Kutaisi, Wine & Dine from Batumi

Exploring Georgia’s Oldest City with Wine and Dine from Batumi

This tour promises a delightful blend of history, culture, and culinary experiences, all packed into approximately 14 hours from Batumi to Kutaisi. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a quick visit—offering a rich, authentic taste of Georgia’s second-largest city with a focus on local life, architecture, and, of course, wine.

One feature we particularly appreciate is the chance to taste wines directly from a family-owned winery, paired with a genuine Georgian lunch in a friendly, welcoming setting. The carefully curated itinerary combines city sightseeing with a relaxed, intimate wine tasting, giving a well-rounded glimpse of Kutaisi’s charm.

A potential consideration is the long day’s schedule—covering a lot in one day means it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full itinerary and a fair amount of walking. If you’re after a slow-paced, leisure-focused experience, you might find this tour a bit packed. But for anyone eager to combine history, local culture, and great food in one go, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Overall, it’s ideal for curious travelers who love discovering new places through authentic, hands-on experiences, and who want to enjoy Georgia’s renowned hospitality and wine tradition without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines city sightseeing, wine tasting, and traditional Georgian cuisine.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit a family-owned winery and explore Kutaisi’s historic streets.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides offer insights into Georgia’s history and culture.
• Value for Money: At $84.50, including transport, wine tasting, and lunch, it’s a well-rounded package.
• Long but Rewarding Day: 14 hours of diverse activities suited for energetic travelers.
• Small Group Feel: Max 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

A Complete Look at the Kutaisi, Wine & Dine Tour

This full-day excursion from Batumi to Kutaisi offers an engaging mix of local sights, history, and flavors that appeal to those eager to experience Georgia beyond the usual tourist spots. The tour is run by Budget Georgia, with a reputation for providing friendly, informative guided experiences that focus on authentic local encounters.

Starting the Day: A City Tour of Kutaisi

The adventure begins at the central square of Kutaisi, a city steeped in history. Your guide—whose knowledge impressed previous travelers—kicks off with a lively introduction to Georgia’s past and Kutaisi’s role in it. From there, you’ll stroll through the city’s streets, stopping at notable landmarks like the fountain group, central park, and statues such as Sister Ishkhnelebi. The guide’s storytelling brings these sites to life, revealing stories behind the statues and buildings, which adds depth to what might otherwise be just a sightseeing walk.

The visit continues with a look at historic buildings like Kutaisi city hall and the opera house, along with the Mon Plasir arch, a charming architectural feature. Passing by the first gymnasium and crossing the white bridge adds a touch of local life, while the park of love and the Golden Marquee Palace provide charming photo opportunities.

A visit to the central grocery market (Mtsvane Bazari) is a highlight for food lovers. Here, you’ll see a lively scene filled with fresh produce, local specialties, and the bustling atmosphere that typifies Georgian markets. It’s a chance to observe everyday life and maybe pick up some fresh ingredients or souvenirs.

The Highlight: Baia’s Winery and Traditional Georgian Lunch

By late morning, the tour shifts gears toward a more relaxed pace at Baia’s Winery in the Bagdati municipality. The visit to the vineyard behind the house offers an intimate look at how wine is made in Georgia—a country famed for its centuries-old winemaking tradition. You’ll see the vines up close, gaining insight into the local grape varieties like Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, and Ojaleshi.

The real treat comes in the cozy wine cellar, where you’ll sample a variety of wines, including Chacha, a potent Georgian grape spirit. The guides—Baia and her sister Gvantsa—are passionate hosts, eager to share stories about their family’s winemaking journey. Reviews mention the guides’ warmth and knowledge, making the experience feel like visiting friends rather than a commercial tasting.

After the tasting, sit down to a hearty Georgian lunch prepared by Baia’s mother. The food is described as delicious Imereian dishes—a local specialty—served around a big table with plenty of wine. The home-cooked flavors, combined with genuine hospitality, turn this meal into a memorable highlight.

Why This Tour Works

The combination of city exploration and the winery visit balances sightseeing with culture. The small group size (maximum 20 travelers) enhances interaction, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy personalized attention. The tour’s pace is manageable, giving you enough time to appreciate each stop without feeling rushed.

Transportation and Practicalities

Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the approximately 14-hour journey. Starting at 9:00 am from Batumi, the tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward. The modest entrance fee of 3 GEL is optional, as most attractions are free, but it’s good to have some cash on hand.

The Review Perspective

One traveler noted that the day unfolded differently than planned—in a good way—highlighting the flexibility and spontaneity the guides bring. The tour’s structure allows for some surprises and unplanned moments, which adds to its charm. The emphasis on local experiences makes it more than just a sightseeing trip; it feels like a peek into everyday Georgian life.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy active days with a mix of history, culture, and food. It’s especially suited for those eager to sample authentic Georgian wine and enjoy a homely, genuine meal in a family-owned setting. If you appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable hosts, and you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and tasting, this tour offers excellent value.

It’s also great for small groups seeking a more intimate experience, and for travelers wanting a well-organized day without the hassle of planning. However, if you prefer a slower pace or are looking for a relaxed, light-hearted excursion, you might find this schedule a bit packed.

The Sum Up

The Kutaisi, Wine & Dine tour from Batumi offers a compelling blend of cultural exploration, historic charm, and authentic Georgian hospitality. With a knowledgeable guide, a warm family winery experience, and a delicious homemade lunch, it provides a well-rounded taste of what Georgia has to offer.

The value for money is high, considering the long day filled with diverse activities—city sightseeing, wine tasting, and local cuisine—all delivered comfortably in a small-group setting. It’s a particularly good choice for curious travelers eager to see the real Georgia, beyond tourist hotspots.

If you’re after an immersive, friendly, and flavorful day trip, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for those who want a meaningful glimpse into Georgia’s traditions, history, and hospitality, leaving you with memorable stories and, of course, a few bottles of local wine.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am from the central meeting point in Batumi.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 14 hours, making for a full, energetic day.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guided city tour, wine tasting, and a traditional Georgian lunch.

Are there any optional fees?
Yes, there’s a small entrance fee of 3 GEL for some sites, but most attractions are free.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though the long hours and walking might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How many people are in a typical group?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, creating a more personal experience.

Can I expect to try different wines?
Absolutely. The family winery produces several varieties including Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Ojaleshi, and Otskhanuri Sapere, plus Chacha.

What about the food?
The lunch is home-cooked with local Imereian dishes, renowned for their delicious flavors and generous portions.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Just bring some cash for optional entrance fees and any personal souvenirs, and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, outdoor activities depend on good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.