Borjomi Tour from Tbilisi with Bakuriani Resort and Soviet Train Ride

Experience the Charm of Georgia’s Borjomi and Bakuriani on a Full-Day Tour

If you’re craving a taste of Georgia’s diverse landscapes and authentic small-town charm, a day trip from Tbilisi to Borjomi and Bakuriani offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and unique experiences. For about $177.50 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours exploring two of Georgia’s most beloved resorts, with the highlight being a scenic narrow-gauge train ride on the famous Kukushka railway. This tour is private, making it ideal for those seeking a more personalized experience, with pickup included and entry tickets covered for key sites.

What we love about this experience is how effortlessly it combines activities—from relaxing in Borjomi’s mineral water parks to enjoying the fresh mountain air in Bakuriani’s forests. The train journey itself, dating back to 1902, offers a nostalgic peek into the past, with a chance to see stunning forest scenery and historic engineering. Another highlight is the visit to Mtsvane Monastery, a peaceful spot with ancient roots, giving you a sense of Georgia’s spiritual history.

One possible consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of driving (approximately 370 km total), so if you’re sensitive to long travel days or prefer more leisurely pacing, it might feel a bit rushed. That said, the itinerary is well-paced for those eager to see a lot without sacrificing depth.

This tour works best for travelers who enjoy nature, history, and scenic train rides. If you’re looking to experience Georgia’s mountain resorts and explore its historic sites in one day, this trip offers excellent value and authentic sights that go beyond typical tourist fare.

Key Points

• Scenic Railway: The Kukushka narrow-gauge train provides a nostalgic, picturesque journey through Georgia’s forested mountains.
• Historic Sites: The Mtsvane Monastery dates back to the 10th century, offering a glimpse into medieval Georgia.
• Natural Healing: Borjomi’s mineral water park has been a health destination since the 1850s, perfect for tasting the famous mineral waters.
• Diverse Landscapes: From the forests of Bakuriani at 1,700 meters to Borjomi’s lush parks, the scenery is varied and striking.
• Private Experience: The tour’s private nature means a flexible, intimate day with your own group.
• Value for Money: With all entry tickets covered and WiFi on board, the cost provides a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price.

A Detailed Look at the Borjomi and Bakuriani Tour

Starting Point: Borjomi Railway Station

Our adventure begins at Borjomi Railway Station with the historic Kukushka train. This 37.2-kilometer line is a marvel of early 20th-century engineering, originally built in 1897 during the Russian Empire era. The journey, which takes around 2.5 hours, runs through dense forests and over bridges designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel.

Traveling at a leisurely 15 km/h, the train’s open carriages and vintage locomotives evoke a sense of stepping back in time. The electric “crocodile” locomotive, introduced in 1966, adds a charmingly retro feel. During the ride, you’ll see how the terrain changed from the valley of Borjomi to the higher elevations of Bakuriani, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Exploring Bakuriani

Disembarking at Bakuriani, you’ll find yourself in a popular winter and summer resort that sits at 1,700 meters. The town is famous for its coniferous forests, mainly spruce, which blanket the slopes and create a fresh, invigorating environment. If you’re into skiing or cross-country trails, Bakuriani’s Didveli and Kokhta areas promise some of the best alpine experiences Georgia offers.

The scenery is truly stunning, with views that will make you want to linger, even if only for an hour. The town’s built-up areas are modest but charming, and the mountain air is noticeably different from Tbilisi’s bustling city vibe.

Borjomi’s Mineral Water and Central Park

After returning from Bakuriani, the tour takes you to Borjomi’s Central Park, a green oasis with a long-standing reputation as a health resort. Since the 1850s, visitors have flocked here to drink the famous mineral waters, believed to aid digestion and improve overall health.

The park is a delightful mix of lush trees, historic architecture, and bubbling mineral springs. You can taste the mineral water straight from the source, a real treat that has drawn visitors for over a century. The area is also perfect for relaxing, with benches and walking paths amid splendid scenery.

Visiting Mtsvane Monastery

The trip culminates with a visit to Mtsvane Monastery, a quiet spot built in the 10th century. The church’s simple yet sturdy architecture and the ancient ruins nearby give it an authentic, timeless feel. The story behind the monastery—the local legend of the reddish stones connected to monks massacred in the 1550s—adds a layer of mystique.

Though small and modest, the monastery’s history and peaceful surroundings make it a worthwhile stop, offering a break from the more tourist-heavy sites and an authentic taste of Georgia’s spiritual heritage.

Practical Details and Comfort

Throughout the day, you’ll travel in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi and bottled water, making the long drive more comfortable. The small group setting means you’ll have personalized attention and a more relaxed pace, ideal for those who prefer a tailored experience rather than a crowded tour.

The tour includes all entry tickets—train ride, park, and monastery—so there are no hidden costs. Lunch is not included, so you might want to pack snacks or plan for a midday meal in Borjomi or Bakuriani.

Authenticity and Value

Travelers appreciate the authenticity of this tour, with reviews mentioning the “breathtaking views” and the chance to see Georgia’s natural beauty firsthand. The nostalgic train ride, in particular, is a favorite for many, offering a rare glimpse into the country’s engineering and transport history.

The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, with transport, entry fees, and a private guide all wrapped into one. It’s a good value if you’re eager to experience both the natural and historical highlights in a single day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who enjoy scenic train rides, outdoor nature, and historical sites. It suits travelers who don’t mind spending a good part of the day on the road and appreciate authentic, less-commercialized experiences. If you’re eager to see Georgia’s mountain resorts, taste its mineral waters, and walk through ancient monasteries—all in one trip—this tour ticks those boxes.

Those interested in history, nature, or well-being will find plenty to love. It’s especially suitable if you want a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural insight, all in a small-group setting.

The Sum Up

This Borjomi and Bakuriani tour offers a well-rounded day of exploration that highlights Georgia’s natural beauty, historic sites, and quirky transport. The highlight for many is the scenic Kukushka train journey, which brings you through lush forests with a nostalgic touch. The visit to Borjomi’s mineral water park and the serene Mtsvane Monastery provide a peaceful counterpoint, blending history, health, and scenic beauty.

We think this tour is a great choice for adventurous travelers, history buffs, or anyone looking to escape the city for a day and enjoy Georgia’s mountain scenery. Keep in mind the long drive and the packed itinerary, but if you’re up for a full day of discovery, it’s hard to beat the value and variety on offer here.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, travelers should have moderate physical fitness to comfortably enjoy walking around the sites, especially the monastery and park. The train ride itself is relaxed and not physically demanding.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, bottled water, and all entry tickets for the train, Borjomi Central Park, and Mtsvane Monastery.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the day.

How long is the train ride?
The train journey lasts about 2.5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenic views and vintage atmosphere.

Can I expect modern comforts during the tour?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned, and WiFi is available onboard, making the long drive more comfortable.

What is the main highlight of the trip?
Most travelers rave about the scenic Kukushka train ride, which offers a glimpse into Georgia’s historic engineering amid stunning forest scenery.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most age groups, but travelers should be comfortable with some walking and the long day’s travel.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket for higher elevations or cooler weather.

What if the weather is bad?
This tour requires good weather for the best experience. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Embark on this full-day journey for a chance to see Georgia’s mountain magic, historic sites, and timeless train rides—an authentic experience that’s both fun and memorable.