Embark on an incredible 9-day journey combining the rich history, ancient architecture, and spectacular landscapes of Georgia. This carefully designed itinerary takes you from the vibrant city of Tbilisi to the country's most iconic cultural and natural highlights. Experience the authenticity of Georgian hospitality as you explore centuries-old monasteries, charming wine towns, and majestic mountain scenery. Every day is packed with unforgettable experiences, from the rock-hewn city of Uplistsikhe to the spectacular monasteries of Gelati and Bagrati. This trip is perfect for lovers of culture, nature, and history!
You'll start with a warm welcome in Tbilisi, where a guided tour reveals the charm of the old city. Then head into the lush Kakheti valley to explore the fascinating monasteries of Alaverdi and Nekresi, and discover the medieval magic of Signaghi, known as the "city of love." Venture into the Caucasus mountains at Kazbegi, with breathtaking views and the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. You'll also visit historic sites like Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia, and natural wonders including the Prometheus Cave and the spectacular cave monastery of Vardzia. Every stop on this route invites you to discover the cultural and scenic richness that makes Georgia a truly unique destination.
Itinerario
Day 1 - Transfer from Tbilisi Airport to the Capital
Total route for the day - 18KM, 0 Hours and 25 Minutes Transfer upon arrival according to scheduled time Route 18KM, 0 Hours and 25 MinutesDay 2 - Tbilisi - Guided City Tour
No driving After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on our adventure. The following visits are planned:Rustaveli Avenue
Rustaveli Avenue, the main artery of Tbilisi, stretches 1.5 kilometres from Freedom Square to Republic Square. This iconic boulevard, named after medieval poet Shota Rustaveli, is lined with the city's most prestigious buildings, including the Parliament of Georgia, the Opera House, and the National Museum, all built in neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles during the 19th century. As we stroll along it, we'll soak up Georgian cultural life, stop at elegant historic cafés, and admire the monumental architecture while browsing the many shops and art galleries.
Metekhi Square
Metekhi Square, one of the most emblematic historic spots in Tbilisi, sits atop a cliff overlooking the Mtkvari River. The site is dominated by the 13th-century church and the equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of the city. For centuries the square served as home to the royal palace, making it both a strategic and cultural hub. Although the original church dates to the 5th century, the current structure is a 13th-century reconstruction. We'll take in sweeping panoramic views of the old town and the famous bathhouse district, visit Metekhi Church, and dive into the fascinating story of the king whose vision established Tbilisi as Georgia's capital.
Narikala Fortress
Narikala Fortress, the iconic symbol of Tbilisi, has dominated the city's skyline since the 4th century. This ancient citadel — originally Persian, later expanded by Arabs and Georgians — rises on a steep hill overlooking the Mtkvari River and the old town. Its imposing walls and towers have witnessed the many civilizations that ruled Georgia, including the rebuilt St. Nicholas Church from the 12th century. We'll ride the cable car up to the fortress, walk the old defensive walls, and capture stunning panoramic views of Tbilisi as the sun sets over the city.
Abanotubani
Abanotubani, the historic sulphur-bath district at the heart of old Tbilisi, is the very core around which the Georgian capital was founded. Located on the right bank of the Mtkvari, this neighbourhood is famous for its distinctive sulphur baths with brick domes rising from the ground — witnesses to over 1,500 years of history. Natural thermal waters bubble up from deep underground at a constant 37–40°C, drawing illustrious visitors such as Alexander Pushkin and Alexandre Dumas. We'll wander the lanes of these legendary thermal springs and get lost in the picturesque medieval alleyways winding between the baths, breathing in the most authentic essence of ancient Tbilisi.
Anchiskhati
Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in Tbilisi, is a vital testament to Georgia's Christian heritage dating back to the 6th century. Situated in the heart of the old town, this sandstone church dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary takes its name from the miraculous icon of Christ (Anchiskhati) it housed for centuries. Its typically Georgian three-nave basilica layout is complemented by medieval frescoes and a 17th-century bell tower. We'll soak up the mystical atmosphere of the temple, listen to ancient Georgian polyphonic chanting that still resonates within its walls, and admire the craftsmanship of its traditional icons.
Day 3 - Tbilisi - Alaverdi - Nekresi - Kvareli - Telavi
Total route for the day - 191KM, 3 Hours and 43 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on our adventure. The following visits are planned: Route 107KM, 2 Hours and 12 MinutesAlaverdi Monastery
Alaverdi Monastery, located in the Kakheti region of Georgia, is an impressive cathedral dating back to the 6th century. Founded by the monk Joseph of Alaverdi, in the 11th century it became one of the tallest churches in Georgia with its magnificent dome. Surrounded by vineyards, the monastery is also celebrated for its winemaking tradition, linking it deeply to the culture of the region.
We'll explore the majestic cathedral, learn about its rich history, and admire the beauty of the vineyards surrounding this iconic Kakheti landmark.
Route 34KM, 0 Hours and 36 Minutes
Nekresi Monastery
Nekresi Monastery, in Georgia's Kakheti region, is an ancient monastic complex founded in the 4th century, making it one of the oldest Christian centres in the country. Perched on a hill overlooking the Alazani valley, Nekresi is distinguished by its small early-Christian church, rich history, and stunning natural surroundings. The monastery has served as an important spiritual and cultural refuge throughout the centuries.
We'll walk through its historic chapels, enjoy panoramic views of the valley, and immerse ourselves in the tranquillity and history that envelop this sacred place.
Route 12KM, 0 Hours and 18 Minutes
Khareba Tunnel Winery
Nestled in the heart of the Kakheti region, Khareba Winery stands out for its extraordinary tunnel system carved into the Caucasian mountain, stretching over 7.7 kilometres at a depth of 60 metres. Originally built during the Soviet era, this underground labyrinth maintains a constant natural temperature of 12–14°C, creating ideal conditions for wine ageing. The winery combines traditional Georgian qvevri winemaking with modern technology, producing exceptional wines from indigenous grapes such as Saperavi and Rkatsiteli. We'll explore the mysterious tunnels with torches in hand, learn about Georgia's 8,000-year winemaking history, and taste a curated selection of wines paired with local cuisine.
Route 38KM, 0 Hours and 37 Minutes
Day 4 - Telavi - Signaghi - Bodbe - Tbilisi
Total route for the day - 181KM, 3 Hours and 8 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on our adventure. The following visits are planned: Route 69KM, 1 Hour and 15 MinutesSignaghi
Signaghi, known as the "City of Love," is a picturesque walled town in the wine-growing region of Kakheti, sitting at 790 metres above sea level. This 18th-century town, encircled by a 4-kilometre wall with 23 towers, offers stunning views of the Alazani valley and the Caucasus mountains. It is renowned for its traditional Georgian architecture, cobblestone streets, and ornately carved wooden balconies. We'll stroll through its romantic lanes, taste the famous Kakheti wines at traditional wineries, and watch the sunset over the valley from the ancient defensive walls.
Bodbe Monastery
Bodbe Monastery, in Georgia's Kakheti region, is one of the country's most important pilgrimage sites, housing the tomb of St. Nino, the missionary who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century. This monastic complex, surrounded by century-old cypress trees and lush gardens, blends architectural elements from the 9th and 17th centuries, including a three-nave basilica with traditional frescoes. We'll descend the sacred path to St. Nino's miraculous spring, take in the views over the Alazani valley, and experience the deep spirituality that permeates this holy place.
Day 5 - Tbilisi - Ananuri - Kazbegi - Tbilisi
Total route for the day - 321KM, 6 Hours and 0 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on our adventure. The following visits are planned: Route 67KM, 1 Hour and 10 MinutesAnanuri
Ananuri, an impressive medieval fortress 66 kilometres from Tbilisi, rises majestically above the Zhinvali Reservoir along the historic Georgian Military Highway. This 13th-century architectural complex, once the seat of the eristavi (dukes) of Aragvi, combines defensive structures with extraordinary examples of Georgian religious architecture, highlighted by its main church with intricate stone carvings and well-preserved frescoes. We'll explore the fortified towers, admire panoramic views over the turquoise reservoir, and uncover the secrets of medieval Georgian architecture as we walk through the ancient cobbled courtyards.
Gergeti Trinity Church
Gergeti Trinity Church stands majestically at 2,170 metres, in the shadow of Mount Kazbegi (5,047 m). This iconic 14th-century temple, in the historic Khevi region, is one of Georgia's most recognisable landmarks, admired for its remote location and traditional Georgian architecture against a backdrop of snow-capped Caucasus peaks. We'll drive up the winding mountain road in a 4×4, explore the ancient monastic complex, and marvel at panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and summits.
Day 6 - Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi
Total route for the day - 267KM, 4 Hours and 44 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on our adventure. The following visits are planned: Route 25KM, 0 Hours and 36 MinutesJvari - Monastery of the Cross
Jvari Monastery, known as the "Monastery of the Cross," is an iconic religious site near Mtskheta, Georgia, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 6th century on a hilltop, the monastery commands breathtaking panoramic views over the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. A masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture, it is a sacred place symbolising Georgia's adoption of Christianity. We'll explore its unique architectural design, enjoy the spectacular views, and learn about its profound historical and spiritual significance.
Route 13KM, 0 Hours and 18 Minutes
Svetitskhoveli
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, in the ancient capital of Mtskheta, is the spiritual heart of Georgia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. This majestic 11th-century cathedral, built on the spot where Christ's robe is said to be buried, is an extraordinary example of medieval Georgian architecture, with its tall decorated stone facade, central dome, and historic frescoes. We'll uncover the many legends surrounding this sacred place, admire the extraordinary ecclesiastical architecture, and witness the age-old religious traditions still alive at this spiritual centre.
Route 61KM, 1 Hour and 5 Minutes
Uplistsikhe
In the Kartli region of central Georgia, Uplistsikhe is an ancient rock-hewn town dating back to the first millennium BC. This extraordinary archaeological complex, considered one of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus, was a major religious and commercial hub on the historic Silk Road. Its structures include pagan temples, Christian basilicas, and civic buildings reflecting a unique fusion of Christian and pagan styles. The site is notable for its street network, secret tunnels, and an exceptionally well-preserved Roman-style theatre. We'll explore ancient wine cellars, walk through streets carved from stone, and marvel at panoramic views of the Mtkvari River from this natural acropolis — a journey through more than 3,000 years of Caucasian history.
Route 14KM, 0 Hours and 20 Minutes
Stalin Museum
The Stalin Museum in Gori, birthplace of the controversial Soviet leader, is one of the last museums in the world dedicated to Josef Stalin. The complex includes his original family home, a palatial Soviet-era building, and Stalin's personal railway carriage. The exhibition holds an extensive collection of personal artefacts, photographs, historical documents, and the original death mask of the dictator. We'll walk through the rooms documenting Stalin's life from his youth in Georgia to his Soviet leadership, inspect his luxurious armoured railway carriage, and reflect on the complex historical legacy he left in the region.
Route 154KM, 2 Hours and 25 Minutes
Day 7 - Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Prometheus Cave - Borjomi–Akhaltsikhe
Total route for the day - 240KM, 4 Hours and 55 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on our adventure. The following visits are planned: Route 2KM, 0 Hours and 9 MinutesBagrati Cathedral
Dominating Kutaisi's skyline from Ukimerioni Hill, the majestic Bagrati Cathedral is a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture and a symbol of the country's Golden Age. Built under King Bagrat III in the 11th century, this Orthodox church exemplifies the grandeur of the classic Georgian architectural style with its distinctive central dome and elaborate stone carvings. Although partially reconstructed in 2012, it remains one of Georgia's most important monuments and was once part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. We'll take in spectacular panoramic views of Kutaisi from its terraces, admire architectural details blending ancient and modern elements, and experience the serenity of this sacred space that has witnessed over a thousand years of history.
Route 10KM, 0 Hours and 20 Minutes
Gelati Academy
Gelati Academy, in western Georgia near Kutaisi, is one of the most significant cultural centres in the medieval Caucasus. This 12th-century fortified monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was a major centre of Georgian education and literature where Christian and classical traditions converged. Its impressive frescoes, unique architecture, and Royal Academy stand as testimonies to the Georgian Golden Age. We'll explore the majestic stone buildings, admire the intricate frescoes decorating its walls, and absorb the contemplative atmosphere that once inspired the greatest thinkers of the medieval Georgian kingdom.
Route 29KM, 0 Hours and 41 Minutes
Prometheus Cave
Prometheus Cave, near Kutaisi in Georgia, is one of the country's most impressive and extensive caves and a major natural attraction. Discovered in 1984, this fascinating underground cavern takes visitors through vast halls adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and spectacular rock formations that, under careful lighting, create a magical, enveloping atmosphere. Beyond the well-marked walking paths, visitors can also enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the underground river flowing through the cave. We'll walk the illuminated passages, marvel at formations sculpted by nature over millennia, and glide along the underground river, immersing ourselves in the hidden beauty of this subterranean world.
Route 151KM, 2 Hours and 50 Minutes
Borjomi
Nestled in the picturesque Mtkvari valley in central Georgia, Borjomi is a legendary spa destination famed worldwide for its healing mineral waters, which flow naturally hot from deep within Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. This elegant resort town, which reached its peak during the Russian Tsarist era of the 19th century, retains magnificent imperial-style mansions and expansive historic parks. Its mineral water, bottled since 1890, is regarded as a Georgian national treasure and has been prized for its medicinal properties for centuries. We'll stroll through the romantic Mineral Park, sip the thermal water straight from the historic springs, and explore the pristine trails of the national park, one of the largest in Europe.
Route 48KM, 0 Hours and 55 Minutes
Day 8 - Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Tbilisi
Total route for the day - 287KM, 5 Hours and 30 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on our adventure. The following visits are planned: Route 60KM, 1 Hour and 20 MinutesVardzia
Carved into the sheer rock face of Mount Erusheli, Vardzia is an awe-inspiring 12th-century cave monastery, symbol of the cultural zenith of medieval Georgia under Queen Tamar. This monastic complex stretches 500 metres and rises up to 19 storeys, housing over 600 rooms including churches, wine cellars, libraries, and an intricate tunnel and irrigation system. The site is particularly renowned for the Church of the Dormition, which preserves exceptional 12th-century frescoes including a famous portrait of Queen Tamar. We'll explore the tunnels and hidden staircases connecting the different chambers, discover ancient wine cellars, and marvel at the medieval frescoes that have survived earthquakes and centuries of history in this architectural gem hewn from living rock.
Khertvisi Fortress
Khertvisi Fortress, in the Samtskhe-Javakheti valley of Georgia, is one of the country's oldest fortresses, with origins dating to the 2nd century BC. Strategically located at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Paravani rivers, it served as a key defence during the medieval period and an important stop on the Silk Road. Its imposing walls, towers, and panoramic valley views make it a symbol of the region's historic resilience.
We'll explore the well-preserved structures, climb the towers for sweeping views, and immerse ourselves in the stories that make Khertvisi a place full of charm and history.
