Kakheti: Bodbe, Sighnaghi & Telavi Guided Day Tour

Exploring Georgia’s Kakheti region through this full-day guided tour offers travelers a chance to see some of the country’s most captivating landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant local culture. While we haven’t personally taken this particular trip, reviews consistently highlight its engaging guides, breathtaking scenery, and authentic wine experiences — all packed into a manageable nine-hour outing.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to visit Bodbe Monastery, a peaceful spiritual spot with sweeping views of the Alazani Valley. Second, the charming hilltop town of Sighnaghi offers colorful streets and panoramic vistas perfect for photos and romantic moments. Third, the historic heart of Telavi introduces you to Kakheti’s traditional architecture and the impressive 900-year-old Plane Tree.

One consideration? The tour involves some walking and outdoor exploration, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must. Also, since wine tasting is included, it’s worth noting if you plan to drive afterward.

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate history, stunning scenery, and, of course, wine. It suits those who want a well-rounded day with guided insights and a taste of authentic Georgian culture.

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Key Points

Balanced Itinerary: Combines spiritual sites, scenic towns, and historic landmarks.
Authentic Wine Tasting: Includes multiple sessions, with expert guidance and local product tastings.
Comfortable Transportation: Modern coach ensures a relaxed day, with some walking involved at each stop.
Local Guides: Known for knowledgeable, friendly guides like Timur and Gio who share engaging stories.
Breathtaking Views: From the Alazani Valley to the Gombori Pass, scenery is a highlight.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve with pay later options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Kakheti Day Tour

Looking for more options in Sighnaghi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at 21 Abano Street, in the Sulfur Baths area of Tbilisi, making it easy for many travelers to access. It lasts about 9 hours, with the departure time visible during booking — so plan your day accordingly. The return is also at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Transportation is by coach, offering enough space for comfort and sightseeing en route. The group size tends to keep the experience intimate enough to ask questions but large enough to feel lively.

Early Stops: Manavi and Badiauri

The first scenic stops are at Manavi and Badiauri, each featuring photo opportunities and brief guided visits. According to reviews, these stops are perfect for stretching legs and capturing early views of the countryside. Visitors appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to see local villages up close.

Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino

The visit to Bodbe Monastery is a major highlight. Spending around 100 minutes here allows enough time for a guided tour, sightseeing, and a peaceful walk around. You’ll learn about the monastery’s spiritual significance and enjoy its stunning views of the Alazani Valley. Reviewers like Karina praise the guide’s storytelling, saying, “Gio was super nice and very helpful,” which made the experience even richer.

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Sighnaghi: The City of Love

Next up is Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love” for its romantic atmosphere. You’ll have about 45 minutes to wander the cobblestone streets, admire the colorful houses, and enjoy panoramic vistas. Reviewers like Rociel describe it as “a nice place,” highlighting the comfortable pace and the charming ambiance. The town’s fortifications and viewpoints are popular photo spots, adding a picturesque touch to your day.

There's plenty more to explore in Sighnaghi

Telavi and Gombori Pass

After Sighnaghi, the group heads to Telavi, where a short 20-minute stop offers a chance for photos and a quick visit. Travelers often remark on the iconic Plane Tree, over 900 years old, which stands as a symbol of the area’s long history. The Gombori Pass, with a brief 15-minute stop, offers sweeping views of the mountains and valleys, a perfect reminder of Georgia’s natural beauty.

Ujarma Fortress

The final sightseeing stop is at the Ujarma Fortress, a historic site with panoramic views, giving insight into Georgia’s ancient past. It’s a quick 10-minute visit, but the views and stories shared by guides like Timur add depth and context.

Wine, Honey, and Local Tastes

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy multiple tasting sessions. In Manavi, taste local family chacha (a traditional spirit) and wine, along with mountain honey and a Churchkhela masterclass — a Georgian sweet made from grape must, nuts, and flour. Reviewers mention the authenticity of these tastings, emphasizing how they add flavor and fun to the trip.

In Sighnaghi, a “mini-factory” offers more wine and chacha tastings, rounding out the day with delicious local flavors. These tastings are often praised for their quality and variety, giving travelers a real taste of Kakheti’s renowned wine culture.

Guides and the Experience

Guests consistently mention guides like Gio and Timur for their knowledge, humor, and hospitality. Karina describes Gio as “super nice and very helpful,” noting how his stories made the sites come alive. Emmanouil highlights Timur’s explanations and information, making the wine tasting especially educational.

Practical Aspects

While the tour doesn’t include meals, stops in Sighnaghi or Telavi offer opportunities for lunch. The tour’s price reflects a good value, considering the transportation, guided visits, tastings, and special experiences like the Churchkhela masterclass.

Since wine tasting is included, it’s advisable to avoid driving afterward. Also, packing comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera ensures you’re ready for the day’s outdoor and scenic activities.

Who This Tour is Perfect For

This experience suits those who want an authentic taste of Georgia beyond the capital. It’s ideal for history buffs, wine lovers, and scenery enthusiasts alike. The guided approach makes it perfect for travelers who prefer a structured day with expert insights, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see multiple highlights in one go.

It’s also a hit with those who enjoy local tastings and cultural stories, as well as visitors wanting to learn about Georgian traditions in a friendly, relaxed setting.

Final Thoughts

For a well-paced, culturally enriching day that covers Kakheti’s scenic towns, historic sites, and wine traditions, this guided tour offers genuine value. The combination of stunning views, informative guides, and delicious tastings makes it a standout experience for many travelers.

While it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or strict schedules, those who enjoy outdoor exploration, local stories, and wine will find this tour genuinely rewarding. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting to see a broad swath of Kakheti in just one day, all wrapped in a comfortable, guided package.

In summary, if you’re looking for a taste of Georgian history, culture, and wine, this tour strikes a nice balance between sightseeing, education, and fun—delivered by passionate guides and set against some of the most beautiful landscapes Georgia has to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? No, the tour begins and ends at 21 Abano Street, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the meeting point.

How long is the tour? The full experience lasts about 9 hours, depending on traffic and group pace.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, but stops in Sighnaghi or Telavi provide opportunities to buy lunch or snacks.

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour involves some walking and outdoor exploration, so it’s best suited for older children and teens who can comfortably walk and are interested in history and scenery.

What language are guides available in? Guides speak English and Russian, accommodating a broad range of travelers.

Is there a dress code? Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since there’s walking involved at each site.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How much wine is tasted during the tour? Multiple tastings are included across different stops, with some sessions featuring local chacha and mountain honey.

Are the stops crowded? The stops are designed for small groups, making the experience personal and relaxed.

Is alcohol consumption allowed during the tour? Since tastings are part of the experience, alcohol is served responsibly, but guests should avoid driving afterward.

This guided day trip through Kakheti offers a wonderfully authentic glimpse into Georgia’s wine heartland. With knowledgeable guides, scenic vistas, and tasty local products, it’s a memorable way to spend a day exploring one of Georgia’s most captivating regions.