Kakheti, Tbilisi & Mtskheta: 2-Day Tour with Wine Tasting

Travelers seeking an authentic taste of Georgia’s wine heritage, culture, and scenic beauty will find this 2-day tour a compelling choice. Offered by ACROSS AFRICA TOURS & TRAVEL, this experience combines visits to historic sites, local wineries, and unique culinary classes with the thrill of tasting some of the world’s oldest wines. It’s designed for those who want a deep, hands-on look into Georgian traditions while enjoying comfortable transport and expert guides.

What really sets this tour apart is the “Wine Tasting in the Sky”—a dinner experience unlike any other, hosted high above the city with panoramic views. Add in visits to UNESCO sites and charming wine cellars, and it’s easy to see why this tour appeals to travelers eager for both culture and flavor. However, with a packed itinerary and some long travel stretches, it’s best suited for active, curious explorers who don’t mind a busy schedule.

One thing to keep in mind is that with a price tag of $666 per person, you’re paying for a comprehensive experience that offers excellent value if you’re keen on wine, history, and authentic local flavors. Just ensure you’re prepared for a full, sometimes energetic two days filled with walking and new tastes.

Key Points

• Authentic Wine Experiences: Visit local wineries with traditional methods, including clay vessel winemaking.
• Cultural Highlights: UNESCO sites like Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral offer a window into Georgia’s spiritual heritage.
• Unique Dining: A sky-high wine tasting with snacks, cheese, and unlimited Georgian wine creates a memorable ambiance.
• Interactive Activities: Cooking classes and masterclasses in making churchkhela and khinkali add a hands-on element.
• Scenic & Relaxing Spots: Turtle Lake and Leghvtakhevi Waterfall provide serene natural breaks from sightseeing.
• Comprehensive Tour: The itinerary balances history, wine, cuisine, and nature for well-rounded travelers.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Georgian Journey

The tour kicks off early with a pick-up from your accommodation, setting the tone for a seamless, hassle-free experience. The first stop in Kakheti is the KTW Wine Cellar, a must-visit for anyone interested in Georgia’s ancient wine traditions. Georgia boasts over 530 indigenous grape varieties, many still used today, and KTW offers a chance to learn how these are transformed into wine using traditional clay vessels called qvevris. Visitors love the fact that this method has been passed down for thousands of years, and tasting these authentic wines really highlights Georgia’s unique terroir.

Next, the journey continues to Giuaani Wine Room, a family-run hotel that emphasizes the warm, personal side of Georgian winemaking. Here, you’ll explore a traditional wine cellar, taste local wines and Chacha—the fiery grape vodka Georgia is famous for—and participate in a cuisine masterclass. The opportunity to learn how to make churchkhela (a delicious, grape-based sweet) and bread is a highlight, offering a tangible connection to Georgia’s culinary culture. Reviewers have mentioned how engaging and enjoyable these classes are, with one noting how “making churchkhela felt like stepping into a family tradition.”

After the wine and cooking experiences, the tour offers a chance to explore Tbilisi’s historic Abanotubani district. This area, known for its sulfur baths, is a sensory delight—bright, bustling, and packed with traditional architecture. A short walk leads to the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall, a peaceful spot amid the city’s lively backdrop. The waterfall’s tranquil atmosphere gives visitors a moment of calm, perfect after a busy morning.

The evening culminates with the “Wine Tasting & Dinner in the Sky”, which is often praised as a highlight of the tour. Hosted by a professional sommelier, this experience combines learning about Georgian winemaking with the thrill of tasting white, red, and rosé wines while sitting comfortably high above the city. The menu features champagne, canapés, a variety of Georgian cheeses, and traditional sweets like churchkhela and dried fruits. Guests have described this as “a surreal experience—sipping wine with a view that’s hard to beat,” and the snacks are well-loved for pairing perfectly with the wines.

