Tbilisi: Chronicle of Georgia, Bodbe & Sighnaghi Tour

Discover Georgia’s History and Charm in a Full-Day Tour from Tbilisi

This 10-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive experience of Georgia’s eastern Kakheti region, starting from Tbilisi. For $69.00, travelers explore iconic landmarks like the Chronicle of Georgia monument, the Monastery of St. Nino in Bodbe, and the picturesque town of Sighnaghi, known as the “city of love.” The tour is rated 4.6 out of 5, reflecting strong satisfaction, especially with the knowledgeable guides and stunning views along the route.

While the tour involves quite a bit of walking, including descending 643 steps to the St. Nino spring, it is perfect for those eager to see Georgia’s scenic countryside, historic sites, and local traditions. Visitors interested in wine, local cuisine, and cultural insights will find this tour a worthwhile way to spend a day outside the capital.

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Key Points

• Duration is 10 hours, making it an in-depth day trip from Tbilisi.
• Visit the Chronicle of Georgia monument with its impressive views and detailed storytelling.
• Explore the Bodbe Monastery, a revered pilgrimage site linked to Saint Nino.
• Discover Sighnaghi, a charming, fortified town with winding streets and scenic vistas.
• Enjoy tastings of wine, churchkhela, and chacha, along with a masterclass in making churchkhela and baking bread.
• The tour operates with a live English-speaking guide and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Starting Point and Overall Structure of the Tour

The tour departs from 2 Abano St in Tbilisi, where a guide welcomes the group for a full day of sightseeing. It follows an itinerary that combines historical stops, scenic viewpoints, and tasting sessions. The route balances guided exploration with opportunities for photos and brief breaks, ensuring a smooth flow despite the long day.

Visiting the Chronicle of Georgia: A Monumental Landmark

The first major stop is the Chronicle of Georgia, a large stone and bronze monument created in 1985 by Zurab Tsereteli. The monument is divided into two parts: the lower segment illustrates Georgia’s Christian history, while the upper depicts the history of Georgia itself. Notable scenes include the arrival of Saint Nino, a significant figure in Georgian Christianity.

The site offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a favorite for photo stops. The monument’s impressive scale and detailed sculptures make it a meaningful start to understanding Georgia’s identity.

The Sacred Atmosphere at Bodbe Monastery

Next, the tour heads to the Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino, a site that draws numerous pilgrims. Originally dating from the 4th to 9th centuries, the monastery was rebuilt in the 17th century and now functions as a convent. It is famous for housing the relics of Saint Nino, the evangelist credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia.

Visitors get about an hour here to appreciate the scenic mountain views, explore the monastery grounds, and observe the pilgrimage rituals. A trail leads from the monastery to a healing spring, where the water is believed to have restorative properties. Descending 643 hand-carved steps, visitors can enjoy a sacred immersion ritual, provided they are prepared to wear a white shirt and undergo separate immersions for men and women.

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Exploring Sighnaghi: The Romantic Town of Georgia

The tour continues to Sighnaghi, a fortified hilltop town that lives up to its nickname as the “city of love.” Established in the early 18th century, Sighnaghi’s walls and watchtowers date from the 18th century, built under King Erekle II’s supervision to defend against invasions.

Wandering through winding streets lined with traditional houses, visitors admire the wooden balconies and colorful facades, all within a well-preserved fortification system stretching 4.5 km with 23 watchtowers. The town offers a romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley and the Greater Caucasus mountains.

Scenic Views and Local Culinary Experiences in Sighnaghi

The scenic stops in Sighnaghi allow for photo opportunities of the surrounding landscapes. The town’s fortress walls and cobbled streets create a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

The tour allocates about an hour for free time, allowing visitors to visit local shops or simply soak in the town’s charm. Afterwards, a one-hour lunch break provides a chance to enjoy traditional Georgian cuisine in a local restaurant, with options to try regional dishes and local wine.

Tasting Georgia’s Famous Wines and Local Products

A significant part of this tour is the wine tasting experience. The guide takes visitors to Manavi and Badiauri, where they enjoy guided tours that include sampling local wines such as Rkatsiteli and Saperavi. The wine tastings last about 30 minutes at Manavi, complemented by a cheese tasting and food tasting at Badiauri.

Along With wine, the tour features a masterclass in making churchkhela, a traditional Georgian treat made from grapes and nuts, as well as baking rustic bread. These hands-on activities highlight Georgia’s culinary traditions and provide authentic flavors to take home.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

This full-day tour begins at 2 Abano St and includes scenic stops, guided tours, and tastings. It involves some walking, particularly when descending to the spring at Bodbe, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour is suitable for most people but not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to the steps involved.

The tour operates in English with a live guide and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, adding flexibility for travelers. Payment is pay later, allowing reservations without immediate charges.

Comparing Similar Tours and Additional Options

For travelers interested in exploring Georgia’s wine region further, several similar experiences are available, including tours with multiple wine tastings or full-day trips to other Kakheti destinations. These options often include additional tastings and more extensive sightseeing, catering to wine enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Final Thoughts on the Sighnaghi & Bodbe Tour

This 10-hour guided journey into Georgia’s Kakheti region offers a rich combination of history, scenery, and local flavors. The highlights include the imposing Chronicle of Georgia, the spiritual atmosphere of Bodbe Monastery, and the romantic charm of Sighnaghi.

The guided commentary and stunning views make this tour particularly appealing for those interested in culture, history, and wine. While the long walking distances and steps to the spring require some physical effort, the experience of tasting local products and seeing iconic sights makes it well worth the effort.

This tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of Georgia’s eastern treasures, suitable for visitors seeking a full day of culture, scenic beauty, and authentic flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from 2 Abano St in Tbilisi to all stops and back.

What should I bring for the Bodbe spring immersion?
Visitors must wear a white shirt for the ritual, and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking and descending the steps.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves a good amount of walking and stair descent, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What local foods are included in the tasting sessions?
The tour features cheese and local food tastings at Badiauri, along with wine and churchkhela.

How long is the walk at Bodbe Monastery?
The walk includes descending 643 hand-carved steps to reach the spring, which takes a few minutes but involves some physical effort.

Are there any restrictions for the immersion ritual?
Yes, participants must wear a white shirt, and men and women undergo the ritual separately.

What is the rating of this tour?
The tour holds a 4.6 out of 5 rating, reflecting positive feedback mainly about the guides and views.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

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