Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia – Group tour from Tbilisi

Exploring Georgia’s Wonders: Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia – Group Tour from Tbilisi

If you’re looking to get a taste of Georgia’s diverse charms—its scenic beauty, ancient architecture, and intriguing cave towns—this group tour from Tbilisi offers a comprehensive day trip. While we haven’t done it ourselves, it’s clear this tour is designed for travelers eager to see some of the country’s most iconic highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we like most? First, the chance to sample mineral water directly from Borjomi’s springs—a small but memorable luxury—and second, the opportunity to walk through Vardzia’s caves, where history and natural beauty meet. One consideration worth mentioning is the long day, stretching to 14 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers with plenty of energy and interest in history and landscapes.

This tour is perfect for those who want a well-organized, guided experience that covers significant highlights in southern Georgia, especially if you prefer traveling in a group rather than navigating independently. It balances cultural discovery with scenic drives, offering value for travelers wanting an authentic taste of the region’s most famous sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vans make the long day more manageable.
• Expert Guiding: Local guides help bring each site’s history alive.
• Authentic Experiences: Sampling mineral water directly from the springs adds a real local touch.
• Cultural Highlights: Rabati Castle and Vardzia cave city showcase Georgia’s medieval past.
• Flexible Pricing: Entrance fees are not included in the tour price, allowing you to choose whether to visit each site.
• Ideal for Day Trippers: The tour’s timing suits travelers wanting a full-day adventure.

Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting from Tbilisi

The tour kicks off early in the morning, around 8:00 am. Departing from Tbilisi, the group boards a comfortable van for the approximately 2.5-hour drive southward into Georgia’s scenic landscapes. The early start is practical, giving you a full day to explore without feeling rushed. Keep in mind that the return journey is equally long, with the group arriving back in Tbilisi around 10:00 pm, so be prepared for a full day on the road.

Borjomi Central Park and Mineral Water Tasting

Our first stop is Borjomi, a town famous for its mineral springs. The main attraction here is Borjomi Central Park, where you can taste the mineral water straight from the springs. This is a simple but memorable experience—standing by the bubbling springs, filling a bottle, and sipping on what locals have enjoyed for generations. The park itself offers a relaxing atmosphere with well-maintained paths, lush greenery, and a chance to stretch your legs after the drive.

While the visit to Borjomi is brief, it’s worth noting that a small entrance fee (around 5 GEL) applies if you want to access the springs. Visitors often comment on how refreshing and clean the water tastes, making it a highlight for many.

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Rabati Castle: Medieval Fortress with a Modern Touch

Next, the journey takes you to Rabati Castle, a site that blends medieval architecture with recent restoration efforts. Guided by a local expert, we’re given insights into the castle’s layered history—its strategic importance, its role as a cultural hub, and the stories woven into its stone walls. The castle complex includes churches, mosques, a synagogue, a museum, and beautifully landscaped courtyards.

The entrance fee here is approximately 17 GEL, which covers access to the castle grounds and the historical exhibits. Visitors often find the castle fascinating, especially for its blend of different religious structures and the lush views of the surrounding town and mountains. The guide’s explanations help bring this site’s history to life, making it more meaningful than just wandering around ruins.

Lunch Break and Local Cuisine

After exploring Rabati, the tour pauses for a traditional Georgian lunch at a local restaurant. This is a great opportunity to try regional dishes, perhaps khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) or khinkali (dumplings). The included or optional nature of this meal allows flexibility—some travelers choose to eat leisurely, while others may prefer quick bites to maximize sightseeing time.

Vardzia: The Cave City

The final and most awe-inspiring stop is Vardzia, an ancient cave city carved into the cliffs of the Erusheti Mountain. Spanning a vast complex of tunnels, churches, and living quarters, Vardzia is a testament to Georgia’s resilience and ingenuity. The site is sprawling, and exploring all its rooms can take several hours, making it a true highlight of the day.

The entrance fee here is approximately 16 GEL, plus a small 2 GEL fee for a local bus that transports visitors from the parking area to the cave complex. Visitors often remark on the stunning views and the sense of stepping back in time as they wander through the caves, tunnels, and chapels. This site’s rugged beauty and history make it worth the effort, though it does involve some walking on uneven terrain.

Return Journey and Reflection

After a thorough exploration of Vardzia, the group begins the return trip to Tbilisi. This part of the day offers a chance to reflect on the day’s sights, share impressions, and relax during the 5-hour drive. The group changes vehicles at Surami, which is a standard logistical step, and the journey ends back in the city around 10:00 pm.

The Practicalities and Value

Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates in a comfortable van, with transportation included for the entire day. Small groups or larger ones may be the case depending on demand, but this setup minimizes travel fatigue and ensures a smooth day. The guide’s role cannot be overstated—expert insights turn a sightseeing day into a meaningful experience.

Cost and Entrance Fees

While the tour price covers transportation and guiding, note that entrance fees to Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia are extra—5 GEL, 17 GEL, and 16 GEL respectively, with a small additional fee for the local bus at Vardzia. These costs are modest compared to the overall value of visiting these iconic sites, especially considering the guided commentary and convenience.

Timing and Suitability

The 14-hour schedule means you’ll want to be comfortable with long days. It’s ideal for those who like structured days and want to see Georgia’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple separate trips. The early start and late return are manageable for most travelers, but not suited for those with limited stamina or tight travel schedules.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers interested in a highlights-focused experience, especially if you enjoy history, nature, and local culture. It’s suitable for singles, couples, or families with older children who can handle a full day on the move. Those who appreciate stunning views and authentic sites will find this tour especially rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Tbilisi offers a well-rounded taste of Georgia’s most treasured sites—Borjomi’s mineral springs, Rabati Castle’s medieval charm, and Vardzia’s awe-inspiring caves. The guided format ensures you gain stories and context that make the sites more meaningful, while the scenic drives and cultural stops make for a memorable day.

While it’s a long day, the value lies in the ease of seeing diverse sites comfortably and efficiently. If you’re after a straightforward, authentic experience that balances natural beauty with history, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those who love stories etched into stone, stunning vistas, and discovering Georgia’s fascinating past in one go.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Transportation and guiding services are included. Entrance fees to Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia are not included but can be paid on-site.

How long is the total tour?
It lasts approximately 14 hours, with a full day from early morning to late evening.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pickup depends on the selected option, typically from central locations in Tbilisi.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is at a local restaurant and is generally not included in the base price, giving you flexibility.

Are entrance fees covered?
No, they are paid separately—about 5 GEL for Borjomi, 17 GEL for Rabati, and 16 GEL for Vardzia, plus a small bus fee at Vardzia.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended for walking and exploring uneven terrain.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, older children who can handle a full day of sightseeing will enjoy it, especially the caves and castle exploration.

What language is the tour guide?
Guiding is in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

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

How much walking is involved?
Expect significant walking, particularly at Vardzia, which involves exploring a large cave complex with uneven surfaces.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced and accessible way to see Georgia’s southern treasures, making it ideal for those who want a guided, hassle-free experience with plenty of authentic sights and stunning views.

You can check availability for your dates here: