Explore Georgia in One Day Borjomi Vardzia Khertvisi and Rabati

Explore Georgia in One Day Borjomi Vardzia Khertvisi and Rabati

This one-day guided tour from Tbilisi offers an affordable way to see some of Georgia’s most iconic sites for just $45 per person. Spanning approximately 14 hours, the tour takes travelers southward to explore Borjomi, Rabati Castle, Khertvisi Fortress, and the rock-cut city of Vardzia. The tour is designed to provide a rundown of Georgia’s history, culture, and natural beauty, making it ideal for those with limited time who want a rich experience.

The experience includes comfortable transportation with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, guided commentary from a knowledgeable guide, and planned stops at some of Georgia’s most impressive landmarks, all arranged at a relaxed pace. While the tour does not include entrance fees, it offers the convenience of visiting multiple sites in one day, with plenty of opportunity for memorable photos, local food, and fascinating stories.

Key Points

• Affordable day trip covering Borjomi, Rabati Castle, Khertvisi Fortress, and Vardzia
• Price of $45 per person, with 14 hours of guided touring
• Includes transportation, Wi-Fi, and guide service
• Visit Borjomi Park, taste mineral water, and enjoy scenic views
• Explore the 11th-century Rabati Castle complex with multiple religious sites
• Discover the 12th-century Vardzia, a rock-cut city with 348 rooms

Starting from Tbilisi at 7:00 AM

The tour begins early in the morning at 7:00 AM from Shadiani1 Vakhtang Gorgasali Street in Tbilisi. Using a comfortable minibus equipped with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, the guide leads travelers southward, ensuring a smooth and engaging journey. This early start maximizes daylight hours for sightseeing, and the group size is kept to a maximum of 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.

First Stop: Borjomi Central Park and Borjomi Water Tasting

The first highlight is Borjomi Central Park, located in the stunning Borjomi Valley. Here, visitors can walk in the park, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and taste the world-famous Borjomi mineral water for free. A cable car ride up the mountain is available for panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape. The park offers a relaxing start to the day, with free water tasting and scenic vistas that showcase Georgia’s natural beauty.

The stop lasts about one hour, and while the admission to Borjomi Park costs $3, this fee is not included in the tour price. The walk and views make it a peaceful, refreshing beginning before moving on to the historical sites.

Rabati Castle: A Multi-Religious Fortress

Next, the group visits Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe, an 11th-century fortress that has been transformed into a sprawling complex. Inside, visitors find museums, a church, a mosque, and a synagogue, reflecting Georgia’s diverse religious history. Overlooking the city, Rabati offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich past and cultural mix.

This stop lasts about 50 minutes, and an admission ticket costs $7, which is not included in the tour fee. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, learn about its various eras, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

The Marvel of Vardzia: The 12th-Century Rock-Cut City

The highlight for many is Vardzia, a 12th-century rock-cut city built by Queen Tamar. This impressive site consists of 13 floors and 348 rooms, carved directly into the mountainside. Visitors can walk through tunnels, see the Assumption of the Mother of God Church, and hear stories about its construction and purpose. The site’s architecture offers a remarkable insight into medieval Georgian ingenuity.

The tour allocates about 1 hour and 30 minutes for Vardzia, with tickets costing $7 (not included). The site’s scale and historical significance make it a must-see, with opportunities for photography and absorbing stories about Georgia’s medieval past.

Khertvisi Fortress: An Ancient Stronghold

On the way back toward Tbilisi, the tour makes a brief 25-minute stop at Khertvisi Fortress. Built in ancient times, this fortress has a storied history, including being reportedly captured by Temur the Great. It stands as a testament to Georgia’s strategic importance and historical conflicts.

While the admission fee of $4 is not included, the brief visit allows travelers to appreciate the fortress’s ruins and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Tasting Local Cuisine at a Traditional Restaurant

In the afternoon, the group visits a local restaurant to sample authentic Georgia dishes. This meal provides a delicious break from sightseeing, offering a taste of regional flavors and culinary traditions. Although the specific dishes are not detailed, this stop enhances the cultural experience and allows for relaxation and socializing.

Return Journey: Scenic Drive Back to Tbilisi

After the meal, the bus retraces the route back to Tbilisi, passing through Borjomi once more. The return journey offers a chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries, with Wi-Fi available on the bus to share photos or notes. The tour ends back at the initial meeting point in Tbilisi, completing the roughly 14-hour day.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour is suitable for most travelers, given its straightforward nature and inclusion of transportation and guide service. The physical demands are moderate, mainly involving walking at sites like Vardzia and Rabati Castle. The group size is small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience.

Admission fees are additional, totaling $21 if visitors choose to pay for all sites, but the overall value remains compelling at $45. The tour offers a well-paced schedule, balancing sightseeing with breaks, making it ideal for those wanting an efficient yet comprehensive day trip.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour distinguishes itself by combining natural beauty, history, and cultural diversity in one day. The inclusion of Borjomi’s mineral water tasting, the multi-religious Rabati Castle, and the ancient Vardzia city provides a well-rounded view of Georgia’s heritage. The guide’s professionalism, praised in reviews, helps bring these stories to life, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The price point of $45 offers excellent value considering the number of sites visited, transportation, and guided commentary. It also caters well to travelers who want a structured, hassle-free day with minimal planning.

The Sum Up: A Full-Day Georgian Adventure

This guided tour from Tbilisi offers a practical way to see Georgia’s highlights with comfort and expert guidance. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to explore significant sites like Borjomi, Rabati Castle, Vardzia, and Khertvisi. The combination of natural scenery, historical sites, and local cuisine makes for a rich, memorable experience.

While the admission fees are extra, the tour’s overall value lies in its inclusivity of transportation, guide service, and the chance to absorb Georgia’s diverse heritage. The small group size and knowledgeable guide, highlighted by positive reviews, ensure an engaging and relaxed day for visitors of most mobility levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $45?
The price covers transportation, Wi-Fi, and guide service. Admission fees for the sites are paid separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, starting at 7:00 AM and returning to Tbilisi in the evening.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but the tour stops at a local restaurant for an authentic Georgian lunch.

What sites are visited during this tour?
The tour visits Borjomi Central Park, Rabati Castle, Vardzia, and Khertvisi Fortress.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but those with mobility concerns might want to consider the walking involved at sites like Vardzia.

How much are the entrance fees?
Total entrance fees are about $21 if all sites are paid for, with Borjomi Park ($3), Rabati Castle ($7), Vardzia ($7), and Khertvisi Fortress ($4).

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by ushba travel and guided by a professional team.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of natural beauty, historical diversity, and the expert guide makes it a practical, engaging way to explore Georgia in one day.