2-Day Kakheti Private Tour from Tbilisi

Day 1: Tbilisi – Ujarma – Ikalto – Alaverdi – Telavi

We leave Tbilisi in the morning and travel east towards Kakheti. Instead of following the main highway across the plains, we take the scenic road leading towards the forested Gombori Range.

Ujarma Fortress

Our first visit is Ujarma, an early Georgian fortress-town standing above the Iori River. Once associated with the kings of Iberia, the fortress protected an important route into Kakheti. Today, its weathered walls, towers and church ruins create an atmospheric introduction to the region’s long and often turbulent history.

We walk through the upper fortress and enjoy views across the river valley. The ground is uneven in places, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Across the Gombori Range

From Ujarma, the road climbs through the Gombori Range. Forests, mountain villages and occasional viewpoints make this one of the most scenic approaches to the Alazani Valley. Short photography stops can be made when the weather and road conditions allow.

Ikalto Monastery and Academy

At Ikalto, we explore a peaceful monastery complex surrounded by cypress trees. The site became one of medieval Georgia’s important centres of education, philosophy and theology. Local tradition also connects the academy with Shota Rustaveli, the author of Georgia’s national epic.

Among the ruins, we see the remains of the academy, old churches, wine presses and clay wine vessels—a reminder that education, religion and winemaking developed side by side in medieval Kakheti.

Alaverdi Cathedral

Our next stop is Alaverdi Cathedral, one of Georgia’s most impressive religious monuments. The present cathedral dates mainly from the 11th century and rises dramatically above the flat Alazani Valley, with the Caucasus Mountains forming a natural background.

Alaverdi remains an active Georgian Orthodox monastery. Visitors should dress respectfully, speak quietly and follow any instructions given by the monastery staff.

Telavi

In the afternoon, we reach Telavi, Kakheti’s historic and administrative centre. Depending on arrival time and opening hours, our walk can include Batonis Tsikhe—the former palace and fortress of the Kakhetian kings—the monument to King Erekle II, Telavi’s old plane tree and part of the traditional town centre.

Telavi feels lived-in rather than staged for visitors. Small streets, balconies, local shops and views over the Alazani Valley give the town a warm, authentic atmosphere.

Overnight in Telavi

Accommodation is provided in a comfortable local guesthouse in Telavi. The standard arrangement normally includes a private room, private bathroom and breakfast. The exact guesthouse is confirmed after booking.

A hotel upgrade can be arranged for an additional charge. The supplement depends on the chosen hotel, room category, season and availability.

Day 2: Telavi – Gremi – Nekresi – Kvareli Lake – Sighnaghi – Tbilisi

After breakfast, we continue east along the Alazani Valley, where historic monuments stand among vineyards, orchards and villages beneath the Greater Caucasus Mountains.

Gremi Citadel

Gremi was the royal capital and political centre of the Kingdom of Kakheti during the 16th and early 17th centuries. The surviving citadel rises above the valley and includes the Church of the Archangels, a defensive tower and parts of the former royal complex.

We explore the citadel and hear how this once-prosperous settlement stood on an important commercial route. The tower and elevated terraces offer excellent views across the surrounding countryside.

Nekresi Monastery

We continue to Nekresi, an ancient monastic complex built on a wooded hillside above the Alazani Valley. The site contains religious structures from different historical periods and offers one of the finest panoramas in Kakheti.

Access to the upper monastery normally involves a local shuttle or an uphill walk, depending on current site operations. The climb and some sections inside the complex have steps and uneven surfaces.

Optional Kakhetian Wine Tasting

Guests who would like to experience Kakheti’s winemaking tradition may add a pre-booked tasting at a winery near Nekresi, Shilda or Kvareli. A suitable option may be Ikano Estate/Friends’ Cellar at Nelkarisi, subject to availability.

The expected price for a standard tasting is approximately 50 GEL per person. Wine tasting is not included in the base tour price, and the exact winery, tasting selection and cost will be confirmed before the tour.

The tasting is entirely optional. Guests who do not drink alcohol can use the time for a short rest, refreshments or an additional cultural stop where scheduling permits.

Kvareli Lake

We make a relaxing stop in the Kvareli area to enjoy the forested landscape around Kvareli Lake. The lake is associated with a private resort, so entry to particular lakeside areas, terraces or facilities depends on the property’s current visitor policy.

Access will be checked before departure. If entry is restricted, we will use another accessible viewpoint or nature stop in the Kvareli area without compromising the main cultural itinerary.

Sighnaghi

Our final major destination is Sighnaghi, a small historic town overlooking the Alazani Valley. We walk through cobbled streets lined with traditional balconies, see sections of the old defensive walls and enjoy wide views towards the Caucasus Mountains.

Sighnaghi is sometimes called Georgia’s “City of Love,” but its real charm comes from its compact old centre, hilltop setting and mixture of Georgian and European architectural influences.

Return to Tbilisi

After our walk in Sighnaghi, we return to Tbilisi through the Kakhetian countryside. Arrival is expected in the evening, although the exact time depends on traffic, weather, monument opening hours and the duration of the optional wine tasting.