8-Day Private Tour around Georgia

Experience the Heart of Georgia in 8 Days: A Mix of History, Nature, and Culture

If you’re dreaming of exploring a country where history, mountains, and wine come together seamlessly, this 8-day private tour around Georgia offers a wonderful introduction. Starting in Tbilisi, winding through Kakheti’s vineyards, climbing to Kazbegi‘s mountain churches, and exploring ancient cave towns like Uplistsikhe and Vardzia, this journey packs in a diverse tapestry of sights. Priced at $1,950 per person, it’s a good value considering the comprehensive itinerary, professional guides, and most entrance fees included.

What sets this trip apart are two key things: First, the knowledgeable guides — we’ve heard from travelers that guides like Dimitri and Kate make the experience both informative and fun. Second, the stunning views and authentic experiences, from tasting Georgian wines underground in Kvareli tunnels to walking along the largest defensive wall in Sighnaghi.

A potential consideration? The long days — expect about 10 hours of activity each day, with lots of walking and sightseeing. If you prefer a slower pace, this might be a bit intense, especially given the mountain climbs and extensive touring.

This tour suits travelers who love history, scenic landscapes, and local culture. It’s especially ideal for those who want a well-rounded experience with a private guide, insider visits, and a taste of both city life and rural traditions.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major highlights from Tbilisi to Vardzia, including UNESCO sites and caves.
• Authentic experiences: Wine tastings, visits to ancient monasteries, and local villages.
• Expert guides: Well-reviewed guides like Dimitri and Kate enhance the trip with their knowledge and friendliness.
• Stunning landscapes: Mountain vistas, canyons, and historic towns promise memorable scenery.
• Value for money: Most entrance fees, some meals, and private transportation are included.
• Long days, active pace: Expect a full schedule with minimal downtime.

Exploring Georgia: What You’ll See and Do

Starting in Tbilisi: The City’s Charm and History

Your journey begins in Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital. The city tour is a perfect introduction to Georgian culture, with highlights like the famous Sulphur baths and the old town’s winding streets. Expect to see 19th-century wooden balconies and medieval architecture, painting a picture of a city that’s been a crossroads of civilizations. One reviewer raved about the guide’s storytelling, saying, “Thanks to Dimitri, a fantastic trip was planned which showed us the variety of landscape, history, culture and food/wine to be found in Georgia.”

Discovering Kakheti: The Land of Wine

Moving east to Kakheti, the region known for wine-making, you’ll visit unique wineries such as Qvevri Wine Museum and Winery Khareba, where wine is stored in tunnels cut into the mountains. These underground cellars add a mysterious and historic touch to tasting Georgian wines. You’ll also explore the Batoni Tsikhe fortress, Ikalto monastery, and Alaverdi Cathedral, each echoing Georgia’s centuries-old religious and architectural traditions.

One traveler noted how this part of the trip immerses you in local heritage, with tasting sessions that aren’t just about wine but about understanding a centuries-old tradition. “We explored, tasted, and even did hands-on cooking activities,” they mentioned, highlighting how interactive and engaging these experiences are.

Sighnaghi: The City of Love

Stopping in Sighnaghi, known as the “City of Love”, you’re greeted with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and city walls stretching 4 km long. Walking here feels like stepping back in time, with old houses featuring wooden balconies and narrow alleys. The view from the city walls is outstanding, especially when looking back over the rolling Kakheti hills.

Mount Kazbegi and the Mountainous North

A highlight for many will be the drive to Stepantsminda and the Gergeti Trinity Church, perched dramatically on a hill against a backdrop of the Caucasus mountains. The “stunning” views are frequently mentioned, and the sense of being in the mountains with crisp air and panoramic vistas makes this a memorable stop. Expect a scenic drive and some walking uphill to reach the church.

Cave Towns and Ancient Monuments

Uplistsikhe, carved into the rock in the 1st millennium BC, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient architecture and underground living. Another notable site is Vardzia, a sprawling cave monastery complex from the 12th century, with over 600 caves built into the cliffs. These sites reveal Georgia’s ancient resilience and craftsmanship.

Western Georgia: Kutaisi and Canyons

Heading west to Kutaisi, UNESCO-listed Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery showcase Georgia’s medieval religious architecture. Nearby, the Okatse Canyon with its suspended walkway and Martvili Canyon boat tour provide spectacular natural scenery. Travelers mention the views from the skywalk and boat rides as unforgettable highlights.

Ending in the South: Samtskhe-Javakheti

The last leg takes you to Borjomi and its mineral waters, plus the Rabati Castle — a complex blending medieval fortifications with modern renovations. The journey ends at Vardzia, where the cave monastery will leave you awestruck once again.

Transportation and Comfort

Throughout the tour, you’ll travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring you stay cool and relaxed during these long days. The tour includes pickups and airport transfers, making logistics easier for travelers. Guesthouses and 3-star hotels provide a decent level of comfort, allowing you to rest after busy days full of sightseeing.

Guide Service and Inclusions

Having a professional guide for 8 days means you’ll get context and stories behind every site, making the experience richer. Entrance fees are included — a real plus, as it eliminates surprise costs at major sites. Wine tastings are part of the package, so you’ll get a taste of Georgia’s most famous export without paying extra.

Meals and Additional Costs

Breakfasts are included, along with two dinners, but lunches and drinks are extra. Travelers have noted that the dinners tend to be simple but authentic, highlighting local flavors. If you love sampling regional cuisine, you might want to budget for additional meals.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers have enthusiastically praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning mountain views. One highlighted how their guide, Kate, was “extremely knowledgeable,” making visits to UNESCO sites like Jvari Monastery and Gelati Monastery very meaningful.

Another reviewer appreciated the long days but felt it was worth it, describing the trip as “a wonderful and memorable experience,” complimenting the smooth organization and the variety of landscapes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history lovers, wine enthusiasts, and outdoor explorers. The mix of cultural highlights and breathtaking scenery makes it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Georgia in a manageable timeframe. It’s also excellent for those who prefer a private tour, ensuring a personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day private tour around Georgia offers a well-rounded, immersive experience into this fascinating country. It balances city sights, mountain vistas, ancient sites, and local culture, making it suitable for travelers eager to see Georgia’s variety firsthand. The inclusion of expert guides, most entrance fees, and wine tastings ensure that you’re not just sightseeing but truly engaging with Georgian traditions.

While it’s a full schedule with long days, the variety and quality of sights compensate for the pace. Expect to come away with a deeper understanding of Georgia’s unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, a newfound appreciation for its ancient caves and medieval architecture, and perhaps a few bottles of local wine to take home.

This tour would suit travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with the flexibility of a private group, especially those interested in history, natural beauty, and authentic Georgian culture. If you’re ready for a trip that combines adventure, learning, and spectacular scenery, this tour is a smart choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for long days and some walking uphill or on uneven surfaces, especially in mountain and cave sites.

What is included in the price?
The price covers air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, most entrance fees, wine tastings, breakfasts, and two dinners.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts and a couple of dinners are included; however, lunches and additional drinks are not included, so budget accordingly.

How many people are in the tour group?
This is a private tour for your group only, offering personalized attention and flexibility.

What should I wear?
Dress smart casual, suitable for walking and visiting religious sites, and bring layers for mountain and canyon visits.

Can I customize this tour?
As a private experience, you can likely request slight modifications, but check with the provider beforehand.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sights listed in the itinerary are covered.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, Georgia’s best weather tends to be in spring and fall, avoiding the extremes of winter cold or summer heat.

In short, this tour offers a rich taste of Georgia’s landscapes, history, and hospitality, making it a memorable journey for those eager to explore this captivating country.