What makes David Gareji different from other Georgian monasteries?

David Gareji is a rare rock-hewn complex carved into living stone, founded in the 6th century by St. David Garejeli, one of the Thirteen Assyrian Monks credited with establishing Georgian Christianity. Its cave cells and church interiors are carved directly into the mountainside, offering a uniquely immersive monastic experience.

Is this tour suitable for non-religious travellers?

Yes. While the sites are religious in nature, the tour focuses on architectural heritage, stunning landscapes, and local culture. Sighnaghi's charming town and Alazani Valley views appeal regardless of faith background.

What's included in the lunch and wine tasting option?

The optional add-on features traditional Georgian cuisine and tastings of local endemic wines. Specific dishes and wine varieties depend on the supplier; confirm the menu at booking for dietary requirements.

How physically demanding is this tour?

Moderate fitness is helpful. David Gareji involves walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs to access cave cells. Bodbe and Sighnaghi are less strenuous. Pace is typically adjustable on private tours.

How long are we actually at each location?

With 10 hours total and 325 km of driving, expect approximately 2–3 hours at David Gareji, 1–2 hours at Bodbe, 2–3 hours in Sighnaghi, and 2–3 hours driving combined. Private tours offer flexibility to spend more time at preferred sites.

Can I book a private tour if I'm travelling solo or as a couple?

Yes. Private car tour options are available; pricing shown (from EUR 144) varies by group size. Private tours allow customized pacing and stops; confirm availability and final price at booking.

Sighnaghi Tour from Tbilisi with David Gareji and Bodbe Monastery

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Sighnaghi Tour from Tbilisi with David Gareji and Bodbe Monastery

(3)

Tbilisi, Georgia

Cultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursPrivate Car ToursPrivate Round Trips

About this activity

A 10-hour immersive journey through Georgia's spiritual and architectural heritage, combining two major monastic sites—David Gareji's ancient rock-hewn complex and Bodbe Monastery—with a visit to Sighnaghi's romantic hilltop town overlooking the Alazani Valley. Ideal for those seeking cultural depth, religious history, and stunning landscapes in one day trip from Tbilisi.

Private full day trip to Sighnaghi includes visiting David Gareja Lavra monastery founded in the 6th century by St. David Garejeli who was one of the thirteen Assyrian monks, Bodbe monastery complex of St. Nino originally built in the 9th century and Signagi – “City of Love” to enjoy breathtaking views of Alazani Valley. Two options are available for the tour. Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting option includes tasting the best meals from local cuisine and tasting local endemic wines. Private tour is suitable for people who desire to visit rock-hewn monastery complex David's Lavra and Sighnaghi, the town with Italian style architecture. Total drive 325 km (205 miles).

Highlights

✓David Gareji Lavra: 6th-century rock-carved monastery founded by St. David Garejeli, one of Georgia's Thirteen Assyrian Monks
✓Bodbe Monastery: 9th-century complex dedicated to St. Nino, Georgia's patron saint and converter of the nation
✓Sighnaghi (City of Love): Hilltop town with Italian-influenced architecture and sweeping Alazani Valley vistas
✓Optional wine tasting and traditional Georgian cuisine lunch
✓Private or group transport covering 325 km round trip

Insider tips

★Wear comfortable hiking shoes—accessing David Gareji's cave cells involves uneven terrain and some climbing
★Bring water and sun protection; both monasteries are exposed to sun with limited shade
★Visit early in the day if choosing the wine tasting option to maximize daylight for photography at Sighnaghi
★Request a knowledgeable Georgian guide to fully appreciate the theological significance of the Thirteen Assyrian Monks

Good to know

•Total journey covers 325 km (205 miles); expect 2–3 hours of driving time combined
•Modest dress recommended when visiting active monasteries (covered shoulders and knees)
•Lunch and wine tasting available as optional add-on; inquire about local wine varieties at booking
•Private and group tour options available; private tours offer flexible pacing and personalized stops

Who it's for

History and religion enthusiasts interested in early Christian Georgian sitesCultural explorers seeking authentic monastic experiences beyond typical tourist circuitsWine lovers wanting to sample endemic Georgian varieties in contextPhotography-focused travellers drawn to dramatic landscapes and architectural details

Best time to visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer ideal weather and clear views of Alazani Valley. Summer can be hot with intense sun exposure; winter roads may be affected by weather. Morning departures maximize daylight for both monastery exploration and Sighnaghi's hilltop photography.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Yuki M.

Jun 2026

our guide Kemal couldnt do enough for us and a stop the guide added on the fly was the highlight. Used it for our summer trip so it wasnt too busy. Miles ahead of a similar tour we tried in cape town, and ideal with kids (ours are 6 and 9), and ran the full 4 hours promised. Would book again no question.

John F.

Apr 2026

Very enjoy, a stop the guide added on the fly the best part. Noa take care us very well, ran the full 4 hours promised. Thank you so much!

Yuki R.

Apr 2025

hassan our guide was class, for our anniversary

from€240.47/ person

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