Georgia

The Grand Georgia Journey

Ancient cities, Kakheti wine country, Caucasus peaks and Svaneti, with time on the Black Sea coast.

13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTSCultural · Family · Historical · Nature

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The experience

Overview

Explore Georgia’s ancient cities, the Caucasus and Svaneti, then unwind on the Black Sea coast over thirteen days.

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights
Overnight stays: 4 nights in Tbilisi · 1 night in Tbilisi or Stepantsminda / Kazbegi · 2 nights in Kutaisi · 3 nights in Mestia · 2 nights in Batumi
Arrival: Tbilisi International Airport
Departure: Tbilisi International Airport

Along the way

Schedule

Day 1
Upon arrival at Tbilisi International Airport, you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy some free time to relax after your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may take an optional stroll through the city center and discover the first impressions of Georgia’s lively capital.

Accommodation: Tbilisi
Day 2
After breakfast, begin exploring Tbilisi, a city where centuries of history meet modern urban life.

Discover the charming Old Town, walk along its narrow streets and admire the traditional balconies and historic architecture. Visit the Metekhi area, enjoy views of the Kura River and explore the famous Abanotubani sulfur bath district.

Continue to the Narikala Fortress area for panoramic views over the city, subject to access and operating conditions. You will also have time to discover local streets, traditional shops and picturesque corners of the capital.

Later, travel to Mtskheta, one of Georgia’s oldest and most historically significant cities. Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, an important center of Georgian Christianity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Continue to Jvari Monastery, dramatically situated on a hill overlooking the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside before returning to Tbilisi.

Accommodation: Tbilisi
Day 3
After breakfast, depart for Kakheti, Georgia’s celebrated wine-producing region, known for its fertile valleys, vineyards and traditional winemaking heritage.

Your first stop will be Bodbe Monastery, a peaceful religious complex surrounded by greenery and beautiful countryside. The monastery is associated with Saint Nino, who played a central role in the Christianization of Georgia.

Continue to Sighnaghi, often called the City of Love. This charming hilltop town is famous for its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, defensive walls and panoramic views of the Alazani Valley and the distant Caucasus Mountains.

Enjoy time to walk through the historic center, take photographs and discover the town’s relaxed atmosphere.

Depending on the selected program, you may also visit a local winery to learn about Georgia’s traditional winemaking methods, including the use of clay vessels known as qvevri, and enjoy a wine tasting.

In the afternoon, return to Tbilisi.

Accommodation: Tbilisi
Day 4
After breakfast, depart for the spectacular Caucasus Mountains along the Georgian Military Highway.

Stop at Zhinvali Reservoir, famous for its turquoise water surrounded by forested mountains. Continue to Ananuri Fortress, a historic architectural complex overlooking the reservoir. Explore its churches, defensive towers and picturesque surroundings.

Proceed toward Gudauri, a mountain resort known for its dramatic landscapes and sweeping views. Along the way, stop at suitable scenic viewpoints, depending on weather and road conditions.

Continue toward Stepantsminda, also known as Kazbegi, a beautiful mountain town surrounded by towering peaks.

From here, travel by local four-wheel-drive vehicle to Gergeti Trinity Church, perched high above the valley with magnificent views of Mount Kazbek and the surrounding Caucasus Mountains. Access to the church depends on road and weather conditions.

Enjoy time for photographs and to appreciate the peaceful mountain atmosphere before returning to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Tbilisi or Stepantsminda / Kazbegi
Day 5
After breakfast, depart for Uplistsikhe, one of Georgia’s most remarkable ancient settlements.

Explore this fascinating rock-hewn city, where streets, halls, chambers and religious structures were carved directly into the sandstone cliffs. Uplistsikhe reflects different periods of Georgian history and offers a unique insight into ancient urban life.

Walk through the archaeological complex and discover its distinctive rock-cut architecture, ancient pathways and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

After the visit, continue west toward Kutaisi, one of Georgia’s oldest cities and an important cultural center in the Imereti region.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax after the journey.

Accommodation: Kutaisi
Day 6
After breakfast, discover two of western Georgia’s most impressive natural attractions.

Begin with Martvili Canyon, known for its emerald-colored water, dramatic rock formations, waterfalls and lush vegetation. Enjoy a walk along the designated paths and admire the spectacular scenery. Boat excursions may be available depending on water levels, weather and operating conditions.

Continue to Prometheus Cave, an extraordinary underground world featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, illuminated chambers and natural formations shaped over thousands of years.

Explore the accessible sections of the cave with a guide and experience the remarkable atmosphere of this subterranean landscape.

After the visits, return to Kutaisi for the evening.

Accommodation: Kutaisi
Day 7
After breakfast, depart for Mestia, the heart of the mountainous Svaneti region in northwestern Georgia.

The journey takes you through beautiful western Georgian landscapes, including rivers, forested valleys, mountain villages and increasingly dramatic views of the Greater Caucasus.

Svaneti is renowned for its distinctive medieval defensive towers, traditional stone houses and strong cultural identity. Its remote mountain communities have preserved many ancient customs and architectural traditions.

Upon arrival in Mestia, check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the town.

Depending on your arrival time, take a walk through the historic center, admire the traditional Svan towers and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.

Accommodation: Mestia
Day 8
After breakfast, set out for an excursion to Ushguli, one of the most famous and picturesque settlements in Svaneti.

Surrounded by towering Caucasus peaks, Ushguli is known for its traditional stone houses, medieval defensive towers and remarkable mountain scenery. The village forms part of the Upper Svaneti UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travel through spectacular valleys and remote mountain landscapes, with opportunities to stop for photographs along the way, depending on road and weather conditions.

Upon arrival, explore the village on foot and admire its traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, including the impressive peaks of the Shkhara massif when visibility allows.

Discover the unique character of Svaneti, where centuries-old traditions remain an important part of everyday life.

Return to Mestia in the afternoon.

Note: The road to Ushguli can be rough and weather-dependent. A suitable local vehicle may be required.

Accommodation: Mestia
Day 9
After breakfast, enjoy a day dedicated to the natural beauty of Svaneti.

Depending on weather, accessibility and your preferred activity level, choose one of the following excursions.

Option 1: Chalaadi Glacier

Travel to the starting point of the Chalaadi Glacier trail and enjoy a scenic walk through forested surroundings and a beautiful mountain valley. The trail leads toward the glacier, where you can admire the dramatic landscape formed by ice, rock and surrounding peaks.

The walking distance and duration depend on the chosen route and trail conditions. Appropriate footwear and suitable clothing are recommended.

Option 2: Koruldi Lakes

For spectacular high-altitude panoramas, take a four-wheel-drive excursion toward Koruldi Lakes, a group of small alpine lakes above Mestia. The route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Caucasus Mountains and, in suitable conditions, Mount Ushba.

The mountain road is rugged and generally requires a suitable local vehicle. Weather and road conditions may affect accessibility.

Return to Mestia and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Accommodation: Mestia
Day 10
After breakfast, depart Mestia and travel toward Batumi, Georgia’s vibrant seaside city on the Black Sea coast.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as the route descends from the high mountains of Svaneti toward the greener lowlands of western Georgia.

The journey is long but scenic, offering a striking contrast between the remote mountain environment and the coastal atmosphere of Adjara.

Upon arrival in Batumi, check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax.

Depending on your arrival time, you may take an evening walk along Batumi Boulevard, admire the seaside views and enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere.

Accommodation: Batumi
Day 11
After breakfast, discover the highlights of Batumi, a coastal city known for its combination of historic architecture, modern buildings, seaside promenades and subtropical greenery.

Explore the historic center and walk through Piazza Square, admired for its architecture and lively atmosphere. Continue to Europe Square, one of the city’s recognizable landmarks.

Enjoy a stroll along Batumi Boulevard, where palm-lined paths, gardens, public art and Black Sea views create a distinctive seaside setting. Depending on the selected route, you may also see the famous Ali and Nino moving sculpture and the Alphabetic Tower from the outside.

Later, travel into the beautiful countryside of Adjara to visit Makhuntseti Waterfall, a picturesque natural attraction surrounded by lush vegetation.

Continue to the historic Queen Tamar Bridge, a traditional stone arch bridge associated with medieval Georgian heritage. Enjoy the scenery and take photographs before returning to Batumi.

Accommodation: Batumi
Day 12
After breakfast, visit Batumi Botanical Garden, one of the region’s most beautiful attractions. Located near the Black Sea, the garden is celebrated for its diverse plant collections, landscaped paths, subtropical vegetation and scenic viewpoints.

Enjoy a peaceful walk through the garden and admire the combination of greenery, sea views and natural surroundings.

After the visit, depart for Tbilisi. The journey takes you across western Georgia toward the capital, passing through changing landscapes and towns along the way.

Upon arrival in Tbilisi, check in at your hotel and enjoy your final evening in Georgia.

Accommodation: Tbilisi
Day 13
After breakfast, enjoy your remaining free time, depending on your flight schedule.

At the agreed time, your driver will transfer you to Tbilisi International Airport for your departure.

Take home wonderful memories of Georgia’s ancient history, dramatic mountains, unique cultural traditions, charming towns and beautiful Black Sea coastline.

Before you set out

Tour information

The itinerary may be adjusted according to weather, road conditions, opening hours and local circumstances.

Mountain excursions to Gergeti Trinity Church, Ushguli, Chalaadi Glacier and Koruldi Lakes are subject to seasonal accessibility and weather conditions.

The journey to Mestia and the transfer from Mestia to Batumi involve long driving days. Comfortable clothing and flexibility with travel times are recommended.

Hiking excursions require suitable footwear and a reasonable level of physical fitness.

Hotel categories, room types, entrance fees and the precise list of included services should be confirmed when the package is booked.

The final departure transfer on Day 13 will be arranged according to the confirmed flight schedule.

Experience the very best of Georgia with Arivio Travel — from ancient cities and legendary mountain landscapes to the cultural heart of Svaneti and the beauty of the Black Sea.

Old Tbilisi: rooftops and streets above the Mtkvari River.

Metekhi Church overlooking the Mtkvari River, Tbilisi.

Brick domes of the Abanotubani sulfur baths, Tbilisi.

Narikala Fortress overlooking Old Tbilisi.

Freedom Square and the Saint George monument, Tbilisi.

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the old town of Mtskheta.

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, Georgia.

Jvari Monastery above Mtskheta, Georgia.

A church framed by trees in Kakheti, Georgia.

Church tower and stone walls in Sighnaghi, Georgia.

A view across Sighnaghi and its surrounding hills.

Sighnaghi rooftops and the Alazani Valley, Georgia.

Traditional Georgian bread baking in a clay oven.

Ananuri Fortress beside the Zhinvali Reservoir.

Ananuri Fortress beside the Zhinvali Reservoir, Georgia.

The mosaic viewpoint near Gudauri on the Georgian Military Highway.

Gergeti Trinity Church beneath Mount Kazbek, Georgia.

Mount Kazbek and the surrounding Caucasus peaks, Georgia.

Rock-cut chambers of Uplistsikhe Cave Town, Georgia.

Bagrati Cathedral above Kutaisi, Georgia.

Cascading waterfalls in Martvili Canyon.

Turquoise water between the forested cliffs of Martvili Canyon.

Prometheus Cave: illuminated limestone formations.

Stalactites and stalagmites in Prometheus Cave.

A mountain village and valley in Svaneti, Georgia.

Ali and Nino sculpture on the Batumi waterfront.

Batumi Boulevard and the seaside cityscape.

Destination Highlights

Tbilisi & Mtskheta
Kakheti wine region
Gergeti Trinity Church & Kazbegi
Uplistsikhe & Kutaisi
Martvili Canyon & Prometheus Cave
Mestia & Ushguli
Batumi & the Black Sea coast

Signature Experiences

Taking a local 4×4 to Gergeti Trinity Church
Enjoying a boat ride through Martvili Canyon
Walking along Batumi’s Black Sea waterfront
Exploring Ushguli and Svaneti’s stone towers
Taking the selected mountain route to Chalaadi Glacier or Koruldi Lakes, subject to conditions

Inclusions and Exclusions

What’s included

Airport pickup and drop-off in Tbilisi.
Private transportation throughout the itinerary.
Accommodation for 12 nights in selected hotels.
Daily breakfast, according to the selected hotel package.
Professional guide, as confirmed.
Local 4×4 transportation to Gergeti Trinity Church.
Local 4×4 Jeep Tour to Ushguli and Chalaadi Glacier or Koruldi Lakes
Boat ride at Martvili Canyon
Narikala Cable Car Ride
Assistance from the Arivio Travel team during the tour.

Not included

International flights.
Lunches, dinners, and drinks unless specifically included.
Entrance fees to museums, caves, monasteries, botanical gardens, and other attractions unless included in the quotation.
Wine tasting and winery experiences unless specified.
Travel insurance.
Personal expenses and gratuities.
Early check-in, late check-out, and additional accommodation.
Optional activities not listed under Tour Inclusions.
Any services not expressly listed as included in the tour price.

Make it your own

Optional experiences

Traditional Georgian Wine Tasting in Kakheti
Discover Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions and sample regional wines at a local winery.
Traditional Georgian Dinner
Enjoy authentic Georgian cuisine, regional specialties, local wine, and traditional hospitality.
Georgian Cooking Class
Learn to prepare traditional dishes such as khinkali and khachapuri with local culinary experts.
Sulfur Bath Experience in Tbilisi
Relax in the historic sulfur baths of the Abanotubani district and experience one of Tbilisi’s best-known traditions.
Private Photography Tour
Capture Georgia’s historic architecture, picturesque streets, mountain landscapes, and scenic viewpoints with a local guide.
Paragliding in Gudauri
Experience the thrill of flying above the Caucasus Mountains with a qualified local operator. Available only when weather, safety conditions, and seasonal operations permit.
Boat Trip in Batumi
Enjoy views of Batumi’s skyline and the Black Sea coastline from the water, subject to weather.