From Tbilisi: Bodbe, Sighnaghi & Kakheti Guided Day Trip

If you’re craving a day that mixes spirituality, stunning views, and a taste of Georgia’s world-famous wine, this guided trip through Kakheti hits the spot. We’ve reviewed this tour based on detailed itineraries, traveler feedback, and what makes this experience genuinely worthwhile.

What we love about this tour is how it combines a spiritual visit to Bodbe Monastery, a romantic stroll through Sighnaghi—the “City of Love”—and a lively immersion into Kakheti’s wine and food culture in Telavi. Plus, the sightseeing stops at the Giant Plane Tree and Ujarma fortress add a dash of history and nature.

A possible consideration is the long day of travel—about 10 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule. This tour is perfect if you want a well-rounded taste of Kakheti’s landscape, culture, and flavors without the hassle of planning yourself. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors to Georgia wanting an authentic, guided experience.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covers monasteries, towns, and historic landmarks
Expert guides provide insightful commentary and local stories
Wine and food tastings add flavor and cultural depth
Comfortable transportation ensures smooth travel across the region
Flexible options for hotel pickup and drop-off
Authentic experiences like making Churchkhela and tasting honey

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Full-Day Journey

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse into Kakheti, Georgia’s premier wine region, with a blend of spiritual, scenic, and cultural highlights. Starting in Tbilisi, you’ll hop into a comfortable van that whisks you away through scenic landscapes dotted with vineyards and rolling hills.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Sighnaghi

Exploring Bodbe Monastery

The first major stop is Bodbe Monastery, a revered spiritual site dedicated to St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia. We loved the peaceful aura here, surrounded by lush gardens and panoramic views of the Alazani Valley. According to reviews, this spot offers a calming atmosphere perfect for reflection. The guided tour, which lasts about 40 minutes, reveals this monastery’s history and significance, making it more than just a photo op.

The site also provides sweeping views that are ideal for photography. Travelers often comment on how serene and inspiring it feels—an essential stop for those interested in Georgia’s religious traditions or simply looking for beautiful vistas.

Wandering Through Sighnaghi

Next, you’ll visit Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love,” thanks to its cobblestone streets, colorful wooden balconies, and well-preserved city walls. We found this town charming—walking along the fortress walls offers remarkable views of the Alazani Valley below. It’s the perfect spot for leisurely exploration, browsing artisan shops, or grabbing a coffee with a view.

Based on reviews, many visitors appreciate the romantic ambiance. The guided walk here, about 45 minutes, allows you to soak in the town’s vibe and snap some memorable photos. Some travelers mention enjoying the local artisan shops and the general friendly atmosphere of this hilltop gem.

The Iconic Giant Plane Tree

A quick stop at the Giant Plane Tree provides a unique photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs. This 15-minute visit is worth it for the chance to see the impressive natural monument and feel connected to Kakheti’s landscape.

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En Route to Telavi: The Heart of Kakheti

The tour then heads to Telavi, the regional capital, where you’ll enjoy a satisfying lunch break lasting about an hour. The town’s historic streets, combined with the chance to visit the 900-year-old Giant Plane Tree, give you a taste of Kakheti’s long history. You’ll also have the chance to explore local markets or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

There's plenty more to explore in Sighnaghi

The Winding Gombori Pass and Ujarma Fort

After lunch, the journey continues through the Gombori Pass, offering breathtaking mountain views, perfect for photos and appreciating Georgia’s rugged beauty. A brief stop at Ujarma, a small but significant fortress site, adds a dash of history. Though only about 10 minutes here, it’s a meaningful snapshot of the region’s ancient past.

Wine, Honey, and Traditional Crafts

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the wine and chacha tastings in Manavi and Sighnaghi. The stops include family-run mini-factories and masterclasses where you can try Qvevri wines—Georgia’s ancient method of wine fermentation—and sample traditional Churchkhela (a grape-and-nut candy). Reviewers like Cintia praised the cheese and bread, along with the local honey tasting in Manavi.

These tasting experiences are not just about sipping drinks—they’re a chance to connect with local traditions. Some tours include optional winery visits, but even the included tastings are enough to give a real flavor of the region’s winemaking culture.

How the Tour is Set Up

This is a 10-hour guided experience with a small group, ensuring plenty of expert attention from the guide. The tour includes transportation by van, Wi-Fi, and a professional guide who shares insights into Georgia’s history, culture, and wine traditions.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but note it’s not designed for children under 6, and those with mobility challenges may find the walking portions challenging. If you’re a fan of learning on the go, this trip offers a good balance of sightseeing and storytelling.

Practical Details and Tips

Start time varies, so check availability when booking.
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, and camera—you’ll want to be ready for walking and photos.
Lunch is included, but wine tastings are optional and not included in the cost.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option.
Dress for the weather. The tour covers outdoor stops, so check the forecast and pack accordingly.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Travelers consistently praise the scenic beauty and authentic experiences. As one reviewer noted, “The tour was very good! Loved the cheese and bread… Lunch was good and the guide was very nice and helpful.”

The mix of cultural sites, natural beauty, and tasting opportunities creates a well-rounded day. Plus, the small group size and knowledgeable guides make it easy to ask questions and personalize your experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re eager to see Georgia’s wine country, soak in breathtaking views, and explore historic monasteries and towns in one day, this tour offers excellent value. Its carefully curated itinerary ensures you won’t miss the highlights without feeling rushed.

Those interested in local traditions, including wine, honey, and crafting, will find plenty to love. If you prefer a full-on adventure with plenty of walking, sightseeing, and tasting, this is a great choice.

However, if you’re sensitive to long days of travel or have mobility issues, consider how the 10-hour schedule might impact your experience. It’s also worth noting that wine tasting fees are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge at the wineries.

This tour provides a balanced, authentic, and enjoyable introduction to Kakheti’s charms, perfect for travelers seeking a guided, immersive day outside Tbilisi.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening. Exact start times vary, so check availability.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option during booking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a hat, camera, and water are recommended. Weather can change, so dress appropriately.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included in the tour. However, wine tasting fees are not included and are optional.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years or travelers with mobility impairments, due to walking and sightseeing requirements.

Can I visit wineries?
The tour includes tastings at family-run facilities and mini-factories, with options for additional winery visits if desired.

Are there any restrictions on smoking?
Smoking is not allowed during the tour, especially at sites and tasting stops.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling during the trip.

To sum it up, this guided day trip from Tbilisi to Kakheti offers a well-balanced combination of spiritual sites, scenic towns, and tasting experiences that capture the essence of Georgia’s wine region. It’s an excellent pick for those wanting a guided, hassle-free way to explore authentic Kakheti, especially if you’re curious about local traditions and stunning views. Whether you’re a wine lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this tour has a lot to offer.