Group Tour from Tbilisi: Sighnaghi, Bodbe & 8 Wine Tastings

Embark on an engaging full-day tour from Tbilisi that covers Sighnaghi, Bodbe Monastery, and two renowned Kakheti wine cellars. For just $15.48 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into eastern Georgia’s scenic landscapes, historic sites, and delicious wines. With a duration of approximately 9 hours, it’s an accessible day-trip designed for those eager to explore Georgia’s cultural and culinary treasures, all while enjoying 8 wine tastings and local delicacies. The tour is well-suited for anyone interested in history, wine, and authentic Georgian hospitality, especially as it includes comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

While the tour offers many highlights, it’s important to note that food is not included, though there are opportunities for local tastings, and some activities require small extra fees. The group size is limited to 17 travelers, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience. This tour presents exceptional value for a full day of discovery, with high praise for the guides and the variety of stops.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $15.48 per person covers a full day of sightseeing, wine tastings, and cultural stops.
• Visit Bodbe Monastery, the spiritual resting place of St. Nino, with included gardens and serene views.
• Explore Sighnaghi, Georgia’s “City of Love,” with its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and panoramic city walls.
• Taste 8 different wines across two Kakheti wine cellars, with opportunities to try honey and chacha as well.
• Stops include Badiauri Bakery and Manavi winery, offering local bread, honey, and traditional Georgian wine.
• Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, making the day comfortable and connected.

Starting Point and Logistics for the Tour from Tbilisi

The tour departs from 25 Shota Rustaveli Ave, Tbilisi at 9:00am. The guide ensures smooth logistics, and the group size remains small—up to 17 participants—which helps facilitate an engaging experience. The tour concludes back at the starting point, making it convenient for travelers staying in central Tbilisi. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with minimal physical requirements, but it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes for wandering cobblestone streets and historic sites.

Exploring Bodbe Monastery and Its Gardens

The visit to Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino takes about 45 minutes, with admission included. This site holds significant spiritual importance as the final resting place of St. Nino, credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia. Visitors walk through well-maintained serene gardens, which provide peaceful spots for reflection and offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The guide shares insights into the monastery’s history, enriching the visit with context that enhances the spiritual ambiance.

Sighnaghi: Georgia’s “City of Love”

Sighnaghi is the highlight for many, with an hour of exploration within the cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses and ornate wooden balconies. Its well-preserved city walls, featuring 23 towers, frame stunning vistas of the Alazani Valley. Visitors can stroll along the ancient fortifications, take photos of the scenic surroundings, and browse local artisan shops offering carpets, ceramics, and paintings. The atmosphere radiates romance and history, making it a favorite stop for cultural enthusiasts and romantics alike.

Signagi City Walls and Panoramic Views

A 30-minute walk along the Signagi city walls provides sweeping views of the countryside. This walk is an opportunity to appreciate the town’s medieval defenses and capture scenic photographs. The well-preserved walls are free to explore and offer a tangible connection to Georgia’s historical architecture. Standing atop the walls, visitors enjoy panoramic sights of the lush valley below, making it a memorable photo spot.

Wine Tasting at Manavi and Kakheti Cellars

The tour includes visits to two Kakheti wine cellars, with a total of seven wine tastings. At Manavi, travelers try local wine and honey, and can participate in a Churchkhela Master-Class, creating traditional Georgian sweets. The tastings showcase Georgian wines’ unique flavors, renowned for their quality and heritage.

The wine cellar tours are complemented by the tasting of Chacha, Georgian grape brandy, adding a spirited touch to the experience. These tastings are held in welcoming settings that highlight Georgia’s long-standing wine-making traditions, making them a highlight for wine enthusiasts.

Badiauri Bakery and Georgian Culinary Traditions

In Badiauri, visitors are welcomed into a local bakery where they can taste Georgian bread and cheese. This stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes and includes an opportunity to try making traditional Georgian bread with a unique baking method. The experience provides insight into Georgia’s bread culture, adding a hands-on element to the day’s culinary exploration.

Additional Tasting Experiences and Master-Classes

While food is not included in the standard tour price, optional Churchkhela and breadmaking master-classes are available for small additional fees. These interactive activities deepen understanding of Georgian traditions and are popular among those interested in local cuisine and crafts.

The Comfort of Guided Transportation and Amenities

Throughout the day, travelers ride in an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey between stops. The guide, who speaks English and Russian, offers informative commentary, making history, culture, and wine-making accessible and engaging. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and ample opportunity to ask questions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals most to cultural explorers, wine lovers, and those seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive overview of Georgia’s eastern region. It’s ideal for visitors who want to see multiple sites in one day without the hassle of organizing logistics. The moderate pace, manageable walking, and included tastings make it suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

Final Thoughts on the Sighnaghi, Bodbe & Wine Tasting Tour

The $15.48 price offers remarkable value given the breadth of experiences—visiting Bodbe Monastery, wandering Sighnaghi’s charming streets, tasting 8 wines, and exploring local bakeries. The high rating of 5.0 from 60 reviews and 98% recommendation rate reflect consistent satisfaction with the guides, stops, and overall experience.

While food is not included in the main price, the optional master-classes and tastings provide a flavorful taste of Georgian culture without extra hassle. The tour’s emphasis on authentic local sites, combined with comfortable transport and expert guiding, makes it an excellent choice for those new to Georgia or visitors wanting a full day of cultural and culinary discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with manageable walking and minimal physical requirements, making it suitable for families and seniors.

Are meals included during the tour?
No, meals are not included in the price. However, there are opportunities for tastings at bakeries, wineries, and local restaurants outside the main itinerary.

Can I participate in the master-classes?
Yes, optional Churchkhela and breadmaking master-classes are available for a small additional fee, typically around 5 Gel/2 Euro each.

What languages are available for the guide’s commentary?
The guide speaks English and Russian, providing clear explanations and insights throughout the day.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour requires good weather; in case of cancellation due to poor weather, a different date or full refund is offered.

How many people typically join this tour?
The group size is limited to 17 travelers, ensuring a friendly and personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 25 Shota Rustaveli Ave, Tbilisi, making it convenient for those staying in the city center.

This full-day tour from Tbilisi offers a delightful blend of history, scenic views, and wine, all at a budget-friendly price. It’s perfect for travelers eager to explore Georgia’s charm without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.