Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia – one day group tour from Kutaisi

Discover Georgia’s Treasures on a Day Trip from Kutaisi

This one-day group tour from Kutaisi offers a comprehensive glimpse into some of Georgia’s most iconic sights: Borjomi Park, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia. Priced at a reasonable rate, the tour lasts approximately 14 hours and includes transportation and guiding, making it an efficient way to explore the southern regions of Georgia. The tour is especially suitable for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, with a focus on cultural landmarks and local traditions.

While the tour covers a lot in a single day, it does require some walking and a willingness to explore extensive sites. The inclusions and reviews highlight its well-organized nature and the expertise of the guides, though entrance fees and some tastings are paid separately. This trip provides a rich snapshot of Georgia’s past and present, making it a popular choice for travelers based in Kutaisi.

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Key Points

• Duration and Departure: The tour lasts 14 hours, departing from Budget Georgia’s office on Shota Rustaveli Avenue, next to the Winetage wine shop.
• Highlights: You visit Borjomi Central Park, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia caves, with tastings of Nazuki bread and mineral waters included.
• Guided Experience: Led by a live English-speaking guide, renowned for their knowledge and storytelling skills.
• Cost Breakdown: The tour price covers transportation and guiding, but entrance tickets and tastings are paid separately, with some stops costing around 18 GEL for Rabati castle.
• Flexible Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for: Those interested in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, with comfortable shoes and clothes recommended.

From Kutaisi to Surami: Tasting Nazuki and Local Flavors

The adventure begins early, with the tour departing from Budget Georgia’s office at 08:00. The first notable stop is Surami, where visitors get to taste Nazuki, a traditional Georgian sweet bread. Local vendors demonstrate its preparation, offering generous samples that immediately introduce travelers to Georgia’s food culture. The Nazuki tasting costs around 3 GEL per person, making it an affordable and delicious welcome to the day.

This stop is appreciated for its authenticity, offering a chance to see a local baking tradition firsthand. It also adds a charming moment before heading to the more expansive attractions. The experience sets a relaxed tone for the day, blending culinary discovery with culture.

Exploring Borjomi’s Famous Mineral Waters in Central Park

Next, the tour reaches Borjomi Central Park, a lush green area famous for its mineral springs. Visitors are encouraged to taste the famous Borjomi mineral water, which flows freely from the springs. The park visit lasts about 30 minutes, providing enough time to walk among the trees and sample the water straight from the source.

The mineral water tasting is a highlight for many, and the park’s peaceful setting offers scenic views that are ideal for photos. The entry fee for the park is approximately 5 GEL per person. Although the tour doesn’t include a full exploration of Borjomi town, the park’s natural springs and the refreshing waters make it a worthwhile stop.

Visiting Rabati Castle: Georgia’s Medieval Fortress

Following Borjomi, the group heads to Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe, which takes about 1 hour. This medieval fortress complex features a blend of architectural styles, including a mosque, church, and fortress walls, reflecting Georgia’s diverse history. The tour includes an exploration led by a local guide, who shares insights into the castle’s past and its significance.

The admission fee for Rabati Castle is 18 GEL, paid separately. Visitors can roam freely through the castle’s courtyards, towers, and museums, gaining a tangible sense of Georgia’s medieval era. The castle’s mixture of history, architecture, and stories makes it a captivating stop, with plenty of photo opportunities.

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Lunch Break at a Local Restaurant

Midway through the day, the tour makes a lunch stop at a nearby restaurant. While the meal is not included in the tour price, it offers a chance to enjoy authentic Georgian cuisine in a relaxed setting. Many choose to try local dishes alongside regional wines or mineral waters, enhancing the cultural experience.

This break provides a rest from sightseeing and an opportunity to recharge for the afternoon’s adventure. The timing is flexible, and travelers can discuss meal options with the guide if desired.

Discovering Vardzia: The City of Caves

The highlight for many on this tour is Vardzia, a remarkable complex carved into the cliffs of the Erusheti Mountain. This cave city was historically a monastery and defensive site, and today visitors can explore its numerous rooms, tunnels, and churches. The visit lasts about 5 hours, allowing for a thorough exploration of this UNESCO-listed site.

Getting to the upper part of Vardzia involves a small minibus uphill ride costing about 2 GEL, which is included in the entrance fee. Entrance to Vardzia costs 15 GEL. Guides lead visitors through the site, explaining its history and significance, making it accessible and engaging despite the site’s extensive size.

Practical Details: Transportation and Group Size

The entire day is spent traveling in a comfortable van, with several stops along the route. The group size tends to be manageable, and the tour departs from Budget Georgia’s office at Shota Rustaveli Avenue #5. The journey between sites varies from 30 minutes to 2 hours, with some longer drives to reach the southern regions.

The tour is designed to balance sightseeing with enough rest and free time, though it is a full day with some walking involved. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for exploring Vardzia and Rabati Castle.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging Storytellers

Reviews praise guides like Saba and Lasha for their expertise and storytelling abilities. They provide historical facts, legends, and contextual details that enrich the experience. Many mention that guides keep the energy high and share stories that make the sites come alive.

The guides’ knowledge makes complex history accessible and engaging, adding value to the sightseeing. Their friendly approach ensures that travelers feel comfortable asking questions throughout the day.

Tour Logistics and Booking Flexibility

The tour begins promptly at 08:00 from Budget Georgia and concludes back at the starting point. The reservation process is flexible, allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later if desired. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind for planning.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as the day involves walking and exploring uneven terrain. The tour is conducted in English, ensuring clear communication and storytelling.

Final Thoughts on Georgia’s Day-Long Adventure

This full-day tour from Kutaisi packs a substantial punch with visits to Borjomi, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia caves. Its strengths lie in the well-organized itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see some of Georgia’s most iconic landmarks in just one day.

While entrance fees and tastings are paid separately, the overall experience is considered very good value, especially given the length and richness of the sites covered. The tour suits those eager to enjoy Georgia’s history and natural beauty without the hassle of independent travel.

Travelers who enjoy historical sites, scenic landscapes, and local food tastings will find this trip highly rewarding. However, a full day of walking and touring demands good footwear and a sense of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation in a comfortable van is included from Kutaisi to all the stops.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets to sites like Rabati Castle and Vardzia are paid separately, around 18 GEL and 15 GEL, respectively.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as the day involves walking through large sites and uneven terrain.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, starting around 08:00 and returning to Kutaisi in the evening.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is paid separately at a local restaurant, but there are options for authentic Georgian cuisine.

How many people typically join the tour?
The group size is manageable, and many reports describe it as feeling like a private tour due to the small number of participants.

Who guides the tour?
The tour features live English-speaking guides, praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While generally accessible, travelers should be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain, making it more suitable for those comfortable with physical activity.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The Nazuki bread tasting, the mineral waters of Borjomi, Rabati Castle’s architecture, and Vardzia’s caves are the standout features.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely—especially for those wanting an immersive day filled with historic sites, scenic views, and local flavors in Georgia.

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