Kakheti: Group Tour – Wine & City of Love

Kakheti, Georgia’s premier wine region, offers a wonderful mix of lush vineyards, ancient landmarks, and captivating scenery. This 10-hour group tour promises a deep dive into Georgian wine traditions, historic monasteries, and charming towns like Sighnaghi—the so-called City of Love.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll enjoy expert-guided visits to vineyards and local craft shops. Second, the trip includes two tastings of carefully selected Georgian wines, perfect for connoisseurs and curious newcomers alike. Third, the tour combines cultural highlights like Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi’s fortress walls with tasty local treats such as handmade cheese, spicy snacks, and hot bread baked in traditional tandoors.

One potential challenge? The full-day schedule packs in many stops, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility limitations, this might feel a bit rushed. But overall, it’s a fantastic way to experience authentic Georgia beyond Tbilisi, especially suited for those eager to explore wine, history, and stunning landscapes in one go.

Who is this tour for?

If you love discovering new wines, enjoy historical sites, or simply want a comprehensive taste of Georgian culture in a day, this trip suits you. It’s ideal for travelers with moderate stamina who appreciate guided insights and local flavors. Be mindful that children under 6 or those over 95 might not find this as suitable due to the active itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Georgian wine experience with two tastings included
• Visit to Bodbe Monastery, the resting place of Saint Nino, imbued with spiritual significance
• Explore Sighnaghi, the romantic “City of Love”, with its fortress walls and panoramic views
• Learn about traditional cheese and bread-making in Badiauri, including tasting hot bread baked in a tandoor
• Visit to Manavi, a microzone famous for aromatic wines and spices, plus sampling local gifts like churchkhela
• Comfortable transport in a Mercedes Sprinter, guided by bilingual (English/Russian) guides

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at 5 Samghebro Street, where GabriTravel staff will be ready to greet you with a visible sign. The small-group style ensures a more intimate experience, with a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter providing transportation throughout the day. The drive times between stops are manageable, typically around 40 minutes to an hour, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy Georgian scenery.

The transportation aspect gets high marks from previous reviewers, who note the vehicle was clean, modern, and had enough space for luggage and comfort during longer stretches. It’s a practical detail that sets the tone for a smooth, well-organized day.

First Stop: Manavi – A Spot for Wines and Spices

Your first destination, Manavi, is a tiny microzone well-known for its unique wine varieties and fragrant spices. Here, you’ll get an authentic glimpse into Georgia’s winemaking craft—an art passed down over generations. Expect to taste a selection of wines that give delightful, sometimes surprising flavors that showcase the region’s terroir.

A visitor noted, “Manavi surprises you with its distinctive wines and the aroma of local spices, making it a genuine sensory experience.” Beyond wine, the area is famous for churchkhela, grape balls coated with nut paste, which you can purchase as delicious souvenirs.

Badiauri: Cheese and Hot Bread Masterpieces

Next, you’ll visit Badiauri, where the focus shifts to gastronomic delights. Here, local cheese makers demonstrate their skills, offering a tasting of several types of cheeses—each with its own texture and flavor profile. For cheese lovers, this is a highlight, enriching your understanding of Georgia’s dairy traditions.

But the real star? The hot bread baked in a traditional tandoor. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, and the experience of tearing off fresh, warm bread is a delight. As one reviewer described, “The smell of hot bread in the tandoor is unforgettable; it’s worth the stop just for that.”

You’ll also have some free time for shopping and soaking in the rustic charm of the village, making this stop both flavorful and picturesque.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Bodbe Monastery: A Sacred Site

The tour continues to Bodbe Monastery, an important spiritual hub and the resting place of Saint Nino, the evangelist credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia. The serene atmosphere, combined with the historical significance, creates a compelling stop for those interested in religious history or just seeking a peaceful moment.

Visitors often remark on the beauty of the church and the peaceful surroundings, with some taking time to reflect or photograph the stunning views of the surrounding hills. The guided tour here provides context about Saint Nino’s role and the monastery’s architecture, making it more than just a pretty picture.

Sighnaghi: The Romantic Fortress Town

Perhaps the most visually striking part of the tour is Sighnaghi, perched atop a hill with views sweeping over the Alazani Valley. Known as the City of Love, it features a well-preserved fortress wall, observation towers, and narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses.

The town’s unique Wedding Palace, open 24/7, adds a romantic vibe. Many couples choose to tie the knot here, and you’ll often see newlyweds taking photos in the charming streets. You’ll have about 50 minutes to wander, shop for local crafts, or just enjoy the panoramic vistas.

Tourists appreciate the combination of history and romance—a perfect setting for memorable photos and a relaxed stroll. Reviewers commend the guided tour for filling you in on Sighnaghi’s strategic importance and romantic lore, making your visit both beautiful and meaningful.

Final Stop: Telavi and Kakheti’s Heartland

The last major stop is Telavi, the regional capital, with a relaxed atmosphere and scenic views. Here, you’ll have around 1.5 hours to explore at your own pace: visit local markets, admire the landscapes, or enjoy a quick snack. The guided tour offers insights into the area’s history and culture, enriching your general understanding of Kakheti.

Past guests have highlighted the quality of the guided commentary and the chance for some free time to hunt for souvenirs or sample more local foods.

Return Journey and Reflection

The return trip takes about an hour, giving you time to unwind and reflect on your day. Many travelers find the trip both fulfilling and well-organized, praising the punctuality and friendly guide service. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

Considering the inclusion of two wine tastings, expert guides, diverse stops, and comfortable transport, the price offers good value for those seeking a comprehensive day in Kakheti. It balances cultural, culinary, and scenic aspects, making it a well-rounded experience.

The tour’s highlights—wine tasting in Manavi, cheese and bread in Badiauri, spiritual reflection at Bodbe, and the romantic ambiance of Sighnaghi—are all carefully curated to showcase Kakheti’s essence. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the guides, who are knowledgeable and friendly, adding depth to every visit.

Keep in mind, the schedule is quite packed, so if you prefer a slow, leisurely pace, some stops might feel rushed. Also, the tour is less suitable for children under 6 or older travelers over 95 due to the active itinerary.

This full-day Kakheti tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience Georgia’s wine, history, and landscapes in one well-organized trip. It’s especially great if you appreciate guided insights, authentic tastings, and scenic views. The combination of cultural sites, local food, and wine makes it a meaningful way to connect with Georgia’s heartland.

If you’re passionate about wine or history, or simply eager to see the romantic side of Kakheti, this tour delivers on both charm and substance. It’s a smart choice for those seeking a balanced, immersive day—without the hassle of planning all the stops independently.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter vehicle for the entire day, with managed travel times between stops.

How long is the drive between stops?
Drive times vary from about 25 to 40 minutes, making the day manageable and allowing for comfortable transitions without long bus rides.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes a bilingual guide (English/Russian), two wine tastings, and transportation. Lunch and additional drinks are not included.

Are there any food options on the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included in the price, but stops often provide opportunities for purchasing local snacks or bringing your own.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 due to the active schedule and walking involved. It’s best suited for older kids or adults.

Can I buy souvenirs during the stops?
Yes, stops like Badiauri and Sighnaghi offer local craft shops and food markets where you can purchase authentic Georgian products.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves some walking, particularly in Sighnaghi and Bodbe, but generally remains accessible for most travelers with moderate mobility.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are advised, especially since you’ll be walking through towns and visiting historical sites.

Is the tour flexible?
The schedule is fixed, but guides are usually accommodating. If you need extra time at certain stops, let your guide know.

How do I book or cancel?
You can reserve your spot in advance with the option to pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the trip.

In essence, this Kakheti tour offers a carefully curated taste of Georgia’s renowned wine, captivating history, and picturesque towns—all in one day. It’s a reliable choice for anyone eager to experience authentic Kakheti without the stress of organizing each detail themselves.

You can check if your dates are available here: