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

Planning a day out from Tbilisi that takes you through Georgia’s most captivating sites? This guided tour to Borjomi, Rabati Fortress, and Vardzia offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s a package that balances well-known attractions with personal touches from experienced guides.

What we love most about this experience are the expert guides who share engaging stories and the stunning scenery along the route. The chance to explore Vardzia’s rock-carved monastery and medieval fortress of Rabati makes this a deeply enriching day. But it’s not without considerations—long drives and some timed visits can feel rushed, especially at popular sites. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy history, scenic landscapes, and a full-day adventure with a local touch.

Key Points

• Expert guides make history and culture come alive with storytelling.
• Scenic drives offer picturesque views of Georgia’s diverse landscapes.
• Vardzia provides an awe-inspiring glimpse of rock-cut architecture and religious history.
• Rabati Fortress combines medieval architecture with cultural layers.
• Borjomi’s mineral waters reveal a significant part of Georgian wellness traditions.
• The price includes transportation and guided commentary, making it good value for a full-day tour.
• Some sites require extra entrance fees, which are not included in the price.

If you’re looking to see more of Georgia beyond Tbilisi, this guided day trip covers some of the nation’s most unique attractions. From lush natural springs to ancient rock monasteries and medieval castles, the journey offers a layered experience that combines history, culture, and nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: Comfort and Convenience

Starting from 22 Ovanes Tumaniani Street in Tbilisi, the tour typically begins early, with a total duration of around 13 hours. The comfortable Mercedes Sprinter minibus ensures a smooth ride, and the journey itself is part of the experience, with scenic views en route.

One of the highlights is the drive to Borjomi, which takes about three hours. The roads wind through the Georgian countryside, offering glimpses of rolling hills, forests, and small villages. Many travelers note that the long drive is a good opportunity to relax and enjoy the changing scenery, although some might find it a bit lengthy if they prefer quick visits.

First Stop: Borjomi Mineral Waters

Your first stop is the famous Borjomi area, renowned for its mineral water springs. Here, you can learn about the importance of mineral water in Georgian culture and history—an element woven into the country’s wellness traditions. The visit includes a chance to taste the waters and walk around the town.

Travelers often rave about Borjomi’s natural beauty. The fresh air, lush greenery, and calming springs create a peaceful atmosphere. One reviewer shared that Borjomi’s nature and the hot springs’ garden were delightful, and the ability to explore hidden spots thanks to the guide’s local knowledge made the experience even more memorable.

However, some review comments point out that the time allocated at Borjomi town can feel a bit tight. For example, one traveler found the honey tasting and hot spring garden worth it but thought the trip to the shuttle viewpoint and religious sites was somewhat overpriced at 30 lari, suggesting a maximum of 10 lari might be more reasonable. Still, the natural setting and the opportunity to explore on your own make it a worthwhile stop.

Vardzia: An Architectural Marvel

From Borjomi, the journey continues to the Vardzia Monastic Complex, which takes about an hour. This site is a highlight of the trip, carving into the cliffs of the Erusheti Mountain, Vardzia dates back to the 12th century. Walking through its tunnels, caves, and chapels, you’ll see the craftsmanship of medieval builders and learn about its religious and strategic significance.

One of the most engaging aspects of Vardzia is the frescoed church featuring images of Queen Tamar and her father, George III. Learning about Queen Tamar’s reign adds depth to your visit, illustrating her influence on Georgian culture and history. The complex’s underground passages and rooms evoke a sense of ancient ingenuity and spiritual devotion.

Travelers note that the guided tour here is insightful but limited in time—about 2 hours—so you might not see everything in detail. The site is expansive, and exploring at your own pace might be difficult within the allotted time, especially with the crowds often present.

The Medieval Fortress: Rabati

Next on your itinerary is the Rabati Fortress, a sprawling site with a mix of medieval architecture and modern renovation. It has served various roles over centuries—from a military stronghold to a cultural hub. Walking through its walls, you’ll see mosques, churches, a synagogue, and traditional Georgian houses, reflecting Georgia’s diverse cultural history.

The guided tour provides context about Rabati’s defensive significance and its transformation into a cultural center. The fortress’s scenic views over the town are a bonus, especially as the sun begins to set. Travelers mention that the insufficient time limits a full appreciation of the site, with only about 2 hours allocated for visit and shopping.

One reviewer noted that the castle’s old parts are fascinating but that the brief visit doesn’t allow a deep dive. Still, it’s a good snapshot of Georgia’s layered history and a reminder of the country’s resilience through centuries of change.

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The Return Journey and Final Highlights

The return trip to Tbilisi involves scenic views and reflections on the day’s sights. Along the way, you might pass by other sites such as Amirani, a monument to Georgian Prometheus, which adds a mythic flavor to the trip.

The itinerary is designed to be packed but also flexible. The guided commentary—in English or Russian—helps make sense of the sights, offering historical details and local stories that bring the sites to life.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers transportation, guided tour, and some entrance fees. The entrance to Borjomi National Park costs 5 lari, Rabati Fortress 15 lari, and Vardzia 17 lari—these are additional costs to consider. Lunch, starting from 30 lari, is separate, giving you flexibility to choose your preferred meal and pace.

Some travelers have found value in the guided expertise and scenic routes. A particularly positive review noted that the guides are knowledgeable, making even the long drives engaging with stories about Georgia’s past and present. The tour provider, CarpeDiemTours, offers a flexible booking policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, this trip will satisfy your curiosity. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided overview of Georgia’s highlights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

However, keep in mind that the long drives and tight schedules at each site might not suit those who prefer unhurried exploration. The tour is perfect for visitors eager to tick off key sights and learn stories from passionate guides.

This day trip from Tbilisi to Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia combines natural beauty, historical intrigue, and cultural richness in one well-organized package. The expert guides enhance the experience, making history accessible and interesting, while the scenic drives allow travelers to enjoy Georgia’s diverse landscapes.

You’ll get a good sense of Georgia’s ancient and medieval past, along with the chance to taste its famous mineral waters. The tour offers solid value, especially given the inclusion of transportation and guided commentary, though extra entrance fees and meals are not included.

In all, it’s an excellent choice for those with a day to spare and a curiosity for Georgia’s stories and landscapes. If you’re after authentic experiences, a knowledgeable guide, and a full day of exploration, this tour delivers.

How long is the drive from Tbilisi to Borjomi?
The drive takes approximately 3 hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery on the way.

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees to Borjomi National Park, Rabati Fortress, and Vardzia are extra—5, 15, and 17 lari respectively.

Can I buy lunch as part of the tour?
Lunch is not included but is available starting from 30 lari, allowing you to choose your preferred meal and pace.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but be aware of the walking involved at sites like Vardzia and Rabati, which might be challenging for some. Check with your guide about mobility options.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
Guides operate in English and Russian, so confirm your preferred language when booking.

How much time do I get at each site?
Typically, around 2 hours each at Vardzia and Rabati, with some flexibility. Borjomi town may have a bit more or less depending on the schedule.

Is this tour good value for money?
Considering transportation, guided commentary, and multiple sites in one day, many travelers find it offers good value, with some noting that guides’ expertise makes the experience especially worthwhile.

You can check availability for your dates here: