From Tbilisi: Borjomi, Rabath and Vardzia Day Trip

If you’re after a comprehensive day trip from Tbilisi that combines natural beauty, history, and cultural intrigue, this tour might just fit the bill. It takes you across some of Georgia’s most captivating sites in a single day—think ancient fortresses, mystical cave cities, and bubbling mineral waters—all with a knowledgeable guide at your side.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances these different elements. You get a good dose of history and scenery without feeling rushed, thanks to the well-structured itinerary. Plus, the guide’s insight makes it easy to connect the dots of Georgia’s complex past. The only thing to keep in mind? The long day means quite a bit of walking, and some areas can be uneven, so it might not be ideal for everyone with mobility limitations.

This trip tends to suit travelers who enjoy history, landscapes, and local culture—especially if you’re comfortable with a full-day outing. It’s perfect if you want a reliable, guided way to see some of Georgia’s top sights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites.
• Expert guides help bring the stories of Georgia’s ancient and medieval past to life.
• Comfortable transportation via air-conditioned vehicles makes the long day easier.
• Flexible options include free cancellation and pay later, easing your planning stress.
• Well-paced stops allow plenty of time for exploring, photos, and local tastes.
• Appropriate for travelers with good walking stamina, as uneven terrain is involved.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What This Tour Offers in Detail

This day trip from Tbilisi is designed as a well-rounded exploration of Georgia’s southern treasures, giving you a taste of the country’s history, nature, and local life, all packed into roughly 12 hours.

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll begin your journey at the central square of Tbilisi, specifically in front of the restaurant Machakhela on Samghebro Street. From there, a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away on a scenic drive. The tour’s timing varies, but you’ll generally start early, making the most of your day.

First Stop: Borjomi

Your first destination is the famous spa town of Borjomi, renowned for its mineral waters. Once there, you can taste the water directly from public springs, which is a fun, refreshing experience. If you’re curious about how it’s made, you can also visit the Borjomi Mineral Water Plant (additional fee applies). This stop lasts about an hour, giving you time to snap photos of the lush surroundings, explore the town, or simply soak in the relaxing atmosphere.

What you’ll love: Borjomi’s natural setting and unique mineral water. It’s a peaceful start to the day, especially if you enjoy scenic towns with a touch of health tradition.

Next Stop: Rabath Fortress in Akhaltsikhe

The highlight here is the Rabati Castle complex, a site that captures Georgia’s layered history. This 12th-century fortress has been expanded and renovated, blending medieval architecture with Ottoman, Persian, and Georgian influences. You’ll tour the castle grounds, which include a mosque, a synagogue, a church, and a museum showcasing archaeological finds and artifacts.

One review mentions that their guide checked on everyone regularly and explained the history well, which made the experience more engaging. The panoramic views from the fortress are spectacular, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside. You’ll spend about 75 minutes here, which is ample time to wander through and take photos.

What you’ll love: The diversity of religious and cultural sites within the fortress, reflecting Georgia’s historical role as a crossroads.

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Exploring Vardzia’s Cave City

The most captivating destination is Vardzia, a vast cave monastery complex carved into the cliffs of the Erusheti Mountain. Constructed during Queen Tamar’s reign in the 12th century, this site is awe-inspiring. You’ll walk through tunnels, chambers, churches, and living spaces—some still decorated with medieval frescoes.

Expect about two hours here, giving enough time to explore the interconnected caves, ascend watchtowers, and appreciate the scale of this ancient settlement. The view from Vardzia’s highest points provides spectacular photo opportunities and a real sense of stepping back into history.

What you’ll love: The mystical atmosphere, the intricate carvings, and the chance to imagine life in medieval Georgia.

Lunch Break at Aspindza

Midway through the day, there’s a one-hour stop for lunch in Aspindza, a small town nearby. While the specific meal isn’t included, it’s a good chance to try local dishes, relax, and recharge before the afternoon’s adventures.

Borjomi Return and Free Time

After Vardzia, the journey loops back to Borjomi for another brief visit, allowing you to enjoy the town’s atmosphere, maybe take more photos, or indulge in another sip of mineral water. This stop lasts about an hour, and you’ll have some free time to explore on your own or relax.

Ending the Day

The tour concludes with a return to Tbilisi, aiming to arrive back at the starting point by around 10 pm—though this can vary depending on traffic and group pace.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, a professional driver, and a knowledgeable guide who speaks English and Russian. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to taste free mineral water—something many travelers find memorable.

However, food and drinks during the day are not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to eat during the lunch break. Entrance fees are paid separately: Borjomi (5 lari), Rabath (20 lari), and Vardzia (17 lari). These are fairly modest, considering the sites’ significance.

The Real Traveler Perspective

Looking at reviews, it’s clear that many find this trip to be a rewarding experience. One traveler praised their guide for being attentive and informative, making the long day more enjoyable. Another appreciated the careful driving and smooth organization, which can make a big difference when covering such a distance.

The stops at Rabati and Vardzia seem to resonate most, with visitors commenting on the awe-inspiring views and historical richness. The guide’s ability to convey information clearly in both English and Russian is often highlighted, adding value to the experience.

That said, some feedback notes that the start can be a bit delayed if some travelers arrive late, so arriving on time helps keep things smooth. Also, given the walking involved, those with mobility issues should consider their comfort level.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Wear comfortable walking shoes—terrain can be uneven, especially at Vardzia.
• Bring a camera and water bottle to stay hydrated and capture memories.
• Dress weather-appropriately; it can get hot or cool, depending on the season.
• Arrive punctually at the meeting point to avoid delays.
• Be prepared for a full day—long hours and multiple stops mean stamina counts.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for curious travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Georgia’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual visits. History buffs, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s also a good choice if you’re comfortable with a bit of walking and exploring outdoor sites, as some areas can be uneven and involve stairs. If you’re traveling with family or friends who love history and scenic views, this tour offers a well-balanced day out.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with a professional driver.

Are entrance fees included?
No, they’re paid separately at each site—Borjomi (5 lari), Rabath (20 lari), and Vardzia (17 lari).

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly 12 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for those who can handle long walks and uneven terrain; not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Is lunch included?
No, but there’s a stop for lunch in Aspindza, and you should plan to bring or buy your meal.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, the guides speak English and Russian.

How early should I arrive?
Plan to arrive a bit earlier than the scheduled start to avoid delays, especially since some reviews noted late arrivals.

What’s the main highlight?
Many say Vardzia’s cave city is the most breathtaking, but Rabati Fortress and Borjomi’s scenery also stand out.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a day trip that offers a good mix of Georgia’s natural beauty, history, and local culture, this tour from Tbilisi is a solid pick. The guides appear knowledgeable and attentive, making the experience more engaging. The sites you visit are both impressive and meaningful, giving you a tangible connection to Georgia’s past and landscape.

While it’s a long day with some walking involved, the variety of sights and stories you’ll encounter make it worthwhile. This trip suits travelers who enjoy exploring without the stress of organizing transport and tickets themselves, especially if you’re interested in history, scenic views, and tasting local mineral waters.

If you’re after a comprehensive, guided adventure that lets you check off some of Georgia’s top highlights in a single day, this tour is worth considering.

Hope this helps you decide whether to jump on this adventure—happy travels!

You can check availability for your dates here: