Wonders of the Caucasus: From the Walled City to the Cave City

Itinerario

Day 1 - Transfer from Baku Airport to Baku

Total road for the day - 20KM 0 Hours and 30 Minutes Transfer will take place according to the scheduled time Road 20KM 0 Hours and 30 Minutes

Day 2 - Baku - Absheron - Baku

Total road for the day - 94KM 2 Hours and 4 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our adventure. The following is planned: Road 9KM 0 Hours and 25 Minutes

Palace of the Shirvanshahs

The Palace of the Shirvanshahs stands majestically in the heart of the Old City of Baku, capital of Azerbaijan, as a testament to the splendour of the 15th-century Shirvanshah dynasty. This medieval palace complex, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompasses several buildings including the divan, the family mausoleum and the palace mosque, all built in the distinctive local limestone. The architecture of the ensemble blends elements of the Shirvan-Absheron style with Persian and Islamic influences, notable for its intricate portals and delicate ornamental carvings. During our visit, we will explore the palace's multiple chambers, admire the panoramic views of Baku Bay from its terraces and immerse ourselves in the fascinating history of the Shirvanshahs through their ceremonial halls and archaeological exhibitions. Road 21KM 0 Hours and 30 Minutes

Ateshgah - Fire Temple

The Ateshgah, known as the Fire Temple of Baku, is an extraordinary religious complex located on the Absheron peninsula, Azerbaijan. This ancient Zoroastrian temple, built in the 17th century over a natural gas deposit, was an important pilgrimage centre for Hindu and Zoroastrian fire worshippers. Its unique pentagonal structure, declared a UNESCO Heritage site, houses a naturally fed eternal flame and displays a fascinating mix of Persian and Indian architectural elements. During the exploration, we will marvel at the eternally burning flames, walk through the ancient pilgrims' cells and immerse ourselves in the rich history of the Silk Road at this mystical enclave. Road 35KM 0 Hours and 30 Minutes

Yanardag - State Historical, Cultural and Natural Reserve

Yanardag, an impressive mountain of fire located 27 kilometres from Baku in Azerbaijan, represents an extraordinary natural phenomenon where natural flames continuously emerge from a porous sandstone hillside. This eternal fire, which burns uninterruptedly thanks to natural gas seepages, has been an object of fascination for centuries and was one of the reasons ancient Zoroastrians considered Azerbaijan a sacred land. The State Historical, Cultural and Natural Reserve protects this spectacular phenomenon that reaches up to 3 metres in height, becoming a living testament to why Azerbaijan is known as the "Land of Fire". During our visit, we will gaze in wonder at the dancing flames against the night sky, listen to the gentle hiss of gas emerging from the earth and feel the mystical warmth of this perpetual fire that has captivated travellers and pilgrims for generations. Road 17KM 0 Hours and 35 Minutes

Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre

The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre, located in the heart of Baku, Azerbaijan, is an architectural and cultural icon designed by the renowned Zaha Hadid. This impressive building stands out for its fluid, modern curves that symbolise the union between tradition and future. In addition to its innovative architecture, it houses exhibitions, cultural events and interactive spaces that celebrate Azerbaijani history and art. Recognised worldwide, this centre represents a landmark of contemporary design and Azerbaijan's national identity. During our visit, we will explore its fascinating galleries, admire its unique design and learn about the rich culture and history of Azerbaijan, immersing ourselves in an unforgettable experience full of art and innovation. Road 2KM 0 Hours and 4 Minutes

Yashil Bazar

The Yashil Bazar, also known as the Green Market, is one of the most vibrant and authentic traditional markets in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. Located in the heart of the city, this bustling covered market has been for generations the epicentre of local trade in fresh produce. Its aisles house a dazzling variety of fruits, vegetables, aromatic spices, fresh herbs, dried fruits and the famous Azerbaijani pickles, all presented in the characteristic Caucasus style. The Soviet architecture of the building contrasts with the warmth and colourfulness of the traditional stalls, where merchants keep alive centuries-old trading traditions. During our tour, we will immerse ourselves in a sensory feast of aromas and flavours, taste the delicious qurut (dried yoghurt), interact with the friendly local sellers and discover the secrets of the rich Azerbaijani gastronomy while exploring the lively aisles of this historic market. Road 10KM 0 Hours and 4 Minutes

Day 3 - Baku - Gobustan - Baku

Total road for the day - 204KM 3 Hours and 30 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our adventure. The following is planned: Road 70KM 1 Hour and 5 Minutes

Gobustan Rock Art - Petroglyphs Museum

The Gobustan Petroglyphs Museum, located in Azerbaijan, is an archaeological site declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This open-air museum houses over 6,000 rock carvings dating back 40,000 years, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life. Set in a desert landscape near the Caspian Sea, Gobustan also stands out for its ancient human settlements and the famous mud volcanoes that complete the unique experience of this destination. During our visit we will admire the intricate rock engravings, explore the remains of ancient civilisations and observe the fascinating mud volcanoes that make Gobustan a truly special place. Road 30KM 0 Hours and 50 Minutes

Mud Volcanoes

The mud volcanoes of Azerbaijan represent one of the most fascinating geological phenomena of the Caucasus, located mainly on the Absheron Peninsula and the coastal regions of the Caspian Sea. These extraordinary natural features, which account for almost half of the world's mud volcanoes, have witnessed the rich geological history of the region for thousands of years. The lunar landscape created by over 400 active volcanoes presents a unique spectacle where bubbling mud emerges from the depths of the earth, creating cones and small eruptions that have fascinated both scientists and visitors for generations. During our exploration, we will marvel at the spectacle of cold mud geysers gushing from the earth, experience the healing power of these mineral muds and walk along paths that wind between the volcanic cones, capturing unique photographs of this extraterrestrial landscape so characteristic of Azerbaijan. Road 84KM 1 Hour and 25 Minutes

Carpet Museum

The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, located in Baku, is a fascinating cultural space that celebrates the country's rich carpet-weaving tradition, recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Its building, designed in the shape of a rolled carpet, is a unique architectural work housing a collection of carpets, textiles and tools spanning centuries of history. This museum not only preserves traditional art but also offers a space to learn about the unique techniques and designs of Azerbaijan. During our visit we will admire the intricate carpets, discover the secrets behind their creation and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of this outstanding museum. Road 20KM 0 Hours and 10 Minutes

Day 4 - Baku - Shamaki - Sheki

Total road for the day - 347KM 5 Hours and 27 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our adventure. The following is planned: Road 90KM 1 Hour and 20 Minutes

Diri Baba Mausoleum

The Diri Baba Mausoleum, located in the village of Maraza, Azerbaijan, is a fascinating historical monument built in the 15th century. Carved into a cliff, this mausoleum combines Islamic architecture and nature, creating a mystical atmosphere. Its design, with intricate stone details and a location that seems to defy gravity, makes it a unique place, wrapped in legends about its function as the sanctuary of a sacred hermit. During our visit we will explore its intricate architecture, climb the cliff to admire the views and immerse ourselves in the stories and legends surrounding this extraordinary monument. Road 35KM 0 Hours and 30 Minutes

Mausoleum of the Seven Domes

The Mausoleum of the Seven Domes, located in the city of Shemakha, Azerbaijan, is an impressive funerary monument dating from the 18th century. This historical site, surrounded by hills and tranquil landscapes, served as the final resting place for the nobles and rulers of the Shirvan region. Its distinctive design, with multiple domes and Islamic architectural details, reflects the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Azerbaijan. During our visit we will explore its unique structures, appreciate the symbolism of its architecture and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings that make this place a cultural treasure. Road 206KM 3 Hours and 2 Minutes

The Khan's Summer Palace

The Khan's Summer Palace, located in Sheki, Azerbaijan, is an 18th-century architectural gem that reflects the cultural and historical richness of the region. Built as a residence for the khans of Sheki, this palace stands out for its exquisite design, including intricate stained glass, detailed frescoes and wood carvings. Surrounded by gardens, it is an outstanding example of Oriental architecture and an important testament to the legacy of the Sheki dynasty. During our visit, we will admire its dazzling stained glass, explore the elegant rooms and transport ourselves to the era of the khans while discovering the history of this magnificent palace. Road 8KM 0 Hours and 20 Minutes

Albanian Church of Kish

The Albanian Church of Kish, located in the picturesque village of Kish near Sheki, Azerbaijan, is an ancient Christian temple dating from the 1st century. Considered the oldest church in the Caucasus, it was an important spiritual centre of the Caucasian Albania kingdom. Its architecture combines local and Byzantine influences, and its mountain setting enhances its historical atmosphere. Today it functions as a museum, noted for its archaeological excavations and unique religious history. During our visit we will explore its restored interiors, learn about the ancient civilisations that built it and enjoy the serenity of the picturesque village surrounding it. Road 8KM 0 Hours and 15 Minutes

Day 5 - Sheki - Lagodekhi - Signaghi - Tbilisi

Total road for the day - 267KM 4 Hours and 33 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our adventure. The following is planned: Road 110KM 1 Hour and 50 Minutes

Lagodekhi

Cross the border between Azerbaijan and Georgia. Border formalities and change of guide and transport. Road 45KM 0 Hours and 50 Minutes

Signaghi

Signaghi, known as the "City of Love", is a picturesque walled town situated in the wine-growing region of Kakheti, 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 noted for its traditional Georgian architecture, cobblestone streets and carved wooden balconies. During our visit, we will stroll through its romantic lanes, taste the famous Kakheti wines in traditional cellars and watch the sunset over the valley from its ancient defensive walls. Road 2KM 0 Hours and 5 Minutes

Bodbe Monastery

Bodbe Monastery, located in the Kakheti region, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Georgia, 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, featuring its three-nave basilica and traditional frescoes. During our visit, we will descend the sacred path to Saint Nino's miraculous spring, contemplate the views of the Alazani valley and experience the deep spirituality that permeates this holy place. Road 110KM 1 Hour and 48 Minutes

Day 6 - Tbilisi - Guided City Tour

No road After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our adventure. The following is planned:

Rustaveli Avenue

Rustaveli Avenue, the main artery of Tbilisi, stretches 1.5 kilometres from Freedom Square to Republic Square. This iconic street, named after the medieval poet Shota Rustaveli, is home to the city's most prestigious buildings, including the Parliament of Georgia, the Opera Theatre and the National Museum, all built in neoclassical and Art Nouveau style during the 19th century. During our stroll, we will enjoy the vibrant Georgian cultural life, stop at its elegant historic cafés and admire the monumental architecture while exploring the numerous shops and art galleries.  

Metekhi Square

Metekhi Square, one of the most emblematic historical places in Tbilisi, rises above a cliff with privileged views of 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 was for centuries the home of the royal palace, consolidating itself as a strategic and cultural centre. Although the original church was built in the 5th century, the structure we can admire today is a 13th-century reconstruction. During our tour, we will delight in the impressive panoramic views of the old town and the famous bathhouse district. We will also explore the Metekhi church and immerse ourselves in the fascinating history of the king who, with his vision, established Tbilisi as the capital of Georgia, forging one of the most representative places of Georgian heritage.  

Narikala Fortress

Narikala Fortress, the iconic symbol of Tbilisi, has dominated the city skyline since the 4th century. This ancient citadel, originally Persian and later expanded by Arabs and Georgians, rises above a steep hill with views of the Mtkvari river and the old town. Its imposing walls and towers have witnessed the various civilisations that have governed Georgia, including the reconstructed Church of St Nicholas from the 12th century. During our visit, we will take the cable car up to the fortress, walk along its ancient defensive walls and capture impressive panoramic views of Tbilisi as the sun sets over the city.  

Abanotubani

Abanotubani, the historic sulphurous bathhouse district in the heart of old Tbilisi, represents the original nucleus where the Georgian capital was founded. Located on the right bank of the Mtkvari river, this neighbourhood is famous for its characteristic sulphur baths with brick domes emerging from the ground, witnesses to over 1,500 years of history. The natural thermal waters that spring from the depths of the earth maintain a constant temperature of 37–40°C, and their curative properties have attracted illustrious visitors such as Alexander Pushkin and Alexandre Dumas. During our visit, we will immerse ourselves in the streets of these legendary thermal waters and wander through the picturesque medieval alleyways that wind between the bathhouses, breathing in the most authentic essence of ancient Tbilisi.  

Anchiskhati

Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in Tbilisi, is a vital testimony to Georgia's Christian history since the 6th century. Located in the heart of the old town, this sandstone church, dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, owes its name to the miraculous icon of Christ (Anchiskhati) that it housed for centuries. Its typically Georgian three-nave basilica architecture is complemented by medieval frescoes and a 17th-century bell tower. During our exploration, we will participate in the mystical atmosphere of the temple, listen to the ancient Georgian polyphonic chants that still resonate in its walls and admire the craftsmanship of its traditional icons.  

Day 7 - Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Gori - Uplistsikhe - Borjomi - Akhaltsikhe

Total road for the day - 245KM 3 Hours and 33 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our adventure. The following is planned: Road 25KM 0 Hours and 36 Minutes

Jvari - Monastery of the Cross

Jvari Monastery, known as the "Monastery of the Cross", is an iconic religious site located near Mtskheta, Georgia, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 6th century on a hilltop, this monastery offers impressive panoramic views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Considered a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture, it is a sacred place that symbolises the adoption of Christianity in Georgia. During our visit, we will explore its unique architectural design, enjoy the spectacular views and learn about its profound historical and spiritual significance. Road 13KM 0 Hours and 18 Minutes

Svetitskhoveli

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, located in the ancient capital of Mtskheta, represents the spiritual heart of Georgia and has been a UNESCO Heritage site since 1994. This majestic 11th-century cathedral, built on the site 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. During our exploration, we will uncover the numerous legends surrounding this sacred place, admire the extraordinary ecclesiastical architecture and witness the ancient religious traditions that still survive in this spiritual centre. Road 61KM 1 Hour and 5 Minutes

Uplistsikhe

Located in the Kartli region of central Georgia, Uplistsikhe is an ancient rock-hewn cave city dating from the first millennium BC. This extraordinary archaeological complex, considered one of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus, was an important religious and commercial centre on the historic Silk Road. Its architectural structures include pagan temples, Christian basilicas and civil buildings that reflect the unique fusion of Christian and pagan styles. The city is notable for its street system, secret tunnels and an exceptionally well-preserved Roman theatre. During our visit we will explore ancient wine cellars, walk through lanes carved in stone and marvel at the panoramic views of the Mtkvari river from atop this natural acropolis, transporting ourselves through over 3,000 years of Caucasian history. Road 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 dedicated to Josef Stalin in the world. The complex includes the original birth house, a Soviet palace-style building and Stalin's personal railway carriage. The exhibition holds an extensive collection of personal objects, photographs, historical documents and the original death mask of the dictator. During our visit, we will explore the rooms that document Stalin's life from his youth in Georgia to his Soviet leadership, examine his luxurious armoured railway carriage and reflect on the complex historical legacy he left in the region. Road 84KM 1 Hour and 14 Minutes

Borjomi

Nestled in the picturesque Mtkvari valley in central Georgia, Borjomi is a legendary spa destination renowned worldwide for its healing mineral waters, which spring naturally hot from the depths of the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. This elegant resort town, which reached its peak during the Russian Tsarist era of the 19th century, preserves magnificent mansions in imperial architecture and extensive historic parks. Its mineral water, bottled since 1890, is considered a Georgian national treasure and has been prized for centuries for its medicinal properties. During our stay, we will stroll through the romantic Mineral Park, taste the thermal waters directly from the historic springs and explore the pristine trails of the national park, one of the largest in Europe. Road 48KM 0 Hours and 55 Minutes

Day 8 - Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Tbilisi

Total road for the day - 287KM 5 Hours and 30 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our adventure. The following is planned: Road 60KM 1 Hour and 20 Minutes

Vardzia

Carved into the vertical wall of Mount Erusheli, Vardzia emerges as an impressive 12th-century rock monastery city, symbol of the cultural peak of medieval Georgia during the reign of Queen Tamar. This monastic complex extends over 500 metres and reaches up to 19 levels in height, housing more than 600 rooms including churches, wine cellars, libraries and an intricate system of tunnels and irrigation. The site is especially notable for the Church of the Dormition, which preserves exceptional 12th-century frescoes, including a famous portrait of Queen Tamar. During our exploration, we will traverse the secret tunnels and staircases connecting the various chambers, discover ancient wine cellars, and marvel at the medieval frescoes that have survived earthquakes and centuries of history in this architectural gem carved from rock.

Khertvisi Fortress

Khertvisi Fortress, situated in the Samtskhe-Javakheti valley in Georgia, is one of the oldest fortresses in the country, with origins dating back to the 2nd century BC. Strategically located at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Paravani rivers, it was an important defence during the medieval era and a key point on the Silk Road. Its imposing walls, towers and panoramic views of the valley make it a symbol of the historical resistance of the region. During our visit we will explore the well-preserved structures, climb the towers to admire the landscape and immerse ourselves in the stories that make Khertvisi a place full of charm and history.

Day 9 - Transfer from Tbilisi to Tbilisi Airport

Total road for the day - 19KM 0 Hours and 32 Minutes Transfer will take place according to the scheduled time Road 18KM 0 Hours and 25 Minutes

Tbilisi Airport

Transfer according to the scheduled flight time.