Full Day Bodbe Sighnaghi and Telavi Wine Tasting Tour

This full-day experience promises a taste of Georgia’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious culinary delights—all rolled into one affordable package. Priced at just $20 per person, it’s a surprisingly rich journey through the heart of Kakheti, the country’s renowned wine region. With a mix of guided visits, tastings, and hands-on activities, this tour offers an authentic slice of Georgian life that’s perfect for curious travelers wanting a blend of history, flavor, and scenic beauty.

One of the highlights is the carefully curated itinerary, which balances cultural visits with opportunities to sample local specialties—like wine, chacha, honey, and churchkhela. We especially loved the way this tour combines stops in picturesque towns like Sighnaghi and Telavi with immersive experiences such as a bread-making masterclass and a mini-winery visit. The tour’s flexibility and affordability make it stand out in a landscape full of more commercialized options.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. The tour runs for about 10 hours, which can be a long day for some. Also, while most activities are included, some sites require small additional entrance fees—like Ujarma and Tsinandali. Still, for the value and the variety of experiences, it’s a tour best suited for those eager to explore Georgia’s countryside, enjoy local food and drink, and see some of the most scenic spots around Tbilisi.

If you’re after an engaging, budget-friendly way to get a broad taste of Kakheti’s cultural and culinary scene, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially well-suited for solo travelers, small groups, or anyone looking for a mix of guided insights and authentic hands-on experiences.

Key Points

• Affordable price: At $20, this tour provides a good balance of value by combining multiple stops and tastings.
• Cultural and culinary highlights: From wine tastings and honey to bread-making and churchkhela crafting.
• Scenic spots: Including Bodbe Monastery, Sighnaghi’s charming streets, and views of Ujarma.
• Expert guidance: Tour is led by knowledgeable guides, with a particularly praised guide named Mr. George.
• Flexible experience: Suitable for travelers of most ages and physical levels, with optional extra site costs.
• Long but rewarding day: About 10 hours, blending sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins bright and early at the Hawk & Pheasant Monument, Waterfall Square in Tbilisi, at 9:00 am. The tour uses an air-conditioned bus, which helps keep everyone comfortable during the long drive through Georgia’s lush countryside. With Wi-Fi on board, you can even share snaps or plan your next stop while en route. The group size is capped at 19 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

First Stop: Manavi

The tour kicks off in Manavi, a village famous for its vineyards and local produce. Here, you’re greeted with complimentary tastings of wine, chacha (Georgia’s fiery grape spirit), cognac, churchkhela (a traditional candy made from grape must and nuts), and honey. The reviews highlight how much visitors appreciated the opportunity to sample authentic local flavors—so don’t be shy about asking questions or taking photos of the picturesque vineyards.

What’s particularly appealing here is the chance to see Family-made products, meaning you’re tasting items prepared with genuine care and tradition. The scenic vineyard views make this stop a highlight for those who love their wine with a side of stunning nature.

Bread-Making Masterclass in Badiauri

Next, a quick 30-minute stop at Badiauri offers an engaging bread-making masterclass. You’ll discover the secrets behind crafting the perfect Georgian bread, which is an essential part of local hospitality. According to one reviewer, this hands-on part of the tour adds a fun and educational touch, especially for those interested in baking or Georgian cuisine. It’s a light, interactive break that complements the tasting experience and offers a peek into everyday Georgian life.

Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino

A visit to Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino is a spiritual and historical highlight. Though the entry isn’t included, the 60-minute walk around this ancient complex offers superb photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the religious architecture and peaceful surroundings. The monastery is just 2 km from Sighnaghi, making it a convenient stop with plenty of photo-worthy views of the Georgian landscape.

Sighnaghi: The City of Love

The tour then takes you to Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love” for its cobbled streets and charming atmosphere. Here, you’re treated to a two-hour free time at a local restaurant, where you can soak in the lively vibe and enjoy complimentary wine and chacha tastings. The town’s colorful houses and scenic city walls provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely exploration. Reviewers often mention the stunning views from Sighnaghi’s ramps—clear evidence of why it’s a favorite among visitors seeking picturesque scenery.

Telavi and Historical Highlights

Next, the journey heads to Telavi, the regional capital, famous for its ancient sights. You’ll see the 900-year-old tree, symbolizing longevity—an instagrammable moment for sure. Plus, a visit to King Erekle’s palace offers a glimpse into Georgian royalty’s history. The tour includes complimentary wine tastings at a local winery with views of the mountains, adding another layer to your understanding of Georgia’s deep-rooted winemaking traditions.

Ujarma and Scenic Pass-By Views

A brief stop at Ujarma (30 minutes, 10 GEL fee) grants spectacular vistas of the ruins and a charming church, perfect for photography and a moment to stretch your legs. It’s a scenic pass-by that offers a sense of Georgia’s ancient past amidst beautiful surroundings.

Lunch Break

The tour provides a one-hour lunch in Telavi, giving travelers time to relax and reflect on the morning’s sights. Though the tour package doesn’t include the cost, it’s a great chance to try local dishes—possibly at a nearby restaurant with views of the fertile Kakheti plains.

Optional Site Visits

Additional site fees apply for Ujarma and Tsinandali, each costing 10 GEL. These extra costs are minor but worth noting if you’re interested in exploring more of Georgia’s historical estates and archaeological sites.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The most praised aspect—based on reviews—is the guide, Mr. George, who is described as very friendly, clear, and accommodating. His explanations add depth and humor to the day, making even the long hours feel engaging. Travelers loved the stunning views at various stops, especially Ujarma and Sighnaghi, which showcase Georgia’s lush mountains and picturesque towns.

The value here is quite impressive: for only $20, you get transportation, multiple tastings, a masterclass, and visits to significant cultural sites. This makes it an excellent choice for budget travelers eager to see a lot without feeling rushed or overpaying.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, especially for cobbled streets and walking around monasteries.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for the many photo opportunities.
• Budget some extra GEL for optional site entrance fees or lunch.
• Be prepared for a long but rewarding day—bring snacks or water if you need a quick boost.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want to experience Georgian culture through taste and sight, without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for small groups or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, tasting, and hands-on activities. If you’re a fan of scenic views, historic sites, and local food & drink, you’ll find this tour quite fulfilling. It’s also perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace—most stops offer enough time to explore, photograph, and soak in the atmosphere.

Those with a curiosity for wine and traditional Georgian specialties will particularly enjoy the tastings and workshops. However, if you’re seeking a very structured, fast-paced tour with minimal interaction, this might feel a bit leisurely.

The Sum Up

This Full Day Bodbe, Sighnaghi, and Telavi Wine Tasting Tour presents a cost-effective way to explore Georgia’s fascinating wine region and its cultural gems. The combination of scenic towns, historical sites, and interactive tastings makes it a well-rounded experience for those wanting to get a good sense of what makes Georgia special—at a very reasonable price. The emphasis on local flavors, storytelling by guides like Mr. George, and stunning vistas means you’ll likely walk away with both great memories and a deeper appreciation for Georgian traditions.

While it is a long day, the variety of activities ensures you’re engaged all the way through. The inclusion of hands-on experiences like churchkhela crafting and bread-making adds a genuine touch that elevates this tour from just sightseeing to an educational journey. It’s perfect for travelers looking for an authentic taste of Kakheti without the fuss.

This tour is a smart choice for curious explorers, wine lovers, and budget travelers who want to make the most of Georgia’s charming countryside in one day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. It’s a full-day experience with a mix of sightseeing and tastings, suitable for a wide age range.

What is included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, tastings of wine, chacha, and honey, plus Wi-Fi on the bus.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Yes, some sites like Ujarma and Tsinandali require small entrance fees (10 GEL each). Lunch is not included but can be purchased locally.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins at 9:00 am from Waterfall Square in Tbilisi and wraps up back at the meeting point after about 10 hours.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviewers consistently praise guides like Mr. George for their friendliness and clarity. Expect a mix of informative storytelling and humor.

How long is the walk around Bodbe Monastery?
The visit lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to explore the complex without feeling rushed.

Do I need to prepare for the walking involved?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as some stops involve walking on uneven or cobbled terrain.

Is there Wi-Fi on the bus?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available, which is handy for sharing photos or staying connected during the drive.

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Georgia’s wine culture and scenic beauty, all at a budget-friendly price. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day discovering the country’s culinary and historical treasures with knowledgeable guides and plenty of tastings along the way.