Day Two: Culture, History, and Nature

The second day shifts gears to cultural exploration. You start at Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a hill overlooking Mtskheta. The monastery dates back to the 6th century and offers stunning views of the confluence of the Kura and Aragvi rivers. Visitors are often struck by how well-preserved the mosaics are, and the site provides a profound sense of Georgia’s spiritual past.

Next, the tour continues to Chumber of Wine, where you’ll learn to make Khinkali—Georgia’s famous dumplings—and taste wines in a traditional qvevri cellar. The scenic terrace with panoramic views makes this a memorable spot for lunch, and the hands-on aspect of the Khinkali masterclass gets good reviews—many mention how fun it was to fold and cook the dumplings themselves.

A visit to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral—another UNESCO site—completes the historical tour. Inside, the intricate stone carvings and frescoes reveal the depth of Georgian Orthodox artistry. It’s a peaceful spot where many visitors take a moment to soak in the architecture and history.

The tour ends at Turtle Lake, a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Sitting at 700 meters above sea level, it offers peaceful views, boat rentals, and forest trails. It’s an ideal spot to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing, and many guests appreciate the chance to relax in nature before heading back to Tbilisi.

Practical Aspects and Value

Transportation in this tour is handled via a private vehicle, which ensures comfort and flexibility—important given the varied terrain and distance between sites. The group size is limited to 12, fostering a more intimate experience and easy interaction with your guide. The guide services are noted for being informative and personable, often sharing insights beyond the scripted itinerary.

Pricing at $666 per person might seem high initially, but when you consider the inclusions—multiple wine tastings, cooking classes, UNESCO site visits, a sky dinner, transportation, and guide services—the value is quite good. Not only do you get a curated experience, but also the chance to engage with local traditions in a way that’s often not available to independent travelers. The “Dinner in the Sky” activity alone is a unique offering that adds a wow factor to the experience.

Travelers should be prepared for longer travel times in some parts of the tour, but the stops are well-chosen to maximize cultural and sensory exposure. The tour is best suited for energetic travelers who enjoy a mix of history, food, and wine, and who don’t mind a busy schedule.

What’s Not Included

Personal items, tips, and additional souvenirs are not covered, so bring some cash or cards for extra snacks or gifts. Weather insurance is included, which is reassuring given Georgia’s unpredictable weather.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a rich, layered experience of Georgia’s wine traditions, historic sites, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for those eager to explore beyond Tbilisi’s city streets and dive into the country’s cultural soul. The combination of hands-on culinary experiences, spectacular wine tastings, and cultural visits makes it a well-rounded choice for curious travelers.

While the schedule is full, each element is thoughtfully designed to give a genuine taste of Georgia, not just a tourist snapshot. If you’re looking for an immersive, authentic adventure that balances education, tasting, and relaxation, this tour offers excellent value—and plenty of stories to bring home.

Ideal for: wine lovers, culture enthusiasts, foodies, and explorers who want a comprehensive taste of Georgia’s traditions in just two days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Transportation, guide services, visits to Kakheti and Mtskheta, wine tastings, cooking and masterclasses, meals in Kakheti, and the sky wine tasting dinner are all included.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 12 participants, creating a more personal experience.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll taste a variety of authentic Georgian wines, including white, red, rosé, and Chacha, a traditional grape vodka.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
The provided menus include a range of Georgian dishes and cheeses, but it’s best to clarify dietary needs in advance when booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities is recommended. Layers are advisable, especially if visiting scenic sites like Turtle Lake or the waterfall.

How long are the travel stretches?
Travel between sites is handled by private vehicle, with some longer drives to Kakheti, but plenty of stops break up the journey.

Can I join just part of the tour?
This tour is designed as a two-day package; partial participation may not be available, so check with the provider.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, Georgia’s best travel months are spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the landscape is at its most picturesque.

Is this appropriate for families?
Yes, families with active children who enjoy history, food, and wine will find it engaging, but consider the long days and activity level.

This comprehensive tour offers a genuine glimpse into Georgia’s wine, culture, and landscapes, perfect for those wanting an immersive and memorable experience.