A journey through Georgia, a land steeped in millennia of history, breathtaking landscapes, and a unique culture that will leave you spellbound. This 9-day tour takes you from the vibrant capital Tbilisi to the most enchanting corners of the region. Every day is carefully crafted so you can explore historic monasteries, ancient cities, and spectacular natural scenery, including the majestic peaks of Kazbegi and the green valleys of Kakheti. Along the way you will experience warm Georgian hospitality on guided tours that immerse you in the legends and traditions of this beautiful destination.
You begin with a city tour of Tbilisi, discovering its medieval architecture and charming cobblestone lanes. Then you head to the wine region of Kakheti, renowned for its wineries and centuries-old winemaking tradition. From Signagi, the "City of Love", to the historic complexes of Ananuri and Gergeti, every stop is a visual and cultural experience. You will explore wonders such as the Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the legendary cave city of Uplistsikhe. The journey concludes with the caves of Vardzia and the fortress of Khertvisi — hidden treasures that tell the story of a land that has served as a bridge between Europe and Asia. Experience the history, nature, and culture of Georgia up close!
Itinerario
Day 1 - Transfer from Tbilisi Airport to the Capital
Total distance for the day - 18KM 0 hours and 25 minutes Transfer according to the planned schedule. Route 18KM 0 hours and 25 minutesDay 2 - Tbilisi - City Tour
No driving distance After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. Planned visits:Rustaveli Avenue
Rustaveli Avenue, the main artery of Tbilisi, stretches 1.5 kilometres from Freedom Square to Republic Square. This emblematic street, named after the medieval poet Shota Rustaveli, is home to the city's most distinguished buildings, including the Parliament of Georgia, the Opera House, and the National Museum, all built in the neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles of the 19th century. During our stroll we soak up the lively Georgian cultural scene, 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 significant historic sites in Tbilisi, rises on a cliff with magnificent views over the Mtkvari River. This landmark is dominated by the 13th-century church and the equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of the city. The square served for centuries as the seat of the royal palace and became a strategic and cultural centre. Although the original church was built in the 5th century, the structure we admire today is a 13th-century reconstruction. During our tour we enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Old Town and the famous bathhouse quarter, explore the Metekhi Church, and delve into the fascinating history of the king who made Tbilisi the capital of Georgia.
Narikala Fortress
Narikala Fortress, the iconic symbol of Tbilisi, has dominated the city's skyline since the 4th century. This ancient citadel, originally Persian and later expanded by Arabs and Georgians, sits atop a steep hill overlooking the Mtkvari River and the Old Town. Its imposing walls and towers have witnessed the various civilisations that ruled Georgia, including the rebuilt St. Nicholas Church from the 12th century. During our visit we take the cable car up to the fortress, walk along the ancient defensive walls, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Tbilisi at sunset.
Abanotubani
Abanotubani, the historic sulphur bathhouse district in the heart of Old Tbilisi, is the original nucleus from which the Georgian capital grew. Situated on the right bank of the Mtkvari River, this neighbourhood is famed for its characteristic sulphur baths with brick domes protruding from the ground, bearing witness to over 1,500 years of history. The natural thermal water that bubbles up from the depths maintains a constant temperature of 37–40 °C and has drawn famous visitors such as Alexander Pushkin and Alexandre Dumas with its healing properties. During our visit we wander through the lanes of the legendary thermal springs and lose ourselves in the picturesque medieval alleys that wind between the bathhouses, breathing in the most authentic essence of ancient Tbilisi.
Anchiskhati
The Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in Tbilisi, is an important testament to Georgia's Christian history dating back to the 6th century. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this sandstone church dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary is named after the miraculous icon of Christ (Anchiskhati) that it housed for centuries. The typically Georgian three-nave basilica is complemented by medieval frescoes and a 17th-century bell tower. During our exploration we absorb the mystical atmosphere of the temple, listen to ancient Georgian polyphonic chants that still echo through its walls, and admire the craftsmanship of the traditional icons.
Day 3 - Tbilisi - Alaverdi - Nekresi - Kvareli - Telavi
Total distance for the day - 191KM 3 hours and 43 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. Planned visits: Route 107KM 2 hours and 12 minutesAlaverdi Monastery
Alaverdi Monastery, located in the Kakheti region of Georgia, is an impressive 6th-century cathedral. This historic site was founded by the monk Joseph of Alaverdi and became one of the tallest churches in Georgia when its magnificent dome was added in the 11th century. Surrounded by vineyards, the monastery is also known for its winemaking tradition, deeply connecting it to the culture of the region.
