Kakheti, Bodbe, Sighnaghi and Telavi (Group Tour)

This Kakheti, Bodbe, Sighnaghi, and Telavi group tour offers an engaging way to discover Georgia’s renowned wine region for just $18 per person. With an approximate 9 to 10 hours duration, the tour combines wine tasting, historic sites, and scenic views, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive day trip from Tbilisi. The tour departs at 9:00 am from 15 Abano St, with a mobile ticket and air-conditioned transport ensuring comfort throughout the day.

One of the most praised aspects is the local guide who leads you through each stop with enthusiasm and knowledge. The tour is especially popular among those interested in Georgia’s wine culture and historical landmarks, but it also offers enough free time to enjoy the towns and take photographs. A notable consideration is that lunch is not included, so planning for that is recommended. The group size is limited to 17 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $18 per person with comprehensive inclusions.
• Full-day exploration of Kakheti’s wine, history, and scenic towns.
• Stops at Bodbe Monastery, Sighnaghi, and Telavi, showcasing Georgia’s cultural and natural beauty.
• Multiple wine tastings and local food experiences like bread, cheese, honey, and churchkhela.
• Guided tours with professional guides who explain the significance of each site.
• Free Wi-Fi, water, and admission to major stops enhance comfort and value.

Starting from Tbilisi: Convenient Meeting Point and Transport

This tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at 15 Abano Street in Tbilisi. The transport is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, with Wi-Fi onboard for keeping connected. The small group size—up to 17 travelers—ensures a more personal experience, and the tour ends back at the original meeting point, making planning simple.

Visiting Manavi: Vineyards, Honey, and Local Goodies

The first stop is in Manavi, where free tastings include wine, chacha, cognac, churchkhela, and honey. Visitors have opportunities to snap photos of lush vineyards and enjoy a mini-tasting session that highlights Georgia’s famous mountain honey. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Badiauri: Baking Masterclass and Georgian Bread Tasting

Next, the group visits the village of Badiauri, where a bread-making masterclass is offered. This 20-minute activity provides a hands-on experience of traditional Georgian bread baking, coupled with tasting fresh bread and cheese. The stop offers insight into Georgia’s culinary heritage and allows for some authentic photos of the village scenery.

Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino: Spiritual Landmark and Panoramic Views

The Bodbe Monastery is a highlight, famed as the site built over the burial place of Saint Nino. Originally from the 9th century, the monastery has undergone significant remodels, especially in the 17th century. Visitors typically spend around 50 minutes exploring the complex, which offers impressive views of the surrounding countryside—an excellent chance for memorable photos.

Note that entrance fees for Bodbe Monastery are not included in the tour price, so visitors may choose to pay separately if they wish to access additional areas.

Sighnaghi: The City of Love and Georgia’s Smallest Town

In Sighnaghi, known as The City of Love, the tour includes a 40-minute walking tour of this charming hilltop town. You’ll see its pastel-colored houses, narrow streets, and city walls sometimes called “The Great Wall of Georgia.” Overlooking the Alazani Valley with views of the Caucasus Mountains, Sighnaghi’s scenery is a major draw. The spacious walls are the tallest in Georgia, and climbing them provides stunning panoramic vistas.

This stop is perfect for wandering freely, exploring boutique shops, and soaking in the town’s romantic ambiance.

Telavi: The Capital of Kakheti and Historic Landmarks

The historic town of Telavi hosts two main attractions: a 900-year-old tree and the palace of King Erekle. Visitors spend about 20 minutes here, viewing these landmarks and absorbing the town’s historical atmosphere. Afterwards, the group visits a local wine house where free wine tastings take place, along with an optional lunch overlooking the Caucasus Mountains (lunch cost not included).

Later, a 1 hour 30-minute stop at a local restaurant includes more wine and chacha tastings, offering a relaxed environment to enjoy Georgia’s traditional drinks and socialize. The free wine tastings at the wine house and restaurant are particularly praised, adding great value to the day.

Scenic Route and Cultural Surprises Along the Way

On the drive between stops, the tour passes Ujarmi and a church, providing picturesque views and small cultural landmarks. These brief scenic moments are appreciated for breaking up the travel and offering extra photo opportunities.

All-Inclusive Experience with Authentic Tasting

The tour provides all entrance fees and includes a range of local tastings: wine, chacha, cognac, churchkhela, and honey. At Manavi, guests partake in a churchkhela masterclass, learning about this traditional confection. In Telavi, wine and chacha are tasted in a mini-factory setting, adding to the authentic experience.

The professional guide makes sure everyone understands the significance of each site and tasting, making the day both informative and enjoyable.

Practicalities and Tips for Participants

This tour caters to most travelers with good mobility, given the walking at Sighnaghi and Bodbe. It operates rain or shine, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance due to weather or low bookings. Since lunch is not included, bringing some snacks or planning a meal at the restaurant in Telavi is advisable. The small group size ensures a friendly atmosphere, and the cost-effective price makes it appealing for budget travelers.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This full-day Kakheti tour suits visitors eager to experience Georgia’s wine culture alongside heritage sites and scenic towns. It’s especially appealing to those interested in local food and drink, with plentiful tastings and opportunities to learn about traditional Georgian cuisine. The guided format simplifies logistics, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy each stop without worry.

While the tour offers substantial sightseeing, some travelers might find the cultural sites and walking a bit brisk, so comfortable shoes are advisable. The price point, combined with organized tastings and guided insights, provides a very good value for exploring Kakheti in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. A stop at a restaurant in Telavi offers an optional meal, but guests should plan their own lunch arrangements.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the starting point in Tbilisi.

Are all site entrance fees included?
All major entrance fees are covered, except for Bodbe Monastery, where the admission fee is not included.

What is the group size?
The group is limited to 17 travelers, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of wine tastings, historic sites, and scenic views at a budget-friendly price, guided by knowledgeable locals, makes it a popular choice.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This Kakheti, Bodbe, Sighnaghi, and Telavi tour presents an authentic taste of Georgia’s wine, history, and landscape in a well-organized, affordable package, perfect for curious travelers eager to explore the heart of Kakheti.