LEGENDARY PLACES OF GEORGIA: VARDZIA, BORJOMI, RABAT.( Private Tour)

Imagine a day packed with history, stunning scenery, and local flavor—all without the hassle of planning multiple trips. That’s exactly what this private tour offers for those eager to see some of Georgia’s most iconic sites in a single, well-organized day. Designed for travelers with limited time but a desire to soak in authentic experiences, this adventure takes you from the lush landscapes of Borjomi to the fortress of Rabati and the labyrinthine caves of Vardzia.

What we love about this tour is how it balances comfort and insight. The private transportation means no crowded buses and no rushing—just a relaxed pace and the chance to really appreciate each stop. Plus, the tour’s guide doesn’t just shuttle you from place to place but enriches each visit with stories that breathe life into the stones and water sources.

One potential consideration is the price—$118 per person—but when you weigh this against the convenience of door-to-door service, knowledgeable guides, and visits to three major sites, it’s a solid value. This tour suits history buffs, first-time visitors eager for context, and anyone craving a comprehensive snapshot of Georgia’s past and landscape in one day.

Key Points

Convenient Private Transport: No worries about navigation—just enjoy the scenery and comfort.
Expert Guide: Learn about Georgia’s history and culture directly from someone who knows it well.
All-Inclusive Experience: Visits to Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia, with ticket costs included in the overall cost.
Flexible and Well-Structured: The itinerary balances sightseeing with enough time to explore each site thoroughly.
Scenic and Authentic: From the mineral waters of Borjomi to the rock-cut city of Vardzia, each stop offers a genuine taste of Georgia.
Ideal for First-Timers: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive introduction without the stress of planning.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off in Tbilisi: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins early at 7:00 AM from a centrally located meeting point in Tbilisi—1 Abano Street. The fact that this is a private experience means you won’t be stuck with a large group; your own vehicle ensures a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. The transportation is air-conditioned, which is a blessing in Georgia’s warm weather, and includes free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected or just enjoy the scenic drive.

The driver, as one review highlights, can be a highlight—“the best driver who spoke English and Russian well”—making your journey smoother and more engaging. It’s this personal touch that elevates a simple sightseeing day into a memorable experience.

First Stop: Borjomi and Its Famous Mineral Water

Your first destination is Borjomi, a town renowned for its mineral springs and lush gorge. The drive itself offers stunning views, and once you arrive at Borjomi Central Park, you’re greeted with a mixture of natural beauty and historical charm. The park, frequented by Georgia’s last tsar, Nicholas II, is a peaceful spot with a charming waterfall, Prometheus monument, and a cable car ride that offers sweeping vistas of the landscape.

We loved the way the guide explains the significance of Borjomi’s waters—“results of archaeological excavations shed light on the history of local mineral water”—adding a layer of depth to just tasting the famous water. While the ticket for tasting the mineral water costs around $2 (or $1 if you want to visit the source directly), this small expense adds a memorable flavor—literally—to the visit.

You’ll spend around 1 hour 30 minutes here, which is enough to walk around, take photos, and get a sense of why Borjomi’s waters have earned a global reputation. If you’re a water enthusiast or just curious about local traditions, this is a highlight.

Next: Rabati Castle – A Crossroads of Cultures

From Borjomi, your journey continues to Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe, a fortress that embodies Georgia’s diverse history. This site is particularly fascinating because it has served as a Christian and Muslim transit point, a fact that’s obvious in its architecture and layout.

The guide will walk you through the castle’s halls decorated in traditional Georgian style, and explain the historical significance of the site’s diverse influences. The fortress’s impressive size and detailed decoration make it a visual feast, and it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of Georgia’s most colorful monuments.

For those interested, tickets to Rabati Castle are around $4, but the overall tour price includes this, making it easy to enjoy without additional planning. Expect about 2 hours here, giving you ample time to explore the fortress, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Final Stop: Vardzia – The Rock-Cut Monastery Complex

The highlight for many travelers is the visit to Vardzia, a sprawling cave monastery built in the 12th century. This site is a marvel of human ingenuity—carved into the cliffs and spanning 13 levels with over 500 rooms. Churches, chapels, living quarters, and even water systems are all part of this ancient city.

We loved the way the guide describes its purpose—“the rock city was built and what functions it performed throughout history”—and how walking through its tunnels and chambers feels like stepping into a different time. The complex’s secret passages, water supply remains, and the high vantage points make it a photographer’s dream and a history buff’s delight.

The ticket for Vardzia costs around $5, and you’ll spend about 3 hours exploring this extraordinary site. The experience of walking through a city carved into the mountainside offers a tangible connection to Georgia’s resilience and craftsmanship.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The core value of this tour lies in its all-inclusive approach—transportation, guide, and entrance tickets are bundled, making it simple and straightforward. The tour is approximately 13 hours long, starting early in the morning and returning to Tbilisi by evening, which makes it suitable for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

While lunch isn’t included, the stops at each site offer opportunities to purchase local snacks or enjoy nearby cafes. The ticket prices for each site sum up to around $11, which is quite reasonable considering the overall package price of $118. It’s a good deal, especially when you factor in the convenience of private transport and professional guidance.

The experience is tailored for travelers who prefer a structured itinerary but appreciate flexibility at each stop. Since it’s private, your group can set the pace, ask questions, and linger at points of interest.

Who is this tour best suited for?

• First-time visitors wanting a rundown of Georgia’s highlights
• History and architecture enthusiasts eager to see ancient and medieval sites
• Travelers seeking a stress-free, all-in-one day trip with personalized attention
• Those with limited time but a desire to experience diverse facets of Georgian culture and landscape

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private tour offers a compelling way to see Georgia’s most iconic sites without the headaches of planning multiple trips. The combination of scenic drives, historical sites, and expert guides makes it a valuable experience, especially considering the price. The flexibility and personal touch make it stand out from larger group tours, and the stops themselves are genuinely impressive.

The journey to Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia is more than just sightseeing—it’s about understanding how Georgia’s past and landscape shape its identity today. If you’re curious about Georgia’s history, enjoy exploring diverse sites, and prefer a comfortable, guided experience, this tour is a smart choice.

This tour suits travelers who want depth and convenience, especially those new to Georgia or short on time. It’s a chance to see, learn, and enjoy with minimal fuss and maximum authenticity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, providing a more personalized and flexible itinerary.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 13 hours, starting at 7:00 AM and returning to the original meeting point in Tbilisi.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance tickets to Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia.

Are tickets for sites included?
Yes, the tour price includes tickets for Borjomi ($2), Rabati Castle ($4), and Vardzia ($5).

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can purchase food at each site or nearby cafes.

What language does the guide speak?
The guide speaks English and Russian, ensuring clear explanations and engaging storytelling.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with walking and exploring large sites.

How do I meet the tour?
The pickup is at 1 Abano Street in Tbilisi, and the tour ends back at the same location.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
Its private, personalized nature, combined with expert guides and visits to three of Georgia’s most iconic sites, offers excellent value for a day of immersive history and scenic beauty.

This tour strikes a fine balance between sightseeing, comfort, and storytelling—perfect for those eager to unlock Georgia’s historic secrets with ease and authenticity.