One-day tour in Kakheti with a guide and free wine tasting

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip with transport, a professional guide, and free wine tastings
• Visit iconic Bodbe Monastery and charming Signaghi with 1.2-hour guided walks
• Explore vivid vineyards, taste 3 types of wine and local cheese at traditional stops
• Stunning views of the Alazani Valley and Caucasus Mountains from Bodbe
• Experience Georgia’s ancient wine heritage, dating back 8,000 years
• Suitable for those comfortable with walking and comfortable shoes

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Tour Duration

This one-day Kakheti tour departs from Galaktion Tabidze Street 1, Tbilisi, with an 11-hour schedule, making it ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive experience of Georgia’s renowned wine region. The tour begins early, with specific starting times available upon checking availability, and concludes back in Tbilisi at the same starting point.

The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and wine tastings, offering a seamless day exploring Kakheti’s highlights. While the price covers guided tours and tastings, note that snacks in the restaurant are not included. The tour operates daily in any weather, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Exploring the Vineyards and Local Food

One of the tour’s main attractions is the authentic wine tasting experience in scenic Kakheti vineyards. Guided by knowledgeable guides, travelers visit a vineyard for about 30 minutes, where they learn about local winemaking traditions before sampling 3 types of homemade wine. The tasting takes place in a setting rich with views of the lush landscape.

Along With wine, the tour includes a stop at a local bakery for about 20 minutes, where visitors sample traditional Georgian Shoti bread and 3 kinds of cheese—cow’s, goat’s, and sheep’s cheese. These stops highlight Georgia’s culinary heritage, with the guide sharing insights into local food traditions.

Bodbe Monastery and Its Significance

A key highlight is the visit to Bodbe Monastery, a 4th-century Christian site where Saint Nino, the figure credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia, is buried. The guided tour of the monastery complex lasts approximately one hour and offers the chance to admire its historical architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

From Bodbe, visitors enjoy spectacular views of the Alazani Valley and the distant Caucasus Mountains, making this stop a perfect photo opportunity. The site’s spiritual significance and stunning scenery make it a favorite part of the tour.

Discovering the Town of Sighnaghi

Following Bodbe, the journey continues to Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love” and compared in charm to Tuscany. Travelers spend about 1.5 hours walking along the central streets, exploring painted houses, narrow alleyways, and historic walls.

This charming hilltop town offers plenty of opportunities for photos and leisurely exploration. The guide leads visitors through key sights, sharing stories of Sighnaghi’s colorful past and its reputation as a hub for local artisans and crafts.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Telavi and the Ancient Chadra Tree

The tour then heads to Telavi, the regional capital, famous for its 900-year-old Chadra Tree. This massive tree, with a 12-meter diameter, has witnessed centuries of history and provides a tangible link to Georgia’s past.

In Telavi, visitors enjoy some free time to explore at their own pace before heading to a local restaurant for dinner. During the meal, about 4 types of wine are served, all crafted following 8,000-year-old traditions. This culinary experience emphasizes Georgia’s long-standing wine culture.

Scenic Drive Over the Gombori Pass

The return trip takes travelers along the Gombori Pass, reaching heights of 1,750 meters above sea level. As the bus ascends, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.

If lucky, travelers may catch a sunset at the pass, providing a fitting end to a day filled with scenic vistas and cultural insights. This part of the trip highlights Georgia’s diverse terrain and natural beauty.

The Guide’s Role and Tour Experience

Throughout the day, certified guides lead the group, sharing stories about Georgian culture, history, and viticulture. Reviews praise guides like Nana, Roberto, and others for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and engaging storytelling.

Guides also facilitate shopping opportunities at local stops, allowing visitors to purchase souvenirs like wine and traditional crafts. Their friendly approach and ability to keep the pace lively contribute significantly to the positive experience.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour starts at Galaktion Tabidze Street 1 in Tbilisi and involves several walking stops in towns like Sighnaghi, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Weather conditions do not affect the operation, but travelers should dress appropriately for the day’s climate.

Since food in the vehicle is not allowed, it’s advised to bring snacks for the day if desired, though the tour includes a dinner stop with wine tasting at a local restaurant. The entire experience is designed for those interested in Georgia’s heritage, wine, and scenic landscapes.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This full-day Kakheti tour offers an immersive experience into Georgia’s wine-making traditions, complemented by visits to historic landmarks and picturesque towns. The free wine tastings and guides’ expertise make it a strong value, especially considering the 11-hour duration.

The tour’s reviews highlight the well-organized logistics, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful scenery. Even with the unpredictability of weather, visitors consistently mention feeling engaged and informed throughout the day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience suits wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and culture travelers who appreciate combining scenic drives with cultural visits. Comfortable shoes and an interest in Georgia’s wine heritage are essential for making the most of this trip.

Those seeking a well-paced, informative day with opportunities for photo stops, local food tasting, and historic exploration will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s ideal for those who want a rundown of one of Georgia’s most iconic regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transport, services of a professional guide, and wine tastings. Snacks in the restaurant are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Galaktion Tabidze Street 1, Tbilisi.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates every day regardless of weather, so travelers should dress accordingly but can expect the same itinerary.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking in towns and exploring landmarks. Dress appropriately for the weather; no food is allowed in the vehicle.

Can I customize the tour or make detours?
Yes, guides are flexible; as noted in reviews, there is potential to make short detours to additional wineries or sights.

This well-rounded Kakheti day trip offers a rich mix of scenery, history, and wine, making it a recommended choice for visitors eager to experience Georgia’s famed wine heritage and charming towns.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby