Tbilisi: Borjomi and Bakuriani Day Trip with Guide

Discover Borjomi and Bakuriani in a Single Day

This day trip from Tbilisi offers a full experience of two iconic Georgian destinations: Borjomi and Bakuriani. For 12 hours, travelers enjoy a blend of cultural sights, natural beauty, and active fun. The tour is perfect for those who want to see the snowy landscapes of Georgia’s mountain regions, sample its famous mineral water, and even try skiing or tubing at Bakuriani. With a guided experience, you gain insights into each location’s history and significance.

Starting at Meidan Bazar, the tour moves through some of Georgia’s most scenic spots. You can expect to spend around 2 hours in Borjomi, exploring its parks and drinking the healing mineral water, then head to Bakuriani for 3 hours of winter activities and mountain views. The entire journey is designed for comfortable group travel, led by knowledgeable guides speaking English and Russian.

While the tour offers plenty of outdoor adventure, it also provides cultural context, making it suitable for travelers interested in both leisure and history. The only consideration is that the tour is not accessible for wheelchair users, and optional activities like skiing come at extra costs for equipment rental.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day guided excursion from Tbilisi to Borjomi and Bakuriani, lasting 12 hours
• Visit Borjomi Central Park, where the healing mineral water flows from a large glass dome
• Enjoy scenic snowy landscapes and active winter sports at Bakuriani ski resort
• Optional lunch at an authentic Georgian restaurant for around 25 GEL
• Learn about Borjomi’s history as a former residence of Russian emperors
• Guided commentary enhances understanding of each location’s cultural background

Starting Point at Meidan Square

The tour begins at Meidan Square, identifiable by the large “I Tbilisi” sign. This central location is easy to find and convenient for group pickup. The coordinates 41.68971252441406, 44.8090934753418 make it straightforward to enter the meeting point into a taxi or navigation app. The gathering is well-organized, ensuring a smooth start to the day.

Borjomi’s Winter Charm and Mineral Water Experience

In Borjomi, the winter version of this mountain resort transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland. The central park is a key stop, with attractions along a narrow gorge beside the river. Here, the large glass dome covers the mineral water spring, where the water flows slightly warmer and with a distinct aroma compared to bottled versions.

Visitors have the opportunity to drink the healing water directly from the spring, a tradition that dates back generations. Bottles can be purchased at the park entrance for a small fee. The park’s attractions and playgrounds are part of the two-hour visit, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and learn about Borjomi’s importance as a health resort.

Bakuriani’s Alpine Atmosphere and Winter Activities

At Bakuriani, located at 1700 meters above sea level, the mountain air feels crisp and invigorating. The town is famed for its beautiful snowy views and trails suited for different skill levels. It’s often compared to the Beshumi resort in Adjara, thanks to its clean environment and range of winter sports options.

During the 3-hour stay, visitors can enjoy photo stops and explore the ski resort area. The resort offers skiing and tubing, with rental equipment available for an additional fee. The trails accommodate various levels of experience, making it accessible for beginners and more advanced snow sports enthusiasts alike.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Itinerary and Time Allocation

The tour’s schedule is structured to maximize sightseeing and activity time. After an initial photo stop and guided tour of Borjomi, there’s around two hours for free exploration and mineral water tasting. Then, after a break in Bakuriani, visitors enjoy about three hours to indulge in winter sports, take photos, and enjoy the mountain scenery. The return to Meidan Bazar concludes the day, making it a seamless experience.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour includes a lunch option at a Georgian restaurant, costing approximately 25 GEL per person. Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Water bottles are recommended to stay hydrated during the day.

The activity is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor winter activities and cultural exploration. Note that wheelchair users are not accommodated due to terrain limitations. The tour’s guides are fluent in English and Russian, providing informative commentary throughout the day.

The Experience of a Guided Group Tour

Led by NDV TRAVEL, this tour receives praise for its well-maintained vehicles, insightful guides, and smooth organization. Guides such as Jimmy, George, and Luca are appreciated for their friendly attitude, patience during photo stops, and deep knowledge of the areas visited.

The small group format enhances the experience, allowing for more personal interaction and flexibility. Travelers benefit from easy logistics, with pickup and drop-off at a central point and well-paced stops to avoid feeling rushed.

Comparing Similar Tours and Options

This Borjomi and Bakuriani day trip is similar to other excursions offered from Tbilisi, including private tours and train journeys. It stands out by combining cultural sights with winter sports, making it a versatile choice. The availability of free cancellation and pay later options adds flexibility for planning.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

This tour offers an engaging mix of cultural history, natural beauty, and active winter recreation. The price includes a full day of travel, sightseeing, and optional activities, making it a good investment for travelers seeking variety. The guided insights enrich the experience, especially for those interested in Borjomi’s historical significance.

While it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues and optional sports require additional costs, the overall experience is well-organized and enjoyable. It’s ideal for visitors who want a comprehensive day trip with a balance of relaxation, adventure, and learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the snowy landscapes and some activities, but experienced skiers or tubers should be supervised. Equipment rental is extra.

What should I wear for this trip?
Wearing warm clothing and comfortable shoes is recommended, especially for walking around Borjomi and Bakuriani.

Can I participate in skiing or tubing?
Yes, optional activities like skiing and tubing are available, with rental equipment offered at additional costs.

How long do we spend in Borjomi?
Approximately 2 hours are allocated for Borjomi sightseeing and mineral water tasting.

What is included in the lunch?
Lunch at a Georgian restaurant costs about 25 GEL and offers authentic local cuisine.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and activity types.

What guides lead the tour?
Guides are available in English and Russian, providing informative commentary during stops.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning options.

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