Day Tour Tbilisi – Mtskheta – Jvari – Chronicles of Georgia Monument-Tbilisi

If you’re planning to visit Georgia and want an experience that covers the country’s cultural gems without feeling rushed, this full-day private tour might just be the right fit. It offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tbilisi’s historic sites, some of its most iconic religious landmarks, and a visit to the ancient town of Mtskheta. Plus, it includes an exclusive stop at the Chronicles of Georgia monument, which, as the tour providers note, is a unique addition they’re proud to include.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines large-scale religious landmarks, with panoramic city views and local flavor. The inclusion of Zurab Tsereteli’s Chronicles of Georgia is a standout feature, especially since it’s not always part of standard itineraries. Another plus? The guides are highly praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach.

Of course, with a full itinerary packed into around 8 hours, the timing can be a bit tight, especially if you’re someone who prefers to linger longer at each site. And, the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to factor in some extra time for a meal. Still, this tour is great for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re comfortable with a group size of up to five people, and are interested in deepening your understanding of Georgia’s religious history, architecture, and scenic beauty, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. It’s particularly suited for those who value insightful guides and want to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort or context.

Key Points

• Custom private experience tailored for small groups up to five
• Includes a visit to the Chronicles of Georgia monument, a rare opportunity
• Highlights key religious sites like Holy Trinity Cathedral and Jvari Church
• Offers stunning city views from Narikala Fortress via cable car
• Takes you through historic districts, with a walk past Sulphur waterfalls and old town charm
• Lunch is not included, so plan for a break or bring snacks

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

This is one of the largest orthodox cathedrals in the world, and it’s an awe-inspiring sight. We loved the scale and architecture of the Holy Trinity Cathedral, which dominates the city skyline. The tour includes 40 minutes here, enough time to explore both inside and out. It’s a chance to see a place that’s as spiritual as it is visually striking.

Metekhi Cathedral

Next, the group visits the Metekhi Cathedral, a historic site perched above the Mtkvari River. The site offers a quick glimpse of Tbilisi’s religious heritage, and the inside and outside views are worth seeing. The 15 minutes allocated might seem brief, but it’s enough to appreciate its significance and take some photos.

Narikala Fortress

A real highlight is the cable car ride to Narikala Fortress. The ride itself is quick, but the views from the top are breathtaking—overlooking the sprawling city, the river, and distant hills. The fortress itself is an ancient stronghold, and we found it fascinating to walk around and soak in the perspective of old Tbilisi from above.

Dzveli Tbilisi Sulphur Waterfall & Old Town

Walking down to the district of sulphur bathhouses, you pass by Tbilisi’s only mosque, and then wander through the atmospheric Sharden area. It’s full of narrow streets, cozy cafes, wine tasting bars, and souvenir shops. The 45-minute stop here allows a real flavor of the city’s living past. The Sulphur Waterfall adds a dash of natural beauty to the historic setting.

Sioni Cathedral, Anchiskhati Basilica & Rezo Gabriadze Theatre

This stop combines a few sights in a quick visit—Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Basilica—both significant landmarks. The Rezo Gabriadze Theatre’s clock tower adds a quirky touch that travelers find delightful. The 15-minute walk-through is enough to get a feel for the city’s spiritual and artistic vibe.

Mtskheta & Lunch

The drive to Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient religious center, is about two hours. The town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its history as the capital of the Kingdom of Iberia makes it a must-see. The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to enjoy Georgian cuisine before exploring Mtskheta’s religious monuments.

Jvari Church & Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

The Jvari Church sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the rivers confluence—an iconic scene. It’s a prime example of early Medieval architecture. Following that, the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is a sacred site, believed to house the robe of Christ. The 1-hour visit here is quite packed but allows ample time to appreciate the significance and beauty of these structures.

Chronicles of Georgia Monument

On the way back, the tour visits the Chronicles of Georgia, an open-air museum created by Zurab Tsereteli. It’s a striking, larger-than-life installation telling Georgia’s story through sculptures and reliefs. Visitors consistently mention this as a standout, with one reviewer noting, “It’s a beautiful place in Tbilisi,” and others appreciating the unique perspective it offers on Georgian history.

End of Tour & Hotel Drop-off

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation, making it convenient and stress-free.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews are glowing about the guides, especially Nika and Nico, who are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive approach. One reviewer says, “The guide is both professional and welcoming. Very attentive,” which reassures us that you’re in capable hands.

People love the stunning views, with multiple reviews mentioning how the panoramic scenes from Narikala Fortress or the hilltop Jvari Church left a strong impression. The quality of the information provided seems to elevate the experience, with guides sharing insights that go beyond the basic facts.

Many mention how value for money is excellent given the comprehensive itinerary, the inclusion of all entrance fees, bottled water, and air-conditioned transport. Notably, the price of $110 for a private group offers good value considering the depth of the experience and personalized attention.

Potential Downsides

The main consideration is the tight schedule, especially if you prefer lingering longer at each site. For those who love to explore at a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed, particularly at places like Svetitskhoveli Cathedral or the city viewpoints. Also, lunch is not included, so you’ll want to plan ahead if you need a sit-down meal or snacks.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers looking for a rundown of Tbilisi and Mtskheta with the convenience of a guided experience. It’s ideal if you want to maximize your sightseeing without the stress of planning logistics. The small group size (up to five people) makes for a more personalized experience, which frequent travelers will appreciate.

It’s particularly good for those interested in religious architecture, scenic views, and learning about Georgia’s cultural symbols, like the Chronicles of Georgia monument. If you’re someone who appreciates insightful guides who can share facts and stories, this tour offers that in plenty.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the short durations at each site, and the fact that it’s a private experience, make it manageable even with children who are accustomed to sightseeing. Keep in mind that some sites involve walking and climbing stairs.

How much walking is involved?
You’ll walk around a little at each site, especially at the Sulphur Waterfall district and inside the churches. The most walking is at the hilltop Jvari Church and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, but it’s generally manageable.

What’s included in the price?
All fees and taxes are covered, including entrance tickets to major sites, bottled water, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there’s room for flexibility if you want to adjust the schedule or spend more time at certain sites—just communicate your preferences with your guide.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and some cash for souvenirs or extra snacks. Water is provided, but it’s always good to stay hydrated.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price. You will have time after Mtskheta to find a local restaurant or bring snacks.

Final Thoughts

This private day tour offers a thoughtful, well-rounded look at Tbilisi’s core attractions, combined with the chance to explore Georgia’s ancient town of Mtskheta and the striking Chronicles of Georgia monument. It’s especially suited for travelers who value guided insights, scenic panoramas, and a manageable group size.

The inclusion of top religious sites, city views, and the opportunity to learn about Georgia’s history through an expert guide makes this experience worthwhile. The value for money is solid, given the comprehensive itinerary and all included fees.

If you’re after a balanced day of sightseeing that mixes history, culture, and stunning landscapes, and you prefer a personalized touch, this tour is a smart choice. Just remember to plan for a relaxed lunch afterward and be ready for a full but rewarding day of discovery.

Want More?

If this tour piques your interest, you might also enjoy other experiences like a trip to Kazbegi or a cooking class for Georgian cuisine. But for a solid, all-in-one introduction to the highlights of Tbilisi and Mtskheta, this day tour delivers without overloading your schedule.

Enjoy your trip to Georgia—hope your experience is as memorable as the stories you’ll bring back!