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

Exploring Georgia’s Kakheti Region: A Full-Day Tbilisi Tour with Wine and Culture

If you’re dreaming of a day spent wandering through picturesque villages, tasting world-famous wines, and learning about Georgia’s traditions, this Full-Day Kakheti & Sighnaghi Tour offers a well-rounded peek into the country’s eastern charm. From the bustling streets of Tbilisi, you’ll head into the sun-drenched hills of Kakheti, Georgia’s premier wine-producing area, with plenty of stops that promise authentic flavors and stunning scenery.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its combination of cultural sites and hands-on experiences—like baking bread and cheese tasting—and the quality of the wine tasting at the local winery, which is often praised by past travelers. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to bring the region’s stories vividly to life, making this more than just a sightseeing trip.

A possible consideration is the long duration and some walking involved—you’ll be on your feet exploring towns and sites, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you’re not a fan of early mornings or long travel days, keep that in mind, though most find it worth the effort.

This tour suits travelers who love wine, enjoy learning about local traditions, or simply want a taste of Georgia’s scenic countryside without the hassle of organizing multiple visits on their own. It’s especially good for those who want a guided experience that covers history, culture, and gastronomy all in one day.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Includes bread baking, cheese tasting, and wine tasting, giving a real feel for Georgian culinary traditions.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi, known as the “city of love,” offer a mix of history and romance.
• Scenic Views: Plenty of photo stops and viewpoints to enjoy stunning landscape vistas and picturesque streets.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Past reviews highlight guides who explain everything clearly and bring the region’s stories to life.
• Flexible Pricing & Booking: Reserve now with the option to pay later, plus full cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Group Size & Comfort: Small groups (limited to 15) ensure a personalized experience, with transportation included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

This full-day adventure kicks off from central Tbilisi, with options to be picked up directly from your hotel—making logistics straightforward and hassle-free. The day is structured around several key stops, each offering a different slice of Georgia’s rich regional character.

The Journey Begins: From Tbilisi to Kakheti

Leaving the city behind, you’ll start your trip with a scenic drive through Georgia’s eastern landscape. Many reviews praise the comfort of the transportation and the friendly, professional driver, like Aleksi, who makes the journey pleasant. The drive itself offers glimpses of the countryside, hinting at the rural charm you’re about to explore.

First Stop: Badiauri and Traditional Bread Baking

Your first taste of Georgian hospitality comes in the village of Badiauri, famous for its bread and cheese. Here, you’ll get a chance to learn how traditional Georgian bread is baked, which is both fun and educational. Many travelers mention being able to try baking it themselves, adding a personal touch to the experience. It’s a great way to get your hands dirty and understand just how much care goes into Georgian bread.

While there, you can sample a variety of cheeses paired with hot, crusty bread—delivering mouthwatering flavors that stay with you. Past visitors love how these local snacks set the tone for the day’s culinary journey, making it more than just a sightseeing trip but a true taste of regional life.

Bodbe Monastery: A Sacred Stop

Next, your route takes you to the Bodbe Monastery, one of Georgia’s most significant religious sites. The site includes the St. George Cathedral, which contains the remains of St. Nino, the saint credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia.

Visitors consistently praise the guided tour—getting insights into the history and significance of this spiritual landmark. The monastery’s peaceful atmosphere and scenic views also make it a perfect spot for some memorable photos. Keep in mind that this stop lasts about 45 minutes, so you’ll have enough time to absorb the solemn beauty and perhaps light a candle or two.

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Panoramic Viewpoint and Sighnaghi: The City of Love

After Bodbe, there’s a quick stop at a viewpoint where you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s a good photo opportunity and offers an idea of the landscape’s beauty.

Then, you arrive in Sighnaghi, renowned as Georgia’s “city of love.” Its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and city walls create an enchanting atmosphere. Guides often share local legends about the town’s romantic reputation, adding a layer of storytelling to your walk. You’ll explore the town on foot for about an hour, visiting the Sighnaghi fortress walls and towers—perfect for panoramic views and photos.

Many reviews mention the market in Sighnaghi, where you can browse local spices, sweets, and sauces—ideal for picking up souvenirs or just sampling more regional flavors. The town’s charming vibe makes it a favorite stop for many.

Wine Tasting at the KTW Factory

The highlight for many is the wine tasting session at the KTW winery. Georgia is famous for its wine, and here you’ll have the chance to taste several varieties, including the unique “orange wine,” which is made using traditional techniques. Past guests rave about the variety and quality of wines, often saying they found new favorites.

Your guide will share the secrets of Georgian winemaking—a craft passed down through generations—and you may even learn how to properly enjoy and appreciate these wines. The price for the tasting is included, offering good value considering the number of different wines you’ll sample.

If you’re a wine enthusiast, you might want to pay extra for additional tastings, which are available at the winery for about $10 per person. This is a nice option for those wanting to explore beyond the included tasting.

Wrapping Up the Day

After the wine session, it’s time to head back to Tbilisi, with drop-offs arranged at convenient locations. The entire trip lasts about 10 hours, with most participants feeling it’s a full and fulfilling experience. Many reviewers appreciate the small group setting, which fosters interaction and personalized attention from guides like Khato or Tamar.

Practical Details That Matter

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing comfortably and appropriately is advised. Since it involves some walking—particularly in towns and on the fortress walls—wear good shoes. The group size is limited to 15 participants, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and allows guides to give detailed explanations.

Pricing includes transportation, guide services, entrance fees, and the wine tasting, making it a solid value for a day packed with diverse activities. Additional wine tastings at the winery are optional and start from $10 per person, giving you the chance to explore more if you wish.

The tour is available in English and Russian, and cancellation is free if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance—an easy way to keep your plans flexible.

What Reviewers Say

Most reviews are glowing, often highlighting knowledgeable guides who make the day especially memorable. Harjanto appreciated Oksana’s patient explanations, while Bojan noted Tamar’s passion and personal approach. Oliver’s group enjoyed the views, the historic sites, and the chance to taste authentic Georgian bread and cheese.

Another traveler mentioned feeling safe and well cared for, praising the driver Aleksi, who made the journey smooth and comfortable. Food and wine are consistently called out as highlights, with visitors raving about the variety and quality.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you find joy in discovering local traditions, sampling regional wines, and exploring scenic towns, this tour offers a balanced mix of culture, gastronomy, and stunning landscapes. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided experience that’s both educational and fun, with enough flexibility to enjoy the stops at your own pace.

The small-group setting ensures a personal touch, and the inclusion of authentic experiences like bread baking and cheese tasting makes it more immersive than a typical sightseeing trip. The comprehensive nature of the day—covering history, culture, and wine—means you get a real taste of Georgia’s Kakheti region in just one day.

While the tour involves a fair bit of walking and a full schedule, most travelers find it well worth the effort. Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or simply someone eager to see Georgia’s countryside, this experience promises a genuine taste of the country’s warmth and traditions.

FAQ

What is included in the price of the tour?
The tour fee covers transportation, guide services, entrance fees to sites, wine tasting at the KTW factory, and one bottled water.

Can I buy more wine at the winery?
Yes, additional tastings are available and start from $10 per person, allowing you to sample more varieties or enjoy extra pours.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While the tour includes local snacks and bread, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options are available, but it’s good to specify any dietary needs when booking.

How long is the drive from Tbilisi to Kakheti?
The drive is part of the 10-hour experience, with several stops along the way. The exact duration depends on traffic and stops but is generally comfortable.

Are there any physical limitations to participating?
The tour involves walking in towns and on fortress walls, so it isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking through cobblestone streets and possibly uneven terrain. Dress for weather conditions, as the tour operates in all weather.

You can check availability for your dates here: