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1 Day
Daily Tour
1 person
English, Spanish
Your adventure begins with a visit to the Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe, a symbol of the region’s rich tapestry of cultural influences. Stroll through its stone-paved courtyards, explore its towers, and immerse yourself in the history that permeates its walls, offering insights into Georgia’s multifaceted past.
Journey back in time to the Khertvisi Fortress, one of the oldest fortifications in Georgia. Perched on a high rocky hill, the fortress offers not only a glimpse into the medieval defensive architecture but also panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Its strategic location and imposing structure make it a fascinating stop on your journey through Georgia’s historical landscapes.
The highlight of the tour is the visit to Vardzia, a spectacular cave town in Georgia. This 12th-century architectural wonder was initially established as a fortification. Wander through its intricate network of caves, chapels, and tunnels, marveling at the ingenuity of ancient Georgian civilization.
Journey to Vardzia and Akhaltsikhe is one of the most popular one-day tours in Georgia, providing a one-of-a-kind opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. Join us for a day filled with awe-inspiring sights, from majestic fortresses to ancient cave cities, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Begin your 1-day tour to Vardzia and Akhaltsikhe at 08:00 with a pickup from your Tbilisi hotel. Head to Akhaltsikhe, the primary urban center in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. The name "Akhaltsikhe" is a nod to its storied past, translating to "New Castle" in Georgian. This city is known for its historical embrace of diversity and tolerance, with various religious structures, including Georgian, Armenian, and Catholic churches, alongside a synagogue and a mosque, showcasing its rich tapestry of cultural plurality.
The exploration leads you to the illustrious Rabati Castle, whose foundations were laid in the 9th century. However, it underwent a major restoration in 2012, transforming it into a cultural hotspot. Its restored architecture, labyrinths, sacral buildings, and mosques speak of its grandeur and charm.
Your journey continues to Vardzia, one of the most captivating cave towns of Georgia. En route, photo stop at Khertvisi Fortress, which dates back to the 10th to the 14th century and stands majestically at the confluence of the Paravani and Mtkvari rivers. Vardzia stretches approximately 500 meters along the cliff face, offering breathtaking views. The chronicles of this town go back to the 12th and 13th centuries, when it was ruled by King George III and his descendants, including the legendary King Tamar. Today, only 400 of the original 3000 caverns remain, which include living quarters, labyrinthine tunnels, ecclesiastical structures, and wine cellars. Here are the only existing portraits of King George and King Tamar.
Your 1-day tour to Vardzia and Akhaltsikhe concludes with a drive back to Tbilisi. The end of an expedition that has covered not only landscapes but also centuries of Georgian heritage and history.
Inform us about your interest in the tour via Inquiry form located on the right side of each tour page and our operator will contact your shortly to help you plan your tour.
We are very flexible in accepting payments. Our tour operator will help you choose the payment method that suits you most.
