Georgia’s Splendor in 11 days

Transfer from the airport to the hotel.

Your day will start with an trip to amazing Georgian wine region – Kakheti. Your excursion will take you to Nekresi, where you will marvel at the monastery complex overlooking the Alazani Valley. Afterward, you will drive to the Kvareli Tunnel and visit the renowned "Khareba" winery. There, you will enjoy a factory tour, taste local wines, and participate in a master class on baking Georgian bread shoti and the traditional sweet churchkhela. You will spend the night in a hotel in Kakheti.

The upcoming day's adventure will begin with a visit to Telavi, the heart of Kakheti. Telavi is famous for its enchanting landscapes, ancient history and winemaking traditions. After an exciting stroll and a stop to see a 900-year-old tree you'll continue on to Tsinandali, the estate of the renowned Chavchavadze family. This estate boasts an intricate labyrinth with exotic trees and cellars housing an extraordinary collection of Georgian and European wines. Next, you'll explore Sighnaghi, a picturesque town renowned as "the city of love" due to its unique ambiance and coloring. The day will end with a return to Tbilisi.

This day you will visit Mtskheta – one of the most ancient towns in Georgia, known as the religious centre of the country. First you will visit Jvari Monastery, an awe-inspiring representation of Georgian church architecture. Legend has it that St. Nino placed one of her three crosses at this very site. Your exploration will then carry on to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, which holds the distinction of being Georgia's first and primary church. After the tour, you will return to Tbilisi, the vibrant and welcoming capital of Georgia. Here after some rest you will start your acquaintance with Tbilisi. Your tour will encompass the historic Metekhi district, featuring the Assumption Church perched upon a picturesque hill. Your next destination is the iconic Bridge of Peace, an architectural marvel designed by a renowned Italian architect, and one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Continuing your day's adventure, you will ascend to the Narikala Fortress situated on a hill. The ascent to the fortress will be facilitated by a cable car ride, rewarding you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city upon reaching the summit. The descent will be on foot. Your exploration will extend to the sulfuric baths, an acclaimed royal bath complex dating back to the 17th to 19th centuries, nestled atop warm natural sulfur springs. This complex is among the cherished attractions of the Old Town. A leisurely stroll down the charming Shardeni Street, named after the French traveler Jean Chardin, will provide the opportunity to admire its architecture reminiscent of Paris. This street is replete with cozy cafes, boutique shops, and captivating galleries. Your tour will then proceed to the Juma Mosque located on Botanical Street, followed by a visit to Meydan Square, one of the central squares in the Old Town. Concluding the day's excursions, you will have the chance to explore the Sioni Church, home to one of Georgia's greatest relics—the cross of St. Patriarchate.

After breakfast, you will set off on a journey to the Ananuri Fortress – a remarkably preserved castle situated by the Zhinvali Reservoir. This fortress, once a defensive stronghold from the feudal era, stands as a testament to history. Your next destination will be Gudauri, a beloved ski resort renowned for its year-round beauty. Here, you will encounter the Treaty of Georgievsk Balcony and relish the awe-inspiring mountain vistas that unfold before you. Just a brief 5-minute drive away, you will arrive at the Sour Waters of Vedza, a locale that paints picturesque scenes of natural beauty. From there, your route will lead you to the Trinity Church (Gergeti), perched at an elevation of 2170 meters at the base of Mount Kazbek. This 14th-century church, distinctive for its cross-domed design, holds a special place in the historic Georgian province of Khevi. At the pinnacle of the hill, you will be treated to an immensely beautiful panorama. As the day winds down, you will commence your return journey to Tbilisi, the vibrant capital. This journey will mark the end of a day filled with exploration and marvels.

As you envision the sixth day, Gori, the heart of eastern Georgia, awaits. Here you will visit the Museum of Stalin which offers a glimpse into the Soviet Union era. Your journey will continue to Kutaisi, where Bagrati Church and Gelati Monastery, adorned with mosaics and wall paintings, await exploration. Both monasteries are important UNESCO world heritage objects. The tour extends to Motsameta Monastery, a hilltop site where Georgian princes David and Konstantin Mkheidze, who stood steadfast against conversion to Islam, are honored.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Svaneti – mysterious highland region of Georgia full of unique nature, architecture and customs. It is well-known for its ancient towers, perfect mountain views and local cuisine. Once you find Svaneti, you will never forget the time spent there. Visit Mestia – administrative centre of Svaneti and a picturesque town located at an elevation of 1500 metres (4921 feet) in the Caucasus Mountains.

In the morning, your journey will begin with a trip to Ushguli, a distinguished settlement situated at the highest point in Europe that remains inhabited year-round. The etymology of "Ushguli" is often linked to the term "UshishariGuli," translated from Georgian as "fearless heart." This title reflects the village's historical reputation for its courageous and steadfast community, always valiantly upholding its freedom. Nestled near the base of Shkhara, one of the tallest peaks in the Greater Caucasus mountain range, Ushguli rests at an elevation of 2,100 meters (6,900 feet). During this excursion, a stop will be made at the Love Tower, standing gracefully along the shores of the Enguri River in the village of Ifari. This site holds an intriguing legend, cherished by local inhabitants, as a symbol of love. En route to the Ushguli village, you will traverse a challenging road that in certain sections becomes so narrow that two vehicles cannot pass simultaneously. As you reach the village, you will have the opportunity to visit the Church of the Virgin Lamaria, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries. Within its walls, ancient frescoes are lovingly preserved. In addition, your exploration will extend to Zhibiani, a quaint village situated adjacent to Ushguli. Renowned for its photogenic charm and scenic pathways, Zhibiani offers an ideal location for leisurely strolls and captivating photo opportunities. Following your time in these captivating locales, you will be transferred back to Mestia, concluding the day's remarkable journey.

After breakfast you will a trip to the Martvili Canyons, an enchanting natural wonder that beckons a multitude of visitors with its captivating wilderness, largely untouched by human presence. In times past, the Martvili canyons served as a bathing haven for the Dadiani family. Presently, people are drawn to these canyons to revel in their scenic beauty, which encompasses waterfalls and the opportunity to embark on boat excursions along the river characterized by its deep green hue. Continuing your exploration, you will proceed to the Prometheus Cave, among the most opulent caves in Europe. These caves boast a rich array of features, including a diverse network of underground rivers and awe-inspiring landscapes. Your experiences within these breathtaking environments will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark. Upon concluding your visits to these remarkable sights, your journey will lead you back to Kutaisi, where you will spend the night. This day's adventures will certainly provide memories to treasure.

After breakfast, it will be time to bid farewell to Kutaisi and embark on a journey to the Uplistsikhe cave town. This remarkable settlement, hewn into the rock, stands as one of Georgia's earliest towns, tracing its origins back to the transition from the end of the 2nd to the beginning of the 1st millennium BC. As you explore Uplistsikhe, you'll encounter expansive echoing halls, meandering corridor-streets, chambers dedicated to pagan worship, and even remnants of Georgia's oldest theater. Throughout this unique archaeological site, you'll encounter a diverse array of halls, rooms, and structures that have endured the passage of time, originating from different historical epochs. Once you've fully immersed yourself in the wonder of Uplistsikhe, you will then be transferred to Tbilisi, where your day's journey will find its conclusion. This day's exploration will undoubtedly leave you enriched by the historical and architectural marvels you've encountered.

Transfer to the airport, departure.