Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia – Group tour from Tbilisi

If you’re looking to escape the bustle of Tbilisi and soak in some of Georgia’s most striking landscapes and historic sites, a day trip to Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia might just be what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve researched it thoroughly, and from what I gather, it offers a well-rounded experience with some real highlights—especially the stunning views and the chance to see diverse aspects of Georgian culture and history.

What stands out most about this trip is the chance to taste mineral water directly from the springs in Borjomi, and explore the fascinating cave city of Vardzia. It’s a full-day outing, packed with sightseeing, culture, and nature. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s quite a long day—around 14 hours—so it’s not ideal if you’re after a relaxed, leisurely pace. Still, if you’re eager to tick off several must-see sites in one go, this tour could be just right.

This experience suits those who enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery, history, and some walking involved in exploring old castles and cave complexes. It’s a good fit for travelers comfortable with a bit of a bus journey, and it’s not geared specifically towards families, but older children and teenagers who can handle a long day will likely enjoy it.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day trip from Tbilisi covering multiple highlights in southern Georgia.
• Includes guided commentary, offering insights into each site’s history and significance.
• Taste of Borjomi’s mineral water directly from the springs is a fun and refreshing experience.
• Visit to Rabati Castle provides a glimpse into medieval Georgian history.
• Vardzia’s cave city offers a dramatic landscape and fascinating architecture.
• Cost includes transportation and guiding, but some site entrance fees are paid separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour’s Itinerary

The journey kicks off early at around 8:00 AM, as you depart from Tbilisi. You’ll board a comfortable vehicle and head south into Georgia’s scenic landscape, where the views along the way are often highlighted by travelers as a memorable part of the experience. The first stop is Borjomi Central Park, a charming spot where you can sample mineral water straight from the springs. This is not just a taste; it’s a small but fun part of the trip that adds a local flavor—literally.

Borjomi’s springs are famous for their mineral water, and many visitors enjoy the chance to drink it fresh, sometimes even taking some home. The park itself is lush, with a relaxed atmosphere, making it a good place for a quick walk after sampling the water. While the visit to Borjomi is relatively brief—around 2.5 hours—it allows you to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural surroundings. The small entry fee (around 5 GEL) is worth it for the experience.

Next, you’ll head to Rabati Castle, about an hour away. This medieval fortress is a focal point for Georgian history and architecture. Guided by a local expert, you’ll get a deeper understanding of its structure, its role in regional history, and the various architectural styles it showcases. The entrance fee of 17 GEL helps support the preservation of this historic site. Visitors often comment that Rabati’s mixture of old castles, mosques, churches, and museums makes it a compelling stop.

Lunch is included as part of the tour, typically at a local restaurant. It’s a chance to try some Georgian specialties—though the specific food isn’t detailed, you can expect hearty, comforting dishes typical of the region. The break also helps recharge before the more adventurous part of the day.

After lunch, the focus shifts to one of Georgia’s most astonishing sights: Vardzia, a cave city carved into the cliffs. This complex was built into the mountain and includes monasteries, tunnels, and living spaces. Spending around five hours here, you’ll get to explore many of its rooms and corridors, gaining a sense of what life might have been like centuries ago. Visitors often describe Vardzia as ‘dramatic’ and ‘fascinating,’ with some noting that the views from the site are simply stunning.

The entrance fee of 16 GEL, plus an additional 2 GEL for local transportation within Vardzia, is paid on-site. The site is large and extensive, so comfortable shoes and a good level of fitness will make your visit more enjoyable. Expect some uphill walking and narrow passages, but the experience is well worth it.

The day concludes with a return journey to Tbilisi, which takes approximately four hours. The group stops for a quick vehicle change at Surami, before heading back to the city, arriving around 10:00 PM. It’s a long day, but many travelers find the variety and sights make it worthwhile.

What We Loved and What to Keep in Mind

The highlights of this tour are undoubtedly the breathtaking views—from the lush landscapes of Borjomi to the cliffside vistas of Vardzia. The chance to walk around a well-preserved medieval castle and explore an ancient cave city is truly special. Plus, tasting the local mineral water adds a fun, authentic touch.

However, it’s important to note that the entire experience is quite packed. If you’re not used to long days on a bus, or if walking long distances is a concern, you might find this tour a bit tiring. Also, since some entrance fees are paid separately, it’s a good idea to carry enough GEL to cover those costs, though they are reasonable.

Travelers also mention that the pace can be a bit brisk, especially at Vardzia. While the sites are fascinating, enjoy them at your own speed—don’t feel pressured to rush through. The group size is not specified, but tours like this tend to be fairly popular, so expect to share the experience with other travelers.

Practical Details and Tips

• Transportation is included and generally comfortable, making the long drive manageable.
• The duration is approximately 14 hours, so start early and plan for a full day.
• The cost covers guiding service and transportation, with additional site entrance fees paid separately—roughly 16-17 GEL per site.
• Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as you’ll be walking and exploring uneven terrain.
• The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Book in advance to secure your spot, and remember you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour date.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who want to see a good cross-section of Georgia’s southern attractions in one day. If you’re passionate about history, enjoy scenic drives, and are up for some walking, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a very relaxed day or with mobility concerns, given the amount of walking involved at sites like Vardzia.

It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling solo or in a small group and want a guided experience that covers multiple major sites without the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets yourself.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

This Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia tour strikes a solid balance between cultural, historical, and natural sights. It offers good value considering all the sites included, especially with guided commentary helping you understand the significance of what you’re seeing. The views—both natural and man-made—are genuinely impressive and make the long day worth it.

While it’s a busy itinerary, the variety of experiences ensures you’ll leave with a broad sense of what southern Georgia has to offer. If you’re eager to explore beyond Tbilisi’s city limits and see some incredible landscapes and ancient sites, this trip is a reliable choice. Just pack comfortable shoes and a spirit ready for adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children who can handle a long day on the bus and walking around large sites will likely enjoy it. Keep in mind the terrain at Vardzia can be uneven and requires some mobility.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 14 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 10:00 PM.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Borjomi Central Park, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia are paid separately—roughly 5 GEL, 17 GEL, and 16 GEL respectively. You should have some GEL ready for these.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and some GEL for entrance fees. A water bottle and a small snack might also be handy, especially for the long day.

Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, the guiding service is in English, providing insights into each site.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, generally spring through early fall offers the best weather for walking and sightseeing.

This tour packs a lot into one day, and if you’re game for a full experience with stunning views and a touch of adventure, it’s a solid way to see some of Georgia’s most iconic sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: