Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia – Group tour from Tbilisi

Explore Southern Georgia’s Treasures on a Full-Day Tour from Tbilisi

This group tour from Tbilisi offers an enriching journey through some of Georgia’s most captivating sites in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. Starting at 8:00 AM, the adventure spans 14 hours, visiting Borjomi Central Park, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia, the famous cave city. The tour includes transportation and guiding services with a full-day itinerary designed for those eager to see Georgia’s historical and natural highlights in one day.

The tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery, medieval architecture, and archaeological marvels. While it involves a full day on the move, the pace is structured to balance exploration with comfortable rest stops. A particular highlight is the opportunity to taste Borjomi mineral water directly from the springs, a unique local experience. However, visitors should be prepared for entrance fees at each site, and a bit of walking around the expansive Vardzia complex.

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Key Points

• Full-day guided tour from Tbilisi covering Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia
• Duration of 14 hours, starting at 8:00 AM with a return around 10:00 PM
• Includes transportation and guiding service, with optional site fees
• Visits include mineral water tasting, medieval fortress exploration, and cave city discovery
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with walking and spending the day outdoors

From Tbilisi to Borjomi Central Park and the Mineral Springs

The day begins with departure from Tbilisi at 8:00 AM, heading towards Borjomi. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours in a comfortable vehicle. Upon arrival at Borjomi Central Park, visitors are invited to sample mineral water directly from the springs for 5 GEL per person. This tasting is a highlight, offering a taste of Georgia’s famed mineral waters.

A leisurely walk in the Borjomi Park reveals lush greenery and a relaxed atmosphere. The park’s springs are a key attraction, providing a refreshing start to the day. The visit to Borjomi is brief but memorable, especially for those interested in natural health remedies or simply enjoying scenic parks.

Discovering Rabati Castle’s Medieval Charm

Next, the journey continues with a visit to Rabati Castle, about an hour away from Borjomi. The entrance fee for Rabati is 17 GEL per person. The castle complex showcases a blend of medieval architecture and restoration efforts that preserve its historical significance. With a local guide, you explore its fortress walls, minarets, mosques, and churches.

The guide provides insights into the castle’s history and structure, helping visitors appreciate its role as a regional center for centuries. The site offers opportunities for photos of its impressive features and panoramic views from elevated parts of the fortress. The visit typically lasts about an hour, giving enough time for exploration without feeling rushed.

Lunch Break at a Local Georgia Restaurant

Following the exploration of Rabati, a lunch break is scheduled at a local restaurant. This pause allows travelers to enjoy regional Georgian cuisine and relax before heading to the next major site. The tour’s structure provides flexibility for guests to choose their preferred dining options, with a variety of local dishes available.

The meal is an essential part of experiencing Georgia’s hospitality, giving a taste of traditional flavors in a welcoming setting. The timing ensures a smooth transition to the cave city of Vardzia afterwards, maintaining the overall schedule.

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Exploring Vardzia — The City of Caves

The final major destination is Vardzia, approximately 5 hours from Rabati. The site is a sprawling cave city, carved into the cliffs of the Mtkvari River gorge. Visitors explore numerous rooms, tunnels, and chapels, learning about its historical purpose as a fortress, monastery, and refuge.

The entrance fee for Vardzia is 16 GEL per person, with an additional 2 GEL for a local bus that takes visitors into the complex. The guide leads you through the various rooms, sharing stories of Vardzia’s past inhabitants and its significance in Georgian history.

Because Vardzia covers a large area, comfortable shoes and clothes are advised. The site’s expansive layout offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Georgia’s ancient craftsmanship. Visitors spend a considerable amount of time here to thoroughly explore all accessible parts of the cave city.

The Return Journey and Group Transfer Details

After Vardzia, the tour concludes with the return to Tbilisi. The group departs from Vardzia, and after a changing vehicle at Surami, the trip heads back to the capital. Estimated arrival in Tbilisi is around 10:00 PM, completing a full day of sightseeing.

The organized transfer ensures a smooth, stress-free experience, with drop-offs at Tbilisi or Budget Georgia Tbilisi depending on the chosen options. The late return is typical for this tour, so travelers should be prepared for a long day.

Logistics and Booking Considerations

This group tour is operated by Budget Georgia Kutaisi and features live English-speaking guides. The cost covers transportation and guiding, but site entrance fees are paid separately — 5 GEL for Borjomi, 17 GEL for Rabati, and 16 GEL plus 2 GEL for the bus at Vardzia.

Booking can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility in case of changing plans. Reserve and pay later options are available, making it easier to secure a spot without immediate payment.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes and clothes to comfortably navigate the sites and walk around the extensive Vardzia complex. The tour suits those ready for a day of outdoor exploration and historical discovery.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day of Georgia Sights

This 14-hour group tour from Tbilisi delivers a comprehensive look at some of Georgia’s most iconic spots in Samtskhe-Javakheti. The combination of natural springs, medieval fortresses, and ancient cave dwellings offers a diverse experience packed into one day.

While the schedule is full, the guides’ insights, the scenic locations, and the cultural richness make it worthwhile for those eager to see Georgia beyond Tbilisi. The cost is reasonable considering the transportation, guiding, and entry fees, but travelers should budget for additional site costs.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and curious explorers looking for a structured, informative day-trip adventure that covers Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation and a guiding service. Entrance fees for sites—Borjomi mineral springs, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia—are paid separately.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience spans 14 hours, starting at 8:00 AM and returning around 10:00 PM.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. There is a lunch break at a local restaurant, giving travelers the chance to enjoy Georgian cuisine.

What are the main attractions of this tour?
Key highlights include mineral water tasting in Borjomi, Rabati Castle’s medieval architecture, and the expansive cave city of Vardzia.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour involves walking around large sites and standing for periods, so it is best suited for travelers comfortable with outdoor activities and uneven terrain.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the reserve now, pay later option allows flexible bookings.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby