Telavi is the heart of Georgia’s wine country, and it’s a place where the land’s rich history and lush vineyards collide. What makes Telavi especially appealing for wine tours is not just the wine itself, but the way it’s made—traditionally, with qvevris (clay vessels), and enjoyed with local food in genuine family-run settings. Among the options available, we particularly love tours that combine cultural insights with authentic tasting experiences, like the Kakheti: wine region and free wine tasting, which gives a deep dive into the region’s history, scenery, and flavors.
In this guide, we’ve picked three standout experiences. Whether you’re interested in a comprehensive day-long adventure, a personalized trip from Tbilisi, or a short but flavorful hands-on activity, there’s something here for every kind of wine enthusiast.
Below, we’ll walk you through each tour, highlighting what makes it special, who it’s ideal for, and practical tips to help you choose the best option for your trip.
1. Kakheti: wine region and free wine tasting
This full-day tour offers a thorough exploration of Kakheti, Georgia’s premier wine-producing area, and is perfect for those who want an immersive experience. Starting from Europe Square, the trip spans about ten hours and covers visits to historic sites, local villages, and scenic viewpoints, with plenty of opportunities to taste authentic Georgian wines.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the region’s deep roots in winemaking—going back thousands of years—and its inclusion of multiple activities like wine tastings, shopping, local snacks, and even a cooking class. It’s guided by someone who knows Kakheti intimately, sharing stories that make the landscape come alive.
Tour highlights include a visit to Bodbe Monastery, which is tied to St. Nino, and a scenic walk in Sighnaghi, known as Georgia’s “City of Love,” with a possible zipline adventure. The visit to a family-run winery in Telavi for wine and cheese tasting caps off the day beautifully. The price of $27 per person offers excellent value considering the full schedule.
This tour suits travelers who love a mix of culture, history, and hands-on experiences, and don’t mind a long day on the road. It’s ideal if you want to see multiple highlights and taste wines made in the traditional way, in a charming setting.
Bottom line: For a comprehensive, affordable look at Kakheti’s wine culture, this tour delivers a lot of value and genuine experiences.
2. Tbilisi: Telavi Wine & Cultural Experience with Transfer
This customizable day-trip from Tbilisi offers a more compact, flexible way to enjoy Telavi’s wine and culture scene in about 10 hours. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer tailored itineraries and want to avoid the hassle of self-driving or complex planning.
The highlight is the private transfer, which means you skip the stress and focus on the experience. The tour includes a visit to the Telavi town for sightseeing and a stop at the local food market, giving you a taste of daily life in Kakheti. You can choose to add wine tastings at selected wineries and explore cultural sites like Telavi’s historic landmarks, depending on your interests.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You’re not locked into a fixed schedule, so if you’re passionate about wine, history, or food, you can customize the day. The small group (limited to 8) ensures a more personal experience, and the guide provides insights into Georgia’s wine traditions.
Ideal for travelers who want a personalized, hassle-free day that combines sightseeing and wine in a relaxed setting. It’s especially good if you’re staying in Tbilisi and want a quick, rundown of Telavi.
Bottom line: For a flexible, private tour that adapts to your interests, this is a smart choice, especially if you prefer an intimate experience without the long bus ride.
3. Telavi: Barbecue Making & Wine Tasting Experience
If you’re short on time but want to enjoy a hands-on, authentic taste of Georgia, this three-hour experience in Telavi fits the bill. It’s a family-run winery where you’ll learn how to make traditional mtsvadi (Georgian barbecue) and then enjoy sampling artisanal wines aged in 200-year-old Qvevris.
This experience offers a warm, welcoming environment where you’re treated like family. It’s perfect for foodies who want to combine wine with cooking and enjoy a relaxed, interactive atmosphere. The focus on artisanal winemaking—using historic clay vessels—allows you to taste wines that are unlike any mass-produced bottles.
Guests often comment on the friendliness of the hosts and the quality of the local snacks served alongside the wines. The price is very reasonable for the unique hands-on experience, and the duration makes it an excellent option for travelers with limited time or as a fun addition to a day of sightseeing.
While it’s a shorter tour, it’s packed with cultural insights and delicious flavors. It’s best suited for those who want an authentic, intimate taste of Georgian hospitality in a casual setting.
Bottom line: For a quick, enjoyable, and authentic experience of Georgian barbecue and wine, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour in Telavi
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you’re after a comprehensive day with sightseeing and multiple tastings, the Kakheti: wine region and free wine tasting is hard to beat, especially at its attractive price point. For those who prefer a more personalized experience with flexibility, the Tbilisi: Telavi Wine & Cultural Experience with Transfer offers a tailored, stress-free day.
If you’re short on time but want a memorable, hands-on activity, the Telavi: Barbecue Making & Wine Tasting Experience provides an authentic look into Georgian food and wine culture in just three hours.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, since these experiences tend to fill up quickly. Think about what excites you most—whether it’s exploring scenic villages, learning traditional methods, or simply tasting fantastic wines—and choose the tour that best matches your travel style.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a full-day exploration, a personalized trip from Tbilisi, or a quick hands-on experience, Telavi offers excellent options tailored to different interests and schedules. The full-day Kakheti tour is perfect for those wanting a deep dive into Georgia’s wine culture, while the Tbilisi-based experience suits travelers seeking flexibility and convenience. For a fun, intimate, and delicious introduction to Georgian cuisine and wine making, the Barbecue and Wine Tasting Experience hits the mark.
Whichever you pick, remember that Georgia’s wine tradition is unlike anywhere else—rich, ancient, and welcoming. Book early, prepare for a lot of flavorful surprises, and enjoy your journey through this charming wine region.