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1 / 10Vardzia Tour from Tbilisi with Rabati Castle and Borjomi Park
(3)
Tbilisi, GeorgiaCultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursNature ToursCaving
About this activity
A comprehensive 15-hour private day tour through southern Georgia's most iconic cultural and natural landmarks: the dramatic 12th-century Vardzia cave monastery carved into a mountainside, the historically significant Rabati Castle complex symbolising religious coexistence, and the famous Borjomi mineral springs resort. This journey covers 495 km and weaves together medieval history, architectural heritage, and Georgian landscapes in a single immersive experience.
Private full day trip to Vardzia includes visiting southern Georgia's unique cave city and monastery Vardzia that is the most picturesque monument of medieval Georgia built in 12th century, cultural and historical complex Rabati that is a symbol of tolerance established in the 9th century and balneological resort Borjomi, well-known with its mineral waters that dates back to the 1850s. Two options are available for the tour. Tour with Lunch option includes tasting the best meals from local traditional cuisine. Private tour to Vardzia is suitable for people who enjoy visiting medieval caves, castles, churches and exploring breathtaking Georgian nature. Total drive 495 km (305 miles).
Highlights
- ✓Vardzia cave city and monastery—12th-century marvel built into vertical cliffs with interconnected chambers
- ✓Rabati Castle—9th-century fortress representing Georgia's multicultural heritage
- ✓Borjomi Mineral Springs—therapeutic resort with naturally sourced waters since the 1850s
- ✓Private transportation with personalised pace and route flexibility
- ✓Optional traditional Georgian lunch featuring regional cuisine
- ✓Scenic drives through southern Georgian countryside
Insider tips
- ★Book the lunch option to taste authentic local dishes and gain deeper insight into Georgian culinary traditions at Borjomi or en route
- ★Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip—Vardzia involves steep stone stairs and uneven cave passages
- ★Arrive early to Vardzia before midday crowds; the cave monastery is most photogenic in morning light and less crowded
- ★Bring water and sunscreen; parts of Vardzia are fully exposed to sun, and the 495 km drive means limited shade during outdoor exploration
Good to know
- •Total duration is 15 hours including driving time; plan for an early morning departure from Tbilisi and late evening return
- •Accessibility: Vardzia involves climbing multiple flights of stairs and navigating narrow cave passages; not suitable for guests with severe mobility restrictions
- •Private car tour means pickup from your Tbilisi accommodation; confirm exact meeting time and location with supplier 24 hours before
- •Weather varies significantly—summer can be hot and dry, winter may affect road conditions; spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures
- •No specific dress code, but modest clothing is respectful when visiting religious sites (Vardzia monastery, Rabati)
Who it's for
History and archaeology enthusiasts interested in medieval Georgian architecture and cave monasteriesCultural explorers seeking to understand Georgia's religious and ethnic tolerance through historic sitesNature lovers combining historical sightseeing with scenic countryside drives and spa/wellness experiencesSmall groups and families wanting a flexible, private alternative to group tours
Best time to visit
April to May and September to October offer ideal conditions: mild temperatures, clear skies for photography, and manageable crowds at Vardzia. Avoid July–August peak heat and winter months (December–February) when roads may be affected by snow.
Frequently asked questions
From
€214
per person
