Group Tour from Tbilisi: Sighnaghi, Bodbe & 8 Wine Tastings

A full day exploring Georgia’s stunning landscapes, historic towns, and exquisite wines—what’s not to love? This popular group tour from Tbilisi, rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 60 reviews, offers an affordable way to experience some of Georgia’s most picturesque and culturally significant sites. For just around $15.50 per person, it packs in visits to Bodbe Monastery, the enchanting city of Sighnaghi, a traditional bakery in Badiauri, and two Kakheti wine cellars with a total of 8 tastings. The entire journey takes about nine hours, making it an excellent option whether you’re pressed for time or eager to see a variety of sights in one day.

What I really like about this tour is how well it balances sightseeing, local culinary experiences, and tastings—especially the wine. The guide, with audio options in English and Russian, makes the logistics smooth, so you can focus on enjoying each moment. Plus, the stops are thoughtfully chosen to show off Georgia’s landscape, craftsmanship, and spiritual sites. On the other hand, a little consideration is needed for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or are particularly interested in historical detail—this tour is lively and packed with activities, so it’s perfect for eager travelers but might be fast for slow-strollers.

Key Points:
– Authentic cultural visits like Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi provide insight into Georgia’s spiritual and artistic traditions.
– Delicious local food and wine experiences make this tour both tasty and memorable.
– Well-organized logistics ensure a seamless day, with excellent value for the price.
– Small group size (up to 17 people) fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
– Expert guide and audio options enhance understanding and comfort during the trip.
– A balance of sightseeing, tasting, and leisure makes this tour suitable for a variety of travelers.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The First Stop: Manavi – A Taste of Georgian Wine and Honey

Your day kicks off at Manavi, where you’ll visit a family-owned winery. The experience involves tasting wine and honey, with a special Churchkhela master-class. Churchkhela is an iconic Georgian treat—think of it as a candied sausage of nuts and fruit, dipped in thickened grape juice. The guide emphasizes that this stop is about 30 minutes, which is enough to enjoy the tastings and get a glimpse into Georgia’s ancient wine traditions. As one reviewer put it, the visit here is “a lovely way to start the day,” especially if you’re interested in Georgia’s wine heritage.

The Second Stop: Badiauri Bakery – Homemade Bread and Cheese

Next, you visit Badiauri Bakery, famous for its traditional Georgian bread. Here, you’re encouraged to participate in making your own bread, which is both fun and educational. You’ll taste fresh bread and local cheeses—simple but essential Georgia staples. With about an hour and a half here, you get a real taste of daily life and culinary craft. The review mentions that “making your own bread and seeing how it’s baked in a traditional oven” adds a little magic to this part of the trip. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity for some hands-on experience, especially if you’re into food.

The Spiritual Highlight: Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino

No trip to Georgia is complete without a visit to Bodbe Monastery. This site is sacred as the final resting place of St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia. The gardens are peaceful, and the views over the surrounding landscape are beautiful. The guided tour (lasting roughly 45 minutes) includes a chance to enjoy the calm atmosphere and admire the monastery’s architecture. Visitors have praised this stop for its serenity; one reviewer even said they enjoyed “strolling through the gardens and soaking in the peaceful ambiance.” Entry is included, so no extra expense is needed.

The Heart of Sighnaghi – The City of Love

Then it’s time to wander through Sighnaghi, famed for its romantic streets and stunning vistas. The town is a favorite for its cobblestone streets, brightly painted houses, and ornate wooden balconies. The group spends about an hour exploring the artisan shops, the city walls, and enjoying panoramic views of the Alazani Valley. Walking along the ancient city walls—just a 30-minute stroll—offers some of the best scenery of the day. One traveler noted, “I loved the way the town’s charm combined with the breathtaking views, perfect for a romantic stroll or just to soak in the scenery.” It’s an ideal spot for snapping photos or just relaxing with local coffee.

Additional Highlights: City Walls and Local Artisans

The tour includes a walk along Signagi’s fortified walls, giving you a different perspective of the town’s history and architecture. You’ll also see local artisan crafts—ideal for picking up souvenirs or simply admiring Georgian craftsmanship. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make browsing these shops enjoyable rather than overwhelming.

An Unmissable Wine Journey

Perhaps the highlight for many is the winery visits in Kakheti, Georgia’s famed wine region. The tour involves visiting two vineyards, each known for their quality and tradition. With 7 tastings combined, your palate will be treated to local varieties, some of which date back centuries. These tastings are carefully curated to showcase Georgia’s unique winemaking heritage—think qvevri wines (made in clay vessels buried underground). Several reviews praise the “fantastic wine selection” and “delicious tasting experience,” confirming that this part of the tour is a real highlight.

Practical Considerations

The entire day is comfortably managed, with an air-conditioned vehicle and WiFi on board—helpful for sharing your favorite moments or catching up on emails. The tour departs at 9:00 am from Shota Rustaveli Avenue and returns at the same meeting point. With a maximum of 17 travelers, it strikes a nice balance between intimacy and group camaraderie.

The price, approximately $15.48, for this full-day experience is outstanding value, given the number of sites, tastings, and included entries. Additional costs for optional activities like the Churchkhela or bread-making classes are minimal (around 2 Euros each) and paid on-site. The tour provider, Vitis Travel, ensures that the logistics are handled smoothly—so you can focus on enjoying the ride.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers looking for a well-rounded Georgian experience without the hassle of organizing transport or visits themselves. Perfect for wine lovers, foodies, and those interested in the stunning scenery and architecture of eastern Georgia. It’s also ideal for first-timers, as it covers a lot of ground in one day with small-group comfort. If you prefer a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to mingle and learn, this tour hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting an affordable, engaging, and authentic taste of Georgia, this tour offers remarkable value. It combines spiritual sites, charming towns, and legendary wines in a manner that’s both educational and fun. The small-group setting and expert guidance ensure that you’ll feel connected to the places you’re visiting, rather than just rushing past them. If you’re eager to discover Georgia’s scenic beauty, taste its wines, and enjoy its hearty food, this full-day tour from Tbilisi is a wise choice.

It’s especially great if you’re interested in experiencing a mix of cultural, culinary, and scenic highlights—crafted in a way that makes the most of your time. Just remember to bring your camera, an appetite for local flavors, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at 25 Shota Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi, at 9:00 am.

How long does the whole day last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, including all stops and activities.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, guide services with audio in English and Russian, and all entrance fees for Bodbe Monastery and Signagi walls.

Are wine tastings part of the tour?
Yes, there are 8 wine tastings across two Kakheti wineries, offering a good variety of local wines.

Can I participate in the bread-making and Churchkhela master classes?
These are optional and paid separately (around 2 Euros each, on-site), but they’re fun opportunities to connect with local traditions.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can join, and the tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of ages.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat or sunglasses for sun protection, and perhaps a small backpack for souvenirs or water.

How many people typically take part?
The maximum group size is 17, fostering a more intimate experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

This itinerary offers a welcoming blend of spirituality, scenery, and exceptional wine—perfect for those eager to deepen their Georgia experience without overextending their budget. It’s a well-balanced day that will leave you with plenty of stories and tasting notes to share.