Full Day Private Tour in Vardzia, Rabati and Borjomi with Guide

If you’re eyeing a comprehensive day trip from Tbilisi that combines history, architecture, and natural beauty, this full-day private tour hits the spot. It promises a chance to wander through ancient cave structures, explore a fortress blending Islamic and Orthodox influences, and relax amidst verdant park scenery with famous mineral water sampling. We’ve gathered insights from travelers and tour details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What We Love
First, the knowledgeable guides seem to make all the difference—reviews consistently praise guides like Timur and Niko for their engaging storytelling and care. Second, the stunning views at each site, from the mountain-top caves to the lush Borjomi parks, are highlights that set this tour apart.

A potential consideration? Since admission fees aren’t included, you’ll want to budget for those extras (around 5–18 GEL per site). It’s also a packed itinerary, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

This tour is a solid pick for history buffs, culture lovers, and those who enjoy natural scenery—all in one compact, guided package.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience covering historic sites and natural beauty in one day.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and care, making the trip engaging and smooth.
• Pricing is reasonable at $110 per person, but keep in mind the extra costs for entrance fees.
• Transport is via air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, ensuring comfort and connectivity.
• Timing is well-structured, with around 2 hours at Vardzia, 1 hour at Rabati, and an hour at Borjomi.
• Flexibility is offered with pickup options at a location of your choice, making it convenient.
• Tour length of approximately 9-10 hours is quite full, but manageable with good pacing.
• Reviews spotlight how travelers fell in love with the guide’s storytelling and the sites’ beauty.

Dive Into the Itinerary

Vardzia: Climbing into a Cave City

The first stop is Vardzia, a sprawling cave complex carved into the mountainside. Expect a couple of hours to explore the site, though the tour notes that time might feel a bit tight—some visitors mentioned the need to prioritize highlights. You’ll walk through interconnected rooms, tunnels, and stairways that reveal ancient habitation and religious sites.

While admission isn’t included (17 GEL), the experience of wandering through a site that’s been a spiritual hub for centuries is unforgettable. You’ll see churches, enjoy panoramic views, and get a sense of Georgia’s historical resilience. Reviewers consistently mention how fascinating it is to see such an intricate cave city up close, with one describing it as “impressive and definitely a must-see.”

Rabati Castle: A Blend of Cultures

Next up, the Rabati Fortress offers a contrasting atmosphere. It’s a medieval castle that’s been restored over the centuries, featuring a blend of Islamic and Orthodox architecture. You’ll have an hour to walk around, visiting the castle grounds, a mosque, and a church—all within the same complex.

The reviews highlight guides like David and Tymur who share detailed stories about the site’s layered history. Some mention that the size of the fortress leaves a strong impression, with its impressive walls and architecture creating a vivid picture of Georgia’s diverse past. Admission is about 18 GEL, so plan ahead for that little extra.

Borjomi: Nature and Refreshment

The last part of the day takes you to Borjomi, a charming town famous for its mineral water. After a scenic drive, you’ll have about an hour to explore Borjomi Central Park, taste the famous Borjomi mineral water, and enjoy the greenery. The natural setting here is a real treat, especially after a day of walking.

Reviews frequently mention the relaxing atmosphere and the opportunity to sample the local water, believed to have healing properties. It’s a perfect way to unwind before heading back to Tbilisi, though some found Borjomi less impressive outside of summer.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Budget For

The tour’s price of $110 per person provides transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, a professional guide, and the convenience of pickup at a designated location.

However, admission tickets for Vardzia, Rabati, and Borjomi are not included and will cost around 5–18 GEL each. The tour concludes with a visit to a restaurant—meals are not included, so you might want to plan for snacks or additional funds if you wish to dine.

This private experience means the group is small, and it’s tailored to your pace and interests—something travelers love, judging by reviews that praise the personalized attention and knowledgeable guides.

How the Experience Comes to Life

Based on the reviews, guides like Timur, Niko, Mamuka, and Zura are praised for their depth of knowledge and genuine care. One reviewer noted, “Timur was amazing! The tour was very interesting and fascinating,” which speaks to the quality of guidance.

The guides also add local flavor, from sharing anecdotes about Georgia’s history to offering tastings of Chacha (a traditional Georgian brandy) and Churchkhela (a grape and walnut snack). These little touches turn a sightseeing trip into a more immersive experience.

Travelers have mentioned that the sites are impressive and worth the early start, with some noting that the busy schedule leaves little room for lingering, but the overall value and experience outweigh this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Georgia’s culture, history, and natural beauty in a single day, this tour is a winner. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided trips and want to maximize their sightseeing without worrying about logistics.

Those who appreciate engaging guides and are happy to spend a full day on the move will find this itinerary rewarding. It’s also ideal for those who want to see both UNESCO sites and local parks without the hassle of planning each stop separately.

Note that if you’re traveling with young children or prefer a more relaxed pace, the packed schedule might feel a bit hurried. Also, be prepared for extra costs for entrance tickets and meals, which aren’t included.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is private, so it can accommodate different paces. However, it involves some walking and a full day outdoors.

Does the price include entrance fees?
No, entrance fees for Vardzia (17 GEL), Rabati (18 GEL), and Borjomi Park (5 GEL) are paid separately.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, some cash for entrance tickets, and maybe a hat or sunscreen for sun protection during outdoor walks.

Can I customize the pick-up location?
Yes, the tour offers flexible pick-up options, and they can accommodate a location of your choice.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 9 to 10 hours, including transportation, site visits, and breaks.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included. After the outdoor visits, the tour ends at a restaurant, but you’ll need to cover your food and drink.

What makes this tour special compared to public transportation?
The private vehicle means comfort, flexibility, and the ability to visit sites at your own pace without the stress of navigating public transit.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews consistently praise guides for their expertise, storytelling, and care.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers find the experience enjoyable in favorable weather, especially during spring or autumn when the scenery is particularly beautiful.

Final Thoughts

This full-day private tour in Georgia offers a rich glimpse into the country’s fascinating history, diverse architecture, and stunning natural scenery—all within one packed day. The combination of carefully curated sites, comfortable transportation, and highly praised guides makes it a compelling option for those wanting an immersive experience without the hassle of independent planning.

If you value personalized attention, engaging storytelling, and a chance to see multiple highlights in one go, this tour will likely meet your expectations. Just be prepared for some extra costs and a full schedule—it’s a whirlwind, but a rewarding one.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply curious about Georgia’s culture, this trip packs a lot into a single day, making it an efficient and memorable way to explore.