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

If you’re planning a trip to Georgia and want to get a good dose of the country’s history, culture, and landscapes in one day, this tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized trip packed with memorable sites and local flavor. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy exploring castles, cave cities, and tasting regional specialties all in one go.

What really catches our eye is how this tour combines iconic landmarks like Borjomi’s mineral springs, the medieval Rabati Castle, and the fascinating cave city of Vardzia. Plus, the inclusion of local tastings – like the Nazuki bread and mineral waters – adds a genuine local touch. That said, it’s a long day at around 14 hours, and some might wish for more time at each stop, particularly Vardzia. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, scenery, and cultural experiences without the hassle of planning it all themselves.

One thing to consider is the cost of entrance tickets, which are not included in the tour price. Entrance fees for Rabati Castle and Vardzia, for example, add up, so you’ll need to budget accordingly. But overall, the value seems good considering the number of sites visited and the guided experience. This tour is best suited for those who want a rundown of southern Georgia’s most famous sights in a day, especially if you prefer to travel with a group and a guide.

Key Points

• Efficiently covers multiple iconic sites in one day from Kutaisi, saving you hassle.
• Includes local tastings like Nazuki bread and mineral waters – a nice cultural touch.
• Guided by knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights, enhancing the experience.
• Long but well-paced day, with a mix of sightseeing, cultural exploration, and scenic views.
• Entrance fees are not included, so budget around 18 GEL for Rabati and 15 GEL for Vardzia.
• Suitable for those who enjoy history, culture, and landscape in one trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Kutaisi to Surami for Nazuki

The tour kicks off early, around 8:00 am, with pickups from your specified location. The initial stop at Surami is a charming introduction to Georgian culinary traditions, where locals demonstrate how to make Nazuki, a traditional sweet bread. This isn’t just a quick sample; they give you a chance to see how it’s made, and you can try as much as you like. As one reviewer put it, “We adored all places, and the stories told by Saba.”

This stop is more than just a snack; it’s a gentle way to warm up for the day’s sightseeing, and it sets the tone for a culture. If you’re a foodie or just love local traditions, you’ll particularly enjoy this part. Plus, it’s free to watch and taste, though the bread costs a small 3 GEL per person.

Borjomi Central Park and Mineral Water Tasting

Next, we head to Borjomi, famous for its naturally carbonated mineral waters. The stop at the central park offers a chance to sample the waters directly from the springs — a refreshing experience, especially if you’re visiting on a warm day. The park itself is a lush, green spot perfect for a quick stroll. For a small fee of 5 GEL, you can fill your bottle with this famous water to take home.

Most reviews highlight how pleasant this part is, with some mentioning that the walk in the park is a good breather after the morning’s activity. It’s a nice way to experience a local health tradition in a relaxed setting.

Exploring Rabati Castle

After Borjomi, the tour moves on to Rabati Castle, a medieval fortress with a mix of historical structures and modern refurbishments. The highlight here is the guided tour, with a local guide providing context and stories that bring the site to life. The castle complex includes a mosque, a church, and a medieval tower, offering a tangible sense of Georgia’s diverse history.

One reviewer praised the guide, saying, “Saba was a perfect guide, I learnt so much about Georgia and saw beautiful landscapes.” This suggests that the guided element really enhances the experience, making it more than just wandering through ruins. Entrance costs about 18 GEL, which you’ll need to budget for separately.

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Lunch Break at a Local Restaurant

Midway through the day, you’ll have a chance to relax and refuel with lunch at a local spot. The tour doesn’t include this, so it’s up to you to choose a restaurant or cafe nearby. This is a good opportunity to try traditional Georgian dishes and mingle with fellow travelers. The local guide might even recommend some specialties.

Vardzia: The Cave City

The final major stop is Vardzia, Georgia’s famed cave monastery complex carved into the cliffs. This site is the tour’s highlight for many, with its labyrinth of tunnels, rooms, and religious sites. You’ll spend about five hours here, exploring the caves, churches, and terraces. The sheer scale and ingenuity of this ancient city are impressive, and the panoramic views are breathtaking.

The entrance fee is 15 GEL, plus an extra 2 GEL for the minibus ride uphill, which is worth considering if you’re concerned about walking. Reviewers often mention how “Vardzia was a very interesting stop,” and some wish they had more time here, indicating how captivating the site can be.

Wrapping Up and Returning to Kutaisi

After a full day of sightseeing, the group heads back to Kutaisi, usually arriving late afternoon or early evening. The journey itself offers scenic views and the chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries. The tour ends at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

What makes this tour stand out?

Knowledgeable Guides and Cultural Insights

From multiple reviews, the guides seem to be a real asset. “Lasha was a library on car,” one traveler noted, highlighting the depth of knowledge shared. The guides don’t just tell you facts but weave stories and legends that make the ancient sites feel more alive.

Beautiful Landscapes and Scenic Views

Georgia’s southern regions are known for their rolling hills and rugged mountains, which you’ll see en route. While the focus is on historical sites, the natural scenery adds an extra layer of beauty to the experience.

Authentic Tasting Stops

The inclusion of Nazuki bread and mineral waters gives a taste of local life, making the trip more immersive. It’s these small touches that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Value for Money

Considering the guided tours, entrance fees, and transportation, the price seems reasonable. The reviews suggest most travelers find it worth the cost, especially when they’re keen to see Georgia’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While many travelers find this tour excellent, some note that it’s a long day. If you’re not used to 14-hour excursions, it might feel tiring, especially given the amount of walking involved at sites like Vardzia. Also, because entrance tickets are paid separately, you should budget about 18 GEL for Rabati and 15 GEL for Vardzia, plus 2 GEL for the minibus at Vardzia.

Another point is that some reviewers wished for more time at Vardzia or Borjomi. The schedule is tight, and to fit everything in, the stops are fairly quick. If you’re a slow explorer or really want to soak in each site, you might find the day rushed.

Lastly, the tour is not explicitly described as family-friendly, but given the walking involved and the long hours, it might be better suited for older children and adults with good mobility.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, and anyone interested in Georgia’s past and natural beauty. If you enjoy guided experiences and don’t mind a full day on the move, you’ll likely find this tour very satisfying. It’s a good fit for travelers who want to see the highlights of southern Georgia without the hassle of arranging transportation and guides themselves.

It’s also perfect if you’re looking for a balanced mix of tasting, sightseeing, and storytelling. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited mobility, you might want to consider if the timings and walking are suitable.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included, and you’ll be traveling comfortably in a van with a guide.

What are the meeting and drop-off points?
The tour departs from and returns to Budget Georgia’s office at Shota Rustaveli Avenue #5, next to the Winetage wine shop.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets for Rabati Castle (18 GEL) and Vardzia (15 GEL + 2 GEL for uphill minibus) are paid separately.

How long is the tour?
The overall duration is approximately 14 hours, starting at 8:00 am, depending on the selected option and pace.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly described as family-friendly, the long walking distances and full day might be demanding for small children or those with mobility concerns.

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

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be walking and exploring outdoor sites.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day filled with Georgia’s historical gems, stunning vistas, and authentic local flavors, this tour offers a reliable way to experience it all. The guides seem knowledgeable and engaging, and the sites are genuinely spectacular. Yes, the day is long, but if you’re up for a rundown without the stress of organizing everything yourself, it’s a solid choice. Just keep in mind that some of the most popular sites, especially Vardzia, warrant enough time to truly soak in their wonder.

This trip is best for curious travelers who love history, culture, and scenic beauty and are comfortable with a packed schedule. It’s a good way to tick off some of Georgia’s most iconic spots in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: