From Tbilisi: Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia Guided Day Trip

If you’re planning to see some of Georgia’s most fascinating sights in a single day, this guided tour from Tbilisi could be just what you’re after. It promises a comprehensive experience covering the mineral waters of Borjomi, the ancient fortress at Rabati, and the awe-inspiring rock-carved monastery complex of Vardzia. We’ve looked into what this trip offers, and here’s the lowdown for anyone considering this adventure.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on local history and culture — with expert guides sharing stories that bring the sites alive. Plus, the chance to see stunning landscapes and architectural marvels all in one day is hard to beat. A potential hiccup? It’s a long day — around 13 hours — so if you’re not used to full-day excursions or traveling with young children, you might find it a bit tiring. This trip suits curious travelers eager to pack in a lot of Georgia’s highlights with ease.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Borjomi’s mineral waters, Vardzia, and Rabati Fortress.
• Expert guides share engaging stories that make history more relatable.
• Considerable travel time involved (about 3 hours to Borjomi, then subsequent site visits).
• Entrance fees are extra, so budget around 37-40 lari for tickets.
• The tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Best suited for those comfortable with a full, busy day of sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What This Tour Offers in Detail

This is a sizable trip, clocking in at about 13 hours, so it’s not for the faint of heart. But if you’re someone who loves hitting multiple highlights in one go, it could be perfect. Let’s walk through what’s involved and what you can expect at each stop.

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off from a central spot in Tbilisi, specifically 22 Ovanes Tumaniani Street. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter minibus with your guide, which makes the long drives somewhat manageable. The transportation quality is generally good, and knowing you’re in a climate-controlled vehicle helps keep the day comfortable.

Borjomi: The Mineral Water Hub

The first leg of the journey is about 3 hours — a good opportunity to settle in, get your bearings, and chat with your fellow travelers or guide. Borjomi is famous for its mineral waters, which have played a significant role in Georgia’s culture and tourism for ages. Here, you’ll visit the mineral water sources where the waters are named after Ekaterina and Evgeniy Golovin, figures linked to the area’s history.

Many reviewers appreciate the chance to taste the waters directly from the springs — a unique experience. However, some note that the town might feel a bit touristy, and the time spent here can get a little long if you’re not particularly interested in the waters or shopping.

Vardzia Monastic Complex

Next, it’s about an hour’s drive to Vardzia, a marvel of medieval architecture carved into the mountain. What makes Vardzia stand out is its rock-hewn design, featuring hidden tunnels, chambers, and a grand church, all built in the 12th century. The complex is a testament to Georgian craftsmanship and religious devotion.

One of the highlights, as noted in reviews, is the frescoes of Queen Tamar, a regal figure who played a pivotal role in Georgia’s history. The guide will explain her reign and influence, giving you context for the site’s importance. Expect to spend around two hours here, exploring the tunnels, taking photos, and soaking in the atmosphere of this ancient sanctuary.

More Great Tours Nearby

Mirza Riza-Khan’s Summer Residence

On the way to Vardzia, you’ll stop at Mirza Riza-Khan’s summer palace. This site showcases Persian-style architecture, blending Georgian and Persian influences. The residence offers insight into Georgia’s historical connections with Persia and Russia, and many travelers find the architecture charming and photogenic.

While not a major highlight for everyone, it adds a layer of historical richness to the day. You’ll also get to see the monument to Georgian Prometheus, Amirani, symbolizing myth and legend—another fun cultural tidbit.

Rabati Fortress

After Vardzia, the tour continues to the Rabati Fortress, about 1.5 hours away. Known for its medieval architecture and defensive walls, Rabati has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. It’s a great place to learn about Georgia’s military history and see a mix of styles from different periods.

Many enjoy walking the fortress grounds, admiring the views, and taking photos of the sprawling complex. However, some reviewers feel that time here is limited — about 2 hours — which might not be enough to fully appreciate the old city within the fortress walls. If you’re especially interested in castles or history, this is a worthwhile visit, but be prepared for a quick walkthrough.

Final Stop: Borjomi (Return)

After Rabati, the journey back to Tbilisi is roughly 3 hours, with a quick stop in Borjomi for some last-minute photos or souvenirs. Some travelers mention feeling that time at Borjomi town itself is a bit tight, especially if you want to sample local honey or visit the hot springs more thoroughly.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

One traveler raved, “George is not only an experienced guide but also incredibly funny and energetic.” They appreciated the lively storytelling and the hidden spots discovered along the way that wouldn’t be easy to find alone. That kind of genuine enthusiasm can really make a difference on such a long day.

Another reviewer pointed out that some activities, like the religious sites or the shuttle to the viewpoint, felt a bit like rip-offs, especially given the extra costs involved (around 30 lari). They found the cliff caves “amazing,” but felt that some parts of the trip could be more efficiently timed or priced. It’s worth keeping in mind that some attractions do cost extra, and the itinerary might feel rushed at points.

Price and Value

The tour costs include transportation and a guided experience, but you’ll need to budget for entrance fees and lunch separately. Entrance to Borjomi National Park is 5 lari, Rabati Fortress is 15 lari, and Vardzia is 17 lari. Add these up, and the total comes to around 37-40 lari for entry fees, which is fairly reasonable given the sites you visit.

Lunch starts at about 30 lari, so if you’re aiming for a full day of sightseeing, expect to spend roughly 70-75 lari on top of the tour price. Many find that the guide’s storytelling and access to these iconic sites justify the cost, especially considering the convenience of having transportation and itineraries sorted.

Who Is This Tour For?

This trip is best suited for history buffs, curious travelers, and those eager to see Georgian culture without the hassle of organizing multiple day trips. Since it involves a full day of travel and walking, it’s less ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children. If you enjoy guided storytelling and want a good overview of the region in one day, you’ll find this trip satisfying.

FAQs About the Tour

How long is the trip overall?
It lasts about 13 hours, starting from Tbilisi and returning in the evening. Be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entry to Borjomi National Park, Rabati Fortress, and Vardzia are paid separately. Budget approximately 37-40 lari total for these.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll need to buy it separately, with prices starting around 30 lari.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly designed for children, the sites are generally safe for families with older kids who can handle a full day of sightseeing and walking.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides operate in English and Russian, so check ahead if you need a specific language.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which gives some flexibility.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical way to see some of Georgia’s top sights in a single day, especially if you want a guided experience that takes care of logistics. The combination of natural beauty, ancient architecture, and local stories makes it a well-rounded option for travelers eager to learn and explore. Expect a full, busy day — but one filled with memorable moments and plenty of photo opportunities.

If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a taste of Georgia’s history and culture, this trip is worth considering. Just be prepared for the long hours and extra costs for site entries and meals. For those who enjoy organized excursions that cover a lot of ground, it’s a solid choice.

In short, this tour is best for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience and are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. It provides a good balance of history, scenery, and cultural insights, making it a practical and engaging way to see Georgia’s highlights without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: