Sighnaghi Wall | An Essential Guide to Visiting
Are you planning a visit to Sighnaghi, Georgia’s City of Love? Sighnaghi Wall also known as the Great Wall of GEorgia is a must visit site, being the town’s most prominent feature and what has historically put Sighnaghi on the map.
If you want to know more about the Sighnaghi wall as well as what is worth seeing in Sighnaghi, this is your travel guide to Sighnaghi and the Sighnaghi Wall based on my recent travels to Georgia.
The Sighnaghi wall was built in the 1700s during the reign of King Erekle II to defend the city against frequent invasions and protect the townspeople.
Today, the wall serves as both a historical landmark and a popular historical attraction offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Alazani Valley over Georgia’s famous wine region and the snow capped Caucasus Mountains.
How long is the Sighnaghi Wall?
The wall stretches about 4.5kms (miles) And has 23 Towers and 6 gates in total all named after nearby village’s in the Kakheti region.
Best time to visit the Sighnaghi wall?
The best time to visit the Sighnaghi wall is during spring between April to June or in autumn between September to October. These times of the year offer milder temperatures, clearer skies and lush landscapes.
Spring is probably best for blooming flowers in lush greenery in the surrounding Valley and vineyards.
Nonetheless I visited in early November and was still greeted by stunning clear skies and good weather.
How to get to Sighnaghi
Getting to Sighnaghi from Tbillisi is relatively straightforward and affordable with several options for transport available. Sighnaghi is located about 113 km (miles) from Tbilisi and takes about 1.5 – 2 hours to commute.
Public transport options
The most affordable and budget-friendly option for transport are the marshrutka mini buses which depart from Samgori Bus Station in Tbilisi. The journey can take about two hours and cost between 5 and 10 GEL ($2 to $4 USD).
Private transfer options
For the most convenience, you can hire a private driver through GoTrip Georgia. This is what I did and honestly, couldn’t be happier with my decision. It was super convenient and the drivers are relatively fliexible, allowing you to stop off at places along the way as desired.
To hire a driver for the day for a round trip from Tbilisi to Sighnaghi and back it costs about $60 USD/ 166 GEL.
Guided Tour
Alternatively you can also book a guided tour. There are many guided tours offered by get a guide that cover Sighnaghi as well as the surrounding wine region which can be done in a day from Tbilisi
I personally decided to go with a private transfer but researched many options for a guided tour, some of the best ones I’ve included below for reference.
Getting to Sighnaghi from Telavi
You can drive or get a private transfer from Telavi – Signagi using Gotrip Georgia.
The distance is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) with it taking typically 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on road conditions and traffic.
We came via Telavi after a wine tasting nearby and our private transfer took about 1h 20 mins in the evening.
How to get to the Sighnaghi wall from Sighnaghi Old Town?
The Sighnaghi wall Sighnaghi encircles the hilltop town providing good panoramic views of the AlazaniValley and the distant caucasus mountains. In order to access the wall you need to walk from the town center where several parts lead to the tower and main sections of the wall.
See below For approximate location on Google Maps
Approaching from blank Street you will see this restaurant in the distance as you are approaching the wall take a right from here and go straight
Do I Need Tickets for the Sighnaghi Wall?
The Sighnaghi wall is entirely free to explore there are no entrance fees or permits required there is no Gate or barrier to enter the wall it can be freely explored at your own pace at any time of day. However I would suggest visiting the wall in the early hours of the morning or later in the evening in Peak season to avoid overcrowding on the wall and to get the best views. We left our hotel shortly after breakfast and pretty much found ourselves one of the only people at the wall by about 9:30 providing us plenty of opportunity for clear unobstructed views Without too many other people at the wall.
Why is the Sighnaghi wall famous?
The Sighnaghi wall is in fact Sighnaghi Town’s most prominent feature, playing an important role in history. The wall itself is an 18th century defensive wall which encircles much of the area providing visitors a glimpse of Georgia’s historical fortifications. The wall itself is quite significant with 23 Towers and 6 Gates providing views that stretch across the Alazani valley across Vineyards and Valleys below providing excellent view views of sunset
If you’re anything like me and love chasing stunning views then Sighnaghi wall is a must visit.
Practical Tips for visiting the Sighnaghi Wall
- The stone wall can be a bit uneven in places, so make sure you watch your step and wear good footwear.
- If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure you carry sunscreen and a hat as you will be exposed in most part of the wall
- Best times to visit in my opinion are mornings before 11am or closer to sunset.
- Morning is good if you don’t want too many people in your photos nad want to avoid the hotter temperatures in the summer months. The wall only had a few tourists when I went at around 9.30am in the morning.
- Evening time closer to sunset is great if you want to capture the late sun colors across the valley.
Things to do in Sighnaghi
In addition to the Sighnaghi wall, Sighnaghi has plenty of worthy attractions worth checking out. It is also the gateway to Kakheti which is George’s wine region known for its famous wineries in Vineyards producing some of the country’s best wines. I would highly recommend a visit to one of the many famous vineyards in the region where you can observe and learn about traditional Georgian winemaking methods including the ancient qvevri technique .
In addition to visiting the Sighnaghi wall, there are other highlights worth checking out
Bodbe Monastery
This is located about 2.5 kilometers from Sighnaghi, and is dedicated to St. Nino, the patron saint of Georgia. The complex of Bodbe Monastery: includes a church, a spring with holy water, and beautifully serene and landscaped gardens
Do a wine tasting
Sighnaghi is situated in the heart of Kakheti – Georgia’s wine region. As such one of the best ways to experience this region is by visiting one of the many wineries.
Some well known ones in / close to Sighnaghi are Pheasant’s Tears Winery and Cradle of Wine Marani. However if you’re able to get around other parts of Kakhet, then I highly recommend Tsinandali Estate near Telavi and Kindzmarauli Corporation Wine House in Kvareli.
If you’re looking to book a wine tasting online in advance, I highly recommend trying out winetourism which lists different experiences in the region, including different activities such as cooking classes and curated tasting and pairings. It a good way to get a quick view of all the wine tasting available on a given day, including cost location and availability, without having to look up each on separately.
Stroll Through the Old Town
Wander the cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses and ornate balconies.
There are many great views to be captured at every corner and turn. Wandering through the town at 9am in the morning I was amazed with how picturesque this place is at every turn.
I would highly recommend doing this pre noon for a more quaint and atmosphere with less people around.
Sighnaghi National Museum
This museum showcases a collection of Georgian art, including works by the renowned painter Niko Pirosmani, as well as significant archaeological artifacts from the region.
The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except on Mondays when it is closed. The tickets are about $2.50 / 7 GEL for adults.
Where to Stay in Sighnaghi
Lost Ridge Inn, Brewery & Ranch: A boutique inn located in Qedeli village, just a 5-minute drive from Sighnaghi. It offers modern guesthouse rooms, a microbrewery, and a horse ranch, providing a unique blend of comfort and adventure.
Zandarashvili Guest House: Situated in Sighnaghi, this guesthouse is known for its warm hospitality, comfortable rooms, and homemade Georgian cuisine, offering an authentic local experience.
Hotel Traveler: Located in Sighnaghi, this hotel features a garden, terrace, restaurant, and bar. It offers family rooms and an outdoor pool, providing a comfortable stay with modern amenities.
FAQs
Why is Sighnaghi called the City of Love?
Sighnaghi is called the “City of Love” for its romantic atmosphere with cute cobblestone streets, colorful balconies, and breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley, all adding to its charm.
There is also a 24-hour wedding house allowing visitors to get married at any time, making it a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons.
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