Tbilisi: 2-Day Borjomi, Rabati, & Vardzia Tour

Discover the Charm of Southern Georgia in Two Relaxed Days

This 2-day tour from Tbilisi offers a well-paced exploration of Borjomi, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia Cave City, all included in the package. Priced with all entrance tickets and accommodation covered, the tour is ideal for those wanting to see key sights without rushing. The journey includes an overnight stay in Akhaltsikhe, providing a comfortable and unhurried experience. The tour uses a comfortable air-conditioned minibus and features a local expert guide who shares deep knowledge of the region.

Designed for travelers seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive adventure, this tour balances sightseeing with plenty of time for photos, walks, and authentic meals. One of its strengths lies in the careful planning that ensures a smooth experience, though it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and uneven surfaces. No hidden fees and all tickets are included, making it a straightforward and enjoyable way to explore Southern Georgia.

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Key Points

• Two-day, all-inclusive experience with hotel, transport, guide, and entrance tickets
• Visits to Borjomi Central Park, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia Cave City
• Overnight stay in Akhaltsikhe for a comfortable, unrushed pace
• Authentic Georgian lunch options at local restaurants
• Moderate walking involving stairs and uneven terrain at Vardzia
• Guided in English with friendly, knowledgeable guides

From Tbilisi to Borjomi’s Natural Beauty

The tour departs from Tbilisi’s Opera and Ballet Theater, at 25 Shota Rustaveli Avenue. The journey in a comfortable minibus begins early, heading toward Borjomi Central Park. Once there, the focus is on enjoying a peaceful nature walk through the park, famous for its mineral water sourced directly from natural springs. Expect to taste Borjomi mineral water straight from the source, walk along forest rivers, and breathe fresh mountain air.

The Borjomi Central Park visit is designed to be unhurried, giving plenty of time to soak in the scenery and capture photos. This stop highlights the region’s natural charm, with the park offering a relaxing start to the trip. The tour emphasizes enjoying the calm resort atmosphere without rush, perfect for those who like to slow down and appreciate scenic landscapes.

Exploring Rabati Castle: A Blend of Cultures

After Borjomi, the group moves on to Rabati Castle, a beautifully restored fortress that blends Georgian, Ottoman, and European architectural elements. The castle complex includes towers, scenic terraces, stone courtyards, and religious sites such as a mosque and a church. The panoramic viewpoints over Akhaltsikhe provide excellent photo opportunities.

The visit to Rabati is conducted at an easy, relaxed pace to allow proper exploration of this atmospheric site. The guide explains the historical significance of the castle and its diverse architectural styles, making it easy to appreciate the layers of history. The site’s restoration and scenic surroundings make it a highlight of the day, without feeling rushed.

Enjoying an Overnight Stay in Akhaltsikhe

Following the sightseeing at Rabati, the tour includes an overnight stay in Akhaltsikhe. This arrangement helps keep the day’s pace relaxed, avoiding long drives or rushed schedules. The hotel accommodation allows time for rest and possibly some evening walks around the town, adding to the overall comfort of the experience.

Having an overnight stay means the tour can focus on quality over quantity, giving travelers the chance to enjoy the atmosphere of Akhaltsikhe and prepare for the next day’s adventure. The hotel is included in the price, and the tour ensures a calm, comfortable, and unhurried experience.

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Vardzia Cave City: A 12th-Century Wonder

The next morning, the tour heads toward Vardzia Cave City, carved into the cliffs in the 12th century. The guide leads visitors through ancient cave dwellings, wine storage tunnels, and hidden defensive passages, revealing the site’s strategic and spiritual importance. The cave church, decorated with preserved frescoes, offers a glimpse into medieval monastic life.

This stop involves moderate walking over uneven surfaces and stairs, so good walking shoes are recommended. Visitors have ample time to explore, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere without crowds. The guide’s storytelling enhances understanding of Queen Tamar’s role and the significance of the site, making this a memorable peak of the trip.

Authentic Georgian Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After exploring Vardzia, the tour offers a lunch at a local restaurant known mainly to locals. The guide selects a spot famous for fresh ingredients, homemade flavors, and authentic Georgian recipes. The lunch is optional and paid on-site, with an emphasis on real, delicious food rather than tourist menus.

This meal provides a taste of genuine Georgian cuisine, adding a cultural layer to the experience. The focus on local products and traditional recipes ensures an authentic dining experience that complements the day’s sightseeing.

Scenic Return Journey to Tbilisi

Post-lunch, the group relaxes on the scenic drive back toward Tbilisi. The route offers views of the Georgian countryside, with the guide sharing insights into local life and history along the way. The journey concludes at Tbilisi’s Opera and Ballet Theater, where the tour officially ends.

This return leg allows for reflection on the trip’s highlights, with plenty of opportunities for photos and casual conversation. The tour’s careful pacing and included transportation make the return smooth and comfortable.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour starts at 25 Shota Rustaveli Avenue in front of the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater. Travelers are advised to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure timely departure. The tour is operated by AURA TOURS Georgia, and features a live English-speaking guide.

All entrance tickets—covering Borjomi Central Park, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia—are included in the price. The experience involves moderate walking, including stairs and uneven surfaces at Vardzia, making it suitable for those with a normal level of physical fitness. The tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments.

The tour is designed to be relaxed and unhurried, with a focus on enjoying each stop fully. Weather conditions do not affect the operation, so travelers should prepare with comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a camera. A small suitcase or backpack is recommended due to limited luggage space.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This 2-day tour appeals to those interested in a balanced mix of history, nature, and culture in Southern Georgia. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer an unhurried pace, want authentic local experiences, and enjoy scenic views. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, and small groups, it offers a comfortable introduction to this beautiful region.

However, it involves moderate walking and uneven terrain, so it may not suit those with mobility challenges. The overnight stay ensures a less hurried experience, making it especially suitable for visitors wanting to avoid long day trips.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Borjomi, Rabati, & Vardzia Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Southern Georgia’s highlights, with excellent logistics, inclusive tickets, and a friendly guide. The focus on authentic food, scenic views, and history at a relaxed pace makes it a good choice for travelers seeking a genuine and practical exploration.

The overnight in Akhaltsikhe enhances the overall comfort, avoiding the fatigue of long drives and allowing for a more immersive experience. While the physical activity is moderate, the tour’s detailed planning and small-group atmosphere make it manageable and enjoyable.

This tour provides a solid, authentic introduction to the region’s treasure trove of sights and flavors, suited for those who value meaningful, unhurried travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour uses a comfortable air-conditioned minibus for all transfers between sites and back to Tbilisi.

Are entrance tickets for Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia included?
Yes, all entrance tickets are covered in the tour price, simplifying the visit and avoiding additional costs.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. A small suitcase or backpack is useful due to limited luggage space.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, due to moderate walking and uneven surfaces at Vardzia, this tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

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