Tbilisi: Borjomi and Bakuriani Day Trip with Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Georgia and want to escape the city for a day, this Borjomi and Bakuriani tour could be just what you’re looking for. It promises a blend of cultural insights, natural beauty, and winter fun—all within a manageable 12-hour window. We’ve looked into what makes this trip appealing and where it might fall short, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your travel plans.

What we love about this experience is the chance to drink the famous healing water in Borjomi and the opportunity to try skiing or tubing at Bakuriani. Both activities offer a fun way to experience Georgia’s diverse landscape beyond just sightseeing. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of traveling in a day, so if you’re not a fan of long bus rides or have limited mobility, it’s worth considering. This trip suits travelers who want a well-organized, full day of exploring with knowledgeable guides and a taste of winter adventure.

Key Points

• Cultural and natural blend: You’ll visit Borjomi’s historic town and enjoy the snowy landscapes of Bakuriani.
• Healing mineral water: The famous spring in Borjomi is both a refreshing and cultural highlight.
• Winter activities: Skiing, snowboarding, and tubing are available, with equipment rentals at extra cost.
• Expert guides: Guides like Jimmy, George, and Luca are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Comfortable transportation: The tour uses a well-maintained vehicle, making traveling between spots hassle-free.
• Flexible options: Lunch at a Georgian restaurant is optional but recommended for an authentic meal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour

Thinking about combining cultural visits with a little winter action? This Tbilisi-based day trip to Borjomi and Bakuriani offers a balanced mix of history, relaxation, and fun on snow-covered trails. It’s an attractive option for travelers eager to experience Georgia’s famous mineral waters and enjoy the mountain air in one go.

What really makes this tour stand out are the guided insights—your guides are not just drivers but storytellers who bring the places alive. Plus, if you’re into outdoor activities, Bakuriani’s trails for skiing and tubing make this a particularly lively day. However, keep in mind that the day’s packed with stops, so be prepared for quite a bit of walking and travel.

Suitable for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and active recreation, this trip is ideal if you want a straightforward, organized way to explore two of Georgia’s most beloved mountain towns in one day.

What to Expect from This Day Trip

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at Meidan Bazar, a familiar spot in Tbilisi well-known to travelers. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle with a small group, meaning you can expect a more personalized experience, especially if your guide is as engaging as the reviews suggest. The drive itself offers scenic views of the Georgian landscape as you head south toward the mountains.

Borjomi: The Mineral Water Town

The first stop is Borjomi, famous for its spring of healing mineral water. You’ll have about two hours here to explore. The central park, flowing with mineral water, runs along the river and features attractions and playgrounds. The highlight is drinking directly from the large glass dome, where the water is slightly warmer and has a recognizable aroma—just like the bottled version but fresher and more natural.

Many appreciate how the guides make this experience informative, pointing out the town’s historical significance. Borjomi was once a residence for Russian emperors, adding a layer of grandeur to the visit. For a small fee, you can buy bottled water from the park’s entrance, which many travelers consider a fun souvenir.

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Bakuriani: Snowy Trails and Mountain Air

After a brief stop for photos and a stretch, the tour continues to Bakuriani—about an hour away. Situated at 1700 meters above sea level, this ski resort offers stunning winter scenery and a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels.

You’ll have roughly three hours here to enjoy the snow. The activities include skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, with equipment rental available on-site. If you’re traveling with friends or family who love outdoor fun, Bakuriani’s lively atmosphere and well-maintained trails will feel inviting. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there’s plenty of opportunity to simply soak in the mountain views or take a leisurely walk.

Return to Tbilisi

By late afternoon, you’ll head back to the starting point, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Travelers often mention how smoothly the day flows, thanks to the organized itinerary and the guides’ expertise.

The Real Value of the Tour

When examining the value, consider the cost of around 25 GEL for lunch and additional charges for equipment rental if you plan on skiing or tubing. Still, many find the experience offers good bang for the buck: a full day of varied activities, cultural insights, and scenic beauty. The reviews highlight how guides like Jimmy, George, and Luca make the difference, providing not just information but also a friendly vibe that keeps everyone engaged.

Insights from Travelers

One reviewer praised the “very nice and comfortable car” and the guides’ patience during photo stops, which can make or break a day trip. Another mentioned how the trip was “very well maintained” and offered “insight into the places we visited,” emphasizing the importance of good logistics and knowledgeable guides.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the long travel time in a single day, which might be tiring for some. Also, activities like skiing and tubing incur extra costs, so budget accordingly. Wheelchair users might find the tour less suitable, as it’s not designed for mobility challenges.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is a solid choice if you want an organized, engaging, and balanced day of sightseeing and winter sports. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and are comfortable with a full travel schedule. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to combine cultural exploration with outdoor adventure without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

If you’re traveling with friends or family who love snow activities, this tour offers a straightforward way to access Bakuriani’s slopes. But if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured outing or have particular mobility needs, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves outdoor winter activities like skiing and tubing, which may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. Check if your kids are comfortable with these activities before booking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are essentials. It’s also wise to carry water, especially if you plan to do activities like skiing.

How long is the travel time between stops?
The trip includes a drive from Tbilisi to Borjomi (about an hour) and then to Bakuriani (another hour or so). The total travel in the day is manageable but can feel a bit long.

Are meals included?
Lunch at a Georgian restaurant costs about 25 GEL and is optional. Many travelers choose to try a traditional meal, which adds to the authentic experience.

Can I rent equipment for skiing?
Yes, equipment rental is available at Bakuriani but at an additional cost. Make sure to budget for this if you plan to hit the slopes.

What is the group size like?
While not explicitly stated, the use of a comfortable vehicle and the positive reviews suggest small groups, which enhance interaction and personalized attention.

Final Thoughts

This Borjomi and Bakuriani day trip offers a well-rounded Georgian experience, combining cultural highlights, natural beauty, and winter fun. Its organized nature and knowledgeable guides stand out, making it a reliable choice for those new to Georgia or short on time. While it involves a fair bit of travel, the scenery and activities are worth it for many travelers.

If you’re after a day that mixes relaxation, outdoor adventure, and a peek into Georgian history, this trip is likely to leave you with memorable stories and a deeper appreciation for the country’s diverse landscape. Just be prepared for a full, active day—perfect if you thrive on variety and enjoy guided experiences.

(Feel free to ask if you want more tips on what to pack or how to prepare for your trip!)

You can check availability for your dates here: