Georgia Countdown

Georgian Festivities: New Year's Adventure in Tbilisi & Beyond

Detailed Description

Overview

Difficulty
Comfort
Tbilisi   Kakheti   Mtskheta-Mtianeti  
Destination
Event
Tour type
December — January
Period
6 days
Duration
6-12
Group
4+
Age
GT001
Program code

Set off on a memorable New Year's adventure in Georgia with our enchanting tour, designed to immerse you in the magic and festivity of this beautiful country. This perfect getaway from the everyday buzz provides an opportunity to recharge and reload as you welcome the New Year with unforgettable experiences.

Celebrate New Year's Eve in style at a Tbilisi terrace restaurant, enjoying panoramic views, fireworks, and a traditional Georgian meal. Discover the rich wine heritage of Kakheti and sample exquisite local wines while exploring the picturesque landscapes of the region. Immerse yourself in Georgian culture by participating in a cooking class focused on preparing a traditional New Year meal, enjoying captivating folklore performances, and experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the locals.

Our slow-paced itinerary is designed to give you the freedom to relax, enjoy the moment, and truly understand Georgia's charm. Visit historical monuments and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and relish the festive atmosphere, diverse architecture, and rich history of Tbilisi.

To add to the excitement, we've included a surprise show somewhere along the journey that is sure to delight and inspire. If you're looking to extend your trip, we'll be more than happy to assist you in exploring further, whether it's skiing in Gudauri or Bakuriani or simply unwinding in Tbilisi.

Join us for a memorable New Year's celebration tour and experience the magic of festive Georgia while recharging your mind and spirit for the year ahead.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Welcome to Tbilisi

Our team greets you at the airport and escorts you to your hotel for relaxation. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Tbilisi.

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 — Discover Georgia's Premier Wine Region - Kakheti

Today, we journey to Georgia's wine heartland, Kakheti. En route, we'll visit the medieval Ujarma Fortress, one of the region's oldest. Next, we'll stop at the Gombori Pass to admire the breathtaking mountain views. In Telavi, we'll explore the lively main market, soaking up the festive spirit before New Year's Day, followed by a stroll through the charming streets. After lunch, we'll tour the renowned Tsinandali Estate, with a serene walk in the park, a visit to one of Georgia's oldest cellars, Prince Alexander Chavchavadze's house-museum, and a wine tasting on a peaceful terrace. Later, we'll experience a cozy family cellar wine tasting in the countryside. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Telavi.

Route: Tbilisi — Private car | 95 km · 2 h Telavi

Activities: Wine Tasting | 1 hours 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*: Giant Plane Tree, King Erekle II Palace, Telavi Bazaar, Ujarma Fortress, Tsinandali Palace.

Day 3 — Savor Famous Georgian Desserts and Delights

After breakfast, we'll conclude our Kakheti exploration with a visit to the captivating Gremi Church Complex. This hilltop fortress, once the capital of Kakheti, features the Church of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel, a royal citadel, a bell tower, and a wine cellar. Next, we'll discover the enchanting Bodbe Monastery, overlooking the Alazani Valley. Embrace the festive spirit by joining a Georgian family for a masterclass in traditional dishes like khachapuri, churchkhela, and gozinaki—popular New Year's candies. Share homemade wine, hopes, and wishes while enjoying traditional music and perhaps a dance. Later, stroll through the charming streets of Sighnaghi, the "City of Love," and embrace its romantic winter atmosphere. Hunt for hand-knitted wool socks to keep you cozy during your Georgian winter adventure. Savor dinner and an overnight stay in Sighnaghi.

Route: Telavi — Private car | 100 km · 1 h 45 min Sighnaghi

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 hours , Food Tasting | 2 hours , City Walking | 1 hours , Masterclass | 1 hours

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

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

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Sighnaghi Wall, Gremi Castle, Bodbe Monastery.

Day 4 — Happy New Year in Tbilisi

Our day begins with a bread-making masterclass, where we'll learn to craft crispy Kakhetian bread and sample delicious cheese. Next, we'll explore Davit Gareja, a renowned monastery cave complex and significant religious and cultural center, founded in the 6th century by David, one of the Assyrian fathers. We'll also visit the Georgian-controlled Lavra Monastery and the Ninotsminda Monastery with its Rouen Cathedral. Returning to Tbilisi, we'll indulge in a scrumptious meal at a renowned restaurant before venturing into the city's enchantingly illuminated streets. Our extraordinary day culminates at a restaurant offering a breathtaking view of the city, where we'll dine, enjoy live music, and count down to midnight. At the stroke of 12, step onto the balcony for a dazzling fireworks display lighting up the night sky. Continue the celebration at bars and clubs in the city center, as the mood strikes. Overnight in Tbilisi.

Route: Sighnaghi — Private car | 210 km · 3 h 30 min Tbilisi

Activities: Sightseeing | 3 hours , Nightlife | 3 hours , Event Celebration | 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: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: David Gareja, Ninotsminda Monastery, Sololaki District, Rustaveli Avenue, Freedom Square, Rike Cable Car, Rustaveli Theatre, Narikala Fortress, Rike Park.

Day 5 — Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Enjoy a leisurely morning to rest and recharge before we set off to Mtskheta, the spiritual heart of Georgia. Just a half-hour drive from Tbilisi, you'll experience the essence of Georgian soul at the awe-inspiring Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the country's most significant church, steeped in the history of Georgian Christianity. Next, we'll climb a small mountain to the Jvari Monastery, offering a stunning view of the illuminated town below. We'll then return to Tbilisi and visit the Chronicle of Georgia, where you can marvel at the impressive view of Tbilisi's seas. Overnight in Tbilisi.

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

Activities: City Walking | 1 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*: Samtavro Monastery, Samtavro Necropolis, Chronicle of Georgia, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery.

Day 6 — Farewell and Optional Extensions

As our tour comes to an end, our team will provide a smooth and hassle-free transfer from your hotel to the Tbilisi airport. We'll send you off with a heart full of cherished memories and a renewed spirit for the new year ahead. For those looking to extend their Georgian adventure, we can arrange additional activities such as skiing in the High Caucasus or simply relaxing in Tbilisi. Just let us know, and we'll be happy to assist you.

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

Dec. 28, 2024 — Jan. 2, 2025 GEL 2,500 Guaranteed

What's included?

Accommodation

5 nights — Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals

5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner.

Guide

4 days — Full day,

Transport

Private car: ~485 km. *

Activities

Sightseeing: ~11 hours, Nightlife: ~3 hours, Event Celebration: ~3 hours, Food Tasting: ~2 hours, City Walking: ~2 hours 30 minutes, Masterclass: ~1 hours, Wine Tasting: ~1 hours 30 minutes. *

Additionally included

Entrance fees to all sites according to the programm, Georgian dessert masterclass, Georgian dishes masterclasses, English speaking guide, Traditional Music Folklore Ensemble Performance, Surprise show, Dinner for new year, Wine tastings.

Not included

Transport, Plane tickets, Personal expenses and tips.

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 6 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

Winter in Georgia, especially around New Year's, offers a picturesque view of the snow-capped mountains and a cool breeze in the lowlands. The average temperature during the winter months (December to February) is around 5°C (41°F) in the lowlands and can drop to -5°C (23°F) in the mountains, although the day temperatures might be slightly warmer.

For this tour, lightweight clothing with efficient layering is recommended for activities in the lowlands. Given that it's winter and we're celebrating New Year's, you might want to have a few festive or dressier outfits for special evenings. If you plan to venture into the mountains or be outdoors during the evening, it's essential to pack warm clothing such as thick sweaters, fleece, and insulated jackets. Waterproof and windproof gear is also advisable, considering the possibility of snowfall or rain.

Always keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to your trip and be prepared, as conditions, especially in the mountains, can change rapidly.

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.

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/

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.

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Last update: Oct. 31, 2024, 2:42 p.m.