From Tbilisi: Kakheti and Sighnaghi Private Tour with Wine

Exploring Georgia’s eastern region of Kakheti through a guided private tour offers a mix of scenic beauty, rich traditions, and delicious flavors. This 8-hour journey takes you beyond the city’s hustle into the countryside, where you’ll meet locals, learn ancient crafts, and taste some of Georgia’s finest wines. If you’re after an authentic experience that highlights the country’s unique heritage with a personal touch, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances cultural insights with delicious hands-on activities—like making churchkhela and baking bread—that bring Georgia’s traditions to life. The visits to Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi add a layer of spiritual and romantic charm, making the day feel both meaningful and picturesque. That said, keep in mind that the tour is quite full, so good walking shoes are a must, and it’s not ideal for those with mobility challenges or very young children.

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded day with a mix of food, history, and spectacular views. It’s especially fitting for those interested in wine, local crafts, and exploring Georgia’s scenic and cultural treasures. Just be prepared for a busy day, but one that’s packed with memorable moments.

Key Points

• Authentic Georgian experiences: Making churchkhela, baking traditional bread, and tasting local wines.
• Stunning scenery: Panoramic views of the Alazani Valley from Sighnaghi and Bodbe Monastery.
• Cultural richness: Visits to Bodbe Monastery and the romantic hilltop town of Sighnaghi.
• Local hospitality: Warm interactions during cooking classes and wine tastings.
• Comfort and convenience: Transportation in a comfortable minibus with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Value for money: Well-curated activities included, with optional participation in a small masterclass.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Tbilisi to Manavi

The day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Tbilisi, where a comfortable minibus whisks you away into the Georgian countryside. The journey to Kakheti typically takes around an hour, but the scenic drive is part of the charm. Once in Manavi, the tour gets lively with hands-on activities and local tastings. We loved the way the guide explained each step of making churchkhela—a kind of Georgian snickers made from grape juice, nuts, and flour—offering a taste of Georgia’s sweet snack culture. You’ll get to try your hand at crafting this traditional treat, and it’s a fun way to connect with local culinary traditions.

Wine Tasting and the Countryside

From Manavi, the tour continues with a guided wine tasting in the serene countryside. Georgia’s wine heritage is a point of pride, and here you’ll learn about how wines like Saperavi and Rkatsiteli are made using ancient methods, including qvevri clay vessels. We found the tasting genuinely informative—and delicious. According to reviews, many travelers appreciated the chance to sample wines directly from the region, often calling the experience “authentic” and “down-to-earth.”

Baking in Badiauri

Next, the group heads to Badiauri, famous for its shotis puri—a traditional Georgian bread baked in a clay oven called a tone. The aroma that fills the air while the bread bakes is heavenly. Participants get to roll out dough and learn the art of bread-making, which many reviews noted as a highlight. Once baked, the warm bread is paired with local cheeses and butter, making for a simple but satisfying meal that tastes like home.

More Great Tours Nearby

Serenity at Bodbe Monastery

A peaceful stop at Bodbe Monastery provides a contrast to the bustling countryside activities. Surrounded by lush greenery, the monastery offers stunning views of the Alazani Valley. Here, you can stroll through gardens, visit the spring of St. Nino (believed to bring blessings and healing), and reflect on Georgia’s spiritual history. Several visitors mentioned the tranquility here as a highlight, emphasizing the calm and spiritual ambiance.

Sighnaghi: The City of Love

The final major stop is Sighnaghi, perched atop a hill with exceptional views of the valley below. This charming town’s cobblestone streets, colorful balconies, and ancient fortress walls feel like stepping into a fairy tale. Explore its narrow alleys, admire the panoramic vistas, and visit a traditional wine cellar where you’ll taste qvevri wine—a method that connects you directly with the roots of Georgian winemaking. Many reviews praise Sighnaghi’s romantic atmosphere, noting it as a perfect ending to the day.

Return to Tbilisi

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to your Tbilisi hotel, usually concluding around early evening. Throughout the day, the small-group setting ensures a personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and share your impressions.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The tour’s pricing includes transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a variety of tastings—wine, honey, and local sweets—making it a convenient, all-in-one adventure. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for a more personalized connection with the guide and locals.

The activities—making churchkhela, baking bread, and tasting wines—are not just demonstrations but participatory, adding a layer of fun and education. These hands-on moments are where you really start to understand Georgia’s culinary identity, and many reviewers describe them as “authentic” and “heartfelt.”

The scenic stops like Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi are ideal for photography and quiet reflection. The views from Sighnaghi, in particular, are consistently praised for their breathtaking beauty, making this tour a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 8 hours, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are advised. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy walking and exploring without much strenuous activity. The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues, children under 12, or anyone who cannot handle a full day on their feet. Also, note that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a well-balanced blend of culture, scenic beauty, and culinary delight. It’s tailored for those eager to explore Georgia’s countryside, taste its wines, and experience its traditions firsthand—all within a manageable, comfortable day trip.

If you’re looking for an authentic, relaxed encounter with Georgian life—away from crowded tourist spots—this tour provides genuine moments of connection and discovery. The included tastings, craft activities, and stunning vistas make it a worthwhile experience that captures the essence of Kakheti and Sighnaghi.

For lovers of good food, beautiful scenery, and warm local hospitality, this experience is a delightful way to deepen your understanding of Georgia’s charm and heritage. It’s ideal if you want a taste of the country’s spiritual and cultural soul, all within a day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
While the tour focuses on local foods like bread, cheeses, and wine, it does not specify vegetarian options. You might find the bread and cheese pairing quite suitable, but it’s best to confirm with the provider if you have specific dietary preferences.

How long is the drive from Tbilisi to Kakheti?
The drive from Tbilisi to Manavi, the starting point, takes about an hour, making the day manageable while still giving you a sense of Georgia’s rural landscape.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, given the walking involved at each stop. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are also advisable, especially on sunny days.

Are there any additional costs?
The main costs are covered, but participation in the masterclass at 5 GEL per person is optional. Lunch is not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning to purchase food during the free time.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a private experience, you can discuss your interests with the guide—whether you want more time at certain stops or specific activities.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with back problems, as it involves walking on uneven surfaces and some climbing in towns and at the monastery.

This thoughtfully curated day in Kakheti and Sighnaghi promises a genuine taste of Georgia—its flavors, sights, and warmth. Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or simply seeking scenic beauty, it’s an experience that’s hard to forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: