Our most recommended things to do in Telavi

From Tbilisi: Kakheti & Sighnaghi Guided Day Trip with Wine

1. From Tbilisi: Kakheti & Sighnaghi Guided Day Trip with Wine

Join this tour for an extraordinary day trip from Tbilisi to Kakheti and Sighnaghi, where an enchanting adventure awaits. Prepare to be captivated by the romance, beauty, and rich culture of one of Georgia's oldest and most charming cities. Step into the idyllic streets of Sighnaghi, where time seems to stand still. Meander through the picturesque narrow streets, adorned with traditional architecture, and let the stunning views of the Alazani Valley take your breath away. The panoramic vistas offer a feast for the eyes and a perfect backdrop for memorable moments. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you delve into the secrets of traditional Georgian bread-making at Badiauri. Learn the age-old techniques and witness the artistry behind crafting these mouthwatering delicacies. Let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill the air, tantalizing your senses. Discover the spiritual heritage of Georgia as you visit the holy Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino. Explore the serene grounds and marvel at the stunning architecture of this revered place. Feel a sense of peace and tranquility as you absorb the spiritual ambiance surrounding you. No trip to Kakheti would be complete without indulging in the delicious Georgian cuisine. Savor the flavors of local dishes, known for their rich and distinctive taste. Let your taste buds dance as you experience the unique blend of spices and ingredients that make Georgian cuisine truly exceptional. Immerse yourself in the local history and culture by exploring the local museum, where artifacts and exhibits offer a glimpse into the region's rich past. Gain insights into the traditions, customs, and heritage that have shaped the identity of Kakheti. Of course, no visit to Kakheti would be complete without exploring its renowned wine-growing regions. Embark on a delightful wine-tasting journey, sampling some of the country's finest wines. Allow the expert vintners to guide you through Georgian wine's intricate flavors and nuances as you uncover the deep-rooted winemaking traditions that date back centuries.

Kakheti One Day Tour with meal

2. Kakheti One Day Tour with meal

Kakheti is the main center of wine production in Georgia. First of all, we will visit the wine cellar, where you will see the wine put in the kvevri and learn about the winemaking technology. “which is included in the list of intangible heritage of UNESCO” and then, of course, you will taste 5-6 types of traditional Kakhri wine, as well as cognac and chacha. After that, we stop on the way in the village of Badiauri, where you can participate in the process of baking traditional Kakhuri bread in a clay oven. Our next stop will be at Bodbe Monastery, this monastery is currently functioning as a nunnery. According to the legend it is built on the burial place of Saint Nino. Georgian kings were paying great attention to the Bodbe Monastery. It has been repaired and restored many times. In XVII-XVIII centuries, there were scribes: Zakaria Bodbeli (XVII c.), Onofre Bodbeli (XVIII century), Ioane Jorjadze (XVIII century), David Bodbeli (XVIII), Ioane Makashvili (1743-1837) and others. From 1837 Bodbe Monastery was abolished and became a church for believers. In 1889 the Bodbe Mother’s Monastery was opened. There was a teaching school with an artistic department. In the complex there is a monument of Georgian architecture- three-nave basilica( with three apsides). With the initial architectural shapes it belongs to the earlier feudal age. Nowadays, it significantly changed. Plastered from the inside and outside. The footprints of the XVII and XIX centuries restoration are apparent. According to the inscription, in the 20s of the XIX century, the church was thoroughly repaired and painted under the direction of Metropolitan Sighnaghi and Kiziki Ioane Makashvili. As part of the tour, you will also visit the beautiful historical city of “Sighnaghi” which is known as the “City of Love”. The wedding venue is open 24 hours a day. Here you can enjoy the views of the Great Caucasus, and you can also walk on the Great Wall of Sighnaghi, which is about 5 kilometers long, and enjoy the fascinating view of the Alazni Valley. Group Tour duration: at 9:00 until 19:00 .

Tusheti Thrill: Limited-Time Mountain Escape 3 day tour

3. Tusheti Thrill: Limited-Time Mountain Escape 3 day tour

Venture into the heart of the majestic Caucasus Mountains and uncover the hidden treasure that is Tusheti. This 3-day small group tour from Tbilisi is an exclusive opportunity to explore a remote region that is accessible by car for only three months a year. With its unspoiled nature, fewer tourists, and an atmosphere that is pure and invigorating, Tusheti is a destination that appeals to the soul. As you make your way through the rugged terrains in a 4WD vehicle, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking mountain views that surround you. The air is crisp, the skies are a canvas of a million stars, and the silence is punctuated only by the whispers of the wind. Day 1: Depart from Tbilisi and ascend into the mountains to reach the ancient village of Omalo. Here, you will witness a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. The Keselo Fortress stands as a sentinel, guarding the secrets of this land. Day 2: Delve into the Tusheti National Park, where the verdant forests and alpine meadows beckon. The villages of Dartlo and Parsma are jewels nestled in the mountains. The stone towers and slate-roofed houses speak of a rich cultural heritage. Day 3: Visit Shenako, home to the Holy Trinity Church, and breathe in the spirituality that permeates the air. As you make your way back to Tbilisi, the mountains will bid you a silent farewell. Throughout this journey, you will meet the people of Tusheti - the guardians of this land. Their hospitality is warm, and their hearts are open. The local cuisine is a melody of flavors that are as rich and varied as the culture. For the adventurous at heart, there is an option to explore the landscapes on horseback. Imagine riding through the meadows with the wind in your hair and freedom at your fingertips. This is not just a tour; it's an experience that will resonate with you long after you have left. It's an invitation to connect with a land that is raw, pure, and untamed. It's a call to the heart for those who seek more than just a destination. Availability is limited. Make the best decision of your life and secure your spot on this unforgettable journey. Tusheti is waiting for you.

Kakheti: Bodbe (Monastery), Sighnaghi (Love city), Telavi

4. Kakheti: Bodbe (Monastery), Sighnaghi (Love city), Telavi

Experience the beauty of Georgian history and culture on this full-day tour of Kakheti. Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Bodbe Monastery, the final resting place of St. Nino, the 4th-century female evangelist who converted Georgia to Christianity. Next, explore the charming town of Sighnaghi, often called the "city of love" for its romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley. Finally, end your day with a delicious wine-tasting experience in Telavi, where you'll have the opportunity to try some of the best wines that Georgia has to offer.

Tbilisi: Daily (group) trip, Kakheti-Bodbe-Sighnaghi-Telavi

5. Tbilisi: Daily (group) trip, Kakheti-Bodbe-Sighnaghi-Telavi

What is Kakheti? Kakheti is hectares of vineyards. This is the place where the best Georgian wine was born and is now being produced. There are incredible views of the Alazani Valley, which are somewhat reminiscent of Provence or Tuscany. We will have only one day to visit all the main sights of Kakheti and learn more about this region. Homeland of Georgian wine On the way to Kakheti, we will make a short stop and see how Kakhetian bread is baked in a clay oven. And then we will go to the “city of love”, Sighnaghi. It is somewhat reminiscent of small Italian cities with tiled roofs and an old fortress. Wonderful views of the Alazani valley open from here. It is supposed to be the coziest town in Georgia. Our next stop will be the Basilica of St. Nino in the convent, where you cansee (and try) Holy spring of St. Nino. We will not bypass the well-known wine corporation Kindzmarauli in Kvareli. At the end of the tour we will reach Telavi, where the Ujarma fortress is located. Several centuries ago, Vakhtang Gorgasali, the founder of Tbilisi, lived here. We will finish our trip in a nice restaurante with an outstanding view of Alazani valley. and of course, one more wine tasting, and if you want - you can buy wine, because wine is a must have souvenir from Kakheti.

Tbilisi: Kakheti Signagi Telavi Alaverdi Full-Day Tour

6. Tbilisi: Kakheti Signagi Telavi Alaverdi Full-Day Tour

After being picked up from your hotel at 8:00AM, your first stop will be the Ujarma fortress. It is believed that in the second half of the 5th century, the famous Vakhtang Gorgasali (founder of Tbilisi) erected numerous buildings in Ujarma and moved his residence there. In the 10th century, Ujarma was destroyed by the Arabian forces of Abul Kassim. Later on in the 13th century, the fortress was restored by King George III, where he arranged treasury. Moving on, your tour will continue through the Gombori Pass, which will see you drive to an altitude of 1,650 meters (5,414 feet). At the top you will discover an observation deck, the perfect place for a photo shoot. After a small stop, you will continue your journey through the magical forest, where you will be able to make a wish. The next stop will be to the Alaverdi Monastery. At a height of over 55 meters, the Alaverdi Cathedral is the second tallest religious building in Georgia. You will then visit the city of Telavi, the main city and administrative center of Georgia's eastern province of Kakheti. On the way to Kvareli, you will stop at the Gremi. Standing above the green valley of Alazan, Gremi attracts travelers whose road goes between Telavi and Kvareli. Gloomy and monumental, the castle is one of the most visited tourist points in Georgia. In Kvareli, you will have the opportunity to taste Georgian wines, finding out how they are made. Following your wine tasting, you should find yourself with a new strength. You will then go to the Bodbe Monastery, which is one of the most important religious sites in Georgia. Continuing your trip, you will venture toward Sighnaghi. Its charming cobblestone streets and alleys consist of restored original nouveau woodwork, and detailed facades give the town a romantic mystique. Billed the "City of Love", Sighnaghi is a popular wedding venue. The wedding chapel here was the first to operate around the clock, and put Sighnaghi on the map as a destination. Its marriage chapel now hosts ceremonies which take place at all hours of the day and night.

Full-Day Georgian Wine Tasting Tour

7. Full-Day Georgian Wine Tasting Tour

Your full-day tour begins with a morning drive to the Kakheti region, located 120 kilometers east of Tbilisi. This is the largest wine-producing region in Georgia. Pass through the picturesque Gombory before you arrive in the city of Telavi. Visit a farming family and taste wine directly from the qvevri (terracotta tank). Learn how local people live and about their traditional way of wine production. Taste 4 different types of homemade white and red wine and chacha (Georgian grappa). Next, you’ll drive further north into the Greater Caucasus mountain range. On the way you'll stop to visit the Gremi Fortress, dating from the 16th century. The picturesque location of the fortress with its tall bell tower and high walls always makes a deep impression on visitors. The tour continues to the small city of Kvareli and the wine tunnels dug under the Greater Caucasus mountain range. The 2 main tunnels stretch for over 800 meters and are used to store the wine. Take the elevator up to the restaurant above the tunnels to enjoy views of the lovely Alazani Valley. In the wine tunnels you’ll have the opportunity to taste 2 or more different types of Khareba wines. On the return trip to Tbilisi, you can choose either a visit to the 19th-century Prince Chavchavadze Palace with its stunning French park, or another wine-tasting stop at the spectacular Chateau Schuchmann in the village of Kisiskhevi. Finally you’ll stop at the Telavi market, where you’ll find a wide range fruits and vegetables, including apples and peaches, grapes and pomegranates, and tomatoes and cucumbers. After your market visit, you’ll be transferred back to Tbilisi.

Kakheti: Full-Day Wine Tour with Georgian Cuisine

8. Kakheti: Full-Day Wine Tour with Georgian Cuisine

Take a trip to the birthplace of wine, Kakheti. Be driven from Tbilisi through the Gombori pass, which overlooks stunning landscapes of high mountains. After about two hours of driving, arrive at one of the highest cathedrals of Georgia, Alaverdi, which was built in the 11th century. Continue towards the Napareuli village, known as one of the most distinguished winery microzones in the world, to taste several types of Georgian wine in one of the old wine cellars of the village. Afterward, head to a lovely small city in Kvareli for lunch.  After tasting some of the delicious dishes of Georgian cuisine, continue to another old winery, Khareba Tunnel, with a unique rare wine cellar located in the Alazani Valley. Carved inside the Caucasus mountains and opened in 1962, the cellar is 7.7 kilometers long. After tasting some delicious Georgian wine, head to Tsinandali, another village in the Kakheti region. Visit the beautiful House Museum of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, which has its own ancient wine cellar or Marani where wine was produced and bottled according to the European method of winemaking, for the first time in the history of Georgia. Learn the old Georgian method of winemaking in special earthenware vessels Qvevri or amphorae, which give a special rich flavor to the wine. Georgian wine making method in Qvevri is in the UNESCO list of intangible world heritage monuments.

From Tbilisi: Kakheti Region Private Food Tour with Tasting

9. From Tbilisi: Kakheti Region Private Food Tour with Tasting

Discover the ultimate foodie experience on a private tour from Tbilisi to the Kakheti region! Join us as we explore the bustling town of Telavi and immerse ourselves in its rich culture and local sites. Our itinerary starts with a pickup from Tbilisi and a drive through the stunning Gombori Pass. As we make our way to Telavi, we'll visit Batonis Tsikhe, a 17th-century fortress located in the centre of Telavi. From the top of its watchtowers, we'll admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding area and marvel at the statue of the king and the ancient 900-year-old Giant Plane Tree. After exploring the fortress, we'll venture to the Telavi Farmers' Bazaar, a vibrant market where you can sample delicious street food and witness the diversity of goods on offer, including fresh produce, meat, and cheeses. We'll try seasonal fruits and indulge in pickled jonjoli, goat cheese, and sulguni cheese. For those with a sweet tooth, we'll sample churchkhela, a Georgian delicacy made from nuts coated in fruit syrup. We'll also taste honeycomb and walnuts covered in kiwi juice, dried persimmons, and fruit rolls. Next, we'll visit a cheese factory where we'll see over ten different varieties of cheese being made and sample some of their most delectable creations. We'll observe the cheese-making process, from the vats of cultured milk to the packaging centre, and even get the chance to try cheese aged in white and black wines, cheese with spices and herbs, and more. Finally, we'll visit a private winery where we'll meet winemakers and taste some of the best wines in Georgia, including the traditional Rkatsiteli amber wine. Come on this mouth-watering journey and repeat the adventure of famous food blogger David Hoffman as he explored Telavi and the Kakheti region. Get ready to indulge in the rich flavours of Georgian cuisine and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Kakheti: Organic Wine Tasting Tour & Traditional Lunch

10. Kakheti: Organic Wine Tasting Tour & Traditional Lunch

This tour focuses on the traditional wines of Kakheti, wines that are produced in special cellars in big clay vessels called Qvevris. These natural wines continue an 8000-year-old tradition of wine making in the region and you are invited to taste selected artisan wines on this tour, including the unique Amber wines. The tour starts with pickup from your hotel or apartment in Tbilisi and takes you to Kakheti region, through the mountain pass of Gombori, where you can enjoy a moment of silence surrounded by beautiful panoramic views. Your first stop will be the workshop of one of only 3 remaining Qvevri makers in Georgia, where you will see how a Qvevri vessel is made, learn why it is buried underground and even taste some wine directly from a Qvevri. You will continue to a wine chateau in Telavi, where a traditional lunch with wine is waiting for you. Enjoy the wine tasting and lunch at a terrace overviewing the vineyard. After lunch, you can visit the recently renovated Telavi Fort or the famous farmers market of Telavi, where you can sample and buy local products. Next is an organic winery in Ruispiri village, where you can taste biodynamically harvested wines and enjoy the view of Alazani valley

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What people are saying about Telavi

Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 9 reviews

This was a great tour! The guide was very friendly, with lots of interesting facts about Georgia and winemaking to tell us, and he was also an excellent driver. The wineries we went to were all fantastic; our favourite was the small place we stopped for lunch. We ended up buying a few bottles from the different places we stopped at, they were so good.