Kakheti by Car: Sighnaghi, Telavi, Monasteries and Wineries
Kakheti is Georgia's main wine region, a couple of hours from Tbilisi. With a car you can move from monastery to winery at your own pace instead of following a tour.
A 1–2 day route
- Tbilisi → Sighnaghi — about 110 km and 2 hours. The "city of love" on a hill overlooking the Alazani Valley.
- Bodbe Monastery — 2 km from Sighnaghi.
- Sighnaghi → Telavi — about 60 km across the valley. In Telavi: Batonis Tsikhe fortress and the giant plane tree.
- Alaverdi Monastery and Ikalto — near Telavi.
- Back — over the Gombori Pass (shorter but winding) or along the valley.
In one day you can see Sighnaghi, Bodbe and one winery; with two days you can do the whole loop with a night in Sighnaghi or Telavi.
Wineries and tastings
The region has dozens of wineries, from big estates to family marani with qvevri wine. Many welcome guests without booking, but call ahead in high season.
The key rule for the driver
Zero alcohol at the wheel: Georgia is strict, and insurance does not apply after drinking. Options: a sober designated driver (the second driver is free with us), take the wine with you, or stay overnight.
Which car you need
Kakheti's roads are paved — any sedan will do. For a group buying wine, a roomy crossover or a 7-seater is convenient.
Pick up the car in Tbilisi with airport or hotel delivery — car rental in Tbilisi. Available cars for your dates are on the booking page.