If you’re planning a trip to Georgia, a visit to Kakheti—the country’s famous wine region—almost feels like a must. This Kakheti Special Food Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch & Dinner promises a full day of cultural sights, delicious food, and, of course, plenty of wine. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary and honest reviews make it clear that it’s a solid option if you’re after a comprehensive taste of Kakheti’s hospitality and traditions.
What really catches the eye are the authentic Kakhetian dishes and the curated wine tastings—these are what make this experience feel special. We also like that it includes a visit to Bodbe Monastery, which is a significant religious site, and free time in Sighnaghi, a town often called the “city of love” because of its charming streets and views. That said, it’s not a tour for everyone—be prepared for a long day, and keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or small children. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy tasting local flavors and seeing Georgian culture.
One possible downside to consider is the pace—there’s a lot packed into the day, so it’s a whirlwind experience. If you prefer relaxing, slow-paced trips, this might feel rushed. But for those wanting to see a lot in a single day, it’s a well-organized way to get a taste of Kakheti’s highlights.
This tour is a good pick for curious food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone eager to soak up Georgian traditions with a comfortable group. It’s especially valuable for those who want a guided experience that covers the key sights, flavors, and stories of Kakheti in just one day.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary including Bodbe Monastery, Sighnaghi, a wine cellar tour, and local markets.
- Authentic food experiences with traditional Kakhetian dishes, lunch, and dinner.
- Curated wine tastings of four different local wines, exploring Georgian wine traditions.
- Cultural insights at a farmer’s market and charming town visits.
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Private group experience ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
The Inside Scoop on the Kakheti Food & Wine Tour
If you’re looking for a way to get a well-rounded taste of Georgia’s most famous region, this day trip hits many important notes. The day begins early with a hotel pickup in Tbilisi—convenient and straightforward. From there, you’ll head east towards Kakheti, a place renowned for its wine-making and warm hospitality.
Keen to taste more of Kvareli? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences
Visiting Bodbe Monastery: A Spiritual and Cultural Start
The first stop is the Bodbe Monastery, where St. Nino—credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia—is buried. The site takes about 40 minutes to explore, and it’s a peaceful, meaningful place. You’ll see the beautifully maintained grounds and the church, which offers a serene introduction to Georgian spiritual life. Reviews highlight the significance of this stop, with some travelers appreciating the chance to learn about Georgia’s religious history early in the day.
Strolling Through Sighnaghi
Next up is Sighnaghi, a town famed for its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and stunning views over the Alazani Valley. You’ll have around an hour here to wander at your own pace—perhaps taking photos, browsing local shops, or just soaking in the atmosphere. The town’s charm gets a lot of praise from visitors, many mentioning how picturesque and lively it feels.
Authentic Kakhetian Lunch
After Sighnaghi, it’s time for a traditional Kakhetian lunch at a local restaurant. The meal lasts about 75 minutes and promises a feast of authentic dishes—think hearty stews, fresh bread, and local herbs. The reviews often mention how flavorful and satisfying the food is, with some saying it’s the highlight of the day. The lunch provides a real taste of Georgia’s culinary heritage, making it more than just a quick bite.
More Great Tours NearbyWine Tasting at Tunnel Wine-Reserve
Post-lunch, you’ll visit a tunnel wine-reserve, a unique Georgian wine cellaring tradition. The tour here lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll learn how wines are stored and made in this distinctive underground environment. Sampling four different wines, you’ll get a feel for Georgia’s renowned viniculture—many reviews praise the quality and variety of the wines, noting that the tasting is both educational and enjoyable.
Market and Culture in Telavi
Next, you’ll visit Telavi, a historic town with a local farmers market. This stop is a great chance to see the real character of Kakheti—locals buying and selling produce, homemade products, and more. It’s a lively scene and adds a layer of authenticity to the experience. Reviewers often mention how friendly and genuine the market feels, giving insight into everyday Georgian life.
