand, adding depth to your tasting experience.

The wine tasting features a curated selection, including some of Georgia’s most popular varieties like Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Aladasturi, Ojaleshi, and Otskhanuri Sapere. These are paired with the famous Georgian spirit, Chacha, which adds a fiery kick to the tasting. Several reviews praise the “excellent wine selection,” and you might find the wines to be quite a revelation if you haven’t explored Georgian varietals before.

Traditional Imeretian Lunch

Post-tasting, you sit down to enjoy a home-cooked Georgian lunch, prepared by Baia’s mother. It’s a hearty spread of local delicacies, lovingly made and authentic in flavor. This meal is more than just sustenance; it’s a chance to taste the real Imeretian cuisine, with flavors that have been passed down through generations.

Headed Back to Batumi

By 17:00, you’ll begin the return journey to Batumi, switching vehicles for the trip back. The drive provides a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights, and many travelers comment on how well-organized the experience is. You’ll be dropped off at your preferred location in Batumi by around 20:00.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Duration & Timing: This tour lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day commitment. Starting in the morning, it’s suitable for those who want to maximize their sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Transportation: A comfortable van handles all the transfers between Batumi, Kutaisi’s sights, and the winery. The transportation is straightforward, with no mention of group size, but reviews suggest it’s a smooth experience.

Guided Experience: Led by an English-speaking guide, who provides cultural and historical insights, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Cost & Value: Considering the included transportation, guided service, wine tasting, and a traditional Georgian lunch, the tour offers solid value for a full-day experience. The reviews praise the quality of the wine and the authentic ambiance, making it worth the price for those interested in a comprehensive Georgian experience.

Flexibility & Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Authenticity & Authentic Experiences

What sets this tour apart is its focus on genuine Georgian hospitality. Visiting a family-run winery, sampling a diverse array of local wines, and enjoying a homemade lunch provide a level of authenticity that larger, less personalized tours often lack. The lively market visit also offers a glimpse into local life, making your experience more meaningful.

The reviews reinforce this impression—one guest simply called it “good,” while another described it as “exzellent,” highlighting the tour’s overall high quality. Many appreciated the “excellent wine selection,” which suggests attention to detail and a desire to showcase Georgia’s renowned viticulture.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you enjoy a full-day, guided experience that balances sightseeing, culture, and culinary delights, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly suitable for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Georgian varieties, as well as travelers who want to see Kutaisi’s highlights without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

Those interested in authentic local food and wine will find the lunch and tasting memorable, and fans of history and architecture will appreciate the walk through Kutaisi’s historic core. Keep in mind that the schedule is quite packed, so those looking for a relaxed pace might prefer a more leisurely option.

The Sum Up

This Batumi to Kutaisi, Wine & Dine tour offers a well-rounded day of exploring Georgia’s second-largest city, tasting some of the finest local wines, and enjoying a hearty traditional lunch. It’s a comprehensive journey that balances sightseeing, cultural insights, and authentic flavors, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience Kutaisi beyond just sightseeing.

The inclusion of a family-owned winery and a lively market makes it stand out as a truly authentic Georgian adventure. The tour’s value proposition is strong, especially for those keen to deepen their understanding of Georgian wine culture and regional cuisine without spending days on planning.

While it’s a long day, most reviews highlight how smoothly everything runs and how worthwhile the experience is. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or simply want to learn more about Georgia’s local traditions, this tour offers a taste of everything in just one memorable day.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
It departs from Batumi at 09:00, but check availability for specific starting times.

How long is the drive from Batumi to Kutaisi?
The drive takes around 2.5 hours in a comfortable van.

What’s included in the tour?
Transportation, guiding service, wine tasting, and a Georgian lunch are included.

Is the wine tasting diverse?
Yes, the selection features popular varieties like Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Aladasturi, Ojaleshi, Otskhanuri Sapere, and the spirit Chacha.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but keep in mind the full-day schedule might be tiring for some, especially younger children or those with mobility issues.

How big are the groups?
While not specified, reviews suggest the experience is smooth, and the group size likely makes for an engaging, personalized experience.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you want a well-organized, authentic taste of Kutaisi’s culture and wines, it’s a highly recommended choice for a full day out.

You can check if your dates are available here: