Borjomi – Vardzia 2-day tour

Planning a trip to Georgia and looking for a way to see a good mix of its history, nature, and local culture without feeling overwhelmed? This Borjomi – Vardzia 2-day tour might just be what you’re after. It’s a well-rounded itinerary that covers some of Georgia’s most iconic sites, offering a balance between sightseeing and relaxing in beautiful environments. From ancient monasteries to mysterious cave towns, you’ll get a taste of Georgia’s diverse landscape and storied past.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it manages to pack in so many highlights without making the days feel rushed. The guide’s knowledge shines through in the reviews, with many travelers praising their guides for making the experience engaging and informative. Plus, the tour price of $153 per person seems fair for the number of attractions and the overall experience. One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget a bit extra for those. Also, given the schedule, a reasonable level of mobility is recommended.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, organized look at Georgia’s key sites in a short span. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of history, nature, and scenic drives, and don’t mind a busy schedule. While it’s not specifically tailored for families or children, active travelers who enjoy walking and exploring caves or ruins will find it rewarding. If you love discovering new places with a knowledgeable guide, this trip hits many sweet spots.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blends cultural sights with natural beauty.
• Knowledgeable guides help bring history and stories to life.
• Value for money given the number of sites visited and included services.
• Flexible options like pickup and group discounts add convenience.
• Extra costs such as entrance fees are not included, so plan accordingly.
• Moderate physical activity required—expect some walking and exploring.

A Warm Welcome to Georgia’s Treasures

If you’re considering this 2-day tour from Tbilisi, you’ll quickly see why so many travelers give it glowing reviews. The experience promises a diverse mix of attractions—each with its unique story—and offers a chance to learn from guides who really seem to know their stuff. Plus, the overall cost feels reasonable for what’s included, especially considering the scenic drives and the variety of sites.

We love how this tour captures Georgia’s essence—its ancient architecture, lush landscapes, and the peaceful atmosphere of places like Borjomi’s parks and Vardzia’s caves. It’s a journey that feels like stepping back in time while also enjoying the natural serenity of the Georgian countryside. The organized nature of the trip makes it accessible for travelers who want a hassle-free experience, with transportation, guide service, and bottled water included.

That said, a few considerations are worth mentioning. Entrance fees are not included, so you should be prepared for additional costs at each site. The itinerary is packed, which means you’ll be on your feet quite a bit, exploring caves and walking through historical complexes. If you prefer slow-paced, leisurely days, this might not be your ideal choice. However, for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Georgia in just two days, it works well.

In short, this tour is perfect for those eager to see Georgia’s top highlights without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who love history, scenic landscapes, and well-organized day trips.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: From Sacred Heights to Forested Parks

Jvari Monastery
The trip kicks off with a visit to the Jvari Monastery, a 6th-century church perched above the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. This spot is a favorite among travelers, thanks to its breathtaking panoramic views. The quiet ambiance paired with the ancient architecture makes it a memorable start. Many reviews mention the stunning vistas as a highlight, with one traveler noting it as a place that offers “breathtaking views,” which you’ll definitely want to capture.

Mtskheta
Next, you’ll head to Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is a living museum, with historic streets and sacred sites that reveal the country’s deep Christian roots. It’s the kind of place where walking around feels like stepping into a different era. The relaxed pace here, with about 50 minutes to explore, allows you to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Travelers often comment positively on their guides’ storytelling, with one noting, “Our guide Georgi is a very good guy and we got many informations regarding the places we visited.”

Uplistsikhe Cave Town
A highlight for many is Uplistsikhe, a rock-hewn city that dates back to the Iron Age. Here, you’ll explore tunnels, open halls, and ancient temples carved into the cliffs. It’s a fantastic place to imagine what life was like centuries ago. The site is not included in the entrance fee, meaning you should budget extra. Some travelers mention that the walk through the caves is quite engaging but requires moderate mobility—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some walking and exploring.

Borjomi Central Park
The day wraps up in the charming town of Borjomi, famous for its mineral waters. The central park with natural springs and shaded pathways is perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. Many reviews describe Borjomi as “beautiful” and highlight the relaxing atmosphere. Visitors often appreciate the chance to breathe in fresh mountain air and enjoy a leisurely walk before settling into their overnight stay.

