Georgian Culture and History in 8 days

Transfer from the airport to the hotel.

Following a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, you'll embark on a drive to Kakheti, a region known for its exquisite Georgian wines. Your exploration will lead you to Sighnaghi, often referred to as the "town of love," it is known for its architecture inspired by southern Italian classicism. A visit to the renowned Bodbe Monastery, the resting place of St. Nino who introduced Christianity to Georgia, is on the itinerary. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to partake in a guided tour of the acclaimed Khareba winery. Here, you'll indulge in tastings of local wines and take part in a masterclass, learning to bake the traditional Georgian bread, shoti, and crafting the national confection, churchkhela.

Today, you'll have the chance to leisurely explore Telavi, the hub of the Kakheti region, known for its captivating landscapes. Notably, you'll encounter a 900-year-old tree during your stroll. Your journey continues to Tsinandali village, the historical estate of the prominent Chavchavadze family. This estate boasts a remarkable labyrinth adorned with exotic trees and cellars that safeguard an exceptional collection of Georgian and European wines. A visit to the BatonisTsikhe fortress museum, dedicated to the revered Georgian King Erekle II, is also on the agenda. As the evening descends, you'll return to Tbilisi.

This day begins with a city tour around Tbilisi – the bright and hospitable capital of Georgia. You will visit TsmindaSameba – the main church of Georgian Orthodox Church and the highest temple in Georgia. You will also visit the historical district of Metekhi, where you will see the Assumption Church located on the picturesque hill. Next place that you will visit is Bridge of Peace, which is designed by a well-known Italian architect. It is one of the most famous city’s landmarks. Then you will go up to the Narikala Fortress, situated on a hill. You will reach the fortress by the cable car, at the top opens a spectacular view of the city. Your tour will continue to the sulfuric baths – famous royal bath complex (XVII-XIX cc.), standing on the warm natural sulfur springs. This is one of the main attractions of the Old Town. You will stroll around cozy Shardeni Street named after the French traveler Jean Chardin. The street has an architecture resembling Paris and is full of cozy cafes, boutiques, and interesting galleries. The way will continue to Juma Mosque located on the Botanical Street, where you will aslo visit Botanical Garden and an amazing waterfall. You will also be able to visit Meydan Square one of the central squares of Old Town. Sioni church, where is kept one of the greatest relics of Georgia, the cross of St. Patriarchate. At the end of your tour you will head to Mtatsminda Mount by the funicular railway.

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, your journey will take you to the Ananuri Fortress, an impeccably preserved castle on the shores of the Zhinvali Reservoir – a relic of the feudal era. Gudauri, a popular ski resort known for its year-round beauty, is your next destination. The Balcony, commemorating the Georgievsk Treaty, offers stunning mountain vistas. A brief drive will lead you to the picturesque Sour waters of Vedza. Your day culminates with a visit to the Trinity Church (Gergeti) nestled at the base of Mount Kazbek at an altitude of 2170 m. This 14th-century cross-domed church in the historic Georgian province of Khevi offers breathtaking panoramic views.

After a relaxed breakfast at the hotel you will drive to Mtskheta – one of the most ancient towns in Georgia, known as the religious center of the country. Here you will go up the hill to Jvari Monastery – the amazing symbol of the Georgian church architecture. According to the legend, at the site of the monastery St.Nino established one of her three crosses. You will also visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral – the first and the main church in Georgia. Your tour will continue to Gori town – the heart of eastern Georgia and Joseph Stalin’s homeland. In the evening you will drive to Kutaisi for rest and overnight.

This day you will have a city tour around Kutaisi, which will begin with a visit to the temple of Bagrat – one of the largest and most important Georgian churches and continue to the Prometheus Cave – one of the most unique in Europe. It is characterized by impressive reliefs of stalactites and stalagmites and a variety of underground rivers. You will also visit the monastery of Gelati. This monastery is a living symbol of Georgia’s Golden Age and is protected by UNESCO. Your tour will continue to the monastery of Motsameta located on a hill where, according to the legend, the Muslim invaders executed Georgian princes David and Konstantin Mkheidze who refused to be converted to Islam. In the evening you will return to Tbilisi.

Transfer to the airport, departure.