9 Unmissable Things to do in Sighnaghi and Kakheti in Georgia

Why Visit Sighnaghi?

Sighnaghi is one of the most picturesque towns in Georgia — a small hilltop settlement in the Kakheti wine region with cobbled streets, terracotta rooftops, and views that stretch across the Alazani Valley. Referred to in Georgia as the ‘City of Love’, it is THE place to visit in Georgia’s Kakheti wine region – with its charming hilltop location, colorful balconies, and cobbled streets overlooking the Alazani Valley, as the official gateway to Kakheti’s wine region.

We were lucky enough to visit Signaghi on our recent trip across Georgia and Khaketi. I didn’t know what to expect at first from this little hilltop town — but Sighnaghi’s ended up being absolute highlight on our Georgia itinerary with its small town charm, golden sunsets, the views over the Alazani Valley.

In this post I will go through the 9 best things to do in Sighnaghi (plus several hidden gems), practical advice on how to get here, what tours to book, what restaurants to try plus much more.

How Long to Spend in Sighnaghi?

1 to 2 days is ideal for visiting Sighnaghi. Spend your first day exploring the cobbled streets of the old town, climbing the watchtowers, tasting Georgian cuisine, visiting the Sighnaghi Museum, and lingering over lunch with views of the Alazani Valley. On your second day, venture out to Bodbe Monastery and take a guided wine tour through the surrounding Kakheti region.

This is what I did — and I highly recommend it. I spent one day soaking up Sighnaghi’s atmosphere, and the second day on a small-group tour of Kakheti’s best wineries, including Bodbe and several family-run estates. It was an easy and memorable way to experience the wine region without needing to drive or plan the logistics myself.
See top-rated Kakheti wine & monastery tours →

If you have more time, consider staying a third day to visit nearby villages like Tsnori or Kvareli, or to go hiking in the lower Alazani Valley.

Where to Stay in Sighnaghi

Although some people visit Sighnaghi as a day trip from Tbilisi, I strongly recommend spending at least one night here — the town is much more peaceful after the crowds leave, and it gives you time to enjoy the valley views at sunset, have a proper wine dinner, and explore nearby villages or vineyards the next day.

You’ll find a mix of guesthouses, homestays, and boutique hotels. Many offer beautiful balconies, homemade breakfasts, and help arranging wine tastings or drivers.

My tip: Guesthouses in Sighnaghi often offer more warmth and better value than hotels — with home-cooked meals, personal touches, and friendly hosts.

Best Overall Guesthouse: Hotel VIM (My Pick)

If you only book one place in Sighnaghi, make it Hotel VIM. We stayed here ourselves and absolutely loved it — it’s simple but super clean, run by a lovely local family, and the sun-drenched private balcony overlooking the rooftops was honestly one of the best moments of our trip.

The breakfast spread was massive (all homemade), and the hosts helped us organize our Kakheti wine tour the next day. It’s perfect for couples or solo travelers who want something relaxed, warm, and local.

Check Hotel VIM availability →

Quick tip: Guesthouses like VIM are small — rooms can book out fast in spring and fall, especially weekends. Book ahead if you can.

Best Luxury Stay: Hotel Kabadoni

For something more upscale, Hotel Kabadoni is the top luxury hotel in Sighnaghi. It’s perched on the edge of town with panoramic views over the valley, a spa, indoor pool, and a stylish wine bar onsite.

Perfect for honeymoons, birthdays, or if you just want to splurge after a few rough nights on the road.

Check prices at Hotel Kabadoni →

Best Value Mid-Range: Sighnaghi Garden House

Tucked away in a quiet spot with an easy walk to the old town, Sighnaghi Garden House is all about space and views. They have a peaceful garden, and terrace for sunset drinks, and the warm hospitality — breakfasts here get rave reviews.

If you want somewhere homely where you can unwind after sightseeing, without spending boutique‑hotel prices, this is a great pick.

Sighnaghi Garden Hotel deals →

Best Budget Stay: Guest House Nato & Lado

This long-standing family-run guesthouse is one of the highest-rated budget stays in Sighnaghi, known for its incredible homemade meals and warm hospitality.

The rooms are basic but spotless, and the hosts go above and beyond. Dinner with Nato is worth the stay alone. If you want to experience real Georgian hospitality on a budget, this is the place.

See Guest House Nato’s reviews →

Still deciding? Compare all places to stay in Sighnaghi →

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9 Best Things to do in Sighnaghi + Hidden Gems

The best things to do in Sighnaghi (based on my own travel research and first hand experience) are:

1. Stroll the Sighnaghi Old Town

The heart of Sighnaghi is its old town, a perfect blend of European and Georgian architectural styles. The old town’s colorful houses with wooden balconies and the intricate latticework, are hallmark of the town’s charm. As you walk through, look out for art galleries, quaint shops selling handmade crafts, and cafes where you can take a break.

Best Time to explore:  I recommend picking morning or evening as the best times of day for getting best shots of the city and surrounding city walls and valley beyond. This is also when the temperatures are more milder in the summer months. 

2. Explore Kakheti’s Vineyards on a Sighnaghi Wine Tour

A trip to Sighnaghi isn’t complete without spending time in the Kakheti wine region. This is the heart of Georgian winemaking, where the traditional qvevri method — fermenting wine in large clay vessels buried underground — has been used for over 8,000 years.

If you want the widest coverage of the region’s most famous wineries with all the logistics handled, Get Your Guide has the most variety of tour options for full‑day tours from Tbilisi that include well‑known estates, Bodbe Monastery, KTW Winery and Kindzmarauli Corporation—makers of big country favorites like Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, and local amber wines. Reviews consistently rate these tours 4.9/5 with highlight stops including Badiauri village and KTW Winery.

Recommeneded Kakheti Wine Tours including Sighnaghi

• Full Kakheti Highlights – Stroll Sighnaghi’s cobbled lanes, visit Bodbe Monastery, and taste award‑winning wines at KTW Winery and Kindzmarauli Corporation. Loved by 1900+ wine lovers, 4.9★ rated.
  See dates & prices →
• Small‑Group Wine Experience – Spend the day with a local guide, tasting qvevri wines in hand‑picked cellars and sharing a homemade Georgian lunch. Consistently praised for its warmth and authenticity.
  Check availability →
• Private Kakheti Wine Tour – Your own driver‑guide, a flexible route, and time to linger at both famous estates and family‑run vineyards. Perfect for couples or friends wanting it all at their own pace.
  Book now to secure a local guide →

If you prefer something smaller and more off the beaten path, Winetourism is a great option. This is what we chose, and we spent an afternoon with Lomtadze and his wife, whose small winery has been in the family for generations. Between tastings, we helped make a fresh batch of khachapuri in their kitchen — one of those slow, memorable moments that makes you glad you didn’t rush through the region.

Tours generally cost 150–250 GEL ($55–90 USD) per person, depending on how many wineries are included and whether meals are part of the day. It’s worth booking ahead, especially during harvest in September and October, when demand is highest. Comfortable shoes are a must for vineyard walks, and a hat comes in handy on sunny days.

See the best‑rated Kakheti wine tours here →

3. Visit the Sighnaghi Wall and Watchtowers

The fortification wall of Sighnaghi is one of the longest in Georgia, stretching over 4.5 km. The wall dates back to the 18th century and served to protect the town from invasions. The best way to see and experience the walls is to climb and walk along the walls and the watchtowers for sweeping views of the Alazani Valley and the snow-capped Caucasus Mountains. The walk along the wall is manageable for most, but be prepared for some steep sections.The Sighnaghi wall and fortifications do not require a ticket and are free to access.

• Opening Hours: Open 24/7, though climbing is safest during daylight hours.
• Tips: For the best photos, visit in the late afternoon when the lighting is softer, and the valley below glows golden.

4. Explore the Sighnaghi Museum

You will find the Sighnaghi museum conveniently located in the town center. The museum provides insight into the rich history and culture of the region. Its archaeological section showcases artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age, while the art section displays works by Niko Pirosmani, one of Georgia’s most beloved painters.

I personally skipped the museum in Sighnaghi as I was already covering quite a view museums in Tbilisi and wanted to maximise the time exploring the Old Town and City walls, nonetheless the museum is worth the visit if you have  time. 

• Opening Hours: 10 AM–6 PM, closed on Mondays.
• Tickets: 10 GEL ($4 USD) for adults; discounts may be available for students and children.
• Tips: Allocate about an hour to explore the exhibits thoroughly. Don’t miss the museum’s terrace, which offers a great view of the surrounding landscapes.

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5. Taste Local Wines at Pheasant’s Tears Winery

Pheasant’s Tears is one of the most famous wineries in Sighnaghi, celebrated for its organic and traditional qvevri (clay vessel) winemaking techniques. If you aren’t doing a wine tasting already in the Kakheti region then I highly recommend booking a guided wine tasting. This typcially includes sampling of several wine varieties, from amber wines to robust reds, paired with local snacks. The winery also has a restaurant serving traditional Georgian meals, so you can enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner with the tasting. 

• Opening Hours: 12 PM–10 PM daily.
• Cost: Wine tasting starts at 60 GEL ($22 USD) per person; full meals with wine cost extra.
• Tips: Reserve your spot in advance during peak seasons. Ask the staff for recommendations based on your taste preferences.

6. Visit the Bodbe Monastery

Opening hours: 8 AM–6 PM daily
Entry: Free (donations welcome)
Tips: Modest clothing is required. Women are usually asked to cover their heads — if you forget, there’s a basket of scarves at the entrance.

Just 2 km outside of Sighnaghi, the Bodbe Monastery is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Georgia. It’s the final resting place of St. Nino, who introduced Christianity to the country in the 4th century.

The monastery complex is beautifully maintained, with lush gardens, serene courtyards, and sweeping views over the Alazani Valley. Inside the church, you’ll find intricate frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere — it’s one of the most spiritual places in the region. Legend has it that the spring of St Nino contains water thought to have healing properties.This can today be accessed via a short hike from the monastery.

You can also take a short walk downhill to visit St. Nino’s Spring, which is believed to have healing properties.

Prefer a more relaxed visit which covers several highlights in the region? You can join a top-rated day trip from Tbilisi that includes Bodbe Monastery, the town of Sighnaghi, and wine tasting in Kakheti. A great option if you don’t have a car or want to explore more in a day.
Compare Bodbe & Kakheti day tours here →

7. Enjoy Georgian Cuisine in Signaghi’s Restaurants

Sighnaghi is renowned for its cozy restaurants that offer traditional Georgian cuisine.

Classic dishes to look out for include khinkali (juicy meat or mushroom dumplings), khachapuri (cheese‑filled bread, with regional variations), and mtsvadi (tender grilled meat). Vegetarians will love lobio (bean stew) and pkhali (colourful vegetable pâtés topped with pomegranate seeds).

If you want to dive deeper, I’ve put together a full guide to the top Georgian dishes and drinks to try.

For a meal in Sighnaghi itself, restaurants like Pancho Villa and Wine Terrace are favourites for both the food and the views. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and many places source their produce from nearby farms, so seasonal specials are worth asking about.

Some popular dishes worth trying in Sighnaghi and pretty much anywhere across Gerogia include khinkali (dumplings), khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), and mtsvadi (grilled meat). See my detailed guide all the top Georgian food adn drinks you need to try.

• Cost of a meal in Signaghi: 40–60 GEL ($15–20 USD) per person for a full meal with wine on average
• If you’re vegan or vegetarian (like me), ask for lobio (bean stew) or pkhali (vegetable pâtés) which I highly recommend! Each restaurant often does its own twist on these pâtés.

8. Experience the Scenic Views at Sunset

Sighnaghi’s elevated position makes it one of the best places in Georgia to enjoy sunsets. The viewpoints near Hotel Kabadoni or the watchtowers along the Sighnaghi Wall are ideal spots to watch the sun dip below the horizon over the Alazani valley. 

9. Take a picture with the Love Heart

The Love Sign in Sighnaghi is the town’s homage its reputation as the ‘City of Love’. To get here is a short walk af about 10 mins from the Old Town, close by to the Sighnaghi wall. The sign is situated in a prominent spot overlooking the Alazani valley.

Interestingly, Sighnaghi is also famously known for its round-the-clock wedding registry, where couples can tie the knot at any time, day or night. You will find the registry at the Sighnaghi Wedding House located near the town’s main square, here couples can come to tie the knot anytime 24/7 – nothing like a spontaneous destination wedding!

Hidden Gems in Sighnaghi

In addition to the regular scenic sights in Sighnaghi, its worth considering these lesser known experiences –

1. Lost Ridge craft‑beer tastings – 2 km outside town, in a boutique inn/ranch setting. Book beer tasting or lunch in advance.
Learn more / book a Georgian craft beer tasting here →

2. Sunday Bodbiskhevi market
The Sunday market in Bodbiskhevi, a short drive from Sighnaghi, is a lively weekly gathering where locals come to sell everything from fragrant spices and homemade churchkhela to handwoven textiles and wooden crafts. It’s a good stop if you who enjoy a good farmers market and want to pick up souvenirs directly from the people who make them. Pair it with nearby sights or vineyards, or make it easy by booking a private transfer with GoTrip →

3. Lavender fields at Nukriani (seasonal)
In the village of Nukriani, just a short drive from Sighnaghi, neat rows of lavender bloom for a few weeks in early summer, usually from late June to early July. Set against the backdrop of the Alazani Valley and distant mountains, the fields are open to walk through, take photos. Contact via the owners via their Facebook page to arrange visit.

4. Explore the Sighnaghi Ethnographic Park
Often overlooked, the Ethnographic Park is a hidden gem that showcases traditional Kakhetian architecture and rural life. You can explore replicas of old Georgian houses houses, wine cellars, and even participate in workshops learning a fun activity like pottery or weaving.
→ Cost: Entrance fee is about 10 GEL ($4 USD), plus additional for any classes.

5. Wander the Nearby Hiking Trails
Beyond the well-trodden paths, Sighnaghi offers numerous hidden trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, ancient ruins, or secluded picnic spots. One such popular trail is the Black Grouse Falls trail (9.2km / 5.7 miles) located in Laghodekhi National Park which is a challenging yet rewarding route with scenic views walking across valleys and meadows.

Heading to Telavi instead? Hop over to my full guide here: 

• Where to Stay in Telavi, Georgia: 15 Best Guesthouses, Hotels & Winery Stay

How to Reach Sighnaghi from Tbilisi?

Reaching Sighnaghi from Tbilisi is straightforward with several straightforward options.

1. Marshrutkas (minibuses)

Marshrutkas (minibuses) are the cheapest option, costing 6–10 GEL ($2–4 USD) from Samgori Bus Station, taking about 2.5 hours, just make sure to check out the timetable in advance.

2. Booking a Tour

If you’re plannning to cover Sighnaghi and Kakheti valley in a single day, then I highly recommend booking this end to end Kakheti Tour covering Bodbe, Sighnaghi + wine tastings, which includes a hotel pick up and drop off.

3. Private Transfer

Smart Travel Tip: Want scenic stops en route? Book a private driver via GoTrip—you decide where to stop (e.g. wineries, monasteries, markets) for a fixed price without stress.
See GoTrip private transfer options →

Private taxis also offer faster and more comfortable rides for 150–200 GEL ($55–75 USD) and take about 1.5 hours.

After weighing out the pros and cons of renting a car versus hiring a driver, we decided to hire a driver given driving can be challenging in Georgia if you are not used to drivers in Georgia being a little more aggressive and not always signaling, as well poor signage in place in the countryside. 

How to Get Around Sighnaghi?

Sighnaghi is compact and best explored on foot, with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and stunning viewpoints. To visit the Bodbe Monastery (2 km away), you can either walk, take a taxi (10–20 GEL / $4–7 USD), or rent a bike. Local taxis are also handy for visiting nearby wineries or vineyards and usually cost 20–50 GEL ($7–18 USD) per trip. For a unique experience, consider bike rentals offered by some guesthouses. Rental cars are unnecessary within the town but useful for exploring the Kakheti region.

Hiring a Driver vs Renting a Car in Georgia

Although tours can be convenient, when it comes to flexibility, having a car is still best way to reach Sighnaghi and explore the more ‘off the beaten path’ parts of Georgia.

