Kakheti: Sighnaghi city of love, Bodbe, Corporation Kindzmarauli

This full-day tour of Kakheti from Tbilisi offers an affordable and comprehensive exploration of Georgia’s renowned wine region. Priced at $18 per person, it features visits to iconic sites like Bodbe Monastery and Signagi, along with tastings at Kindzmarauli Corporation. The tour lasts approximately 11 hours and is led by knowledgeable guides, with the opportunity to taste local wines and liquors, explore picturesque towns, and experience authentic Georgian culture.

It departs from Tbilisi at 9:00 am and operates in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle suited for small groups of up to 15 travelers. The itinerary balances sightseeing with culinary experiences, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded taste of Kakheti without the need for extensive planning or high costs. While the schedule is well-paced, some stops, like the shopping at the start, may extend longer than desired, which is something to consider for travelers seeking a more relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $18, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing, wine tasting, and cultural highlights.
• Rich Itinerary: Stops at Bodbe Monastery, Signagi, Kindzmarauli Winery, and local craft experiences like Churchkhela and honey tasting.
• Expert Guides: Known for knowledgeable and friendly guides, with Nino and Diana frequently praised for their lively storytelling and helpful tips.
• Wine Tasting Included: Free tastings of four wines and chacha are included, with optional additional wine experiences available for 8 GEL.
• Scenic and Cultural Highlights: Explore the city of love, Signagi, walk along the long fortress wall, and enjoy panoramic views of the Alazani Valley.
• Limitations: Some reviews mention a slightly rushed schedule and long bus rides; packing a bit of patience and comfort is advised.

The Journey Begins at Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino

The day starts with a visit to Bodbe Monastery, an important religious site in Georgia. Here, the remains of Saint Nino, who is credited with converting Georgia to Christianity, rest in a peaceful setting. Travelers can touch the healing waters of the holy spring and learn about the legend surrounding her burial. This stop takes about an hour and includes admission tickets.

The atmosphere at Bodbe is both spiritual and tranquil, making it a meaningful first stop. Many appreciate the opportunity to immerse in Georgia’s Christian heritage and experience the calming ambiance of this revered site.

Exploring Signagi, the City of Love

Next, the tour moves to Signagi, often called the city of love for its romantic reputation. Visitors walk along Italian-style streets, see the longest fortress wall in Europe, and enjoy breathtaking views over the Alazani Valley. The town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Signagi is also famous for its artistic history, with Niko Pirosmani’s flower-strewn paintings associated with this town. The visit here lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, and admission is free. The charming streets and panoramic vistas make it a highlight of the day.

Lunch in Sighnaghi with a Balcony Overlook

A highlight for many is lunch at a Sighnaghi estate, offering a charming balcony overlooking the Alazani Valley. This 1 hour 20-minute stop features traditional Georgian dishes, paired with free wine and chacha tasting made from local grape varieties. The restaurant, often praised for its scenic setting, provides a relaxing environment to enjoy regional flavors.

Most reviews highlight the quality of the wine and the authenticity of the food, making this a memorable culinary experience. The free tastings are a nice bonus, giving guests a taste of Georgia’s distinct vinicultural heritage.

Visiting the Kindzmarauli Winery in Kvareli

The tour then visits the Kindzmarauli Corporation in Kvareli, Georgia’s oldest winery established in 1533. Here, visitors learn about Kakhetian winemaking techniques and see traditional wine production methods. The wine tasting includes four different wines, available for 8 GEL.

The winery tour lasts about an hour, providing insights into Georgia’s long-standing wine culture. Guests often praise the informative guide, who shares stories about the microzone’s unique wines. This stop offers a deep dive into Georgia’s winemaking traditions, making it a true highlight for wine lovers.

Churchkhela and Honey Tasting in Manavi

On the return journey, the tour makes a short 40-minute stop in Manavi, where visitors experience a free master class for Churchkhela, a traditional Georgian candy made from grape must, nuts, and flour. There’s also honey tasting and free wine tasting, offering a sweet end to the day.

This stop provides an authentic look at Georgian confectionery and the local honey cultivation. Many find it a fun and tasty way to learn about regional craftsmanship.

Final Stop at Meidan Bazaar in Tbilisi

The trip concludes with a brief 10-minute visit to Meidan Bazaar in Old Tbilisi. This local market near the Ushba Travel office offers a chance to see the vibrant atmosphere of Georgian markets. It’s a convenient spot to pick up souvenirs or simply observe the lively local scene.

Returning to the meeting point, the tour wraps up around 4:00 pm, leaving travelers with a full day of sightseeing, tasting, and culture.

Practicalities: Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs at 9:00 am and features a small group atmosphere, with a maximum of 15 travelers. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drives between sites, which some reviews note can be long and occasionally cramped. The schedule is designed to keep the day moving but may feel slightly rushed at times, especially at stops like Bodbe and Signagi.

Included in the tour are bottled water in summer and guide services. The wine tastings are free, but additional tastings or factory tours cost 8 GEL. Gratuities are at guest discretion.

The Guide Experience and Tour Pacing

The guides, frequently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, enhance the experience with engaging storytelling about Georgia’s culture and history. Nino and Diana are often highlighted for their warm personality and helpful tips.

The schedule is generally well-paced, though some reviews mention it can be a bit rushed, especially during shopping stops or in specific sites like Bodbe. Travelers seeking a more relaxed experience might want to allocate extra time or skip certain optional extras.

Value and Overall Experience

This $18 tour offers remarkable value, combining sightseeing, cultural experiences, and wine tasting into a single comprehensive day trip. Many reviews commend the organized nature of the tour and the informative guides, making it a practical choice for visitors on a budget.

Limitations include long bus rides and the potential for some stops to overrun, but these are balanced by the diversity of experiences and scenic views.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits budget-conscious travelers who want a full day of activities in Kakheti, including wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and scenery admirers. It is ideal for those comfortable with long bus rides and looking for a guided experience that covers key sites without needing to plan independently.

For visitors interested in authentic Georgian wine, picturesque towns, and cultural insights, this tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Kakheti’s charms. Its affordable price and positive reviews make it a popular choice for first-time visitors to Georgia.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 10 days in advance, as the tour tends to fill up quickly.

What is included in the price?
The $18 fee covers transportation, guide service, free wine and chacha tastings, and admission tickets for Bodbe Monastery and Meidan Bazaar.

Are the wine tastings optional?
Yes, the free tastings of four wines are included, and additional tastings or factory tours cost 8 GEL.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 4:00 pm.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included but is available at Sighnaghi estate for about 1 hour 20 minutes, featuring regional dishes and free wine tastings.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Bodbe Monastery, Signagi, a lunch stop at Sighnaghi, the Kindzmarauli Winery, a churchkhela and honey stop in Manavi, and a quick visit to Meidan Bazaar.

Does the tour involve a lot of walking?
There is some walking at Signagi and Bodbe, but the tour mainly involves short strolls and bus travel.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking on uneven streets and some steps, but it is generally accessible for most participants.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic towns, quality wine tastings, and cultural sites at such an affordable price makes this tour a popular choice for discovering Kakheti efficiently and enjoyably.