Dinner of Khinkali
The day winds down with a dinner featuring khinkali, the iconic Georgian dumplings. The restaurant is praised for its quality and the cozy atmosphere. The meal usually lasts around 1.5 hours, and many reviews say the khinkali here are some of the best they’ve had. It’s a fitting end—comfort food that perfectly caps off a day packed with culture, history, and flavors.
Returning to Tbilisi
After dinner, you’ll head back to Tbilisi, arriving around 10:00 PM. It’s a full day, but most travelers agree that the experience offers excellent value for the price of $225. The private group setting ensures a comfortable, personalized journey, and the included transportation means you don’t have to worry about logistics.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Wine and Food Quality: Many travelers highlight the quality of the wines and the deliciousness of the food. The tasting of four wines gives a solid sense of Georgian wine-making, and the meals are described as authentic and flavorful.
Cultural Depth: Visiting Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi allows for cultural and historical insights, with some reviewers calling the experience “meaningful” and “beautifully curated.”
Authentic Experience: The visit to the farmers market offers a genuine glimpse into local life. The tour feels less touristy and more rooted in everyday Kakhetian culture.
All-Inclusive Feel: With lunch, dinner, multiple stops, and tastings included, it’s a seamless way to experience the region’s highlights without logistical headaches.
Possible Drawbacks
While the day is packed, some might find the pace a bit brisk. If you prefer a slow, relaxing day, this tour might feel a little rushed. It’s also not suited for those with mobility issues or small children, as the itinerary involves a good deal of walking and some uneven surfaces. Vegan travelers should note that the meals are traditional, and options for vegan dishes might be limited.
Price-wise, $225 per person is reasonable considering the inclusions, but like any guided tour, it’s an investment. For the value of the wine, food, and cultural insights, most find it fair. However, if you’re looking for a highly personalized or private experience, you might want to consider other options.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for curious travelers eager to enjoy Georgia’s culinary and wine traditions in one day. It suits those who appreciate structured guided tours that cover a lot of ground without the hassle of planning each stop. Food lovers and wine enthusiasts will especially enjoy the tastings and traditional dishes. It’s also a good fit if you want a balanced mix of cultural sights and local flavor—perfect for first-timers to Kakheti who want an overview.
If you’re someone who values authentic, local experiences and is comfortable with a full, active day, this tour will likely meet your expectations. But if you prefer a slower pace or have specific dietary needs, you might want to look for something more tailored.
Kakheti Special Food Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch & Dinner
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or preferred address in Tbilisi, making it convenient to start your day stress-free.
How long does the tour last?
It begins around 09:00 and ends roughly at 22:00, giving you a full day of sightseeing and tasting.
What are the main highlights?
Highlights include visiting Bodbe Monastery, exploring Sighnaghi, tasting wines at a tunnel wine-reserve, shopping at a farmer’s market in Telavi, and enjoying traditional Georgian cuisine at lunch and dinner.
Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s organized as a private group, which allows for a more personalized experience.
Are meals included?
Yes, both lunch at a local restaurant and dinner of khinkali are included in the tour price.
Can vegetarians or vegans join?
The tour is designed around traditional Kakhetian cuisine, which may not cater specifically to vegans. Vegetarians might find suitable options, but vegans should check in advance.
What’s the quality of the wine tasting?
The tour features four different wines from a tunnel wine reserve, which many reviewers describe as both educational and enjoyable, showcasing Georgia’s wine-making traditions beautifully.
Is this suitable for children?
The tour involves a good deal of walking and is not recommended for those with mobility issues or very young children. Small strollers are not allowed, so plan accordingly.
In all, this Kakheti food and wine tour offers a well-rounded, taste-rich introduction to Georgia’s most famous region. It balances cultural sights, authentic food, and excellent wines—all delivered with expert guidance. If you’re after a day filled with flavor, history, and friendly local encounters, this could be just the experience you’re looking for.
You can check availability for your dates here:
