Self-Drive Adventure: Nine Days Exploration Tour in Georgia

1Day: Flight to Tbilisi

Arrival in Tbilisi on this day or in the early morning hours of the next day. Pick up the rental car at the airport. Check-in at your hotel in Tbilisi.

2Day: City sightseeing and half-day excursion to Mtskheta

Sightseeing Recommendations: Explore the Old Town on your own or opt for a guided tour with an English-speaking guide (additional charge of 40 EUR/pp., approximately 3 hours). The most important historical landmarks are located between the Sulphur Baths District and Freedom Square. A recommended circular route, starting from your hotel and covering the mentioned landmarks, includes the Sulphur Baths District, the Metekhi Plateau, the cable car to Narikala Fortress, Betlemi District, Gudiashvili Square, Freedom Square, Baratashvili Street, Anchiskhati Church, Sioni Church, Shardeni Street, and returns to the hotel via the Sulphur Baths.

In the afternoon, you have the option to take a half-day excursion to the former capital, Mtskheta (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), where you can visit Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

Alternatively, or in addition, if you've already explored Tbilisi on the previous day after your arrival, you can choose to visit the rock-hewn Shio-Mgvime Monastery near Mtskheta or drive to the Monument of the Chronicles of Georgia at the Tbilisi Reservoir.

3Day: Off to the rural area of the Lesser Caucasus

Sightseeing Recommendations: We recommend starting your day early, especially if you have more than just a visit to the cave city of Vardzia planned. Your route will take you through the village of Asureti (formerly known as the German settlement of Elisabethtal) and past Lake Paravani. The route runs along the border with Armenia and through villages predominantly inhabited by ethnic Armenians. At the turnoff for Chertvisi Fortress, continue your journey along the picturesque Mtkvari Valley and the volcanic formations of the Lesser Caucasus.

To thoroughly explore the cave town, you should plan for approximately 1.5 hours. Individuals with a fear of heights or claustrophobia should avoid the rear part of the cave city, which includes internal tunnels and partially unsecured stairs.

If you're an enthusiastic hiker, as an alternative or additional option for today, you have the opportunity to embark on a light 1.5 to 2-hour hike to the ruins of Samshvilde Fortress along the way. If you've planned both a hike and a visit to the cave city for today, we recommend starting early in the morning.

In the evening, you're warmly welcome at a guesthouse with a beautiful garden. Dinner is included in this case, as there are no restaurants nearby.

4Day: From Fortresses to Memories: Vardzia to Gori

Sightseeing Recommendations: Today, you will continue your journey to the central Kartli region, from Vardzia to Akhaltsikhe, and finally to Gori. Along the way, you will encounter several medieval fortresses perched on the surrounding hills, each with a history of many battles.

In Achaltsikhe, you can admire the recently restored fortress, which narrates the tales of various conquerors in the region. Your onward journey will take you to the spa town of Borjomi. Here, you have the option to visit the city park with a mineral water spring or take a short hike in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park.

You'll drive approximately one hour on the highway to reach the city of Gori, the birthplace of dictator Stalin. If you wish, you can visit the Stalin Museum, which includes his personal railway carriage and his childhood home.

As an alternative or additional option, consider a trip to Ateni Sioni Church, nestled picturesquely in the Tana Valley, known for its captivating wall paintings.

Your day concludes with check-in at a hotel in Gori.

5Day: Between Caves and Mountain Peaks: Gori to Stepantsminda

Sightseeing Recommendations: Approximately 30 minutes away from Gori lies the impressive cave city of Uplistsikhe, which is well worth a visit. Afterward, continue your journey along the Old Georgian Military Road, leading you through the enchanting landscapes of the Greater Caucasus. Along the way, you have the opportunity to visit the defensive Ananuri Church at Lake Jinvali.

From Gudauri, a popular ski resort, you can take the cable car to the village of Kobi and back, enjoying breathtaking views. Upon your arrival in Stepantsminda and check-in at the hotel, you'll have some free time. Alternatively, you can make the ascent to Gergeti Church on the same day, with the majestic Mount Kazbek as a backdrop.

As an alternative or in addition, you may opt for a leisurely one-hour walk to the small Elias Church, offering picturesque views of Gergeti Church across from it.

Don't forget to try the regional specialty, "Khinkali" dumplings, at one of the local restaurants today.

6Day: Stepantsminda - Gergeti - Telavi

Sightseeing Recommendations: Early in the morning, a visit to the Gergeti Church is highly recommended as the clear skies and fewer clouds provide the best view of Mount Kazbek. This mountain is often most visible in the early morning.

Following your visit, continue your journey into the wine region of Kakheti. The recommended route takes you through Tianeti and Achmeta, away from the urban hustle and bustle, allowing you to reach your destination more quickly. Along the way, there's an opportunity for a short hike to the Kvetera Fortress, providing both exercise and scenic views.

Upon your arrival in the regional capital of Telavi, we suggest taking a stroll in the city center.

Alternatively, if you choose not to visit the Kvetera Fortress, you'll have time to explore the Telavi Museum, located adjacent to the former residence of King Erekle II.

For the next 2 nights, you will stay in a winery hotel near Telavi. 

7Day: A well-deserved day of relaxation amidst the wine region

Sightseeing Recommendations: Today, you have a free day at your disposal, which you can use for relaxation or combine with a half-day excursion to attractions such as the Tsinandali duke's House, the Gremi Fortress, or the Nekresi Monastery.

In the evening, you can look forward to a guided tour at the winery located at your hotel, followed by a wine tasting to savor and explore the regional wines. You are free to arrange your dinner as you please. 

8Day: Journey Back Through Scenic Landscapes

Sightseeing Recommendations: If you have planned an early arrival in Tbilisi, there are wonderful options to make the most of your day. You can visit the picturesque town of Signagi and make a stop at the Church of St. Nino in Bodbe, offering you a fascinating cultural experience.

Alternatively, or in addition, you may choose to take a trip to the David-Gareji Monastery Complex in the semi-desert region known for its stunning landscapes of striped hills and salt lakes, which will captivate your senses.

Upon your arrival in Tbilisi, you can check in at your hotel and conveniently return your car at the hotel. A perfect conclusion to an eventful day. 

9Day: Adieu Georgia

Transfer to the airport and departure flight.