Day 2: From Fortress Walls to Cave Cliffs

Rabati Castle
Starting the second day, you’ll visit Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe. This site is a fascinating blend of religious buildings and museums, reflecting Georgia’s multicultural past. Many travelers note how the restored fortress offers “a mix of churches, mosques, and museums.” It’s a vivid reminder of Georgia’s diverse history and the importance of coexistence. Expect about an hour here to take in the sights.

Vardzia Cave Monastery
The tour’s star attraction is Vardzia, the 12th-century cave monastery carved into the cliffs. The views over the Mtkvari River valley are spectacular, and wandering through tunnels, churches, and terraces makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a hidden world. The site is large and offers plenty to explore, so be prepared for about 1.5 hours of walking and sightseeing. Travelers often describe Vardzia as “breathtaking” and mention that guides enrich the experience with historical insights, making it more than just a walk through caves.

Paravani Lake and Javakheti National Park
After Vardzia, you’ll make a scenic drive through Javakheti National Park. The lakes, volcanic plateaus, and open landscapes create a picture-perfect end to your trip. A short stop at Paravani Lake offers fantastic photo opportunities, and many visitors find the peaceful atmosphere very restorative. The drive back to Tbilisi is about 25 minutes after the stop, giving you a chance to reflect on the journey.

The Overall Experience: What You’ll Love

Many travelers emphasize the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. As one reviewer put it, “Giga took us to many beautiful spots along the way, allowing us to capture breathtaking pictures and create lasting memories,” highlighting how guides make the experience engaging and informative. Their storytelling makes history come alive, which elevates the simple sightseeing to a more memorable experience.

The scenic drives across Georgia’s varied terrain are another highlight. The landscape shifts from lush forests and mountain peaks to dramatic cliffs and open plains, providing plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments of appreciation.

Food and local snacks are often mentioned positively, with reviews noting that the tour offers the chance to enjoy Georgia’s delicious flavors, even if meals aren’t included in the price. Many travelers find that the overall value—considering the sites visited, guide expertise, and comfort—is quite good for the cost of $153.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Entrance Fees: Since these are not included, you should bring some extra cash to cover tickets at places like Uplistsikhe, Rabati, and Vardzia.
• Physical Fitness: Expect some walking and exploring caves and old structures, so a moderate level of fitness is advisable.
• Timing: The tour starts at 9 am and spans two full days, so be prepared for a fairly busy schedule—if you love slow mornings or relaxing afternoons, this might feel a bit packed.
• Weather: Georgia’s landscape can vary, so dress in layers, especially if visiting high-altitude sites or cave complexes.
• Group Size: It’s a private tour, so your group will be the only participants, making for a personalized experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys history, stunning vistas, and organized day trips that cover a lot of ground, this tour is a good pick. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate stories told by knowledgeable guides and don’t mind a bit of walking. It’s also a solid choice if you want a hassle-free way to see some of Georgia’s most striking sites with minimal planning.

However, if you prefer slow-paced days or are traveling with small children who might find caves or steep paths challenging, consider whether this itinerary matches your comfort level. Also, if you’re on a tight budget, remember to factor in the extra entrance fees.

The Sum Up

This Borjomi – Vardzia 2-day tour offers a rich taste of Georgia’s diverse attractions, combining history, nature, and scenic drives into one well-organized package. The knowledgeable guides craft a storytelling experience that brings the sites to life, making each stop more than just a photo point. For those looking to see a lot in a short time without the hassle of maneuvering logistics on their own, it provides both value and convenience.

The landscapes you’ll encounter—mountain vistas, caves, fortress walls, and lakes—are genuinely captivating. It’s a journey that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for Georgia’s cultural tapestry and natural beauty. While the pace is quite full, most travelers find it rewarding, especially if they’re eager to absorb as much as possible.

In the end, this tour best suits curious and active travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that balances history, scenery, and local charm. If you’re ready for an adventure that will take you through Georgia’s highlights and leave you with lasting memories, it’s worth considering.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included?
No, the tour does not include entrance fees. You should budget extra for tickets to places like Uplistsikhe, Rabati Fortress, and Vardzia.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included, making it easier to cover distant sites without worrying about driving.

What’s the start time?
The tour begins at 9:00 am each day.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, offering a more personalized feel.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It requires moderate physical activity—some walking and exploring caves and ruins—so travelers should have a decent level of fitness.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food along the way.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund if canceled in time.

If Georgia’s landscapes and history call to you, this tour offers a practical, engaging way to explore some of its most memorable sites. Just be prepared for a full schedule and some extra costs, but rest assured—you’ll come away with stories and photos to cherish.