From Tbilisi: Vardzia, Rabati, and Borjomi Day Tour

If you’re visiting Georgia and craving a day filled with history, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of relaxation, this guided tour from Tbilisi might be just what you need. It promises a full 14-hour journey through some of Georgia’s most iconic sights—Vardzia, Rabati Castle, and Borjomi. We haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it’s clear this experience offers a solid combination of culture, nature, and fun.

What we love about this tour is how well it balances a deep dive into the country’s medieval architecture and historic sites with opportunities to relax and enjoy Georgia’s natural beauty. Plus, the guides seem to be a highlight—knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share stories that bring each place to life. The only potential drawback? It’s a long day, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a good walk and some bus time.

This trip is perfect for those who want an efficient way to see a lot of southern Georgia’s top sights without the hassle of planning. If you enjoy history, stunning landscapes, and a bit of adventure, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding. Just be prepared for a full day and some physical activity at the cave sites.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Vardzia, Rabati, and Borjomi in one day
• Knowledgeable guides who share engaging historical and cultural insights
• Stunning scenery and architecture blending nature and history
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and modern vehicles
• Long but rewarding day with opportunities for photos, walking, and local tastes
• Value for money considering the extensive sightseeing and included services

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour from Tbilisi offers a full day of exploration, starting early and lasting around 14 hours. That’s a long trip, but it’s packed with some of the most interesting highlights Georgia has to offer. Let’s walk through what you can expect at each stop, why it’s worth the time, and how it all fits together.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 13 Abano Street, opposite the baths near the Market SPAR. The transport is a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter with Wi-Fi (a nice perk for sharing photos or checking maps), and the group size tends to be manageable, allowing for a more personalized experience. The driver and guide work as a team to keep the day on schedule, which is crucial given the tight itinerary.

Traveling in comfort is key on a day like this, especially since you’ll be spending a lot of time on the road. The scenic drive to the south of Georgia is itself a highlight, offering glimpses of rural life, lush landscapes, and mountain views that are often just as memorable as the stops.

Vardzia: The Cave City Marvel

Vardzia is the main event for many travelers. This 12th-century rock-hewn cave complex was built by Queen Tamar, and it once housed over 2,000 caves, monasteries, and churches. We loved the way guides explain the site’s history and its significance in Georgian culture, making the visit richer.

Expect to walk through a maze of tunnels, chambers, and frescoed churches. The site’s vertical cliffs and caves are dramatic, and you’ll probably need to climb stairs—some reviews mention it’s physically demanding. One traveler, who was five and a half months pregnant, managed to see it all but advises against Vardzia if you have claustrophobia, height fears, or limited mobility. The walk can be steep and the terrain uneven, so comfortable shoes and a good attitude are essential.

The highlight here is the church of St. George, adorned with ancient frescoes that tell stories of faith and power from centuries ago. It’s a chance to step back in time and imagine what life was like in a fortress built into sheer cliffs.

The guided tour adds context, explaining the site’s strategic importance and architectural ingenuity, which many reviews say makes the long walk worthwhile. As one visitor put it, “Vardzia is amazing!” and another shared that the guides do a great job of making the history come alive.

Lunch Break

After exploring Vardzia, the tour offers a one-hour lunch. While the tour doesn’t include this in the price, you’ll find local eateries nearby where you can enjoy traditional Georgian dishes—think khachapuri (cheese bread) or kebabs—at reasonable prices. It’s a good chance to rest and recharge for the afternoon.

More Great Tours Nearby

Rabati Castle: A Cultural Mosaic

Next up is Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe. Built in the 9th century and expanded over the centuries, it reflects Georgia’s diverse cultural influences. The castle complex is a lively mix of medieval walls, mosques, synagogues, and churches, all coexisting harmoniously.

Inevitably, the guided tour of Rabati gives you a chance to see the castle’s many layers—each telling a different story of Georgia’s multi-religious history. Visitors praise the panoramic views from the castle walls, which overlook the plains and mountains. It’s a place where you can appreciate the country’s history of coexistence and cultural diversity.

Many reviews highlight the guides’ ability to weave stories about the sites, making this part of the day both educational and enjoyable. It’s a great example of Georgia’s openness and resilience, and the site’s architecture provides numerous photo opportunities.

Khertvisi Fortress: A Brief Stop

On the way back, there’s a quick 15-minute stop at Khertvisi Fortress for photos. While not as elaborate as Vardzia or Rabati, it’s a picturesque ruin perched on a rocky outcrop, offering some stunning vistas.

Borjomi: Natural Beauty and Relaxation

The final major stop is Borjomi, famed for its mineral waters and natural scenery. After a scenic drive, you’ll have about an hour to stroll through Borjomi Central Park, sample the famous mineral water straight from the springs, and take in the mountain views.

Many travelers find Borjomi charming and almost magical—an ideal place to unwind after a day of walking and sightseeing. Some reviews mention the opportunity to ride the cable car (if available), which provides a lovely view of the town and mountains.

If time allows, you might explore nearby Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, known for its hiking trails and forested landscapes. The town itself feels like a peaceful retreat, and tasting the mineral water is an experience many find surprisingly refreshing and healthful.

Return to Tbilisi

The journey ends back at the starting point around sunset. The long day might leave you tired but satisfied, having seen a wide slice of southern Georgia’s sights in one go.

What the Tour Includes and What You’ll Need to Consider

The tour provides a comfortable vehicle with Wi-Fi, water in summer, and a professional guide fluent in English and Russian. The price covers entrance fees to Vardzia (17 GEL), Rabati (17 GEL), and Borjomi Museum (5 GEL). It doesn’t include lunch, but local eateries are plentiful and affordable, offering a chance to taste authentic Georgian cuisine.

While the experience is generally praised for its value, it’s important to recognize the physical aspects. Several reviews mention that Vardzia involves climbing steep stairs and walking through uneven terrain, so good shoes and physical readiness are vital. Those with mobility issues or height fears might want to consider this before booking.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

The reviews we’ve seen are overwhelmingly positive—many rated this 5 stars. Travelers praise guides like Mamuka, David, and Omar, highlighting their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. Their enthusiasm adds a lot to the experience, making history feel alive and engaging.

The scenery and sites seem to impress—Vardzia’s caves, Rabati’s diverse architecture, Borjomi’s tranquil parks—all receive praise for their beauty and atmosphere. Tourists also appreciate the value for money, considering how much ground is covered and the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Some reviewers note that the tour is lengthy and physically demanding, but most agree that the experience is worth the effort. A few mention that spring might be a better time for Borjomi due to snow and frozen parks, which could affect scenery and accessibility.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a rundown of southern Georgia without the hassle of multiple bookings. It’s particularly well-suited to history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see Georgia’s diverse cultural tapestry in a single day.

If you’re physically fit and prepared for some walking and climbing, you’ll find the sites fascinating and rewarding. The guides’ insights help contextualize the sites’ significance, making the travel experience more meaningful. For those interested in Georgian wine, the nearby regions and parks offer further exploration, although not directly included here.

This is an ideal trip for those who enjoy long, scenic drives and want the convenience of a guided experience that covers a lot of ground. Be ready for a full day, but rest assured, the variety of sights and stories make it a memorable journey.

FAQs

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at 13 Abano Street, opposite the baths near the Market SPAR, where a Mercedes-Sprinter with license plate IM-*-PE awaits.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 14 hours, making it a long but immersive day.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have a chance to purchase food at local eateries after visiting Vardzia.

What are the entrance fees?
Tickets for Vardzia (17 GEL), Rabati Castle (17 GEL), and Borjomi Museum (5 GEL) are paid separately, so check your budget accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Probably not. Vardzia involves climbing stairs and walking uneven terrain. It’s best for those who are physically fit.

What language does the guide speak?
The guide is fluent in both English and Russian, providing explanations in a mixture of both.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are essential for a full experience.

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

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for anyone able to handle a full day of walking and some physically demanding parts, but not recommended for very young children or those with mobility limitations.

What is the value of this trip?
Considering the extensive sightseeing, guided explanations, transportation, and entrance fees, it offers good value—especially for travelers wanting to see multiple highlights efficiently.

To sum it up, this guided tour from Tbilisi to Vardzia, Rabati, and Borjomi is a well-rounded way to experience Georgia’s historical sites, scenic landscapes, and natural mineral waters—all in one memorable day. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who enjoy learning on the go, don’t mind a long day, and want a hassle-free way to cover a lot of ground. The mix of guided storytelling, stunning views, and authentic sites makes it a worthwhile investment for a wide range of visitors seeking a deep, engaging travel experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: