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

Introduction

If you’re considering a day trip from Tbilisi that combines history, stunning scenery, and, of course, wine, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. It promises a well-rounded adventure through some of eastern Georgia’s most picturesque spots, all wrapped in a convenient, affordable package.

We really like how this tour balances cultural highlights with delicious local food and wine — making it ideal for travelers who want an authentic taste of Georgian life without the hassle of planning every detail. Plus, the small group size ensures a more intimate experience, where your guide can share stories and insights along the way.

One thing to keep in mind is that with a packed itinerary, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a full day of exploring. While the price is very budget-friendly, it’s important to value the included tastings and visits, which make this trip excellent value for money. This tour is perfect for curious travelers eager to soak in Georgian culture, scenery, and wine in one go.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with visits to Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi’s charming streets
• Seven wine tastings across two renowned Kakheti wine cellars
• Delicious Georgian cuisine, with an included traditional lunch
• Small group size for a more personalized, engaging tour
• Affordable price point offers great value, including multiple tastings and guided visits
• Flexible logistics handled by the guide, allowing you to relax and enjoy

An Overview of What You’ll Experience

This full-day tour from Tbilisi is designed to give you a solid taste of eastern Georgia’s highlights, with a good mix of scenic beauty, history, and gastronomy. It’s a journey that combines culture with leisurely indulgence, all within approximately nine hours.

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at a central meeting point in Tbilisi, at 25 Shota Rustaveli Ave, around 9:00 am. You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, with WiFi on board — a nice touch that lets you share your impressions or check your photos during breaks. The small group size (up to 17 travelers) promotes a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Stops and Highlights

The First Stop: Manavi

Our first visit is to a small winery in Manavi. Here, you’ll get to taste some local wines and honey and participate in a Churchkhela Master-Class. Churchkhela, Georgia’s traditional “candied sausage” — made from grape must and nuts — is a fun, hands-on experience that offers a taste of local craftsmanship. Expect about 30 minutes at this stop, enough to sample and learn without feeling rushed.

Authentic Touch: Visitors often comment on how engaging and tasty the Churchkhela lesson is, making it more than just a tasting — it’s a small cultural lesson.

Badiauri Bakery

Next, you’ll visit Badiauri Bakery, where you can try freshly baked Georgian bread and cheese. The highlight here is the breadmaking experience, where you can attempt to create traditional Georgian bread using a unique baking technique. At about 1.5 hours, this stop balances tasting and participation, giving you insight into Georgian culinary traditions.

Authentic Flavors: Many travelers rave about the delicious bread and cheese, with one reviewer mentioning how “you can make your own bread and be amazed by the baking process.” That personal touch elevates this stop from just tasting to engaging.

Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino

The spiritual heart of the tour is the Bodbe Monastery, where you’ll spend around 45 minutes. This sacred site is the final resting place of St. Nino, who was instrumental in bringing Christianity to Georgia. The monastery’s peaceful gardens and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape make this a contemplative break from the busier parts of the trip.

What Makes It Special: The peaceful grounds and spiritual significance provide a calming moment amid the day’s activities, and the well-maintained gardens are perfect for photos or quiet reflection.

Sighnaghi — The “City of Love”

Sighnaghi is one of Georgia’s most romantic towns, and you’ll have about two hours to explore its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and ornate wooden balconies. As you walk along the ancient city walls, with 23 towers overlooking the Alazani Valley, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas that make the climb worth every step.

Local Crafts: The town’s artisan shops, selling traditional carpets, ceramics, and paintings, provide a glimpse into local craftsmanship. It’s a lovely place to browse or pick up small souvenirs.

Sighnaghi City Walls

The final stop involves walking along the historic city walls for about 30 minutes, offering some of the best panoramic views of the valley. It’s a perfect way to appreciate the town’s strategic location and scenic beauty.

Wine Tastings and Culinary Delights

One of the highlights of this tour is the seven wine tastings across two renowned Kakheti wine cellars. Georgia is famous for its ancient winemaking traditions, and you’ll get to sample a variety of local wines, including some traditional varieties.

The included wine tastings are complemented by a delicious Georgian lunch at a local restaurant, allowing you to savor regional flavors in a friendly setting. The tour also includes honey and Chacha (a traditional Georgian spirit) tastings, rounding out the tasting experience with local beverages.

Authentic Experience: Reviews highlight the quality of the wine, with one mentioning the “excellent wine selection” and “stunning views.” Many guests appreciate the chance to taste multiple wines in a relaxed environment, often commenting on how the wines are better than expected considering the price paid.

Analyzing the Value

At just $15.48 per person, this tour offers remarkable value. The price includes transportation, guide, all tastings, and entrance fees to important sites like Bodbe Monastery and the city walls. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace, making it feel less like a hurried tour and more like a friendly exploration.

While food isn’t included in the main price, the optional Master-Classes (breadmaking and Churchkhela) are available for small additional fees, and many travelers find the included lunch and tastings more than sufficient for a complete day of enjoyment.

The reviews consistently mention how well-organized and friendly the guide is, with many travelers feeling they received a genuine, authentic experience rather than a commercialized tour. This is especially true for those who enjoy tasting local products, as the wine and food offerings are a highlight.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, scenery, and culinary experiences without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who want to see some of Georgia’s most beautiful villages and enjoy its famous wines in a single day. The walking involved is moderate, but comfortable shoes are recommended, especially when exploring Sighnaghi’s cobblestone streets and city walls.

It’s also great for first-time visitors who want a guided, all-in-one experience that handles logistics for them. If you’re a wine lover or curious about Georgian traditions, this tour delivers a lot of value in a manageable, well-paced package.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Tbilisi combines the best of Georgia’s scenic landscapes, historic sites, and local flavors, all at an incredibly reasonable price. The stops at Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi reveal the spiritual and romantic heart of the region, while the included wine tastings and culinary experiences provide a delicious taste of local life.

The experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy engaging with local culture, tasting regional wines, and exploring charming towns at a relaxed pace. The small group format and knowledgeable guide ensure you’ll feel well cared for, making this a memorable way to spend a day outside the city.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers a balanced, authentic glimpse into Georgia’s allure — with plenty of opportunities for photos, conversation, and enjoying the good things in life.

FAQ

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

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, guide (audio in English and Russian), entrance tickets to Bodbe Monastery and the city walls, and seven wine tastings are included.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the main price, but a traditional Georgian lunch at a local restaurant is part of the experience. Optional Master-Classes in breadmaking and Churchkhela are available for small extra fees.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and standing, especially on the cobblestone streets and city walls.

How many people are in the tour group?
The maximum group size is 17, ensuring a more personal experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on cobblestone streets and city walls. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if visiting during warmer months.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour accessible if I have mobility issues?
The itinerary involves walking on uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones and city walls, so it might not be suitable for all mobility concerns.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 16 days in advance, which helps secure a spot and ensures availability.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Extra charges may apply for optional Master-Classes (breadmaking and Churchkhela), and personal purchases at artisan shops or cafes are not included.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Georgia’s scenic beauty, spiritual sites, and rich wine culture, making it a rewarding day out for curious explorers.