Telavi is the administrative capital of Kakheti and a better base than Sighnaghi if you're serious about wineries — it sits in the center of the Alazani Valley, within 40 minutes of Alaverdi Cathedral, Gremi royal citadel, Tsinandali Estate, and dozens of qvevri-producing family cellars. The town itself has an 8th-century plane tree, a small fortress, and Alexander Chavchavadze's palace on the outskirts. Less photogenic than Sighnaghi but more practical for a 2–3-night wine-focused stay.
Top things to do in Telavi
- 1.Alaverdi Cathedral — 11th-century, monks still make wine in qvevri here
- 2.Tsinandali Estate — Chavchavadze family palace, gardens, and wine museum
- 3.Gremi royal citadel — the 16th-century capital of Kakheti
- 4.Ikalto Academy — where Shota Rustaveli studied
- 5.Winery visits: Twins Old Cellar, Shumi, Chateau Mere
May–June and September–October (rtveli grape harvest).
1.5 hours from Tbilisi by car; marshrutka from Ortachala station in Tbilisi runs hourly.
Old Telavi Hotel in town, or Lopota Lake Resort 20 min north for a lakeside winery experience.
2 nights for a proper wine circuit.
Deep-dive guides for Telavi
Four dedicated pages with everything a first-time visitor needs.
Frequently asked questions about Telavi
Telavi or Sighnaghi — which is better?
Sighnaghi is prettier and more romantic (better for 1 night). Telavi is more central for wineries (better for 2–3 nights). Many travelers do 1 night in each.
Tours related to Telavi
Explore more of Georgia
Shida Kartli
Gori →
Stalin's birthplace and the gateway to the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe.
Samtskhe-Javakheti
Borjomi →
Mineral-water spa town in a forested gorge — Georgia's Victorian-era wellness retreat.
Mtskheta-Mtianeti Mountains
Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) →
The most photographed mountain scene in Georgia — Gergeti Trinity beneath Mt. Kazbek.
Plan a trip to Telavi with a local operator
We're based in Tbilisi and design custom itineraries — tell us your dates and interests.