Georgia Grand Tour

The Most Comprehensive Georgia Adventure in Just Two Weeks

Detailed Description

Overview

Difficulty
Comfort
Imereti   Shida Kartli   Tbilisi   Kakheti   Samtskhe-Javakheti   Adjara   Guria   Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti   Mtskheta-Mtianeti  
Destination
Discovery
Tour type
May — October
Period
13 days
Duration
6-12
Group
6+
Age
GT003
Program code

Embark on an unforgettable 13-day journey to discover a land of unique cultural heritage and breathtaking diversity. This tour is perfect for travelers who don't compromise on their experiences and want to see it all. Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, cultures, cuisines, and vine varieties unlike any other. Marvel at the ancient Georgian alphabet and the captivating beauty of Tbilisi, the country's chaotic yet charming capital city, where old-world charm blends seamlessly with modern-day skyscrapers.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Gelati Monastery and Ushguli, an ancient village perched atop majestic mountains. Explore the country's rich history by visiting ancient cave towns and fortresses. End your journey at the breathtaking Black Sea coast, where you can soak up the sun on its magnetic sand beaches or experience the vibrant energy of Batumi, Georgia's own "Las Vegas".

Savor the unique flavors of Georgian cuisine and taste wines made using ancient methods. Immerse yourself in a culture rich with traditions and history, where every turn holds a new discovery. Come discover the wonder of Georgia in just 13 days and make memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome to this land of endless possibility!

Itinerary

Day 1 — Welcome to Tbilisi

Our team will welcome you at Tbilisi International Airport and escort you to your hotel for a rest. After you have rested, we will embark on a tour to make your visit to Georgia an unforgettable experience. Our Tbilisi tour will start in the old town and showcase its iconic sights such as the pedestrian streets, the main churches (Anchiskhati and Sioni), Meydan Square, and the sulfur baths district. We will then take a cable car ride to the Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia statue for a photo opportunity with a stunning panoramic view of the city. To wrap up the tour, we will visit Sololaki, the district of wealthy merchants and artists that still captivates visitors. If you feel energetic enough, we can attend a free open-air puppet show in front of the Rezo Gabriadze Theatre. Dinner and overnight in Tbilisi.

Route: Tbilisi

Activities: City Walking | 3 hours 30 minutes , Sightseeing | 3 hours

Accommodation: Included Old Meidan Tbilisi by Urban Hotels * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: not included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Half day

Visited Attractions*: Narikala Fortress, Sioni Cathedral, Mother of Georgia, Sololaki District, Gabriadze Theatre, Anchiskhati Basilica, Meidani Square, Sulfur Baths, Metekhi Church.

Day 2 — Exploring Tbilisi

Let's start today's journey by strolling through the European side of Tbilisi, beginning with the David Aghmashenebeli Avenue on the left bank of the river. We will then visit the Dry Bridge Flea Market, where you can find items linked to Georgia's Soviet past. We will continue along Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi's main thoroughfare often referred to as the "Georgian Champs-Élysées", until we reach the old funicular which will take us to the top of Mtatsminda Park, the highest point in the city. After a midday break, we will take a drive to Turtle Lake, a 700-meter high hill surrounded by nature located in the heart of Tbilisi. Depending on your preference, we can also visit the Ethnographic Open Air Museum, which showcases around 70 traditional Georgian houses brought from various parts of the country. Dinner and overnight in Tbilisi.

Route: Tbilisi

Activities: City Walking | 3 hours 30 minutes , Sightseeing | 3 hours

Accommodation: Included Old Meidan Tbilisi by Urban Hotels * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Mtatsminda Park, Turtle Lake, Rustaveli Avenue, Dry Bridge Flea Market, Freedom Square, Rike Cable Car, Tbilisi Funicular, Rike Park.

Day 3 — Wine Road to Kakheti

Today, we will take the Georgian Wine Road to Kakheti region. Along the way, we will stop for a masterclass on how to make delicious and crispy Kakhetian bread. Next, we will visit the charming city of Sighnaghi, known as the "City of Love." After a meal at the city's most famous restaurant, we will go to the quaint and flowering Bodbe Monastery. Our journey will continue with a visit to the famous Tsinandali Estate, which includes a leisurely walk in the park, a tour of one of the oldest cellars in Georgia, an exploration of the beautiful house-museum of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, and a wine tasting. We will conclude the day by visiting the peaceful town of Telavi, the capital of the Kakhetian region. Dinner and overnight in Telavi.

Route: Tbilisi — Private car | 115 km · 2 h 15 min Sighnaghi — Private car | 70 km · 1 h 15 min Telavi

Activities: Masterclass 30 minutes , Sightseeing | 3 hours

Accommodation: Included Green hotel ANG * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Bodbe Monastery, Tsinandali Palace, King Erekle II Palace, Sighnaghi Wall, Monument of Erekle II, Batonis Tsikhe Fortress.

Day 4 — Georgian Military Road

We will conclude our exploration of the Kakheti region by visiting the gloomy Gremi Church Complex. This hilltop fortress, surrounded by walls with embrasures and towers, was once the capital of Kakheti and includes the Church of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel, a royal citadel, a bell tower, and a wine cellar. After our final visit in Kakheti, we will travel north to the Great Caucasus Mountains. Along the way, we will visit the medieval fortress of Ananuri and sample Pasanauri's khinkalis, the region's and possibly the country's most famous specialty. After the meal, we will ascend to the Gudauri Memorial for breathtaking views of Mount Bidara. To end the day, we will visit the picturesque town of Kazbegi, situated beneath the towering Mount Kazbek. Dinner and overnight in Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) with a hotel with panoramic views of the mountains.

Route: Telavi — Private car | 225 km · 4 h 30 min Stepantsminda

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Kazbegi Sunshine * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Ananuri Fortress, Mount Kazbek, Gremi Castle, Zhinvali Reservoir, Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument.

Day 5 — "Heart of Georgia" — Gori

This day will begin by climbing to the Church of Gergeti, which is one of Georgia's iconic gems. You will experience the soul of the highest mountain temple in the country. After this experience, you will discover the fascinating giant stone heads in Sno village before taking a meal break. Then, let's continue to descend from the mountains. On the way, you will enjoy the amazing panorama of the Jinvali Reservoir. At the end of the day, we will reach the central region of Shida Kartli and Gori, the regional capital. There, you will have the opportunity to visit the home town museum of Joseph Stalin! Depending on the time, we can have a short walk through the charming streets of the city center. Dinner and overnight in Gori.

Route: Stepantsminda — Private car | 200 km · 3 h 45 min Gori

Activities: City Walking 45 minutes , Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Guesthouse Hestia * Or similar | Guest House | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Gergeti Trinity Church, Stalin Museum, The Stone Heads Of Sno, Zhinvali Reservoir, Gori Fortress.

Day 6 — Uncovering the Hidden Treasures of Vardzia and Rabati

Today, we embark on a journey to the west and start with a peaceful respite in Borjomi, the most renowned balneological resort in Georgia, surrounded by pine forests. Next, we head south to the mystical cave city of Vardzia carved into the rocks of Mount Erusheli. This 13-level feudal town boasts monastic cells, grand halls, libraries, stables, bakeries, swimming pools, and a functioning cathedral. After a meal, we travel back to the town of Akhaltsikhe and visit the 7-hectare Rabati Fortress, which houses the ethnographic museum of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, the Ahmadiyya mosque with its stunning golden dome and minaret, a madrasah, a church, and a synagogue. Enjoy dinner and spend the night in Akhaltsikhe.

Route: Gori — Private car | 225 km · 4 h 45 min Akhaltsikhe

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Tiflis * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Vardzia, Rabati Castle, Borjomi Central Park, Khertvisi Fortress.

Day 7 — Amazing Katskhi Pillar: A Cliff Monastery Beyond Belief

This day, explore the picturesque resort of Borjomi and its natural beauty. Take a stroll to witness the city's landmarks and visit the Central Park where you can sample the therapeutic mineral water and ride the cable car to the forest. Have a mid-day break in the charming town of Chiatura and dine with locals to get a taste of Georgian life. Then, visit the unique Khatskhi Pillar, a church perched atop a 40-meter monolith. End the day by heading west to Kutaisi. Dinner and overnight stay in Kutaisi.

Route: Akhaltsikhe — Private car | 50 km · 1 h Borjomi — Private car | 190 km · 3 h 45 min Kutaisi

Accommodation: Included Magnolia * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Katskhi Pillar, Kutaisi Opera Theatre, Bagrati Cathedral, White Bridge.

Day 8 — Majestic Beauty of Georgia's Natural Treasures

Today, we will delve into the wonders of the Kutaisi region. We'll start by strolling through the bustling market of the city and taking in the charming sights of Georgia's second largest city. Next, we'll visit the Gelati Monastery, a gem of UNESCO World Heritage, and admire its ancient and beautiful frescoes. After, we'll travel to the Kumistavi Cave, also known as Prometheus Cave, to witness a stunning display of stalactites, stalagmites, petrified waterfalls, and underground rivers and lakes. After a delicious meal, we'll continue our journey by walking across the awe-inspiring suspension bridge at the Okatse Canyon. Dinner and overnight will be in Gordi.

Route: Kutaisi — Private car | 85 km · 2 h 15 min Zeda Gordi

Activities: Sightseeing | 3 hours 30 minutes , City Walking | 1 hours , Canyoning | 1 hours 30 minutes , Food Tasting | 1 hours 30 minutes

Accommodation: Included Guest house in Gordi * Or similar | Guest House | Twin or double room, shared WC & shower on the floor

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Okatse Canyon, Gelati Monastery, Prometheus Cave, Kutaisi Green Bazaar.

Day 9 — Discover Svaneti: Mestia, A UNESCO Heritage

Today, we'll journey to the northern mountains of the Svaneti region. Along the way, you'll visit the intriguing ethno village of Sisatura to learn about Georgian traditions in this area. Next, we'll visit the largest dam in Europe, taking a break for lunch surrounded by glaciers and towering mountains. The drive will continue with breathtaking views of alpine meadows, dense forests, and traditional Svanetian villages complete with their distinctive defensive towers, until we reach the small town of Mestia, where we'll simply bask in the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Dinner and overnight stay in Mestia.

Route: Zeda Gordi — Private car | 225 km · 5 h Mestia

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Mestia Plaza * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Enguri Dam, Mount Ushba, Mount Tetnuldi, Svaneti Ethnography Museum.

Day 10 — Ushguli — The highest inhabited mountain community in Europe

Today, we'll visit the highest inhabited village in Europe - Ushguli, a remote mountain community under UNESCO protection. Discover Svanetian identity through its unique Orthodox Christian beliefs and walk through Svan towers, the Lamaria Temple, St. George's and Savior's Churches. Enjoy a meal in the village before returning to Mestia to visit the museum of icons or the ethnographic museum. End the day by climbing the castle of Queen Tamar (time permitting). Dinner and overnight in Mestia.

Route: Mestia — Private car | 45 km · 1 h 30 min Ushguli — Private car | 45 km · 1 h 30 min Mestia

Activities: Sightseeing | 4 hours

Accommodation: Included Mestia Plaza * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Mount Shkhara, Queen Tamar Castle, Chazhashi Savior Church, Ughviri Pass, Tower of Love, Lamaria Church.

Day 11 — Discover the rich history of Zugdidi, from Byzantium to Bonaparte

Today, we will journey from the high mountain of the Svaneti region to the unspoiled city of Zugdidi. Before reaching our destination, we will make a stop to visit the ancient Tsalenjikha Cathedral, built in the Byzantine style. After a meal in the city, we will start our exploration of Zugdidi with a visit to the stunning Dadiani Palace, an historical landmark that houses many objects once owned by the royal Dadiani family and the Napoleon Bonaparte family. Afterward, we will take a stroll through the Botanical Garden, which was once the private garden of the Dadiani family. Finally, we will embark on a short trip to the Rukhi Fortress, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the Abkhazian region, which is currently occupied by separatist forces and off limits. Dinner and overnight in Zugdidi.

Route: Mestia — Private car | 160 km · 4 h Zugdidi

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Shogi * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Dadiani Palace, Tsalenjikha Cathedral, Rukhi Fortress, Zugdidi Botanical Garden.

Day 12 — Discover the dazzling lights of Batumi, Georgia's own Las Vegas

For today, we embark on a journey to the Georgian seaside. Our first stop is in Ureki, where you can experience the unique benefits of bathing in black magnetic sand. Then, we head to Batumi, the capital of the Adjara region, where you'll savor the renowned boat-shaped khachapuri. After a delicious meal, we'll take a tour of the city, known as the "Pearl of the Black Sea", including a stroll along the promenade with its singing fountains, sculptures, towers and modern skyscrapers, a visit to the charming old part of the city, and the European part with its Art Nouveau architecture. The tour ends at the port, where you'll be amazed by the "Georgian Romeo and Juliet" show, a captivating sculpture of Ali and Nino. The rest of the evening is yours to relax or purchase final souvenirs from your Georgia trip. Dinner and overnight stay in Batumi.

Route: Zugdidi — Private car | 140 km · 3 h Batumi

Activities: Sightseeing | 4 hours , City Walking | 3 hours , Swimming & Sunbathing | 1 hours

Accommodation: Included Old Town Batumi * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Ali and Nino, Batumi Boulevard, Alphabet Tower, Batumi Lighthouse, Europe Square, Astronomical Clock, Piazza Square.

Day 13 — The end of the tour

For your departure, our team will ensure a comfortable and hassle-free transfer from your hotel to the international Batumi airport, ensuring that you arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight schedule.

Route: Batumi

Accommodation: Not Included

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Not included

Our tour program's list of attractions is a guide, not exhaustive. Unlisted sites may be visited, and listed ones might be viewed from a distance. Conditions like operating hours, weather, or local rules may affect access. Thank you for your understanding.

Departures

June 13, 2022 — June 25, 2022 € 3,757 EUR On sale
Aug. 4, 2022 — Aug. 16, 2022 € 6,715 EUR On sale
July 15, 2023 — July 27, 2023 € 3,685 EUR Sold out
July 12, 2025 — July 24, 2025 € 4,000 EUR On sale
Aug. 16, 2025 — Aug. 28, 2025 € 4,000 EUR On sale

What's included?

Accommodation

11 nights — Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

1 night — Twin or double room, shared WC & shower on the floor

Meals

12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner.

Guide

11 days — Full day, 1 day — Half day,

Transport

Private car: ~1775 km. *

Activities

City Walking: ~11 hours 45 minutes, Sightseeing: ~30 hours 30 minutes, Masterclass: ~30 minutes, Canyoning: ~1 hours 30 minutes, Food Tasting: ~1 hours 30 minutes, Swimming & Sunbathing: ~1 hours. *

Additionally included

Entrance fees to all sites according to the programm, English speaking guide, Wine tasting.

Not included

Plane tickets, Personal expenses and tips, Travel insurance.

The provided measures of total kilometers for transport, duration of guide services, and activities in our tour program are approximate and may vary depending on the program flow and terrain conditions. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these numbers, please note that they are intended as estimates. We make every effort to provide the most precise information possible to give you an idea of the overall tour experience.

Note

Guide services can be provided in different languages, depending on the preferences of the group.
Please note that the indicated price is based on a group size of 8 participants. If the group size is smaller, the price can be adjusted accordingly.
If you're interested in extending the tour for more days, please let us know, and we'll be happy to provide options and prices upon request.

Equipment & Checklist

Summer in Georgia is a great time to visit both the lowlands and the mountains. The average temperature in the summer months (June to August) is around 25°C (77°F) in the lowlands and 15°C (59°F) in the mountains, although it can get quite hot during the day.

For this tour, it is recommended to bring lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton t-shirts and shorts for the lowlands. If you plan to spend time in the mountains, it's a good idea to pack some warm layers such as a fleece or sweater for cooler evenings, as well as waterproof gear for unexpected rain.

Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Enjoy your summer tour to Georgia!

Here's a comprehensive checklist for your summer tour to Georgia:

Accommodation

The accommodations in this tour offer a mix of traditional charm and modern conveniences, primarily in good and clean 2-3 star hotels with private facilities, with some nights spent in small, locally-run hotels or home-stays with shared facilities. All accommodations are located in excellent central locations. If a hotel name is marked with "* or similar," it means a similar hotel of equivalent or higher class may be provided based on tour dates, group size, and hotel availability. The itinerary section of the program description will specify the exact type of accommodation for each day.

Meals

Eating is an integral part of travel, and with Georgia.to, you will have the opportunity to savor the delicious cuisine that Georgia has to offer. While breakfast is included, some lunches and dinners may be held at local restaurants, giving you the flexibility to choose where, what, and with whom you want to eat. Although meals are not typically included in the trip price, food is generally inexpensive, with an average cost of 10-15 euros per person for dinner or lunch, including drinks. However, our group often eats together to allow for a diverse taste of dishes and for the enjoyment of each other's company, though this is not a requirement.

Transport

In this tour, all transportation is private and tailored to your group's needs. Depending on the size of the group, transportation options can range from a car, a mini-van, or a minibus. In areas with challenging road conditions, a 4x4 vehicle may be used to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. With private transport, you will have the flexibility to customize your itinerary and move around at your own pace.

Guides

Our group tour leaders are the most experienced and knowledgeable individuals with excellent English language skills. If the common language of the group is different, we can provide guides in other foreign languages by coordinating with our travel assistant team. The guide will be available to the group for the entire duration of the trip, and their exact availability is marked in the Itinerary section of the program for each day. Please refer to the Itinerary section to know how long the guide will be available on each day.

Money

In Georgia, the currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Small exchange offices are omnipresent throughout Georgia and offer competitive exchange rates. Your guide will be able to advise you on the best place to exchange money, as exchange rates may vary depending on the location. You can also check the current exchange rates on www.xe.com

Bank cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and shops, but it is advisable to have some cash as a backup, in case there are issues with local ATM machines or credit cards. However, it is possible that in remote villages, bank cards may not be accepted, so it is best to have some cash on hand. The most widely accepted cards are Visa and MasterCard. We recommend exchanging only small amounts of money at a time, as exchange rates can fluctuate frequently. It is also advisable to inform your bank in advance of your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions.

Tipping

The Georgia.to travel team, including guides, drivers, cooks, etc., are paid a fair wage and do not expect tips. If you choose to leave a gratuity as a way of expressing your satisfaction, please note that damaged or adhesive coins or banknotes cannot be exchanged. Tips can be left at your discretion in envelopes. In restaurants, it is customary to leave 5-10% as a tip.

Health

For your health and safety, it's important to be in good health before traveling to Georgia. Consult with a doctor or travel medicine specialist for recommended vaccines and preventive measures. To prevent insect bites and follow food safety measures, it's best to drink only bottled or treated water and be mindful of what you eat.

Bring enough of your prescription medicine and ensure that it is legal in Georgia if you have a pre-existing medical condition. A basic first-aid kit, including pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and insect repellent, is also recommended in case of minor illnesses or injuries.

While Georgia has modern medical facilities in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, it's still wise to have travel insurance in case of unexpected medical expenses. There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it's important to prioritize your health and safety while traveling.

Visa Requirements for Georgia

Visa requirements for Georgia for foreign citizens vary depending on the country of origin. Citizens of most countries are eligible for a visa-free entry to Georgia for stays of up to one year. However, some countries require a pre-arranged visa, which can be obtained from a Georgian embassy or consulate. It is recommended to check the specific visa requirements for your country of origin before traveling to Georgia. Here is a short list of countries with citizens that do not need a visa to enter Georgia for a stay up to one year:

EU countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, Spain, France, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and more. Switzerland, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Israel, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico etc.

Please find the exhaustive information on the Ministry of Foreign Affaires of Georgia website: https://www.geoconsul.gov.ge/

Dress Code

When visiting Georgia, it is important to be mindful of the local customs and dress codes, especially when entering religious buildings. In such places, it is expected that visitors dress modestly with women covering their heads and legs. Shorts and skirts above the knee are usually not allowed. Outside of religious buildings, there is a more casual and relaxed dress code with no specific restrictions, and visitors are free to wear what they prefer. It is worth noting that Georgia is a modern and European-influenced country, so visitors may encounter a mix of styles from traditional and contemporary.

Laundry

Laundry service is available at the majority of our hotels for a reasonable fee, usually around 10 euros or less per load. If you need this service, please speak to your guide in advance to arrange it.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not a requirement to enter Georgia, but it is highly recommended. A comprehensive travel insurance policy can provide coverage for trip cancellations, medical expenses, lost or stolen belongings, and emergency evacuation. In case of unexpected events, having travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection. It is important to review the coverage and terms of your travel insurance policy before departing to ensure it meets your specific needs and provides adequate protection while traveling in Georgia.

Safety and Security

Georgia is considered one of the safest countries in the world and visitors can generally feel safe while exploring the country. Crime rates, including pickpocketing, are low and tourists can move around freely without major concerns for their safety. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of one's surroundings in busy areas.

Emergency Contact

In case of any emergencies, we are available for support. During office hours (Tbilisi time), you can reach us at +995 591 257 715 for any urgent questions. Additionally, upon booking, you will be provided with a 24/7 personnel travel assistant for the duration of your trip. They will be available to assist you with any needs or concerns.

© 2024 Georgia.to All rights reserved.

Last update: Oct. 6, 2024, 9 a.m.