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 landscapes in a single day, combining the mineral-rich forests of Borjomi with the reconstructed medieval fortress of Rabati and the jaw-dropping 12th-century cave city of Vardzia. This full-day immersion spans three iconic sites across Samtskhe-Javakheti, showcasing everything from geological wonders to architectural heritage carved into cliffsides.

Samtskhe-Javakheti is a region in southern Georgia. Its administrative centre is Akhaltsikhe. 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.

Highlights

  • ✓Walk through Borjomi Central Park and sample Georgia's famous mineral waters in their natural setting
  • ✓Tour the restored Rabati Castle with its spiral staircase towers and panoramic observation deck
  • ✓Explore Vardzia's sprawling cave monastery complex built into a mountainside by Queen Tamar in the 12th century
  • ✓Experience diverse landscapes: coniferous forests, river canyons, and dramatic geological formations
  • ✓Learn the history of one of the Caucasus' most important medieval kingdoms

Insider tips

  • ★Wear sturdy walking shoes—Vardzia involves climbing narrow passages and uneven stone steps carved into the cliff face
  • ★Bring a light jacket even in summer; the cave city stays cool year-round and can feel significantly colder than outside
  • ★Visit Rabati's observation deck at late afternoon for golden-hour photography over the Mtkvari River valley
  • ★The mineral waters at Borjomi taste distinctive (mineral-forward, slightly salty); don't skip the tasting opportunity

Good to know

  • •Total duration is 13+ hours including drive time from Tbilisi; plan for a full day commitment
  • •Vardzia has steep staircases and uneven terrain—not wheelchair accessible in most areas
  • •Private tour format allows flexible pacing; confirm pickup time and hotel location at booking
  • •Bring water, sunscreen, and snacks; facilities are limited between stops
  • •Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes essential for cave exploration and climbing

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiasts interested in medieval GeorgiaNature lovers seeking dramatic landscapes and geological diversityCultural explorers wanting to combine heritage sites in one efficient outingActive travelers comfortable with climbing and extended walking

Best time to visit

Visit April–October for stable weather and full accessibility to all three sites. Early morning departure (typically 8–9 AM) maximizes daylight for both cave exploration and photography, with evening return to Tbilisi around 9–10 PM.

Frequently asked questions

From
€122
per person