Classic Georgia

Today we will explore the capital of Georgia, Tbilisi. Wonder in the old districts of the city which are structured like terraces, as well as take a walk in the narrow streets to enjoy colorful houses, patterned balconies and wonderful samples of modern architecture. We will start the tour form Metekhi church (13th century)facing the magnificent views over old Tbilisi.

A stroll along winding little streets takes us to the main sights of the city. Afterwards takea cable car to enjoy the panoramic views of the whole town and through the ancient Narikala fortress (4th century), find ourselves in the historical domed sulphur bath area- connected with the name of our city. Finally the Golden Fund of the historical museum (closed on Mondays) will prove the fact that Geo e Golden Fleece. Welcome dinner in traditional Georgian restaurant with folklore show.
Accommodations: Tuta Hotel

In the morning we drive to Kakheti region. Famous for being wine making area, as well as associated with welcoming hospitality. Firstly we visit 18th century beautiful, small town of Sighnaghi which will impress us with its old fence and small houses with tile roofs and decorated balconies. From here we can see the picturesque views of Alazani valley and Great Caucasus mountains.

After that, visit the Monastery of Bodbe (11th c.) where Georgia`s enlightener – Saint Nino was buried. Visit its beautiful garden as well. For lunch we drive to local woman farmer’s house where we enjoy the homemade dishes. Here we will participate in baking Georgian bread and making Georgian sweets, Churchkhela. Later we drive to visit traditional Georgian wine cellar and taste Georgian wine produced by ancient tradition in Kvevri. Georgian farmers use to make exactly this type of wine during the centuries. This method of wine making is inscribed in UNESCO intangible heritage list. Continue back to Tbilisi.
Accommodations: Tuta Hotel

Today we visit the ancient capital and religious center of Georgia – Mtskheta and see its historical places: Jvari Monastery (6th century) and impressive Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century) where the Robe of Christ is buried. Both Jvari and Svetitskhoveli are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Then, drive to Mukhrani village. Visit the royal estate of duke – Ivane Mukhranbatoni.

Taste finest local wines, famous for combining traditional Georgian and European winemaking techniques to create a unique aroma. Later, drive to Kutaisi, which is one of the oldest cities in the world. Its centuries-old past attracts visitors to discover famous or unknown places. Today Kutaisi is the third largest city in Georgia and one of the most popular tourist destinations.
Accommodations: Argo Boutique Hotel

Enjoy a morning walk in a recently renovated old town and feel the vibe of this 3000 years old city. Then drive to visit Prometheus Cave. The unique stalactites and stalagmites here will leave an indelible impression on every visitor. The beautiful lighting and classical music in the background makes this place even more charming and mysterious.

Then drive to Samegrelo region. Visit a local family producing fine natural Georgian wines with traditional methods. Here we also have lunch with authentic West-Georgian dishes. Afterwards, we visit Martvili Canyons that makes an unforgettable impression on us. While boating we will enjoy the beautiful valley of the mountain river and waterfalls. The transparent river has a beautiful green color and we can even see the seabed. Once back in Kutaisi, visit Bagrati Cathedral (11th century) – a symbol of the unity of Georgia. It has a special place in Georgian architecture of the Middle Ages. It is noteworthy that the Cathedral, erected at this inaccessible height, can be seen from all over the city.
Accommodations: Argo Boutique Hotel

In the morning we visit Kutaisi market. This is a place where we become an integral part of local daily life. Here we find Georgian spices, fruits, vegetables, cheese and other natural products. Then we drive to visit Gelati Monastery Complex (12th century), one of the oldest educational centers in Europe, which also combines several churches and the tomb of the greatest king of Georgia – David the Builder.

This Georgian architectural ensemble with its beautiful paintings is deservedly included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For lunch, we stop at a local family, where we will be hosted by local lady, who shows us how to cook different traditional Georgian dishes. After lunch, drive to Borjomi spa town – famous with its mineral water “Borjomi”. Visit the small park and try mineral water.
Accommodations: Golden Tulip Hotel

This morning we drive to Vardzia and visit the 12th century magnificent cave town complex, one of the highlights of the trip. It stretches over half a kilometer along the river Mtkvari and has 19 tiers. There used to be about 3000 caves. It`s got a church hewn out in rock with amazing 12th century frescos.

The complex also includes dwellings quarters, small hall- type churches, refectories, wine cellars, pharmacy, etc. Afterwards we drive back to Akhaltsikhe. On the way, photo- stop at Khertvisi fortress (10th century). In the town of Akhaltsikhe, we`ll visit Rabath castle and museum. This is a recently renovated castle where we willl get acquainted with a rich history of the region and will travel in the past. Drive back to Borjomi.
Accommodations: Golden Tulip Hotel

Today we drive to Gori – the heart of Kartli region and visit Uplistsikhe Cave Town (1st millennium BC). That’s the place where the Great Silk Road used to pass. This is an old and interesting complex with dwelling quarters, wine-cellars, bakeries, a three-nave basilica church hewn out in rock and even an antic theatre. Gori is the birthplace of Stalin. Here we’ll visit his house and museum as well.

Drive up the famous Georgian Military Highway in the Great Caucasus Mountains. On the way, visit Ananuri architectural complex (17th century). The two churches and the fortress overlook the Zhinvali reservoir. The drive is very scenic through the high Caucasus Mountains
Accommodations: Rooms Kazbegi

A visit to Stepantsminda is improbable without Gergeti Trinity church. Today, Gergeti is the most popular tourist destination in Georgia. With its special location and centuries-old history, it really represents the face of Georgia. The green slopes decorated with mountain flowers and the great Caucasus leave an unforgettable impression on the visitor.

Morning walk up through the picturesque valleys and woodland to Gergeti Trinity Church located at 2170m (drive by 4WD is also possible). Weather permitting you may catch a glimpse of one of the highest glaciers in the Caucasus – Mt Kazbegi (5047m). Later we will have opportunity to see how Georgian felt is made and try different kinds of jams. Continue back to the capital. Farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Accommodations: Tuta Hotel