Sighnaghi: the City of Love in the heart of Georgia's wine country

Sighnaghi — popularly known as "the City of Love" — is one of Georgia's most charming and photogenic towns. Located in the Kakheti region in the east of the country, its distinctive 18th-century urban layout, cobblestone streets, colourful houses with carved balconies and privileged position overlooking valleys of vineyards have made it a premier romantic destination.

18th-century architecture: the vision of King Heraclius II

Sighnaghi was rebuilt in the 18th century by King Heraclius II, who gave it the Italian-influenced urban layout it retains today. The cobblestone streets, intimate squares and brightly painted houses with intricate wooden balconies create an atmosphere more reminiscent of a Mediterranean town than a Caucasian locality. This contrast is part of its irresistible charm.

The Sighnaghi Wall: towers and panoramic views

The town is surrounded by the 18th-century Sighnaghi Wall, with its well-preserved towers and bastions. Walking along the walls offers spectacular panoramic views over the Alazani valley and the vineyards stretching to the mountains. It is one of the most recommended walks in the entire Kakheti region.

Georgian wine in Kakheti: the cradle of world viticulture

Kakheti is considered the cradle of Georgian viticulture, with a tradition of winemaking in kvevri (buried clay jars) spanning over 8,000 years. In Sighnaghi and its surroundings you'll find numerous wineries offering visits and tastings of unique Georgian wines: Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, Kakheti... An oenological experience impossible to find anywhere else in the world.

Things to do in Sighnaghi

• Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the historic centre.
• Visit the Niko Pirosmani Museum, dedicated to the celebrated Georgian naïve painter.
• Walk along the historic wall and its towers with views over the valley.
• Taste local wines at the region's wineries.
• Attend one of the many cultural festivals held throughout the year.

From Sighnaghi you can easily visit Bodbe Monastery and continue along the Kakheti Wine Route with an organised trip from Telavi.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Sighnaghi called "the City of Love"?

Sighnaghi earns that nickname for its romantic atmosphere, cobblestone streets, colourful houses and surrounding vineyards. It is also known for its civil registry office, open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, attracting couples who want to marry in a unique setting.

How do you get to Sighnaghi from Tbilisi?

Sighnaghi is about 120 km from Tbilisi. You can get there by marshrutka (minibus) from Samgori station in Tbilisi (about 2 hours) or by rental car. There are also organised day trips from the capital that include Sighnaghi and other Kakheti localities.

What wine should you try in Sighnaghi?

The region's most representative wines are Saperavi (an intense, tannic red), Rkatsiteli (a dry, characterful white) and amber wines made in kvevri using the ancestral Georgian method. Many local wineries offer guided tastings.