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The 15 Best Tours in Mtskheta
Mtskheta is Georgia’s spiritual heart, a small town packed with history, stunning views, and cultural treasures. Visitors love exploring its UNESCO World Heritage sites like Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, but the town isn’t just about ancient stone. It’s also a jumping-off point for mountain adventures, scenic drives, and even wine tastings.
Some tours stand out because of their deep historical insights, like the Mtskheta – Jvari Private Tour + Chronicles of Georgia, which takes you behind the scenes of Georgia’s sacred sites. Others shine for their adventure factor, such as the Caucasus Mountains day trip, which combines mountain landscapes with mountain-top monasteries and off-road fun. Whether you prefer relaxing walks, engaging guides, or scenic drives, Mtskheta offers options for every type of traveler.
Below, we’ve rounded up the top 15 tours. From private explorations to full-day excursions, each one offers a unique way to experience Georgia’s storied past and breathtaking scenery.
1. Mtskheta – Jvari Private Tour + Chronicles of Georgia
At number 1 on our list, this private tour combines two UNESCO World Heritage sites—Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral—plus the fascinating Chronicles of Georgia monument overlooking Tbilisi Lake. The personalized approach makes it ideal for those who want an intimate, flexible experience with a knowledgeable guide. Guests praise the guide’s storytelling ability and their driver’s skill in navigating Georgian traffic. This 4-hour tour balances history, culture, and stunning vistas, making it perfect for travelers who prefer a private, relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: If you want a tailored, immersive visit to Georgia’s most iconic religious sites, this private tour offers great value and rich insights.
2. Tbilisi: Caucasus Mountains by Cab and On Foot with a Local
This 12-hour adventure takes you into the mountain landscapes of the Caucasus, with a mix of scenic drives and mountain hikes. Highlights include Ananuri Castle, the Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument, the Gudauri ski resort, and the stunning Gergeti Trinity Church perched at 2170 meters. The tour is perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers wanting a full day in Georgia’s highest regions. It includes stops at the Zhinvali Reservoir and Gveleti waterfalls, with off-road options adding extra excitement.
Reviews are glowing, with travelers appreciating the mix of sightseeing, photo opportunities, and mountain air. The tour’s length and variety make it ideal for those wanting a substantial day trip with multiple highlights.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for active travelers eager to see Georgia’s mountain grandeur, with plenty of scenic stops and cultural sights.
3. Tbilisi, Jvari & Mtskheta – One day group tour from Kutaisi
This 15-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at Georgia’s two capitals—Tbilisi and Mtskheta. Starting from Kutaisi, it hits the main religious and historical landmarks, including Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery. The guide’s storytelling and the well-paced itinerary make it popular among travelers wanting a full day of sightseeing. Highlights include wandering the old Tbilisi streets, relaxing in sulfur baths, and seeing some of Georgia’s most iconic landmarks.
This tour is well-suited for those with a limited amount of time but eager to see as much as possible in one day, with the added convenience of transportation from Kutaisi.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers in Kutaisi who want an in-depth introduction to Georgia’s spiritual and historic centers.
4. Mtskheta Tour (Chronicles of Georgia, Jvari, Svetitskhoveli)
This 5-hour tour is perfect for those looking for a condensed, high-impact experience. It covers the Chronicles of Georgia monument, panoramic views from Jvari Monastery, and the UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. The tour’s small-group format and expert narration make it feel intimate and informative. The guide shares not only historical facts but also local stories that bring the sites alive.
Guests mention how knowledgeable the guide was and how much they appreciated the well-organized pacing. It’s a great choice if your time is limited but you still want to soak up Georgia’s key religious sites.
Bottom Line: A concise yet comprehensive tour for history enthusiasts or first-timers wanting a deep dive into Mtskheta’s religious landmarks.
5. UNESCO Gems of Mtskheta – Old Capital of Georgia
This private tour spans about 3 to 4 hours and offers a personalized visit to Jvari Church, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and the Samtavro Monastery. It’s perfect for those who want a more leisurely, in-depth exploration of Mtskheta’s spiritual sites and local crafts at the vibrant Flea Market. The guide’s enthusiasm and attention to detail make each stop memorable.
Several travelers highlight how the tour’s relaxed pace allowed them to truly appreciate the history and architecture. It’s ideal for travelers who want a private, flexible schedule with a focus on authentic experiences.
Bottom Line: Best suited for culturally curious visitors craving a relaxed, personalized overview of Georgia’s historic capital.
6. From Tbilisi: Uplistsikhe, Gori, and Mtskheta Day Trip
This 10-hour trip combines a cave city tour of Uplistsikhe, a visit to Gori’s Stalin Museum, and the classic religious sites of Mtskheta. The highlight is exploring Uplistsikhe’s labyrinth of tunnels and rock-hewn structures, plus seeing the birthplace of Stalin in his hometown. The tour offers a good mix of history, architecture, and mountain scenery, with a comfortable minivan accommodating up to 19 travelers.
Many reviewers appreciate the professionalism and punctuality, noting that the tour covers multiple key sites efficiently. It’s ideal if you want a broad overview of Georgia’s ancient and more recent history in a single day.
Bottom Line: A balanced, full-day option for history buffs and those interested in Georgia’s modern past.
7. From Tbilisi: Private Jvari & Mtskheta Tour
For around $100 per group, this private 4-hour tour emphasizes the spiritual and scenic beauty of Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. The guide provides personal attention, explaining the significance of each site and guiding you through Mtskheta’s historic streets. Perfect for travelers short on time but craving an intimate experience.
Reviews emphasize the guide’s warmth and storytelling skills, making the visit memorable. This tour suits those wanting a private, relaxed exploration focused on Georgia’s religious landmarks.
Bottom Line: Great for couples or small groups seeking a private, culturally rich experience in a short time.
8. Tbilisi: Mtskheta, and Jvari Monastery Tour
This 5-hour guided tour from Tbilisi covers Mtskheta’s UNESCO sites and the Jvari Monastery, with panoramic river views. It’s a straightforward option for travelers who want a compact tour of Georgia’s spiritual sites, including Svetitskhoveli and Jvari Monastery. The tour offers a good balance of guided explanation and free time.
The tour’s simplicity makes it a good fit for those with limited time or families wanting an easy, comfortable experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a quick, informative overview of Mtskheta and Jvari.
9. Day trip to ancient history-Mtskheta, Gori, Uplistsikhe
This 8-hour tour covers Mtskheta, Gori, and Uplistsikhe with a focus on Georgia’s ancient and modern history. The highlight is exploring Uplistsikhe’s cave tunnels and Gori’s Stalin Museum. The guide is praised for professionalism and flexibility, ensuring a smooth day.
It’s perfect for history lovers who want to see multiple significant sites in one trip, with a pace that balances sightseeing and travel time.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those eager to understand Georgia’s diverse history from ancient to Soviet times.
10. Tbilisi to Mtskheta Jvari Gori Uplistsikhe
A full-day journey in 8 hours, this tour covers Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, Gori, and Uplistsikhe. It’s a well-rounded itinerary with stops at UNESCO sites and Stalin’s museum, suitable for travelers who want comprehensive coverage without rushing. The tour provides a mix of religious, historical, and archaeological highlights, including stunning river views and mountain scenery.
Guests find it convenient that the tour visits all key spots in one day, with informative guides making the history come alive.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a broad, efficient overview of Georgia’s cultural and historical highlights.
11. Private Day Trip to Uplistsikhe, Mtskheta, Jvari & Gori
This 10-hour private option is tailored for flexibility and intimacy. It hits Uplistsikhe, Jvari, Mtskheta, and Gori, making it ideal for those who want a personalized experience. The guide customizes the pace and focus, with plenty of time at each site to explore and ask questions.
Travelers mention how the private format makes for a more relaxed day, especially valuable when visiting multiple sites. The itinerary is perfect for a small group or couples wanting an in-depth, private visit.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who prefer a flexible, personalized day with expert guiding.
12. Dzegvi/Tbilisi: Winery Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch
This 2-hour experience offers a visit to a family-run winery near Tbilisi. You’ll taste homemade wines, chacha, and brandy, plus enjoy a traditional lunch. The intimate atmosphere and personal hosting make it stand out, allowing you to learn about Georgian winemaking in a relaxed setting.
It’s ideal for wine lovers wanting a taste of local traditions without the long drive, and the small group size ensures a personal experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, authentic wine experience with local flavors.
13. From Tbilisi: Mtskheta, Jvari, Svetitskhoveli, & Samtavro
This full-day tour offers an in-depth look at Mtskheta’s main religious sites, including Svetitskhoveli, Jvari Monastery, and Samtavro Monastery. It’s suited for travelers eager to learn about Georgia’s spiritual capital with guided explanations and ample time at each location. The visit to Samtavro adds a unique touch, as it’s the burial site of Georgia’s first Christian rulers.
Guests appreciate the detailed guide storytelling and the balanced schedule, which allows for reflection and photos.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and culture enthusiasts wanting a full immersion in Georgia’s religious architecture.
14. Jvari & Mtskheta group tour from Tbilisi
A half-day group outing, this tour focuses on Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral with a friendly, small-group vibe. It’s a straightforward way to see Georgia’s most iconic sites without a long day, making it suitable for travelers with limited time.
The guide’s explanations and the scenic drive add to the experience, making it a reliable choice for a quick cultural fix.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a short, guided snapshot of Mtskheta’s highlights.
15. Tbilisi: Old Town Walking Tour with Wine & Boat Ride Options
This 2-hour tour dives into Tbilisi’s historic Old Town, with options to include wine tasting and a boat ride. It’s lively and engaging, packed with stories, scenic viewpoints, and hidden corners. The optional boat ride and wine tasting add extra fun for those wanting a multi-layered experience.
Ideal for travelers who enjoy a bit of everything—history, views, local flavors—and want to keep it light and social.
Bottom Line: Great for short visits where you want to combine culture, scenery, and local taste in a lively walk.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Mtskheta
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and how much depth you want. If history and spiritual sites are your focus, a private tour like the Mtskheta – Jvari Private Tour + Chronicles of Georgia provides flexibility and personalized insights. For those craving mountain scenery and outdoor adventure, the Caucasus Mountains day trip offers breathtaking views and off-road fun.
Travelers on a tight schedule might prefer the shorter UNESCO Gems tour, while those seeking a deeper dive into the region’s history might opt for the full-day Gori and Uplistsikhe trip. Budget-conscious travelers should consider group options like the Jvari & Mtskheta group tour, which offer good value without sacrificing quality.
Timing also matters. Spring and fall are best for mountain views and outdoor tours, while summer is perfect for combined wine and city experiences. Booking early is wise, especially for private or small-group tours, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Mtskheta and its surroundings offer a wide array of tour options, whether you’re into religious architecture, mountain adventures, or cultural immersions. For a quick taste, the private Jvari & Svetitskhoveli Tour offers a personalized visit, while the Caucasus Mountains trip satisfies the adventure craving.
If you have a full day, the full mountain and mountain monastery trip or the comprehensive Gori-Uplistsikhe tour will give you a taste of Georgia’s diverse landscapes and history.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you get the best experience. Mtskheta’s charm is undeniable—once there, you’ll understand why it remains Georgia’s spiritual and cultural beacon.