Georgia Unveiled: Wine, Mountains & Ancient Traditions

Arrival at the international airport in Tbilisi marks the beginning of the journey. Upon landing, guests are met and transferred to the hotel, with the service arranged according to the selected package and optional supplement.

After check-in, the remainder of the day is free for rest and initial orientation in the Georgian capital. Depending on arrival time, travelers may already get a first impression of the city’s unique atmosphere, where modern life blends with centuries of history and diverse cultural influences. Overnight stay in Tbilisi.

After breakfast, meeting with the professional guide begins a full walking tour of the capital. The historical center of Tbilisi is compact, allowing visitors to explore its main landmarks conveniently on foot, as most monuments are located within close proximity.

The sightseeing starts with the atmospheric Metekhi Church, a 13th-century structure overlooking the river and offering an excellent introduction to the city’s layered history. From here, the route continues toward the famous sulphur bath district of Abanotubani, instantly recognizable by its brick domes and traditional bathhouses. This area is historically known for its healing waters, and visitors will later have the option to experience a traditional bath and massage.

The program then continues with an ascent to the ancient hilltop fortress of Narikala Fortress, dating back to the 4th century, where panoramic views open over the entire old city. The tour proceeds with visits to the city’s important religious heritage sites, including the Synagogue, the Sioni Cathedral, and the atmospheric Anchiskhati Basilica, regarded as the oldest surviving church in the capital.

The walk concludes along Rustaveli Avenue, the city’s main boulevard, lined with cultural buildings, theaters, and lively urban life. Evening at leisure and overnight stay in Tbilisi.

Today the journey departs toward eastern Georgia and the renowned wine-producing region of Kakheti, often referred to as the cradle of Georgian winemaking traditions. This region is not only famous for its viticulture but also for its rich cultural landscape and historic architecture.

The first stop is the charming fortified town of Sighnaghi, surrounded by defensive walls and watchtowers. Its hilltop location offers sweeping views over the Alazani Valley, creating a particularly picturesque atmosphere.

The experience continues with a visit to a local village family, where guests are warmly welcomed into a traditional household. Here, organically produced farm goods, homemade dishes, and natural wines are served, offering a genuine farm-to-table experience. This visit provides an authentic opportunity to connect with local residents and understand everyday rural life in the region.

In the afternoon, the route leads to the historic site of Gremi Citadel, once a royal residence located at the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains. A photo stop is made at the impressive fortress complex, showcasing its dramatic setting and historical significance.

Later in the day, arrival in Telavi follows, where dinner is arranged in a family-run guesthouse. Overnight stay in Telavi.

The morning begins with a visit to the lively local market in Telavi, a favorite meeting point for residents, especially women who come early to bargain for fresh produce, spices, fruits, and vegetables. This vibrant atmosphere provides a real insight into everyday Georgian life.

Before leaving the Kakheti region, the tour includes a visit to the impressive Alaverdi Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 11th century and one of the most important religious monuments in eastern Georgia.

The journey then continues toward the mountains via Akhmeta and Tianeti, following the famous Georgian Military Highway. En route, travelers visit the picturesque Ananuri fortress complex, known as Ananuri Fortress, situated above the turquoise waters of the Jinvali Reservoir. The combination of medieval towers and dramatic natural surroundings creates a striking visual impression.

As the road climbs deeper into the Greater Caucasus, the landscape becomes increasingly mountainous and spectacular. By late afternoon, arrival in Gudauri is followed by dinner and overnight stay in a mountain hotel, surrounded by fresh alpine air and panoramic views.

After breakfast, the journey continues north along the spectacular Georgian Military Highway toward the high mountain settlement of Stepantsminda, located at the foot of the legendary Mount Kazbek. The route itself is one of the highlights of the trip, offering continuous views of deep valleys, alpine peaks, and dramatic river gorges.

Upon arrival in Stepantsminda, the excursion proceeds with a hike or optional drive up to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. Positioned on a hilltop overlooking the valley, this 14th-century church has become one of Georgia’s most recognized symbols. The panoramic setting, with the snow-covered peak of Mount Kazbek in the background, creates a truly unforgettable atmosphere that reflects the spiritual and natural beauty of the Caucasus.

In the afternoon, the program continues through the impressive Dariali Gorge, a narrow passage carved between towering mountains near the border region. The route then extends into the peaceful Sno Valley, known for its striking rock formations and traditional mountain scenery. The small fortress ruins of Sno further enhance the historical character of this remote landscape, where nature and heritage exist in harmony.

By evening, the group returns to Gudauri for dinner and overnight stay, surrounded by fresh alpine air and panoramic mountain views.

Today the tour descends from the mountains toward central Georgia, beginning with a visit to the ancient capital of Mtskheta, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The program includes visits to two of Georgia’s most sacred monuments. First is the hilltop Jvari Monastery, an early medieval church from the 6th century offering breathtaking views over the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Below in the town itself stands the magnificent Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a spiritual center of Georgian Christianity and a masterpiece of medieval architecture, traditionally believed to contain a relic of Christ’s robe.

The journey then continues westward to one of Georgia’s most unusual archaeological sites, the ancient rock-hewn city of Uplistsikhe, which dates back to the first millennium BC. Carved directly into the rocky landscape, the city once lay along a branch of the Silk Road and contains streets, halls, temples, and even remnants of a theatre, offering a fascinating glimpse into pre-Christian urban life.

In the late afternoon, arrival in the town of Gori follows, famously known as the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Here, guests have the opportunity to view the exterior of his birth house and learn more about the complex historical legacy of the region. Overnight stay in Gori.

After breakfast, the return journey leads back to Tbilisi, where guests enjoy free time upon arrival or may choose an optional extended sightseeing program for an additional supplement.

This alternative program reveals a different and less touristy side of the capital. It focuses on the city’s hidden districts, where Soviet-era architecture blends with historic courtyards and intricately decorated residential buildings. These areas are rarely mentioned in guidebooks, yet they preserve some of the most authentic everyday life scenes of Tbilisi.

During the walk, travelers discover beautifully ornamented staircases, carved wooden doors, and facades decorated with symbolic motifs such as lions, birds, floral patterns, and angels. A highlight of this exploration is the traditional inner courtyards, where residents still gather, play backgammon or domino, and share stories across generations—offering a vivid glimpse into the social fabric of the city.

The program continues along Aghmashenebeli Avenue, a restored historic boulevard featuring elegant European-style architecture and vibrant urban life. Later, a visit is made to the treasure exhibition of the Georgian National Museum, showcasing exceptional examples of ancient goldsmith work from the era associated with the legendary Golden Fleece (closed on Mondays).

The evening remains free for personal activities, relaxation, or optional dining in one of Tbilisi’s traditional restaurants. Overnight stay in the capital.

After breakfast, guests are transferred to the international airport of Tbilisi for their departure flight. The transfer service is arranged according to the selected package and optional supplement.

This marks the end of the Georgia Unveiled Tour, leaving travelers with lasting impressions of Georgia’s remarkable diversity—from ancient cities and sacred monasteries to alpine landscapes and vibrant cultural traditions.