Batumi to Kutaisi, Wine & Dine

Experience the Charm of Kutaisi and Georgia’s Wine Heritage in One Day

If you’re eyeing a day trip that combines cultural sights, culinary delights, and authentic Georgian wines, this Batumi to Kutaisi, Wine & Dine tour offers a well-rounded way to get a taste of everything. We haven’t personally done this tour, but from what we see and hear, it’s a great option for those who want to make the most of their time and dive into Georgia’s local flavors and history without the hassle of planning every detail.

We especially appreciate how this tour balances guided city walks with relaxed wine tastings and a hearty Georgian lunch — all wrapped in an approximately 12-hour window. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour day is quite packed, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and are eager to see a lot in one day. This experience tends to appeal to curious travelers interested in culture, history, and wine, rather than those looking for a leisurely, slow-paced day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines a city walking tour, wine tasting, and a traditional Georgian lunch.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit a family-owned winery, walk through Kutaisi’s historic streets, and sample local wines.
• Cultural Highlights: See landmarks like Kutaisi City Hall, the Opera House, and statues like the “Ishkhnelebi” sisters.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, a guided tour, wine tasting, and a substantial meal, making it a good overall package.
• Suitable for Curious Travelers: Perfect if you want a blend of history, local cuisine, and wine in one day.
• Long Day, Full Experience: Expect around 12 hours from Batumi, with some travel time between locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Journey from Batumi to Kutaisi

This trip kicks off early, with departures around 09:00, depending on your chosen pickup location. We like that the itinerary divides the day into manageable segments, starting with a 2.5-hour drive, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery as you leave Batumi behind. The van ride is straightforward, and the guide usually offers some commentary to set the tone for the day, making the long drive part of the experience rather than just transit.

Once you arrive in Kutaisi, the real fun begins. The walking tour is a highlight, especially if you’re a fan of city strolls that blend sights with stories. The guide will share insights into Georgia’s and Kutaisi’s history, providing context to the landmarks you’ll see. Expect to pause at notable spots like the fountain for photos and Central Park, which features statues like the “Ishkhnelebi” sisters and the “9 April” memorial—a good chance to soak in local artistry and history.

Walking Tour of Kutaisi

We loved the way this part of the tour stitches together the city’s most recognizable sights. You’ll walk past Kutaisi City Hall, the Opera House, and the striking “Mon Plasir” arch, each offering a glimpse into Georgia’s architectural and cultural identity. The White Bridge, the old gymnasium, and the Park of Love further add to the city’s charm, giving you a well-rounded introduction to Kutaisi’s street life and history.

The guide’s commentary tends to be engaging, making the landmarks come alive with stories and background. Many reviews note how informative and passionate the guides are, which enhances the experience. The short stop at the Central Market, “Mtsvane Bazari,” is a taste of local life—vibrant, lively, and full of fresh produce, spices, and local snacks.

The Winery Experience and Lunch

After the city tour, you’ll head to the village of Obcha, where a family-owned winery, “Baias Wine,” awaits. This is where the tour really shines for wine lovers. The warm welcome from Baia and Gvantsa makes you feel like part of the family. They take you through their vineyard and cellar, showcasing their traditional methods and offering tastings of a variety of wines like “Tsolikouri,” “Krakhuna,” “Aladasturi,” “Ojaleshi,” and “Otskhanuri Sapere.” The highlight for many is tasting the wines that are well-paired with the delicious, homemade Imerian dishes served straight from the family kitchen.

We’re told that the wines are especially good because of the selection—many guests mention the variety and quality of the wines, including the famed Georgian spirit, “Chacha.” The tasting experience is relaxed but informative, allowing you to appreciate the nuances of each glass. The lunch, prepared lovingly by Baia’s mother, features traditional Imerian delicacies, offering a genuine taste of local cuisine. It’s hearty, flavorful, and gives you a real insight into Georgian home cooking.

The Return and Reflection

After a substantial lunch and more wine, you’ll head back to Kutaisi around 17:00, then make the roughly two-hour drive back to Batumi. The late afternoon journey is a good time to unwind, reflect on the day, and enjoy the scenery passing by. The tour ends around 20:00, leaving you with a full day of memorable sights, tastes, and stories.

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What’s the Value?

This tour offers a solid mix of sights, flavors, and cultural insights for a reasonable price considering everything included. The guided city walk helps you get your bearings and learn about Kutaisi’s significance, while the wine tasting at a family winery adds an authentic, personal touch that larger, commercial wineries might lack. The Georgian lunch, with its home-cooked style, adds a warm, welcoming element to your day.

Reviewers seem to agree on the quality of the wine, with some calling it “excellent,” and the overall experience is praised for being well-organized and engaging. For about 12 hours, you’re getting transportation, a guide, wine tasting, and a hearty meal—quite a comprehensive package for the price.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a hands-on cultural experience, especially if you enjoy exploring cities on foot and savoring local wines and cuisine. It’s a good fit for those comfortable with a busy schedule and long day trips. If you’re curious about Georgia’s history, love wine, or want a taste of local life outside of Batumi, this tour delivers.

It’s not necessarily designed for those seeking a slow, relaxed day—be prepared for a full itinerary, some travel time, and plenty of walking. Also, if wine tasting or traditional Georgian food isn’t your thing, you might find the experience less appealing. But for most, it’s a chance to see, taste, and learn in one go.

Final Thoughts

This Batumi to Kutaisi, Wine & Dine tour offers a wonderfully balanced day filled with history, local flavors, and genuine hospitality. The highlight for many is the wine tasting at a family-run winery, where the wines are highly praised and the home-cooked lunch adds a heartfelt touch. The city walk provides a meaningful introduction to Kutaisi, with interesting landmarks and stories that bring the city’s past and present to life.

If you’re after a fully immersive Georgian experience that combines sightseeing with tasting some of the best local wines, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for travelers eager to understand broader Georgian culture beyond the beaches and resorts—perfect if you want your trip to be both fun and meaningful.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, starting around 09:00 and ending at approximately 20:00, depending on your pickup location.

What’s included in the price?
You get transportation, a guiding service, wine tasting at Baia’s winery, and a traditional Georgian lunch, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, even if you don’t drink wine, you can opt to enjoy the sightseeing and food. The wine tasting is optional, but it’s a key part of the experience.

How is the walking tour in Kutaisi?
The city walk covers key landmarks and offers insights into Georgia’s history. It’s manageable and informative, with plenty of photo stops.

What kind of wines are offered?
Guests can sample a variety, including “Tsolikouri,” “Krakhuna,” “Aladasturi,” “Ojaleshi,” and “Otskhanuri Sapere,” along with Georgian “Chacha.”

Is it family-friendly?
While not specifically designed for children, the tour’s cultural and culinary focus can be enjoyed by families with older kids interested in local traditions and wines.

Do I need to be concerned about the long day?
Expect a full schedule, but most travelers find it rewarding. Comfortable shoes and a good attitude are recommended for the city walk and vineyard visit.

If you’re curious about Georgia’s charm, this tour packs a lot of value into one day, offering genuine moments of culture, history, and flavor—great for those who want a taste of everything Georgia has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: