Jvari Monastery
Jvari Monastery
Old Capital - Mtskheta
Jvari Monastery
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
The Confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi Rivers
1 / 7

Private Tour to Mtskheta

(3)
Tbilisi, Georgia
Private Car ToursPrivate Round Trips
Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

Discover Georgia's ancient spiritual heart on this private 5-hour guided tour from Tbilisi to Mtskheta, the former royal capital. Visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites—the 6th-century Jvari Monastery perched dramatically above the city and the imposing Svetitskhoveli Cathedral—while exploring narrow medieval streets and soaking in views of the Mtkvari and Aragvi river confluence.

Meeting point: Tbilisi ( the tour includes pick up from the hotel )

Endpoint: Tbilisi ( the tour includes drop off at the hotel )

Available dates: Every day

Pick up time: 09:00; 10:00; 11:00; 12:00; 13:00; 14:00; 15:00; 16:00;

End Time: 14:00; 15:00; 16:00; 17:00; 18:00; 19:00; 20:00; 21:00;

Duration: 5 Hours

Our guide picks you up from the hotel and takes you to our company for the check-in procedure, then an unforgettable trip begins.


Explore the ancient capital of Georgia! On this half-day tour, you have a great chance to discover the old wealth of Mtskheta and its historic sights, take a walk in its narrow streets, and enjoy the architecture of the city. In addition, you will visit and learn a compelling story of how Svetitskhoveli Cathedral was built. You will also see the 6th-century church Jvari and be fascinated by the view of Mtskheta and the confluence of two rivers!


You have an excellent opportunity to visit the old capital of Georgia and see the beautiful confluence of the two rivers just in 5 hours! But, of course, you can choose the time of departure that will be suitable for you.

Stop 1: Jvari Monastery
Duration: 45 minutes

The name of this monastery is translated as the "Monastery Of The Cross." For Georgian monastery in Jerusalem with the same name. Jvari Monastery is a sixth-century Georgian Orthodox monastery near Mtskheta. Along with other historic structures of Mtskheta, it is listed as the UNESCO world heritage site. Jvari Monastery stands on the top of the rocky mountain at the confluence of the Mtkvari and the Aragvi rivers, overlooking the town of Mtskheta, which was formerly the capital of the Kingdom of Iberia.

Stop 2: Mtskheta and Svetitskhoveli
Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Mtskheta is one of the oldest cities of Georgia, founded by the ancient Meschian tribes in the 5th century. Due to its historical significance and several cultural monuments, it is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It was the capital of the early Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. However, Mtskheta continued to serve as the coronation and burial place for most kings of Georgia until the end of the kingdom in the 19th century.

The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (literally the Cathedral of the Living Pillar) is currently the second-largest church building in Georgia, after the Holy Trinity cathedral. Known as the burial site of Christ's mantle, Svetitskhoveli is one of the most venerated places of worship in the region. In addition, Svetitskhoveli was the site of the coronation of the Georgian kings and served as their burial place.

After the tour, we drop you off at the hotel.


Highlights:

  • Jvari Monastery
  • The confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Rivers
  • Mtskheta - The Old capital of Georgia
  • Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

Highlights

  • ✓Jvari Monastery: 6th-century church commanding panoramic views of Mtskheta and two converging rivers
  • ✓Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: Learn the legendary story behind Georgia's most sacred Orthodox shrine
  • ✓Medieval old town: Walk atmospheric cobbled streets of the former royal capital
  • ✓River confluence viewpoint: Photograph the dramatic meeting of Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers
  • ✓UNESCO World Heritage sites: Both major monuments recognised for their historical significance
  • ✓Hotel pickup and drop-off included: Door-to-door convenience from your Tbilisi accommodation

Insider tips

  • ★Arrive at Jvari early (9–10am departures) to beat crowds and capture the best light for photography
  • ★Wear comfortable walking shoes; the monastery involves steep uphill paths and uneven cobblestones in the old town
  • ★The riverside viewpoint between Jvari and Svetitskhoveli is ideal for lunch—bring snacks or ask your guide for local recommendations

Good to know

  • •Hotel pickup included; confirm your accommodation details at booking
  • •5-hour duration includes travel time from Tbilisi (approximately 30–40 minutes each way)
  • •Flexible departure times available hourly from 09:00 to 16:00; choose based on your hotel schedule
  • •Modest dress recommended when visiting religious sites (covered shoulders and knees appreciated)
  • •Private tour format: personalised pace and stops tailored to your interests

Who it's for

History and religion enthusiasts exploring Georgia's spiritual heritagePhotography and architecture lovers drawn to UNESCO sites and scenic landscapesCouples and small groups seeking personalised cultural explorationVisitors with limited time wanting to experience Mtskheta without joining large group tours

Best time to visit

Morning departures (09:00–10:00) offer the clearest light for photography and cooler temperatures. Visit spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather; summer can be very hot, and winter may bring rain or snow affecting mountain views.

Frequently asked questions

More things to do in Tbilisi

All things to do in Tbilisi →Every tour in Georgia →

Available
From€190
per person