Rabath
Rabath Castle
Vardzia
Vardzia cave city
Varzia
Vardzia
Vardzia
Vardzia
Vardzia
Vardzia
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Borjomi - Rabati -Vardzia Private Full Day Tour from Tbilisi

(5)
Tbilisi, Georgia
Bus & Minivan ToursLuxuryATV & Quad ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsNature Tours

About this activity

Explore Georgia's dramatic southern highlands on a full-day private journey through three iconic landmarks: the verdant Borjomi Central Park with its celebrated mineral springs, the reconstructed medieval fortress of Rabati Castle, and the jaw-dropping 12th-century cave city of Vardzia carved into mountainside cliffs. This 500km round trip from Tbilisi showcases the region's geological wonders, architectural heritage, and wild canyon landscapes in a single immersive experience.

Samtskhe-Javakheti is a region in southern Georgia. Nature is surprisingly diverse and breathtaking. You will be able to see: rivers, ravines, canyons, lakes, coniferous and deciduous forests. It is also rich in minerals. Samtskhe-Javakheti is the ideal place for those who love nature and adventures.
Itinerary:
- Borjomi Central Park, most remarkable virtues of Borjomi are its striking nature and unique mineral waters. One of the best places to experience this is the “Mineral Water Park” of Borjomi.
- Rabati Castle is a popular attraction of Akhaltsikhe. In 2012, it was reconstructed and strengthened. Rabati Castle has a powerful fortress wall, four towers with spiral staircases, an observation deck, and buildings.
- Incredibly beautiful medieval cave city Vardzia, which was built in the 12th century by Georgia’s greatest ruler -Queen Tamar, is located in Georgia’s southern Samtskhe-Javakheti region, 60km from Akhaltsikhe.
Total Driving distance from Tbilisi to Tbilisi is about 500Km

Highlights

  • ✓Walk through Borjomi's famous Mineral Water Park amid coniferous forests and natural springs
  • ✓Explore Rabati Castle's four towers, spiral staircases, and observation deck with panoramic views
  • ✓Discover Vardzia's 600+ carved chambers and 12th-century frescoes built into a canyon wall
  • ✓Drive through dramatic river gorges, ravines, and forested valleys of Samtskhe-Javakheti
  • ✓Visit Queen Tamar's architectural legacy—one of the Caucasus region's most important medieval sites

Insider tips

  • ★Start early: the 13+ hour itinerary covers significant ground, so an early departure maximizes daylight at Vardzia
  • ★Wear layered clothing and sturdy walking shoes—Vardzia involves climbing steep interior staircases and uneven cave passages
  • ★Bring a camera with a wide lens; the canyon backdrop and cave interiors offer stunning photography opportunities
  • ★Stay hydrated; mineral water is available at Borjomi park, but carrying extra water is wise for the full day

Good to know

  • •Private tour accommodates flexible scheduling and personalized pacing at each site
  • •Approximately 500km driven total; much of the journey is on scenic but winding mountain roads
  • •Vardzia requires moderate physical fitness (climbing, uneven terrain); not ideal for those with mobility restrictions
  • •Lunch is not specified in the itinerary—bring snacks or budget for meals in Akhaltsikhe
  • •Rabati Castle and Vardzia have modest entrance fees (not included in tour price)

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiasts keen on Queen Tamar's medieval GeorgiaNature lovers and hikers drawn to canyons, forests, and geological formationsPhotography-focused travellers seeking dramatic landscapes and architectural detailCouples and small groups preferring private transport and customizable pacing

Best time to visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures and clear skies ideal for canyon exploration and photography. Summer can be hot and crowded; winter may limit accessibility to higher elevations and interior cave passages.

Frequently asked questions

From
€122
per person