Day tour to Vardzia, Borjomi in Georgia

Exploring Georgia: A Full-Day Journey Through Vardzia, Borjomi, and Rabati Fortress

If you’re considering a day trip out of Tbilisi, this tour to Vardzia, Borjomi, and Rabati offers a solid look at some of the country’s most captivating sights. It’s a popular option for those wanting to see a mix of ancient cave monasteries, scenic parks, and historic castles without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the ease of travel—you’re comfortably transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes all the difference in Georgia’s sometimes warm weather. Plus, the knowledgeable guide makes history and stories come alive, adding depth to each stop.

On the flip side, one thing to bear in mind is the long day—it’s a 12-hour journey that can stretch to around 14 hours. If you’re not used to long travel days or prefer more leisurely pacing, this could feel a bit rushed. However, for those eager to tick off several key sights in one go, it’s a good deal.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of southern Georgia’s highlights without the stress of navigating on their own. It’s especially handy if you’re keen to learn about the area’s history and culture through your guide’s insights.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day more bearable.
• Rich Cultural Sites: Visit ancient Vardzia cave complex, Rabati Castle, and the charming resort town Borjomi.
• Expert Guide: The guide’s commentary adds valuable context and makes the experience more engaging.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours, so you can plan with confidence.
• Price for Value: At $43, it’s a budget-friendly way to see some of Georgia’s highlights.
• Mixed Reviews on Timing: Some travelers found the day too long or felt the pace was too quick, so manage expectations accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Out: Meeting Point and Timing

Depart from 44 Kote Afkhazi Street in Tbilisi at 8:30 am. The group size tends to be small—up to 20 travelers—which means a more intimate experience. The journey begins with anticipation, as you settle into a clean, modern minibus for the day.

Vardzia Cave Complex

First stop is Vardzia, a 12th-century cave monastery carved into the Erusheti Mountain. Dating back to the early 1100s, this site is a marvel of ancient engineering and faith. Excavations reveal that the area was inhabited even earlier, during the Bronze Age, adding layers of historical intrigue.

Once you arrive, you’ll explore bell towers, a main church, cave dwellings, chapels, pharmacy and wine cellars. The complex expands to nineteen tiers, with access tunnels, water facilities, and fortifications. Strolling through the winding steps and tunnels, you get a real sense of what life may have been like here centuries ago.

From reviews, it’s clear that Vardzia is a highlight. One traveler mentioned, “Vardzia simply amazing!” and many are struck by how well-preserved and vast the site is. Keep in mind, admission isn’t included ($17 GEL), so budget for that if you want access.

Borjomi: The Scenic Resort Town

Next, you’ll visit Borjomi, well-known for its sparkling mineral water. The town’s central park offers a peaceful setting with views of the surrounding mountains and the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park nearby.

Here, you’ll have about 50 minutes to stroll the park or sample the famous mineral water, which Georgia exports widely. One reviewer appreciated the stop, saying, “The places we saw were beautiful,” though some found that arriving late limited their time in Borjomi. The admission fee to Borjomi Park is 5 GEL, so consider trying the mineral water straight from the source.

Borjomi also boasts the Romanov summer palace and the largest ecologically themed amusement park in the Caucasus. While the park’s internal attractions aren’t directly included, the natural beauty alone makes this stop worthwhile.

Rabati Fortress: History and Architecture

The final major stop is Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe. This medieval castle complex has been transformed into a lively cultural site, mixing ancient walls with modern renovations. The fortress includes a mosque, church, synagogue, and museums, offering a snapshot of Georgia’s diverse history.

Admission here costs 18 GEL. Many reviews highlight Rabati’s beauty—“stunning,” said one visitor—and the guide’s insights help make sense of the complex’s layers of history. Given the limited time, some travelers noted they couldn’t explore every corner thoroughly, so a quick glance is the most you’ll get unless you plan to spend extra time.

Wrap-up and Return

The tour concludes back at the starting point in Tbilisi, usually around 8:30 pm. The long day means plenty of stories and memories, but also potential tiredness, so prepare accordingly with comfortable shoes and water.

What We Loved About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides: Several reviews praise the guide, noting their professionalism and deep knowledge. One said, “Our guide, Giorgi, was professional and nice,” which really enhances the experience.

Scenic and Historic Sites: From the grandeur of Vardzia to the charm of Borjomi Park and Rabati Fortress, every location offers something unique—be it stunning views, ancient architecture, or a taste of local culture.

Ease of Travel: The transport is modern, clean, and air-conditioned, making the long hours more comfortable. Since you’re in a small group, it feels less rushed and more personal.

Good Value for Money: At $43, including transportation, guide, and visits to three major sights, it’s quite competitive, especially considering the sights included.

Considerations Before Booking

Long Day: If you’re not a fan of long travel days, this might be challenging. Expect around 12 hours, with some reviews mentioning it being up to 14 hours.

Timing of Stops: Some travelers felt that the schedule was tight, with limited time at each site. Arriving late in Borjomi meant less time to enjoy the park.

Transport Reliability: While most reviews are positive, a few noted issues with vehicle breakdowns and delays, so expect potential hiccups.

Language and Guide Quality: The majority praise the guide, but a few found the English a bit limited or felt the guide lacked leadership. Clear communication is key.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Travelers eager to experience Georgia’s historical and natural highlights in one day will find this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a long day on the road and want the comfort of a guided experience. If you’re interested in history, archaeology, and scenic landscapes, you’ll enjoy this trip.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore each site in-depth, you might want to consider shorter or more specialized tours. This experience suits adventurous travelers, history enthusiasts, and anyone keen to see Georgia’s cultural gems without the hassle of organizing transportation and entry tickets themselves.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle is included, making the long day more comfortable.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, but some travelers report it can stretch to around 14 hours, depending on traffic and delays.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring snacks for the day.

How much does the entry to each site cost?
Vardzia costs 17 GEL, Rabati Fortress 18 GEL, and Borjomi Park 5 GEL. These aren’t included in the price, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is most suitable for all ages, with no minimum age requirement, but keep in mind the long day and walking involved at some sites.

What language is the guide speaking?
Most comments indicate the guide provides information in English and Russian, so if language is a concern, check this before booking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start, giving you flexibility if plans change.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 22 days ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is recommended. Bring comfortable shoes, especially for Vardzia, which involves some walking and climbing.

In summary, this guided day trip to Vardzia, Borjomi, and Rabati offers a well-rounded glimpse into Georgia’s history, architecture, and natural beauty. It’s a good option if you’re after convenience, cultural insight, and a chance to see multiple highlights in one day. While it’s not without its long hours and some rushed moments, the chance to explore these iconic sites comfortably makes it a trip worth considering, especially if you’re keen to learn from a knowledgeable guide and enjoy scenic Georgian landscapes.