Borjomi – Vardzia 2-day tour

A Two-Day Journey Through Georgia’s Timeless Beauty and Cultural Gems

If you’re looking to explore Georgia beyond Tbilisi, this Borjomi-Vardzia 2-day tour offers a thoughtful blend of history, nature, and authentic Georgian charm. For $153 per person, you’ll spend roughly two days discovering iconic sites like Jvari Monastery, Uplistsikhe, Rabati Fortress, and the awe-inspiring Vardzia cave complex. What makes this experience especially appealing is the chance to see diverse landscapes—from lush parks and mineral springs to rugged cliffs—and to learn about Georgia’s deep-rooted traditions from guides who genuinely know their stuff.

We particularly appreciate how the tour balances structured sightseeing with moments for spontaneous appreciation, like strolling through Borjomi’s parks or pausing at Paravani Lake to breathe in the high-altitude air. The guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making history come alive in a way that feels lively rather than dry. The value is clear: you cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed, and the price includes a guide and bottled water—simple touches that enhance comfort.

A possible consideration is that entrance fees are not included, so you should budget for those if you wish to explore some sites more thoroughly. Also, the tour involves some walking on uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level. If you’re eager for a comprehensive taste of Georgia’s cultural and natural sights in just two days, this tour offers a compelling mix—perfect for those who want depth without sacrificing convenience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love history, scenic landscapes, and authentic experiences, especially if you’re visiting Georgia for the first time and want a guided overview that hits many highlights. Families, couples, and solo explorers alike will find it rewarding, especially with the chance to see places that are both visually stunning and culturally significant.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit iconic sites like Jvari Monastery and Vardzia, led by knowledgeable guides.
• Diverse Landscapes: From lush parks and mineral springs to steep cliffs and high-altitude lakes.
• Balance of Culture and Nature: Combines historic sites with natural scenery for a well-rounded trip.
• Value for Money: Includes guide service and bottled water, with optional site entrances.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup offered, group discounts, and a tailored private experience.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Expect walking on uneven terrain, suitable for most but not all travelers.

In-Depth Review of the Borjomi-Vardzia 2-Day Tour

Introduction to the Experience

This two-day journey through Georgia offers more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to step into the country’s soul, from its ancient spiritual sites to its rugged landscapes. For $153, you get a carefully curated itinerary that takes you from the heights of Jvari Monastery to the mysterious caves of Uplistsikhe, and further south to the spectacular Vardzia cave monastery carved deep into cliffs.

The tour is run by 11 Regions Georgia, with pickup offered from Tbilisi, making it quite accessible. The group size tends to be small enough to keep things intimate but large enough to foster camaraderie, and guides like Giga, Alex, and Georgi earn high praise for their knowledge and storytelling skills. They keep the atmosphere lively and informative, making the history and significance of each site clear and engaging.

Day 1: From the Heights to Borjomi’s Green Spaces

Jvari Monastery is our first stop, perched high above the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Built in the 6th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers panoramic views that are truly worth the short stop. We loved the way the guide pointed out the landscape’s significance, helping us understand why monks chose this spot centuries ago.

Next, we wandered the historic streets of Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital. Widely regarded as a spiritual heartland, this UNESCO site is full of medieval churches, winding alleys, and centuries-old stonework. The relaxed pace allowed us to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the deep roots of Georgian Christianity.

The highlight of the afternoon was exploring Uplistsikhe, a rock-carved town that dates back to the Iron Age. As we wandered through tunnels, open halls, and ancient temples, we marveled at the ingenuity of early builders. While admission isn’t included, the site’s atmosphere and history make it well worth the small extra fee.

In the late afternoon, we arrived in Borjomi, famous for its mineral springs and lush parks. The town’s central park is perfect for a leisurely walk, and we appreciated the chance to unwind amid shaded trails and mineral-rich springs. The tranquil setting was a perfect end to the first day.

Overnight in Borjomi—a chance to rest up and prepare for more adventures.

Day 2: From Fortresses to Mountain Lakes

The second day kicks off with a visit to Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe, a beautifully restored complex blending Christian churches, mosques, and museums—an authentic reflection of Georgia’s multicultural history. The guide’s detailed explanations helped us understand this diverse past.

Then, the magnificent Vardzia cave monastery awaited. Carved into cliffs in the 12th century, the site offers an otherworldly experience. Walking through tunnels, visiting churches, and viewing terraces with sweeping vistas of the Mtkvari River was a highlight. Although admission isn’t included, the site’s extraordinary architecture and stunning location make it a must-see.

After exploring Vardzia, we headed to Paravani Lake, Georgia’s largest lake, set high in the Javakheti plateau. The peaceful scenery and crisp mountain air make for a perfect photo stop and moment of reflection, especially after a busy morning.

The journey back to Tbilisi passes through Javakheti National Park, where volcanic landscapes, lakes, and open plains showcase Georgia’s natural beauty. The overall pace is comfortable, allowing us to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While entrance fees aren’t included at each site, the overall cost covers guided commentary, transport, and bottled water—a simple but meaningful touch. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge, making history come alive without feeling like a lecture. You’ll get rich context about Georgia’s religious, cultural, and natural highlights, enriching your overall experience.

The tour’s timing—starting at 9:00 am and running through the afternoon—allows flexibility and ample opportunity for photos, questions, and spontaneous discoveries. It’s a well-organized approach that balances structured visits with time to soak in the scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy history and scenic landscapes in equal measure. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided overview without the hassle of planning each detail. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate authentic cultural sites—and are comfortable with some walking—will find this tour engaging and rewarding.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transportation between sites, with pickup offered from Tbilisi, making logistics simple.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially for uneven terrain at sites like Uplistsikhe and Vardzia. Also, bring bottled water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so you might want to budget extra for sites you wish to explore more thoroughly.

How physically demanding is this tour?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as there’s some walking on uneven surfaces, but no extreme hiking.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
The tour runs year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant weather for outdoor sightseeing.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a group tour with a fixed itinerary, customization isn’t standard. However, guides are generally accommodating with questions and brief stops.

How long is each stop?
Most sites are visited for around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on interest and time.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, families with moderate fitness levels will enjoy the experience, especially if children are comfortable walking on uneven terrain.

What about food?
Meals are not included, so plan for lunch and dinner on your own. Local eateries and picnic options are available at various stops.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Some sites involve walking on uneven ground, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Final Thoughts

This Borjomi-Vardzia 2-day tour offers a well-balanced introduction to Georgia’s historic sites and spectacular landscapes. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning each stop and prefer guided insights that bring the history and scenery to life. The guide’s expertise, combined with stunning vistas and cultural richness, makes it a memorable journey.

While you’ll need to budget for entrance fees and meals on your own, the overall value remains high given the number of key sites covered, the comfort of transportation, and the chance to enjoy Georgia’s natural beauty up close. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or simply looking for a comprehensive taste of Georgia’s diverse landscape, this tour delivers.

If you’re seeking a rich, authentic experience that balances organized sightseeing with moments of genuine wonder, this tour is a smart way to make the most of your time in Georgia.