Day Tour to Vardzia, Borjomi in Georgia

Exploring the captivating landscapes of Georgia is a must-do for any traveler. This day tour to Vardzia and Borjomi promises an immersive experience through the country’s rich cultural heritage. Discover the awe-inspiring Vardzia cave site, wander the historic Rabati Castle, and indulge in the renowned mineral waters of Borjomi. With a knowledgeable guide and convenient transportation, this tour offers an efficient and enriching journey. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this itinerary is sure to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more of Georgia’s wonders.

Key Points

• This full-day group tour from Tbilisi visits the Vardzia cave site, Rabati Castle, and the town of Borjomi, with professional guide commentary and admission fees included.
• The tour departs at 8:30 am and accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a duration often exceeding the advertised 12 hours.
• Highlights include exploring the intricate cave dwellings of Vardzia, discovering the historic Rabati Castle, and visiting the picturesque town of Borjomi, known for its mineral water.
• The meeting point is conveniently located at 44 Kote Afkhazi St, Tbilisi, and is easily accessible by public transportation, with the importance of arriving on time emphasized.
• Mixed reviews have been reported, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides and beautiful sites, but issues with timing, guide engagement, and vehicle reliability.

Tour Overview

This day tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the historic sites of Vardzia and Borjomi from Tbilisi, Georgia.

The full-day group tour departs Tbilisi at 8:30 am and returns to the meeting point, accommodating a maximum of 20 travelers in an air-conditioned vehicle.

With 143 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, the tour provides live commentary from a professional guide as visitors discover the Vardzia cave site, Rabati Castle complex, and the town of Borjomi, known for its mineral water.

Admission fees for the key sites are included in the tour price.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour itinerary takes visitors to the renowned Vardzia cave site, the impressive Rabati Castle complex, and the picturesque town of Borjomi, renowned for its mineral water.

At Vardzia, travelers explore the intricate cave dwellings, while at Rabati, they discover the historic fortress.

In Borjomi, guests can visit the park and indulge in the famous mineral water.

The admission fees for these sites are 17 GEL for Vardzia, 18 GEL for Rabati Fortress, and 5 GEL for Borjomi Park.

Throughout the tour, a professional guide provides live commentary, enhancing the educational and cultural experience.

Getting to the Meeting Point

To get to the meeting point, travelers can easily navigate to 44 Kote Afkhazi St, Tbilisi 0105, Georgia, near Meidan square and Metekhi bridge.

The location is conveniently situated and can be easily accessed by public transportation. The tour company provides a map link to the meeting point, making it simple for participants to find the starting point.

Arriving at the designated time is crucial, as the tour departs promptly at 8:30 am. Visitors should plan their transportation accordingly to ensure they arrive on time and don’t miss the beginning of this exciting day trip to Vardzia and Borjomi.

Tour Experience and Feedback

Travelers have provided a mix of reviews on the tour experience, with some noting knowledgeable guides, beautiful sites, and comfortable transport, while others reported issues with timing, guide engagement, vehicle breakdowns, and safety concerns.

Many commented on the long duration of the tour, which often exceeded the advertised 12 hours. Positive experiences were highlighted, including the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery.

However, negative feedback centered around problems with the tour’s scheduling, the guide’s level of engagement, and concerns over the reliability and condition of the vehicles used.

Exploring Vardzia Cave Site

A magnificent medieval cave city, Vardzia stretches across the slopes of the Erusheti Mountain along the Kura River.

Visitors descend into a labyrinth of caves, chambers, and churches carved into the rock face over 800 years ago.

The highlights include:

1. The impressive Assumption Cathedral, with its stunning frescoes and intricate carvings.
2. The complex’s numerous wine cellars, where visitors can sample the region’s renowned vintages.
3. The stunning views overlooking the Kura River valley from the upper levels of the cave city.
4. The opportunity to explore the hidden passages and chambers that once housed a thriving community of monks and residents.

Discovering Rabati Castle Complex

After exploring the captivating Vardzia cave site, visitors can discover the Rabati Castle complex, a historic fortress located in the town of Akhaltsikhe.

This 13th-century castle boasts impressive stone walls, towers, and a unique blend of architectural styles. Visitors can tour the castle’s interior, including the mosque, synagogue, and St. George’s Cathedral.

The complex also houses a museum showcasing local history and culture. With an admission fee of 18 GEL, the Rabati Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s rich past, complementing the day’s journey through the stunning Vardzia and Borjomi landscapes.

Visiting Borjomi and Its Mineral Waters

From Rabati Castle, the tour continues on to the charming town of Borjomi, renowned for its mineral-rich waters.

Visitors can explore the town’s central park, which features:

1. Scenic walking trails
2. Historic pavilions
3. Manicured gardens
4. Bottling stations for the famous Borjomi mineral water.

Guests can sample the refreshing, naturally carbonated water straight from the source.

The tour also includes admission to Borjomi Park, allowing travelers to enjoy the town’s idyllic surroundings.

With its picturesque setting and unique natural resources, Borjomi offers a delightful respite during the day’s explorations.

Practical Considerations

When planning this day tour, travelers should consider a few practical factors. The meeting point is conveniently located near Meidan Square and Metekhi Bridge in Tbilisi.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, there’s no minimum age requirement. Visitors should dress in smart casual attire, as the tour includes walking at historic sites.

Confirmation is received at booking, but the tour may be canceled if minimum numbers aren’t met. Lastly, the tour duration can exceed the advertised 12 hours, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size on the Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 20 travelers. According to the tour overview, the group size is limited to ensure a more personalized experience for participants.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The tour does not provide any dietary accommodations. Travelers are responsible for bringing their own food and snacks to meet any dietary restrictions or preferences. The focus of the tour is on sightseeing rather than catering to individual dietary needs.

Can We Make Stops Along the Way for Photos?

Yes, the tour allows for photo stops along the way. The professional guide will make sure there are ample opportunities to capture the stunning scenery and landmarks during the excursion.

Is There an Option to Explore the Sites Independently?

The tour typically includes guided visits to the main sites, but travelers may have some opportunities for independent exploration and photo stops during the day. However, the schedule and time allotted at each location can vary.

How Flexible Is the Tour Schedule in Case of Delays?

The tour schedule may not be very flexible, as it’s a group tour with a fixed itinerary. Delays could affect the overall timing, but the tour operator likely has contingency plans to try and accommodate any unforeseen issues within the day’s activities.

The Sum Up

The day tour to Vardzia and Borjomi in Georgia provides an enriching journey through the country’s cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the captivating Vardzia cave site, discover the historic Rabati Castle, and enjoy the picturesque town of Borjomi, known for its mineral waters. With knowledgeable guides and included admission fees, this tour offers an immersive experience in the heart of Georgia.