Packages
History, Heritage, Culture
Georgia cultural tours are an amazing journey to the world of the Western Caucasus, whose millennial history is presented by unique churches, palaces and fortresses.
These architectural monuments combine eastern and European elements, but having, at the same time, their own unique forms, directly confirming rich Georgian culture. Along with it, customs and traditions of the Georgian people, their national dances and, of course, kitchen are also of significant cultural importance!
This four-day tour is designed to take you on a journey through the rich history and culture of eastern Georgia, including the vibrant capital city of Tbilisi.
5 days 4 nights
Trip Highlights
Day 1: Historic city of Tbilisi
- Start the day at the Museum of Ethnography, which showcases the diverse cultures of Georgia through exhibits of traditional clothing, crafts, and artifacts.
- Continue your tour with a visit to the Narikala Fortress, a medieval fortress overlooking the city. Take the cable car to the fortress and enjoy the breathtaking views of Tbilisi from the top.
- Make a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, with its narrow alleys, colorful houses, and traditional balconies. Stop at the iconic landmarks of the area, such as the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in Tbilisi, and the Sioni Cathedral, a 6th-century cathedral with a rich history.
- For dinner, you could try out some traditional Georgian cuisine at one of Tbilisi's many restaurants. Some popular dishes include khinkali (dumplings), khachapuri (cheese bread), and shashlik (grilled meat skewers). You could also sample some Georgian wine, which has a long and rich history dating back thousands of years.
- From there, head to the National Museum of Georgia, which houses a vast collection of Georgian art and historical artifacts spanning from the Bronze Age to the Soviet period.
- Next, visit the stunning Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Georgia, located on a hill overlooking the city
- Finish the day with a cultural event, such as a performance at the Tbilisi State Opera and Ballet Theatre or at the Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre.
Day 2: Mtskheta to Kazbegi – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Start the day with a visit to Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 6th century. Enjoy the stunning views of the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers from the top of the hill.
- Next, head to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia and another UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, which is said to be the burial place of Christ's robe, and the Jvari Church of Mtskheta, a masterpiece of early Georgian Christian architecture.
- Have lunch at a traditional Georgian restaurant in Mtskheta, where you can sample some of the local cuisine.
- After lunch, drive to Ananuri Castle, a medieval fortress that overlooks the Aragvi River. Take in the stunning views and explore the castle's towers and walls.
- Continue on to the ski resort town of Gudauri, where you can take a cable car ride up to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains.
- Check into your accommodation and have dinner in a local restaurant, trying some of the local cuisine.
Day 3: Kazbegi to Kakheti sightseeingÂ
- Start the day with a visit to the Gergeti Trinity Church in Kazbegi, located at an altitude of 2170 meters and offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Depart for the David Gareja Monastery, which is about a 2.5-hour drive from Kazbegi.
- Stop at a local restaurant to enjoy traditional Georgian cuisine for lunch
- Upon arrival, explore the complex of rock-hewn monasteries and cave churches that date back to the 6th century. The area has a unique blend of Georgian, Armenian, and Byzantine architecture, and the site is famous for its frescoes and stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
- Continue driving towards Kachreti and Check-in to Kachreti Ambassador Villa: a luxury villa located in the heart of Kakheti, surrounded by vineyards and orchards and relax for a bit.
- In the evening, enjoy a dinner at the villa's restaurant with traditional Georgian dishes and wine.
Day 4: Kakheti sightseeing
- Visit the Bodbe Monastery, where Saint Nino, the enlightener of Georgia, is buried. Explore the beautiful monastery and its gardens, while learning about its history and significance to the Georgian people.
- Drive to the charming town of Sighnaghi, also known as the city of love. Walk along the town's narrow cobblestone streets, lined with colorful houses and balconies, and visit the Sighnaghi Museum, which showcases the town's rich history and culture.
- Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery, where you can taste some of the finest Georgian wines and learn about the unique Georgian wine-making traditions.
- After lunch, head to the Tsinandali Estate, the former residence of the noble family of Chavchavadze. This beautifully restored complex includes a museum, a wine cellar, a garden, and a park, and offers a fascinating insight into the life of Georgia's aristocracy in the 19th century. You will have a chance to learn about the history of the estate, taste some of the famous Georgian wines, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
- Drive back to Kachreti Villa, where you can relax and enjoy the rest of the day on your own.
Day 5: Kakheti sightseeing
- Start the day with a visit to the Alaverdi Cathedral, one of the tallest and most impressive medieval churches in Georgia. This 11th-century cathedral is located in the beautiful Alazani Valley and boasts stunning frescoes, carvings, and architectural features.
- After the visit, head to the nearby Ikalto Monastery, which was founded in the 6th century and served as an important center of learning and culture in Georgia. The monastery includes several churches, a wine cellar, and a school, and is known for its beautiful architecture and frescoes.
- Enjoy a delicious Georgian lunch at a local restaurant in Telavi, the administrative center of Kakheti region. Take a leisurely walk through the charming town center, visit the 16th-century King Erekle II Palace, and explore the local market for souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Finally, head back to Kachreti for a relaxing evening and dinner at the hotel before transferring to the Tbilisi airport.