During our visit we explore the majestic cathedral, learn about its rich history, and enjoy the beauty of the vineyards that surround this emblematic site in Kakheti.
Route 34KM 0 hours and 36 minutes
Nekresi Monastery
Nekresi Monastery, located in the Kakheti region of Georgia, 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, its rich history, and its stunning natural setting. Throughout the centuries this monastery served as an important spiritual and cultural refuge.
During our visit we explore the historic chapels, enjoy panoramic views of the valley, and immerse ourselves in the silence and history that envelop this sacred place.
Route 12KM 0 hours and 18 minutes
Khareba Winery in the Tunnel
Located in the heart of the Kakheti region, Khareba Winery stands out for its extraordinary tunnel system carved into the Caucasus Mountains, 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 vinification methods using qvevri with modern technology to produce exceptional wines from native grape varieties such as Saperavi and Rkatsiteli. During our visit we traverse the mysterious torch-lit tunnels, learn about Georgia's 8,000-year-old winemaking history, and taste a fine selection of wines accompanied by local specialities.
Route 38KM 0 hours and 37 minutes
Day 4 - Telavi - Signagi - Bodbe - Tbilisi
Total distance for the day - 181KM 3 hours and 8 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. Planned visits: Route 69KM 1 hour and 15 minutesSignagi
Signagi, known as the "City of Love", is a picturesque walled town in the wine region of Kakheti, 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 distinguished by its traditional Georgian architecture, cobblestone streets, and carved wooden balconies. During our visit we stroll through the romantic lanes, taste the famous wines of Kakheti in traditional cellars, and admire the sunset over the valley from the ancient town walls.
Bodbe Monastery
Bodbe Monastery, situated in the Kakheti region, is one of Georgia's most important pilgrimage sites, as it houses the tomb of Saint Nino, the missionary who brought Christianity to the country in the 4th century. This monastic complex, surrounded by centuries-old cypress trees and lush gardens, combines architectural elements from the 9th and 17th centuries, including the three-nave basilica and traditional frescoes. During our visit we descend the sacred path to Saint 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 distance for the day - 321KM 6 hours and 0 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. Planned visits: Route 67KM 1 hour and 10 minutesAnanuri
Ananuri, a stunning medieval fortress 66 kilometres from Tbilisi, sits majestically above the Zhinvali Reservoir along the historic Georgian Military Highway. This 13th-century architectural complex, which served as the seat of the Eristavi (Dukes) of Aragvi, combines defensive structures with outstanding examples of Georgian ecclesiastical architecture, including the main church adorned with intricate stone reliefs and well-preserved frescoes. During our visit we explore the defensive towers, enjoy panoramic views over the turquoise reservoir, and uncover the secrets of medieval Georgian architecture as we walk through the ancient paved courtyards.
Gergeti Trinity Church
The Gergeti Trinity Church rises majestically at 2,170 metres in the shadow of Mount Kazbegi (5,047 m). This iconic 14th-century church, located in the historic region of Khevi, is one of the best-known symbols of Georgia, distinguished by its remote setting and traditional Georgian architecture set against the backdrop of snow-capped Caucasus peaks. During our excursion we drive up the winding mountain road in a 4x4, explore the ancient monastic complex, and enjoy panoramic views of glaciers and surrounding summits.
Day 6 - Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi
Total distance for the day - 267KM 4 hours and 44 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. Planned visits: 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, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built on a hilltop in the 6th century, this monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. It is considered a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture and a sacred place that symbolises the adoption of Christianity in Georgia. During our visit we explore its unique architectural design, enjoy the spectacular views, and learn about its deep historical and spiritual significance.
Route 13KM 0 hours and 18 minutes
Svetitskhoveli
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, situated in the ancient capital of Mtskheta, is the spiritual heart of Georgia and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. This majestic 11th-century cathedral, built on the site where Christ's robe is said to be buried, is an outstanding example of Georgian medieval architecture with its tall decorated stone facade, central dome, and historic frescoes. During our exploration we uncover the many legends surrounding this sacred place, admire the extraordinary ecclesiastical craftsmanship, and experience the ancient religious traditions that continue to this day at this spiritual centre.
Route 61KM 1 hour and 5 minutes
Uplistsikhe
Located in the Kartli region of central Georgia, Uplistsikhe is an ancient rock-hewn cave city dating back to the first millennium BC. This extraordinary archaeological complex, one of the oldest inhabited sites in the Caucasus, was a major religious and commercial centre on the historic Silk Road. Its architecture encompasses pagan temples, Christian basilicas, and civic buildings that reflect the unique blending of Christian and pagan styles. The city features a street system, secret tunnels, and an exceptionally well-preserved Roman-style theatre. During our visit we explore the ancient wine cellars, walk through lanes carved from the rock, and marvel at the panoramic views of the Mtkvari River from the summit of this natural acropolis, on a journey through over 3,000 years of Caucasian history.
Route 14KM 0 hours and 20 minutes
Stalin Museum
The Stalin Museum in Gori, the birthplace of the controversial Soviet leader, is one of the last museums in the world dedicated to Joseph Stalin. The complex includes the original birthplace, a building in Soviet palace style, and Stalin's personal railway carriage. The exhibition houses an extensive collection of personal belongings, photographs, historical documents, and the original death mask of the dictator. During our visit we explore the rooms documenting Stalin's life from his youth in Georgia to his Soviet leadership, view 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 distance for the day - 240KM 4 hours and 55 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. Planned visits: Route 2KM 0 hours and 9 minutesBagrati Cathedral
The majestic Bagrati Cathedral, which dominates the skyline of Kutaisi from Ukimerioni Hill, is a masterpiece of Georgian medieval architecture and a symbol of the country's Golden Age. Built under King Bagrat III in the 11th century, this Orthodox church embodies the grandeur of the classical Georgian architectural style with its characteristic central dome and elaborate stone reliefs. Although partially reconstructed in 2012, it retains its significance as one of Georgia's most important monuments and was part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. During our visit we enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Kutaisi from its terraces, admire the architectural details blending ancient and modern elements, and experience the tranquillity of this sacred space that has witnessed over a thousand years of history.
Route 10KM 0 hours and 20 minutes
Gelati Academy
Gelati Academy, located in western Georgia near Kutaisi, is one of the most important cultural centres of the medieval Caucasus. This fortified monastery from the 12th century, declared 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 Georgia's Golden Age. During our visit we explore the majestic stone buildings and admire the elaborate frescoes adorning its walls, while immersing ourselves in 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, located near Kutaisi in Georgia, is one of the most impressive and extensive caves in the country and a significant natural and tourist attraction. Discovered in 1984, this fascinating underground cavern offers a tour through vast halls adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and spectacular rock formations that, thanks to carefully designed lighting, create a magical and immersive atmosphere. In addition to the well-signposted paths that allow exploration of the stunning interior landscape, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the underground river that flows through the cave. During our visit we pass through the illuminated passages and marvel at the formations shaped by nature over centuries, and enjoy a boat ride that immerses us in the serenity and hidden beauty of this underground world.
Route 151KM 2 hours and 50 minutes
Borjomi
Located in the picturesque Mtkvari Valley in central Georgia, Borjomi is a legendary spa destination world-renowned for its healing mineral water, which flows naturally hot from the depths of the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. This elegant resort town, which reached its peak during the 19th-century Russian Imperial era, preserves magnificent mansions of imperial architecture and expansive historic parks. Its mineral water, bottled since 1890, is considered a national Georgian treasure and has been prized for its healing properties for centuries. During our stay we stroll through the romantic mineral park, drink the thermal water directly at 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 distance for the day - 287KM 5 hours and 30 minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure. Planned visits: Route 60KM 1 hour and 20 minutesVardzia
Carved into the vertical face of Mount Erusheli, Vardzia stands as a magnificent 12th-century cave monastery city, symbol of the cultural pinnacle of medieval Georgia under Queen Tamar. This monastic complex stretches over 500 metres and rises up to 19 storeys, housing more than 600 rooms including churches, wine cellars, libraries, and a complex tunnel system with an irrigation network. The site is particularly distinguished by the Dormition Church, which preserves extraordinary 12th-century frescoes including a famous portrait of Queen Tamar. During our exploration we pass through the secret tunnels and staircases connecting the various chambers, discover ancient wine cellars, and stand in awe before the medieval frescoes that have survived earthquakes and centuries of history in this rock-hewn architectural jewel.
Khertvisi Fortress
Khertvisi Fortress, located in the Samtskhe-Javakheti valley of Georgia, is one of the oldest fortresses in the country with origins dating back to the 2nd century BC. Strategically positioned at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Paravani rivers, it served as an important defensive stronghold and a key point on the Silk Road during the Middle Ages. Its imposing walls, towers, and panoramic views of the valley make it a symbol of the region's historic resistance.
During our visit we explore the well-preserved structures, climb the towers to admire the landscape, and immerse ourselves in the stories that make Khertvisi a captivating and historically significant place.