Hiring a Driver (My Pick for Sighnaghi)

For our trip to Sighnaghi, we booked a private driver through GoTrip Georgia, and it made the day so much more relaxed. It cost around 150–250 GEL ($55–90 USD) per day, which felt fair for not having to worry about maps, aggressive overtaking, or unexpected livestock wandering onto the road.

What I really liked is that drivers here aren’t just chauffeurs — they often act as unofficial guides, pointing out little viewpoints, stopping at roadside fruit stalls, and telling stories we never would have found in a guidebook.

If you’re short on time or just want a smooth, stress‑free journey, this is the way to go. You can even ask your driver to build in winery stops along the way.

Check prices and book a trusted driver with GoTrip →

Renting a Car in Georgia

If you love the idea of stopping whenever you want and exploring at your own pace, renting a car can be a great option. Prices start from 100–200 GEL ($37–75 USD), and I’ve found the best deals through Discover Cars — way cheaper than booking direct, with the bonus of being able to compare local and international agencies in one place.

That said, Georgian roads can be challenging. Outside the main highways you’ll find unmarked speed bumps, sudden potholes, and the occasional cow in your lane. Local drivers can also be a little unpredictable.

If you’re confident driving in these conditions, it’s a fantastic way to see Kakheti and beyond. If not, I’d stick with a driver.

Best Time to Visit Sighnaghi and the Kakheti region

The best time to visit Sighnaghi depends on your preferences for  weather, but in my opinion there really isn’t a bad time.

Spring (April–June) offers mild temperatures, typically ranging from 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F). Spring here has blooming landscapes and fewer crowds, making it a perfect time to explore.

Fall (September–October) is ideal for wine enthusiasts to visit Kakheti, as it coincides with the grape harvest season (Rtveli) and showcases vineyards at their peak. Temperatures during fall range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and this is one of the busiest periods, so expect more tourists. Although I went in late fall and found tourist numbers had dropped significantly. 

Summer (July–August) brings warmer weather, with highs of 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). It’s ideal for outdoor activities but can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.

Winter (December–February) is the quietest season, with temperatures averaging -1°C to 7°C (30°F to 45°F). 

If visiting in winter, pack warm clothing, including a heavy jacket, gloves, a scarf, and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on icy paths. For any season, I highly recommend researching wineries in advance and checking their availability and opening hours, particularly during the quieter winter months, to avoid disappointment.

Currency and Costs in Sighnaghi

The currency in Georgia is the Georgian Lari (GEL), with an approximate exchange rate of 1 USD = 2.8–3.0 GEL and 1 EUR = 3.0–3.2 GEL, though rates can vary slightly. Small shops, markets, and taxis typically prefer cash, so it’s a good idea to carry some with you. While most hotels and restaurants in Sighnaghi accept credit cards, cash is essential for smaller establishments, local markets, and taxis.

While we found there are some ATMs are available in Sighnaghi, they may be limited, especially during peak tourist seasons when they could run out of cash temporarily. So it’s wise to withdraw enough cash in advance, either in Tbilisi or at larger towns on your way, to cover expenses like meals, transportation, and entrance fees. Additionally, you may find it easier having smaller denominations, as breaking larger bills can sometimes be challenging in smaller shops or taxis here.

Local Etiquette and Culture

• Georgians are renowned for their hospitality, we found this to be especially true when it comes to food, so don’t be surprised if locals invite you for a drink or a meal or end up giving you something free just to try on the house. 
• At religious sites like the Bodbe Monastery, wear modest clothing.Women are often required to cover their head and although I didn’t being my pwn scarf, but often just borrowed one from the basket often found in front of church entrances which provide spare scarves 
• As we learnt at our dinner with our gracious hosts at the Lomtadze winery, dining etiquette often involves elaborate feasts (supra), led by a toastmaster (tamada), with frequent toasts.
• Georgian is the official language, but many locals speak Russian, and English is increasingly common in tourist areas. 
• Learning a few basic phrases like “Gamarjoba” (hello) or “Madloba” (thank you) is always appreciated.

Let me know what you are most excited to see in Sighnaghi and across Georgia!

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