Tbilisi: Bakuriani New Years Eve Overnight Tour

Tbilisi: Bakuriani New Years Eve Overnight Tour – A Warm Way to Ring in the New Year in Georgia

If you’re looking for a way to celebrate New Year’s somewhere snowy and scenic without packing your bags for a fancy resort, this 2-day tour from Tbilisi to Bakuriani might just be your ticket. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve read up on what travelers experience, and it sounds like a good combo of local charm, winter fun, and a chance to see Georgia’s beautiful mountain landscape.

What really catches my eye about this trip? For starters, the traditional Georgian dinner with music and dancing on New Year’s Eve is a standout, and the visit to Borjomi includes tasting its famous mineral water—always a fun little cultural touch. Plus, the opportunity to relax or get active in Bakuriani’s snowy ski village offers something for all.

That said, a minor consideration is that the trip involves a fair amount of travel and outdoor time, so if you’re not used to cold weather or outdoor winter activities, pack accordingly. Also, some activities like the cable car or ski rentals are optional extras, which means you’ll want to plan for extra costs if those interest you.

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants a taste of Georgia’s winter mountain life, especially travelers who enjoy a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. It’s not specifically designed as a family tour, but if you’re traveling with older children or teens who love snow, it could work well.

Key Points

• Cultural Celebration: Traditional Georgian dinner, music, and fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
• Scenic Exploration: Borjomi’s central park, pine forests, and scenic valley views.
• Authentic Experiences: Tasting Borjomi mineral water and visiting the wooden monastery.
• Flexible Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, or just relaxing in cozy cafes.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, small group options.
• Value for Money: Includes multiple memorable stops over just two days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Charm of Georgia’s Snowy Mountains

This tour offers a genuine slice of Georgian winter life, all within a manageable 2-day trip from Tbilisi. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a quick getaway that combines cultural sights, local flavors, and winter fun. The fact that it’s rated 4.7 out of 5 suggests most travelers find it worthwhile, which is reassuring.

How the itinerary unfolds

The trip kicks off with a pickup from your hotel in Tbilisi, making it easy to settle in without worrying about transport. From there, you head towards Borjomi, a town famous for its mineral water. Walking through Borjomi Central Park, you’ll get a chance to breathe in pine forest air and sample the famed Borjomi mineral water—something many travelers say is a highlight. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, an optional cable car ride offers a bird’s-eye view of the landscape, though it will cost extra.

Next stop is the Temple of Saint Seraphim of Sarov, a wooden monastery perched in a scenic valley. The views here are often described as breathtaking, with the lush landscape stretching out below. The visit provides a peaceful contrast to the more lively celebration later on. You might find this stretch very relaxing, along with a chance to snap some memorable photos.

For lunch, you’ll have traditional Georgian dishes, though that’s at your own expense. It’s a good time to taste local specialties and chat with fellow travelers. Then, you’ll drive to Bakuriani, the main event—a charming ski village where you’ll check into your hotel, ready for an overnight stay.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve

The evening is the highlight for many. A traditional Georgian supra dinner with wine, music, and dancing creates a lively, authentic atmosphere. The host often leads a toast, and the group counts down to midnight together. Many reviews mention the fireworks viewpoint, which adds a festive touch to the night. If you enjoy a communal celebration with local flavor, this part of the trip will probably be your favorite.

Day Two: Snow and Scenic Views

After breakfast, the day is yours to enjoy in Bakuriani. You can ski or snowboard if you’ve brought your gear or rented some. Snowmobiling and snow tubing are popular options, and you can spend hours in the cafes warming up afterward. Several travelers mention that the snow activities are well-organized, though they advise booking rentals or instructors beforehand if needed.

In the late afternoon, you’ll head back to Borjomi—perfect for picking up souvenirs, enjoying a warm drink, or taking a few last photos of the scenery. The return journey to Tbilisi completes the trip, usually by evening.

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What’s the value?

While the total cost might seem moderate for a two-day experience, consider what’s included. The tour covers transportation, guiding in multiple languages, hotel stay, and the chance to explore several scenic and cultural highlights. Extra costs such as meals, cable car rides, ski rentals, and Borjomi park entries are on you, so budget accordingly. For those who love winter landscapes, local culture, and a lively New Year’s vibe, many find this tour offers good value.

Practical tips

• Pack warmly: Layers, hats, gloves, and winter boots are essentials. The weather can be cold and snowy.
• Bring a camera: The views of the mountains, forests, and valley are stunning.
• Reserve extras early: If you want to do the cable car or rent gear, booking in advance helps avoid disappointment.
• Budget for meals: Lunches are on your own, so bring cash or cards for convenience.
• Travel light for activities: Snow gear can be rented, but it’s easier if you bring your own.

Who should consider this tour?

If you’re after a balanced outdoor adventure and culture over a short getaway, this fits well. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with cold weather and outdoor winter activities. Those seeking a festive New Year’s experience with local traditions will enjoy the celebration, while those who prefer quiet retreats might find it a bit lively.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a friendly, approachable way to experience Georgia’s mountain charm during winter. It combines scenic beauty, cultural sights, and a lively New Year’s Eve celebration in a way that feels authentic and manageable. While it’s not a luxury escape, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of mountain life, minus the hassle of planning multiple stops.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and culturally immersive way to ring in the New Year, this trip could be just what you need. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy outdoor winter activities and want a cozy, festive atmosphere to welcome 2024.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children or teens who enjoy snow activities could find it fun. However, younger children under 3 might not be ideal due to outdoor winter elements and the nature of activities.

What should I bring for winter activities?
Bring warm clothing, a camera, snacks, cash, and your own winter sports gear if you have it. While ski rentals and instructors are available for an extra fee, bringing your own gear can simplify things.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is at your own expense. The tour provides time to enjoy traditional Georgian dishes or snacks, but you’ll need to pay separately.

What is the size of the group?
Small group sizes are available, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible. The guide can tailor some parts of the day based on the group’s interests.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to relax and focus on enjoying the scenery.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some flexibility for your travel planning.

If you’re after a cheerful winter escape with a good mix of nature, culture, and festive cheer, this Bakuriani New Year’s Eve tour seems like a solid choice. It balances scenic exploration and lively celebration, promising a memorable start to the new year in Georgia’s beautiful mountains.

You can check availability for your dates here: