Group Tour: Must see of Georgia in 2 days from Yerevan

Experience Georgia in Just 2 Days with a Guided Group Tour from Yerevan

This 2-day guided tour offers an efficient way to explore some of Georgia’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning transportation or accommodation. For $186 per person, travelers enjoy a comfortable journey in an air-conditioned vehicle, staying in a luxurious 4-star hotel in Tbilisi with breakfast and lunch included. The tour is ideal for those looking to see the highlights of Georgia’s rich architectural and cultural heritage, especially since it covers UNESCO-listed sites, ancient castles, and cave towns.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its well-organized itinerary and professional guides speaking both English and Russian. However, travelers should be aware that dinner is not included, and hotel pick-up and drop-off in Yerevan is not part of the package, meaning some logistics planning may be necessary. This tour suits visitors who want a structured, informative experience with minimal stress, but it requires some walking and moderate outdoor exploration.

Key Points

• Includes UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Jvari Monastery and Mtskheta
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
• Two nights’ hotel stay in a 4-star hotel in Tbilisi
• Meals of traditional Georgian food included for lunch and breakfast
• Guided tours with bilingual guides explaining Georgia’s history and architecture
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

Convenient Departure from Yerevan at 8:00 AM

The tour starts promptly at 8:00 am at the Hyur Service office in Nalbandyan. This well-timed departure allows the group to make the most of the two days, covering major highlights efficiently. Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, travelers are advised to dress appropriately, especially for outdoor visits like the Jvari Monastery and Vardzia cave town.

Although hotel pickup and drop-off in Yerevan are not included, the meeting point is situated near public transportation options, making it accessible for many. The tour’s group size is capped at 49 travelers, allowing for a comfortable experience and ample opportunity to ask questions.

Exploring the UNESCO-listed Monuments: Jvari Church and Mtskheta

The journey begins with a visit to Jvari Monastery, a site built in the 7th century on the spot where Saint Nino erected a cross, marking the start of Christianity in Georgia. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers impressive views and a glimpse into early Georgian religious architecture, with free admission. The 40-minute stop provides a peaceful setting for photos and reflection.

Next, the group explores Mtskheta, Georgia’s first capital and a UNESCO-listed city situated where the Kura and Aragvi rivers meet. This one-hour visit includes sightseeing of historic monuments that highlight Georgia’s early Christian heritage. The city’s ancient architecture and cultural significance make it a must-see stop on this tour.

Walking Tour of Old Tbilisi’s Historic Charm

Arriving in Tbilisi, the guide leads a one-hour walking tour through the Old Town, revealing its labyrinth of winding streets, historic buildings, and vibrant neighborhoods. This part of the tour gives travelers a chance to feel the city’s unique atmosphere and learn about its development from medieval times to modern days. All stops are free of charge, but the area offers plenty of photo opportunities and street-level charm.

Visiting Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe

On Day 2, the group visits Rabati Castle, a 9th-century fortress on the Potskhovi River. Once expanded in the 12th and 13th centuries, Rabati served as a regional residence for the Jaqeli dynasty. Visitors can explore the castle complex, which includes an orthodox church, mosque, museum, and restaurants. Its strategic location on a high hill provided natural defense, and today it’s a popular site with free admission for the main areas. The one-hour visit allows ample time to appreciate the blend of historical architecture and modern renovations.

Discovering the Cave Town of Vardzia

The highlight of Day 2 is the visit to Vardzia, founded in the 12th century as a cave monastery complex. Perched at 1300 meters above sea level, this site features up to 13 floors connected by tunnels, with living quarters, refectories, libraries, and wine storage facilities. Its sophisticated water and sewer systems reflect the advanced engineering of medieval Georgia. The 1-hour 10-minute tour inside the cave town is included, giving visitors a chance to walk through the tunnels and absorb the history of this impressive archaeological site.

Accommodations and Meals

The tour includes a stay in a luxurious 4-star hotel in Tbilisi, ensuring comfort after busy days exploring outdoor sites. Breakfast and lunch are provided, with meals focusing on traditional Georgian cuisine, which adds cultural flavor to the trip. Since dinner is not included, travelers may choose to explore local restaurants in Tbilisi or return to the hotel for a quiet evening.

Logistics, Guide, and Group Size

The professional guides speak both English and Russian, making the tour accessible for a diverse group. Guides are known for their knowledge and ability to share insights into Georgian history and heritage. The group size, limited to 49 travelers, strikes a balance between social interaction and personal comfort.

The tour is operated by Hyur Service, a reputable provider, and includes bottled water, pastries, admission tickets, and air-conditioned transportation. No hotel pick-up or drop-off in Yerevan is included, so travelers should plan their arrival and departure accordingly.

Special Notes and Considerations

This tour operates in all weather conditions, so packing appropriately is essential. Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult, but the level of walking and outdoor activity suggests a moderate physical requirement. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at sites like Vardzia.

Travelers from some countries may need to apply for visas to Georgia or additional visas for re-entry into Armenia, so checking visa requirements in advance is advisable.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Georgia Tour from Yerevan

This well-structured tour offers an efficient way to see Georgia’s most iconic sites in just two days, balancing guided visits with cultural insights. The inclusion of UNESCO sites, historic castles, and cave towns makes it appealing to history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike. The comfortable hotel stay and meals of traditional cuisine enhance the experience, while the professional guides ensure informative commentary.

While the lack of dinner and hotel transfer may require some additional planning, the overall value, especially considering the $186 price point, makes this tour an attractive choice. It suits those who prefer a guided, hassle-free way to explore Georgia’s landmarks with a focus on cultural and historical highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off in Yerevan. Travelers meet at the Hyur Service office in Nalbandyan and should plan their own transportation for the start and end of the tour.

What meals are included?
Breakfast and lunch are included in the package, featuring traditional Georgian dishes. Dinner is not provided, so travelers can explore local restaurants in Tbilisi afterward.

Are the sites suitable for all physical levels?
Most sites involve walking, including visits to Vardzia and Rabati Castle. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking distances involved.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of participants is 49 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and social atmosphere.

How long do the visits at each site last?
Stops at Jvari Monastery and Mtskheta are about 40 minutes to 1 hour each, while the cave town of Vardzia is just over an hour, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed.