Best Georgia Tour

After breakfast, your driver-guide will meet you at your hotel to start your Tbilisi city tour. Our first stop is the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, located on the city’s highest point. Built in 2004, this relatively new cathedral signifies Georgia’s revival following the Soviet Union’s fall, with each stone representing resilience and faith’s unifying strength. Standing approximately 105 meters (345 ft.) tall, it is visible from nearly every part of the city. As you stroll along the cypress-lined avenue toward the cathedral, you’ll be struck by its commanding presence and solemn atmosphere. Inside, you’ll see the impressive statue of the Virgin and Child, whose eyes look in different directions, symbolizing universal mercy.

Next, we’ll visit Metekhi Old Town, dating back to the 12th century and once the most thriving part of Tbilisi. At its heart is the Metekhi Church from the 5th century, located on a cliff overlooking the Mtkvari River. In the 19th century, the church was repurposed as a prison, where the famed writer Maxim Gorky (1868-1936) was detained. Moving on, let’s take a cable car ride to Narikala Fortress, offering sweeping views of the Old Town and glimpses of the iconic Mother of Georgia statue. Known as the “Mother’s Fortress,” it was Tbilisi’s last line of defense. After exploring the fortress, we’ll head to Meidani Square, which has been a trading hub since the 4th century. A hidden entrance in one corner leads to Meidani Bazaar, an old-fashioned underground market reminiscent of Diagon Alley from Harry Potter, filled with handmade jams, aromatherapy products, and vintage Georgian artworks from shelves to the ceiling.

Next, continue our visit to the Sulphur Baths area, dotted with circular brick pools. These dense sulfuric hot springs gave travelers their first impression of Tbilisi in ancient times, which is why the city’s name means “warm” in Georgian. Next, we’ll briefly stop at Shardeni Street, then visit the 5th-century Sioni Cathedral, one of Tbilisi’s key churches as it houses St. Nino’s Cross, the most significant relic of the Georgian Orthodox Church. Finally, your driver-guide will escort you back to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria Tbilisi (3 stars) or similar

Today, your driver-guide will escort you from your hotel to the famous Kazbegi region, allowing you to enjoy the natural landscapes and historical sites along the way. We’ll travel on the Georgian Military Highway, the sole cross-border road linking Tbilisi and Russia, serving as a crucial transportation route and offering stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains.

After a 1.5-hour drive, we’ll arrive at our first destination: the 13th-century Ananuri Fortress, a church complex enclosed by ancient walls. Set against the mountains and verdant scenery, it presents a vivid contrast to its beige brick architecture. Next, we will visit Gudauri Ski Resort, renowned for its excellent natural skiing conditions and recognized as Georgia’s largest ski resort.

After a brief break at Vedza Sour Waters, let’s head to today’s main attraction: Gergeti Trinity Church! Climbing the rugged mountain trail to an elevation of 2,170 meters (7,120 ft.), you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views—the dark gray church stands alone against the towering 5,054-meter (16,581 ft.) Mount Kazbek, a classic cover shot for Lonely Planet. Its difficult-to-reach location on the steep mountainside has historically served as a wartime refuge, sheltering locals and sacred relics. As you traverse the mountain ridges, you’ll encounter lush alpine meadows and clouds that seem close enough to touch, immersing yourself in the rejuvenating power of nature.

Lastly, we’ll explore Dariali Gorge near the border, called the “Caucasian Gates,” to see its historic fortresses and the splendid valley. After the visit, your driver-guide will drive 4 hours to return you to Tbilisi.

► Warm Tips:
1. Due to the high altitude, it can snow as late as May, and temperatures may fall below 10 °C (50 °F) from June to September. It is advisable to pack warm clothing based on the local weather.
2. The mountain road trip can be winding and rough. If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication beforehand.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria Tbilisi (3 stars) or similar

This morning, your driver-guide will pick you up at your hotel for a 40-minute drive to Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage town renowned for its historic churches and medieval architecture. It served as Georgia’s capital from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD and is inextricably linked to the development of the Georgian script and Christianity. 

Our first stop is Jvari Monastery, Mtskheta’s oldest church, which dates back nearly 1,500 years. It showcases ancient architectural features like Romanesque Corinthian columns and a Byzantine flat dome. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and the river confluence. Next, we’ll visit the sacred Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and hear its fascinating hidden story. According to legend, after Jesus’ crucifixion, a Georgian merchant brought his robe home. When his sister touched the relic, she died of grief and was buried with the robe. Over time, a tall tree grew from her grave, and the cathedral’s wooden pillars are said to have been crafted from this sacred tree.

Afterward, let’s head to the Stalin Museum in Gori, which still shows remnants of the Soviet period and is the birthplace of the controversial Soviet leader, Joseph Stalin (1878-1953). The museum is housed in Stalin’s childhood home, displaying many of his personal belongings and offering insight into his rise from modest origins to a powerful ruler. Of particular interest is an 80-ton bulletproof train carriage you can explore, including the bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, allowing you to envision Stalin overseeing meetings from the conference room. Ultimately, we’ll drive two hours to Kutaisi, where your guide will assist with hotel check-in.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Terrace Kutaisi (3 stars) or similar

After breakfast, your driver-guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you on a tour of Kutaisi. Known as one of the world’s oldest cities – older than Christ by 1,400 years – Kutaisi’s highlight is Bagrati Cathedral, built in the 11th century. Approaching the cathedral, the striking Tiffany blue of its dome will immediately attract your attention. Unfortunately, modern restoration features like an elevator led to its removal from the UNESCO World Heritage List. Despite this, the cathedral’s interior still echoes history, seen in details like the relief of Jacob wrestling the angel – the only surviving medieval Georgian sculpture.

Next, let’s visit the Prometheus Cave Natural Monument to discover a breathtaking karst landscape. In Greek mythology, Prometheus angered Zeus by stealing fire and was chained in the Caucasus Mountains. Locals believe this is where Prometheus endured his punishment. The cave boasts flowing underground rivers and stalactites that reach up to 15 meters (50 ft.) tall. We recommend wearing a jacket and non-slip shoes to fully enjoy your experience inside.

Later, we’ll head to Motsameta to explore its two renowned medieval monasteries. The Gelati Monastery, established in 1106 AD, was a hub of learning and science during Georgia’s Golden Age (11th-13th centuries). Inside, almost every wall and dome is decorated with frescoes and artwork from the 12th to 17th centuries. The most remarkable feature is a vibrant mosaic from the 12th century, showing the Virgin Mary in a blue robe holding the Christ Child. Next, while you admire the cliffside Motsameta Monastery, dedicated to two princes martyred for their faith, your guide will tell their moving stories. Finally, we’ll take a 3-hour drive back to your hotel in Tbilisi.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria Tbilisi (3 stars) or similar

This morning, your driver-guide will meet you at your hotel for a 2-hour private transfer to Kakheti, Georgia’s leading wine region, responsible for 70% of the nation’s wine. Our first stop will be the Monastery of St. Nino at Bodbe, perched on a hillside and renowned as a pilgrimage destination for Georgian Orthodox Christianity. Legend says that St. Nino, the patron saint credited with converting Georgia to Christianity, is buried there.

Next, drive to Sighnaghi, and take a leisurely walk with your guide through the cobblestone streets, where you’ll admire the red-tiled rooftops against the distant blue sky, dotted with white clouds and framed by the Caucasus Mountains. Known as the most beautiful and romantic town in Kakheti, Sighnaghi is steeped in local legend: during a war, a severely ill husband leaped off a cliff to spare his wife from his suffering. While searching for his body below, his wife found a young grapevine sprouting in a crevice. With her tender care, the vine produced sweet grapes, and from then on, wine became more than a tradition – it became a vital part of the local spirit. People believe that only with love can they cultivate the finest grapes.

Afterward, we’ll drive 1.5 hours to Telavi for the night. Tomorrow, get ready to explore the captivating world of Georgian wine even further!

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel New Telavi or similar

After receiving a morning greeting at your hotel, follow your driver-guide to explore Telavi, a valley city nestled between mountains on both sides. First, let’s see a 900-year-old sacred plane tree that stands 46 meters (151 ft.) tall with a trunk circumference of 12 meters (40 ft.), its enormous hollow capable of fitting about 20 people!

★ Special Inclusion: Wine Tasting & Local Baking Experience

Next, continue our journey to Tsinandali Village, known for its vineyards and wineries, and tour Khareba Winery. Telavi is considered the birthplace of wine, with a winemaking tradition in Qvevri clay vessels dating back to 6000 BC – over 5,000 years earlier than the earliest wine production in France – and is listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. In Khareba’s cellars, you can see thousands of wine bottles stacked high and taste various wine flavors. Lastly, try making traditional Georgian Shoti bread, a crescent-shaped, thin bread that is a staple in every Georgian home and lovingly called “mother’s bread.”

Next, we’ll return to Telavi to visit the iconic Batonis Tsikhe Fortress of Erekle II. Upon arrival, you’ll see a striking bronze statue of King Erekle II (1720-1798 AD) wielding a large sword. The Georgian people hold the king in deep affection, and every November 7th, a vibrant festival celebrates his birthday. Behind the statue stands the 17th-century Persian-style Batonis Tsikhe Fortress. Inside, the former royal palace has been transformed into a museum that displays the king’s throne, sword, and medieval weapons and armor. Finally, your driver-guide will escort you back to your hotel in Tbilisi, a 2-hour drive.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria Tbilisi (3 stars) or similar

Today, your driver-guide will escort you from your hotel to Tbilisi Airport on time, based on your flight schedule, and see you off. Have a great trip!

If you would like to explore additional Transcaucasian countries, such as Armenia or Azerbaijan, please contact us to receive a personalized itinerary.

Meals: Breakfast

► Suggested Activities for Late Departure (at your own expense)
Consider walking 20 minutes from your hotel to visit the Dry Bridge Market on your own. Once a place where locals sold their possessions after the Soviet Union’s collapse, it has since become one of the liveliest flea markets in the Caucasus. Here, you can find not only numerous Soviet-era items, including badges, medals, vintage cameras, vinyl records, and coins that offer insight into Soviet history and culture, but also handmade carpets, ceramics, wood carvings, and other traditional Georgian crafts. Tip: Market prices are 5-10 GEL lower at midday compared to the morning, and there’s a currency exchange under the bridge offering favorable rates, so you can exchange money there if needed.