Mtskheta Tour from Tbilisi
Mtskheta Tour from Tbilisi
Mtskheta Tour from Tbilisi
Mtskheta Tour from Tbilisi
Mtskheta Tour from Tbilisi
Mtskheta Tour from Tbilisi
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Mtskheta Tour from Tbilisi with Jvari, Svetitskhoveli, Samtavro and Bagineti

(3)
Tbilisi, Georgia
Cultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursCity ToursWalking Tours

About this activity

Explore Georgia's ancient capital Mtskheta on a comprehensive 9-hour private tour visiting four UNESCO and historically significant sites: the 6th-century Jvari Monastery perched dramatically on a hilltop, the sacred Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the 11th-century Samtavro Monastery complex, and the 3rd-century BC fortress of Armaztsikhe-Bagineti. This journey through 2,000+ years of Georgian history combines some of the country's most important religious and archaeological landmarks in a single day.

Private full day trip to Mtskheta includes visiting old capital of Georgia where human settled from the 2nd millennium BC and discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Jvari Monastery built in 6th century that survived almost unchanged, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral where the robe of Jesus is buried and Samtavro Monastery both completed in 11th century. You will also visit Armaztsikhe-Bagineti, one of the oldest cities of the Antique Era also called Georgian Acropolis from the 3rd century BC and "the cave of Shio", medieval monastic complex located in a narrow limestone canyon with lots of once used hermit sells. Two options are available for the tour. Tour with Lunch option includes tasting the best meals from local traditional cuisine. Private tour to Mtskheta is suitable for people who desire to travel through time to explore all main tourist attractions and hidden gems of the old capital of Georgia, known with its outstanding examples of medieval architecture. Total drive 105 km (65 miles).

Highlights

  • ✓Jvari Monastery — 6th-century hilltop church with stunning views and nearly unchanged original architecture
  • ✓Svetitskhoveli Cathedral — 11th-century sacred site believed to house the robe of Jesus
  • ✓Samtavro Monastery — 11th-century complex with church and royal nunnery
  • ✓Armaztsikhe-Bagineti fortress — 3rd-century BC 'Georgian Acropolis' with ancient ruins
  • ✓Shio cave monastery — Medieval hermit settlement carved into limestone canyon
  • ✓Traditional Georgian lunch option — Local cuisine tasting available

Insider tips

  • ★Visit Jvari early in the day for clearer hilltop views and fewer crowds; the light at sunrise and mid-morning is excellent for photography
  • ★Wear comfortable walking shoes — the tour involves navigating steep paths and uneven terrain at multiple sites, especially at Bagineti and the cave monastery
  • ★If adding lunch, ask your guide about seasonal dishes; spring and autumn offer the best local produce
  • ★The 105 km drive covers meaningful distances between sites — use travel time to learn about Georgian history from your guide

Good to know

  • •Private tour format allows flexible pacing and personalised stops based on your interests
  • •Total journey is 9 hours including driving and all visits; plan for approximately 3–4 hours of active walking/exploration
  • •Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water — many sites are outdoors with limited shade
  • •Lunch option is available; confirm dietary requirements when booking if you add this
  • •Sites involve climbing stairs and uneven surfaces; not ideal for those with serious mobility limitations, though Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is more accessible than others

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiasts exploring Georgian civilisation across multiple erasCulture-focused travellers seeking UNESCO sites and medieval architecturePhotography lovers — dramatic hilltop monasteries and ancient ruins offer striking compositionsSmall groups and families wanting a comprehensive day tour with flexible, private pacing

Best time to visit

Visit in spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) when temperatures are mild (15–22°C) and the light is ideal for photography. Summer can be very hot, while winter roads may be challenging. Morning departures allow you to experience Jvari's hilltop vistas with the clearest light.

Frequently asked questions

From
€240
per person