2-day Vardzia
Programm:
Day 1. Vardzia Cave City. Rabati Fortress
Breakfast at the hotel. Check out.
The program starts at 08:30.
Varzia is one of the most ancient and unique archaeological sites in Georgia, located 60 km from the city of Akhaltsikhe and 10 km from the city of Aspindi.
• Excursion to Varzia: The guide will take you through the territory of this amazing cave city. You will see ancient temples, caves, residential and utility rooms carved directly into the rocks.
• Cave complex: Varzia was founded in the 12th century, and for many centuries served as an important strategic and religious center. Among the most famous sights are the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, carved into the rock, and the bread oven, which is still used by locals. Your guide will take you to Vardzia Monastery, which was built in the 12th century when Georgian King George III used the site as a defensive fort.
• Monastery Walk: Here you will be able to see frescoes and architectural elements that have survived from that time, as well as admire views of the Kura River and the surrounding mountains.
• Rock Chambers: Along the way, you will visit numerous rock chambers, such as ancient temples, wine cellars and even food storage areas carved directly into the rocks.
Next, we will visit Rabat Fortress.
Rabat is a historical and cultural center that was founded in the Middle Ages. The city is famous for its fortress, architectural monuments and the diversity of historical layers, from ancient Greek and Roman times to the Arab and Ottoman periods.
• Rabat Tour: You will visit Rabat Fortress, which is the main attraction of the city. This complex includes fortress walls, ancient towers, a church, a mosque and much more.
• Mosque and Minaret: One of the most impressive parts of the fortress is the mosque with a minaret, built during the Ottoman period. Here you can learn more about Islamic architecture and the history of the city.
• Church of St. George: You will also see the ancient Church of St. George, built during the Christian era, and enjoy its unique frescoes and architecture.
Walk around the outskirts of Rabat and see other sights.
Cultural Heritage: Rabat is an important center for studying various cultural influences, as the city was multinational in different historical periods. You will see elements of Armenian, Ottoman and Georgian cultures intertwined in the architecture of the city.
You will travel to the most central part of the country - the famous resort town of Borjomi! Transfer to Borjomi for the night.
Night in Borjomi.
The program ends at approximately 20:00.
Attention! The start and return times of the tour are approximate and depend on the guide's route, the speed and composition of the group, the traffic situation and possible changes in the operating hours of the objects.
The order of inspection of the objects can be changed by the guide at his own discretion.
Meals: breakfast (included in the price).
• Day 2. Borjomi. Green Monastery. Tbilisi Sightseeing Tour
Breakfast at the hotel. Check out.
The program starts at 09:00.
Today we explore Borjomi.
Borjomi is not only a resort, but also a natural paradise surrounded by mountains and forests. The city is famous for its unique mineral springs, which have attracted tourists and locals for centuries.
• Walk in Borjomi Park: You will start your visit with a walk in the famous Borjomi Park, where mineral water springs feed the health thermal resorts. Here you can try the famous Borjomi water straight from the springs, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views of the mountains.
• Mineral waters: Learn about the healing properties of these waters and the history of their use. In the park, you can visit several drinking pavilions and try water from different springs.
Literally 7 km from Borjomi, the Green Monastery, the monastery of St. George, is hidden in a gorge. "Among the beautiful high mountains, dense green forests and on the bank of a fast noisy river." The Green Monastery is one of the oldest male monasteries in Georgia with its own sad history. There is a spring with holy water on the territory. Take some with you!
A great place for those who want privacy and silence.
Then we return to Tbilisi - a sightseeing tour of the warm city awaits us.
A walk through the Old Town (Tsminda Skhoveli and Sharden Street)
The first point of the route will be the Old Town of Tbilisi - the heart of the city, where buildings from different historical eras have been preserved, from ancient churches to Ottoman baths. We will start with one of the main attractions of the city - the Tsminda Skhoveli Cathedral, the famous architectural pearl of Georgia. • Tsminda Skhoveli Church: Explore the cathedral, considered one of the most important religious shrines in Georgia, and admire its architecture and frescoes.
• Sharden Street: Walk along one of the most atmospheric streets of the Old Town, famous for its cozy cafes, restaurants and shops where you can buy souvenirs and try traditional Georgian sweets.
Narikala and Narikala Fortress
The next stop is Narikala Fortress, located on a hill with stunning views of the city and the Kura River.
Narikala Fortress: Climb to the observation deck to see panoramic views of Tbilisi, old houses, churches and bridges.
Abat Park and Cable Car: You can take a cable car to the fortress and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.
Tbilisi is famous for its sulfur baths, which are located in the Abanotubani area. This place has a special atmosphere, because mineral springs with healing properties boil here. • Sulphur Baths: Visit the bath district where Georgian kings and nobles once relaxed. You can also book a session in one of the old bath complexes if you want to fully experience the Georgian tradition of relaxation.
Bridge of Peace: This is a modern pedestrian bridge that connects the Old Town with the new part of Tbilisi, with a beautiful glass dome and gorgeous views.
Return to the hotel
Overnight in Tbilisi.
The program ends approximately at 20:00.