Four Historical Places: Mtskheta-Gori-Uplistsikhe-Jvari Monastery- Private Tour

Set out on a captivating private tour through Georgia’s rich historical landscape. Explore four remarkable destinations – Mtskheta, Gori, Uplistsikhe, and Jvari Monastery – each offering a unique window into the country’s storied past. Explore ancient cathedrals, uncover the legacy of a controversial figure, and discover the wonders of cave dwellings. This immersive journey promises an unforgettable cultural experience, transporting you back in time and leaving you eager to uncover more of Georgia’s hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Historical Tours In Tbilisi.

Good To Know

• This private tour takes visitors to four major historical landmarks in Georgia: Mtskheta, Gori, Uplistsikhe, and Jvari Monastery.
• Highlights include exploring Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, visiting Stalin’s hometown of Gori, and touring the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe.
• Inclusions cover professional driver/guide, air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, making it a comprehensive and convenient tour experience.
• Pickup is available from any location in Tbilisi, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible, so mobility should be considered.
• The tour has received excellent reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guide, efficiency of services, and opportunity to visit these significant cultural sites.

Tour Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the ancient city of Mtskheta, the former capital of the Kingdom of Iberia.

Guests will explore the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant religious centers in the country.

Next, the tour travels to Gori, the hometown of Joseph Stalin, where visitors can tour the Stalin Museum.

The highlight of the day is a trip to the cave town of Uplistsikhe, an incredible archaeological site dating back to the 1st millennium BC.

The final stop is the Jvari Monastery, offering panoramic views of the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers.

Throughout the tour, the expert guide provides historical insights and context.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This private historical tour includes a professional driver/guide, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, local taxes, petrol, and car service fees. Lunch and hotel pickup/drop-off in Tbilisi are also provided. Ticket fees for Stalin’s Museum and train tickets are covered, but personal purchases like souvenirs and wine are not included.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Professional driver/guide	Personal purchases (souvenirs, wine)
Air-conditioned private vehicle	–
Local taxes, petrol, car service fees	–

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and specific dietary requirements should be advised at booking. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

Pickup and Accessibility

Pickup for the tour is available from any hotel or address within Tbilisi.

Confirmation of the pickup details is received at the time of booking.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility concerns should consider this.

Specific dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking, as a vegetarian option is available.

• Pickup and drop-off in Tbilisi
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Vegetarian option available upon request

Health and Safety Guidelines

Children must be accompanied by an adult on this tour.

It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. However, most travelers can participate in this historical places tour.

The tour covers visits to several ancient sites, which may involve some walking on uneven terrain. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring any necessary medications.

The tour operator can accommodate specific dietary requirements if advised at the time of booking.

Pricing and Cancellation

The tour prices start from $113.00 per person, though the exact cost may vary depending on the group size.

This tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring you get the best deal. However, it’s important to note that the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds will be provided for cancellations.

Some key points to consider:

• Prices are fixed, regardless of group size.
• No refunds are available for cancellations.
• Lowest Price Guarantee ensures you get the best value.

Tour Reviews

This historical places tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a perfect 5-star rating based on 9 reviews.

One reviewer, Mihir_K, praised the tour’s promptness, cleanliness, comfort, and the quality of the guide’s commentary, highly recommending the experience.

Travelers have highlighted the tour’s efficiency, with seamless pickup and drop-off, as well as the knowledgeable and engaging guide who brought the historical sites to life.

The tour’s inclusions, such as lunch and transportation, have also been praised for their convenience.

About Mtskheta

Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital, lies just 20 kilometers north of Tbilisi. This historic city was the religious and political center of the country for over 1,500 years.

Visitors can explore its rich heritage, including:

• The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the burial place of Christ’s mantle.
• The Jvari Monastery, perched atop a hill overlooking the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura rivers.
• The archaeological site of Armazi, the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Iberia.

Mtskheta’s picturesque old town, with its winding streets and traditional houses, offers a glimpse into Georgia’s past.

The city’s cultural and architectural significance makes it an essential stop on any tour of Georgia’s historical treasures.

Exploring Gori, Uplistsikhe, and Jvari Monastery

From Mtskheta, the tour continues on to the historic town of Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Visitors will explore the imposing Stalin Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the former Soviet leader’s life. Next, the tour travels to Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave city carved into the hillside, offering a glimpse into Georgia’s rich history.

Site	Highlights	Duration
Gori	Stalin Museum	1 hour
Uplistsikhe	Ancient cave city	1.5 hours
Jvari Monastery	Iconic Georgian architecture	1 hour

The final stop is the Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its striking 6th-century Georgian Orthodox architecture. This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience of Georgia’s cultural and historical landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. While the listing doesn’t specify other language options, many private tour providers in Tbilisi offer tours in languages like Russian, German, French, and Spanish upon request.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Add or Remove Sites?

The tour can be customized to add or remove sites according to the traveler’s preferences. Guests can discuss their interests with the tour operator to create a personalized itinerary that meets their needs.

How Long Is the Total Duration of the Tour?

The tour typically lasts about 8-9 hours, from pickup to drop-off. The exact duration may vary depending on factors like traffic, time spent at each site, and the pace of the group. Most travelers find the tour to be a full but manageable day.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or students. The price starts at $113 and is based on group size, with no indication of reduced rates for specific groups.

Can the Tour Be Booked on Short Notice (E.G., 1-2 Days in Advance)?

The tour can likely be booked on short notice, such as 1-2 days in advance. However, it’s best to book as early as possible to ensure availability and secure your preferred date and time.

The Sum Up

Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Georgia on this private tour. From the ancient capital of Mtskheta to the intriguing cave dwellings of Uplistsikhe, this journey offers a captivating exploration of the country’s cultural gems. Culminating at the breathtaking Jvari Monastery, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for any traveler seeking to explore Georgia’s remarkable heritage.