Easter Immersion

A Unique Easter Journey Through History and Faith

Detailed Description

Overview

Difficulty
Comfort
Shida Kartli   Tbilisi   Kakheti   Mtskheta-Mtianeti  
Destination
Event
Tour type
May
Period
7 days
Duration
2-8
Group
12+
Age
GT018
Program code

Discover an intriguing fusion of faith, tradition, and celebration in our immersive "Easter in Georgia" tour. Within seven transformative days, we invite you to uncover the spiritual and cultural heartbeat of one of the oldest Christian countries in the world.

Witness the sacred humility of the Pedelavium at Tbilisi's Trinity Cathedral. Traverse the spiritual epicenter of Mtskheta, where timeless architectural masterpieces house tales of faith and history. Breathe in the fervor of the Easter liturgy, radiating under the Trinity Cathedral's grand dome.

Step onto the crossroads of the old Silk Road in historic Shida Kartli. Marvel at Uplistsikhe's cave town and Shiomgvime Monastery's tranquility. Immerse in the authentic Georgian hospitality of the wine-rich Kakheti region, sharing traditional Easter delights with a local family in the picturesque town of Sighnaghi.

Experience Telavi's natural charm, the enigmatic Ananuri Fortress, and the lively Tbilisi streets. As your journey concludes, a seamless transfer from Tbilisi to your next destination leaves you to reminisce about a tapestry of vibrant culture, resonating traditions, and memorable encounters.

Welcome to Easter in Georgia — a vibrant journey that continues to captivate your heart, long after you've returned home.

Itinerary

Day 1 — (Wednesday) Arrival and Introduction to Tbilisi

Welcome to Georgia! Upon your arrival at Tbilisi International Airport, a private transfer will be waiting to take you directly to your hotel. Once you've settled in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. You can rest after your journey, or start exploring Tbilisi at your own pace. This is your opportunity to get your first taste of the city's charm, with its vibrant culture and warm hospitality setting the tone for the days to come.

Route: Tbilisi

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: Not included

Day 2 — (Thursday): Holy Thursday and the Rich Tapestry of Tbilisi

On Holy Thursday, the spiritual heartbeat of Georgia becomes palpable. This day is about blending the sacred and the spectacular, starting with a profound foot-washing ceremony, the Pedelavium, at the dazzling Trinity Cathedral. As the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia mirrors Jesus's humility by washing the feet of twelve bishops, you'll witness a ritual that beautifully captures the spirit of Georgian Christianity. Post the moving ceremony, the vibrant city of Tbilisi takes center stage. Imagine ambling through charming lanes where the air is thick with history, peppered with structures that are not just buildings but time capsules - churches, synagogues, mosques, each narrating a story of its own. The heart of Tbilisi, the 19th-century district, is a sensory feast with its colorful wooden balconies and sulfur baths, while the green expanse of Rike Park and the commanding presence of Narikala Fortress add their unique notes to the city's charm. An arresting sight awaits at the Metekhi Church plateau, where the Mtkvari River plays audience. Here, Old Tbilisi unfurls like a panorama, holding you captive with its beauty. Our walk takes us next to Sioni Cathedral, the custodian of the precious St. Nino's Vine Cross, a symbol of Georgia's spiritual journey. We delve deeper into the city's past at Anchiskhati, the oldest temple in the city, constructed in the 4th century, its age-old stones whispering tales of faith and history. After our exploration, we'll switch gears at the Golden Fund of the Georgian National Museum. Expect to be mesmerized by the contemporary Georgian goldsmithing masterpieces, the craftsmanship of which rivals the brilliance of the precious metal itself. Our day reaches its crescendo with a foray into the gastronomical delights of Georgia at a local restaurant. Savour an array of dishes that, much like the day, promise a burst of experiences. Overnight in Tbilisi.

Route: Tbilisi

Activities: City Walking | 3 hours , 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*: Sulfur Baths, Rike Cable Car, Narikala Fortress, Metekhi Church, Rike Park, Sioni Cathedral, Sameba Cathedral, Georgian National Museum, Rustaveli Avenue, Meidani Square, Gabriadze Theatre, Jumah Mosque.

Day 3 — (Friday): Good Friday, from Tbilisi to Mtskheta and Back

Good Friday ushers in a solemn yet soulful day steeped in tradition and devotion. As the day of Jesus Christ's crucifixion, conversion, and burial, it echoes with the spiritual intensity across all functioning temples in Georgia, where symbolic ceremonies resonate with the fervor of faith. On this day, we'll participate in the timeless ritual of colouring Easter eggs, symbolizing rebirth and new beginnings. We'll be welcomed into a local home where hosts and guests alike dip and dye eggs in hues of red, forging bonds that transcend borders. Later, we journey to the ancient city of Mtskheta, once the vibrant capital and the enduring religious epicenter of Georgia. Here, we'll explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites that entwine religious significance with architectural brilliance - the 6th-century Jvari Monastery, perched high and offering panoramic vistas of the city at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Following the scenic indulgence, we'll step into the awe-inspiring Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, an 11th-century marvel standing as Georgia's largest historical building. Its grandeur will serve as the backdrop to an impressive conversion ceremony we'll attend, making our Good Friday experience truly unforgettable. As the day culminates, we return to Tbilisi, leaving you with leisure time to explore and embrace the city at your own pace. Overnight in Tbilisi.

Route: Tbilisi — Private car | 40 km · 1 h Mtskheta — Private car | 30 km · 45 min Tbilisi

Activities: Sightseeing | 3 hours , City Walking | 1 hours , Masterclass 45 minutes

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

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

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Jvari Monastery, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Bebris Tsikhe Fortress, Samtavro Necropolis, Antioquia Church, Samtavro Monastery.

Day 4 — (Saturday): A Timeless Journey from Tbilisi to Gori, Uplistsikhe and Back

Saturday greets us with an enticing day ahead, a voyage along the routes of the old Silk Road leading us into the historic heart of Georgia, Shida Kartli. Our journey's first stop is the city of Gori, home to the intriguing Stalin Museum. Here, we immerse ourselves in the fragments of a complex past, exploring Stalin's memorial house, an exhibition building teeming with artifacts, and his personal carriage, all silently narrating tales from a bygone era. As the afternoon unfolds, we venture into Uplistsikhe, a captivating cave town that once thrived on the Silk Road's crossroads. Carved into the rocky landscape, the town echoes a rich history that reverberates within its ancient walls and pathways. Our expedition continues as we navigate to the serene Shio Mgvime Monastery, nestled within a tranquil gorge along the Mtkvari River. The monastery's ensemble of medieval buildings, standing resiliently through centuries, offer a glimpse into Georgia's spiritual heritage and the monastic life that once flourished here. With the day's experiences etched into our memory, we head back to Tbilisi in the evening. As the city sleeps, we prepare for a unique encounter at midnight — participating in the deeply moving Easter liturgy with local parishioners at the resplendent Sameba Trinity Cathedral, a perfect culmination to our eventful day. Overnight in Tbilisi.

Route: Tbilisi — Private car | 170 km · 3 h Shio-Mgvime Monastery — Private car | 40 km · 1 h Tbilisi

Activities: City Walking | 1 hours , 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*: Shio-Mgvime Monastery, Uplistsikhe, Stalin Museum, Gori Fortress, Georgian Warriors Memorial, Sameba Cathedral.

Day 5 — (Sunday): From Tbilisi to the Charming Sighnaghi and Telavi

The dawn of Sunday finds us embarking on a picturesque journey to the Kakheti region, the beating heart of Georgia's wine country. Kakheti, however, is more than vineyards; it's a treasure trove of historical monuments, set amidst a canvas of diverse natural beauty. Our path takes us to the captivating fortified town of Sighnaghi, a jewel set high with panoramic vistas of the vast Alazani Valley and the majestic Caucasus Mountains. The town's charming cobbled streets and vibrant houses adorned with intricate balconies, wrapped in the scent of history, create an unforgettable impression. In the spirit of Easter, we'll immerse in the joyous celebrations of a local family lunch, upholding Kakheti's tradition of exuberant hospitality. The Easter festivities come alive with the symbolic exchange of red eggs and traditional Easter baked goods, bringing a childlike delight to all. The heartfelt warmth of the hosts, the comfort of homemade dishes, and the flavor of authentic wine blend together, spinning a unique tapestry of emotions around the table. Our journey continues towards Telavi, where a walk through the city unravels intriguing stories. We'll explore the Palace of Erekle II, stand in the shadow of his statue, and marvel at a 900-year-old tree, a silent witness to the city's many tales. As night falls, we retire in the cozy comfort of Telavi, bidding goodnight to this extraordinary day. Overnight in Telavi.

Route: Tbilisi — Private car | 180 km · 3 h Telavi

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 hours , City Walking | 1 hours

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

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

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Monument of Erekle II, Sighnaghi Wall, Telavi Bazaar, Giant Plane Tree, King Erekle II Palace.

Day 6 — (Monday): A Historic Voyage from Telavi to Ananuri and Back to Tbilisi

The promise of a new day in Telavi unfolds with a visit to the venerable Alaverdi Monastery. This grand bastion of faith and serenity stands silently amidst lush landscapes, whispering ancient tales of devotion and spiritual reverence. We'll take time to absorb the tranquil atmosphere, connecting with the deeper, spiritual side of Georgia's rich history. The echoes of the past guide us along the historical military road to the visually arresting Ananuri Fortress complex. Carved in the 17th-century, Ananuri bewitches visitors with its intricate reliefs, effortlessly narrating tales of the past. The fortress, in its imposing grandeur, stands guard over the sparkling Zhinvali Reservoir, a sight that is as enchanting as it is mesmerizing. As the sun sets, we trace our journey back to Tbilisi, carrying the day's unforgettable experiences with us. The evening offers free time to explore, maybe meandering through the city's vibrant streets or simply unwinding at leisure. As the night falls over Tbilisi, we retire to rest, recounting the day's journey, looking forward to tomorrow's new adventures. Overnight in Tbilisi.

Route: Telavi — Private car | 170 km · 3 h Tbilisi

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 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*: Zhinvali Reservoir, Alaverdi Monastery, Ananuri Fortress.

Day 7 — (Tuesday): Farewell Tbilisi, Until We Meet Again

As Tuesday dawns, it brings a day of leisure and final goodbyes to this charming city. Savor the morning at your own pace; perhaps explore the corners of Tbilisi you haven’t discovered yet, or revisit the places that left an indelible mark on your heart. When it's time to depart, our arranged transfer will be ready to escort you to the airport. Ensuring a smooth transition from the heart of Tbilisi to your onward journey, we aim to take the stress out of travel logistics, allowing you to focus on the beautiful memories you've made during your stay. Reflect on the breathtaking sights, the shared laughter, the exquisite flavors, and the unforgettable experiences that have punctuated your journey. As you ascend into the skies, remember: Georgia and its warm-hearted people will always be here, waiting with open arms for your return. Until then, farewell and safe travels.

Route: Tbilisi

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

What's included?

Accommodation

6 nights — Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals

6 breakfasts, 2 lunch, 0 dinners.

Guide

5 days — Full day,

Transport

Private car: ~630 km. *

Activities

Sightseeing: ~13 hours, City Walking: ~6 hours, Masterclass: ~45 minutes. *

Additionally included

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

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

During the summer months (June to August), temperatures in the lower parts of Georgia can range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), so it's important to pack accordingly.

Here's a comprehensive checklist for your summer trip to the lower parts of Georgia:

Accommodation

The accommodations in this tour are in good and clean 2-3 star hotels with private facilities and 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.

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 +995 511 14 77 85 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: April 12, 2024, 6:02 a.m.