Experience The Best of Georgia in 5 Days

Upon your arrival in Tbilisi via a convenient flight, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and leisure time to unwind. Let us introduce you to the captivating capital of Georgia, a city that serves as the cultural, economic, and political hub of the country. Tbilisi, derived from the word “Tbili,” meaning “warm” in English, was founded around natural hot sulfur springs. Legend has it that during a falconry expedition, King Vakhtang Gorgasali’s bird chased a pheasant into a pond, only for both to be instantly immersed in a hot spring, giving rise to the city’s name.

Starting Point: Your journey begins at either the airport or your hotel in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Summary Itinerary:

• Depart from the hotel for a sightseeing tour of Tbilisi.
• Begin the city exploration at the Cathedral of “Sameba,” a symbol of Georgian revival and unity, located on Mount St. Ilya.
• Visit the monument dedicated to Vakhtang Gorgasali, the founder of Tbilisi.
• Explore the Metekhi Temple, known for its remarkable stone craftsmanship and offering a splendid view of the old part of Tbilisi.
• Take a short lift ride to the Narikala fortress, the ancient heart of the city, offering captivating panoramic views.
• Encounter the iconic statue of the “Mother of Georgia,” symbolizing hospitality and strength.
• Visit the Sioni Temple, dating back to the 6th century, and admire its historical significance.
• Cross the modern Peace Bridge, providing picturesque views of contemporary Tbilisi.
• Enjoy lunch (additional cost) after the excursion.
• Depart for an excursion to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia.
• Discover the Cathedral of “Svetitskhoveli,” known as the cathedral of the 12 apostles and a significant religious site.
• Ascend to the Jvari Monastery, offering a breathtaking panorama of the ancient capital.
• Return to Tbilisi and overnight at the hotel.
• Duration of the tour: 6-7 hours.

Summary Itinerary:

• Depart at 10:00 for Kakheti, the homeland of wine and winemaking in Georgia.
• Kakheti is a fertile region known for producing the finest wines in the post-Soviet space.
• Explore the vast vineyards, ancient temples, and monasteries that adorn the region.
• Visit the Bodbe convent, a significant monastic and episcopal complex dedicated to St. George. It is a revered shrine where visitors can make wishes by touching the grave of Saint Nino.
• Arrive in Sighnaghi, a picturesque city known as the “City of Love,” nestled amidst complex mountain terrain. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley from the city.
• Wander through the charming narrow streets of the old city, adorned with balconies featuring wooden openwork fences, capturing the essence of centuries past.
• Sighnaghi gained city status in the 18th century, with the construction of its fortress in 1762. Today, it is renowned for its 24-hour registry office, attracting couples from around the world to solemnize their love in the “City of Love.”
• Optionally, visit the ethnographic museum (additional cost), showcasing a range of household and religious objects discovered through intensive archaeological excavations in Kakheti. The museum also houses 16 paintings by the world-famous artist Niko Pirosmanishvili.
• Return to Tbilisi and overnight at the hotel.
• Duration of the tour: 8-9 hours.

Summary Itinerary:

• Depart at 09:00 for Stepantsminda, taking the scenic Georgian Military Highway.
• En route, visit the picturesque Ananuri Fortress (16th century) overlooking the Aragva River and enjoy the breathtaking Zhinval Reservoir.
• Stop for a delightful lunch at one of the cozy cafes along the way (additional cost).
• Pass through the Gudauri ski center situated at an elevation of 2200 meters above sea level.
• Reach the observation deck at the “Arch of Friendship” monument, symbolizing the bond between the peoples of Russia and Georgia.
• Experience a mesmerizing journey through the Tergicherez River Cross Pass, reaching the mountain village of Stepantsminda in Kazbegi.
• If weather permits, behold the awe-inspiring view of Mount Kazbek (5147 meters above sea level), one of Georgia’s highest peaks. Kazbek is an extinct volcano covered in eternal snow and valley glaciers spanning 135 square kilometers.
• Visit the Church of the Most Holy Trinity Gergeti (2170 meters above sea level), the highest mountain structure in Europe. Jeep transportation to the church is included.
• Return to Tbilisi and overnight at the hotel.
• Duration of the tour: 9-10 hours.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, you will have some free time to relax and prepare for your departure. Later, you will be transferred from the hotel to the airport for your return journey home. We bid you a fond farewell and hope to welcome you back to Georgia soon. Until we meet again, Genatsvale!

End Point: Your tour concludes at either the airport or your hotel in Tbilisi, Georgia.