Tbilisi - the vibrant and capital of Georgia where historic charm meets modern energy

Narikala Fortress - At 10.00 am starts a guided tour with our English-speaking guide in the Old Town of Tbilisi with many attractions to Narikala Fortress with it’s marvelous views over the whole city. You’ll see the famous Sioni church, the unique Jewish synagogue, the Mosque and the vibrant quarter of the Sulphur bathes as well as the landmark monument of the “Mother of Georgia”. Our guide gives you a perfect intro into the history of Tbilisi as well as of many aspects of todays modern life in Georgia with insights into the economic and political developments.

Freedom Square - The city tour continues along the Old Town to Freedom Square, the center of Tbilisi. Here you will have a lunch with our guide.

After the lunch you will visit our office where we give you all the details and materials for your Self-drive tour that starts on day 2. You have the chance to ask us all questions regarding your trip and the itinerary.

Eastwards to David Gareja monastery and to Sighnaghi, the “City of Love”

David Gareja Monastery - At 9.00 am we provide you the rental car to your hotel.

You drive to the steppe region of Eastern Georgia and reach the hidden and famous Hermit Monastery David Gareja, also known as the David Gareja Monastery Complex.

It is a historic religious and cultural site located in the southeastern part of Georgia, near the border with Azerbaijan. It is situated on the slopes of Mount Gareja and holds significant importance in Georgian Orthodox Christianity.

The site became an important center of religious and cultural activities, attracting scholars, monks, and artists over the centuries. The frescoes and murals found in the monasteries depict religious scenes and offer insights into the artistic and religious traditions of the time.

David Gareja is not only renowned for its religious significance but also for its stunning natural beauty. The surrounding landscape of rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and desert-like terrain creates a unique and captivating atmosphere.

Sighnaghi - From David Gareja you continue via Udabno village and drive eastwards to the famous Kakheti region and reach the town of Sighnaghi.

Sighnaghi, also known as the “City of Love,” is a picturesque town located in the eastern part of Georgia, in the region of Kakheti. Nestled on a hilltop overlooking the stunning Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains, Sighnaghi is known for its charm, romantic ambiance, and well-preserved medieval architecture.

The town is surrounded by 18th-century defensive walls. Walking along these walls provides you with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, vineyards, and distant mountains.

Sighnaghi’s cobblestone streets, traditional houses with wooden balconies, and colorful flowers contribute to its romantic atmosphere. The town’s small size and pedestrian-friendly layout make it easy to explore on foot, allowing visitors to discover its hidden gems, including art galleries, small museums, and cozy cafes.

Active day hike in Lagodeki National Park

Lagodekhi - After breakfast you drive one hour to Lagodekhi, stop in the city for a short walk and visit the National Park Center with a small museum and information about the oldest National Park of Georgia.

Ninoskhevi Waterfall - You drive 10 km to the village Ninigori and continue to the National Park entrance of Ninoskhevi (Nino’s creek).

Here you start a hike to the beautiful Ninoskhevi (Gurgeniani’s) waterfall. The waterfall cascades down from a height of about 40 meters (131 feet) and creates a picturesque setting. Enjoy the refreshing atmosphere and take photos. The distance to and from the waterfall is 8 km.

The path is sometimes rocky and you should take hiking boots and rain protection.

After the hike you drive back to Sighnagi.

In the valley of Kakheti

Tsinandali Palace - Tsinandali Estate, once the residence of the noble Chavchavadze family, is a beautifully preserved complex that encompasses a historic palace, extensive gardens, and a winery. The estate dates back to the 19th century and is known for its role in Georgian literature, art, and winemaking.

The Tsinandali Palace, also known as the Alexander Chavchavadze House-Museum, was the former residence of Alexander Chavchavadze, a prominent poet, diplomat, and public figure of his time. The palace now operates as a museum, showcasing the family’s history and displaying a collection of paintings, furniture, and personal belongings.

The Tsinandali Gardens surrounding the palace are a delight to explore, featuring well-manicured lawns, decorative ponds, centuries-old trees, and vibrant flowers. The gardens offer a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Telavi - Telavi is a historic town located in the heart of Georgia’s Kakheti region. As the administrative center of the region, Telavi holds cultural, historical, and economic significance. It serves as a gateway to the renowned Kakhetian wine region and offers visitors a glimpse into Georgian traditions, architecture, and natural beauty.

The town of Telavi is nestled in the Alazani Valley, surrounded by picturesque landscapes of vineyards, rolling hills, and distant mountain ranges.

Have a walk through the center of Telavi, see the King Erekle II Palace in the Telavi Fortress and the Giant Plane Tree of Telavi: One of the oldest and largest plane trees in Europe, this majestic tree is estimated to be around 900 years old.

Telavi Bazaar - Dive into the local atmosphere by exploring the bustling Telavi Market. Here, you can find a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, traditional sweets, and spices. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, aromas, and flavors of the region. You can find lots of local cheese variety as well as many local pickles and the traditional Georgian sweet “Churchkhela”. Often referred to as “Georgian candy” or “Georgian sausage,” Churchkhela is made by threading nuts (usually walnuts or hazelnuts) onto a string and dipping them multiple times into a thickened grape juice or fruit syrup mixture and then dried.

Alaverdi St. George Cathedral - A short drive from Telavi (21 km about 30 minutes) lies the Alaverdi Monastery, an impressive medieval monastery complex. It dates back to the 11th century and stands as an architectural marvel, featuring a towering cathedral, beautiful frescoes, and serene surroundings.

When visiting the complex women should wear a headscarf and longer skirt and men should take off their hats.

Along the historic Georgian Military Road over the Great Caucasus to Stepantsminda

Jinvali Water Reservoir - After breakfast you head north via Tianeti to the beautiful lake and Water reservoir of Jinvali. It’s perfect for beautiful pictures in a magnificent mountain landscape.

Ananuri Fortified Castle Ensemble - Visit along the road the picturesque medieval fortress of Ananuri.

The fortress dates back to the 17th century and was built by the Dukes of Aragvi, a noble family that controlled the region at the time.

Ananuri served as a strategic stronghold, protecting the valuable trade routes and controlling access to the highland regions of Georgia.

The Ananuri complex consists of two main structures: the Upper Citadel and the Lower Tower. The Upper Citadel, located on a hilltop, includes a fortified wall, defensive towers, and the Church of the Assumption, a beautiful domed church adorned with intricate stone carvings and frescoes. The church is still in use today and offers visitors a glimpse into Georgian Orthodox religious traditions.

You can get lot’s of local craft, souvenirs and food here.

Russian Georgian Friendship Monument - The Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument, also known as the Monument of Treaty of Georgievsk, is located along the Georgian Military Highway near the village of Gudauri in Georgia. It was erected in 1983 to commemorate the bicentennial anniversary of the Treaty of Georgievsk, signed between the Russian Empire and the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti (a predecessor state of modern Georgia) in 1783.

The monument is perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a massive structure made of stone and concrete, featuring a central column with a statue of a Georgian and a Russian soldier standing side by side. The figures symbolize the friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

Stepantsminda - You continue for one hour to the regional center, the town Stepantsminda, also known as Kazbegi.

It’s a small town nestled in the beautiful mountainous region of Georgia. It is located in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, near the border with Russia, and offers breathtaking views of the towering peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains.

Stepantsminda serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking adventure.

In the nature of the Greater Caucasus

Gergeti Trinity Church - Drive (30 minutes) or hike (2 hours) to the Gergeti Trinity Church beautifully located between the highest mountains of the Georgian Kazbegi region.

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the town, Gergeti Trinity Church is an iconic symbol of Stepantsminda.

The 14th-century church, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, is one of the most photographed and visited locations in Georgia. It offers panoramic views of the Kazbegi mountain range and the town below.

From here you can have moderate hikes in different directions on the foothills of Mount Kazbegi.

Gveleti Waterfall - Drive of along the Dariali gorge north to the tiny village of Gveleti . Starting from the village there is a path to two waterfalls in a distance of 20 minutes of each other. It’s a bit rocky and slippery - take your hiking boots and rain protection.

After your hike in the afternoon we organize an exciting cooking class “Khinkali Master Class” for you.

Stephantsminda Museum of History - Explore the local culture and history at the Stepantsminda Museum of History and Ethnography. Learn about the region’s traditions, folk art, and the history of Stepantsminda and its surroundings and about the life of the famous poet Alexander Kazbegi.

The ancient Georgian capital Mtskheta and back to Tbilisi

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral - You drive to the ancient Georgian capital Mtskheta and visit the old town with many local craft shops and the famous Cathedral Svetitskhoveli in the heart of the complex.

It is one of the most significant religious and cultural landmarks in Georgia and holds great historical and spiritual importance.

The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Living Pillar, dates back to the 11th century, although it stands on the site of earlier churches that have existed since the 4th century. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the finest examples of medieval Georgian ecclesiastical architecture.

Jvari Church - Short drive of 20 minutes to Jvari Church.

Jvari Monastery, also known as the Jvari Church or Monastery of the Cross, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located near the town of Mtskheta in Georgia. It is perched on a hilltop at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, offering commanding views of the surrounding landscapes.

Dating back to the 6th century, Jvari Monastery is one of the oldest surviving churches in Georgia and is considered a masterpiece of early medieval Georgian architecture. The name “Jvari” translates to “cross” in Georgian, referencing the legend that St. Nino, the evangelizer of Christianity in Georgia, erected a cross on the hill where the monastery now stands.

The church is constructed in a cruciform plan with a central dome, and its design combines elements of Byzantine, Armenian, and Persian architectural styles. The exterior is adorned with ornate stone carvings, while the interior features beautiful frescoes that depict biblical scenes and saints.

Rustaveli Avenue - In the evening you can take a last stroll through Tbilisi along Rustaveli avenue and say Good bye to Georgia.

Departure day

Tbilisi International Airport - Depending on your departure time we pick you up 2,5 hours before your departure at your hotel and provide the airport transfer.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Embark on an 8-day Self-Drive Tour through the stunning nation of Georgia. Explore the capital city, Tbilisi, venture through the vineyards of Kakheti, and revel at the majesty of the Greater Caucasus at Mount Kazbek. This trip provides a unique way to experience Georgia and its inhabitants.

The tour offers a balanced combination of driving, sightseeing, hiking, and tranquil moments spent in nature.

You’ll embark on your pre-charted Self-Drive Tour in an SUV rental on a meticulously planned route, visiting the Eastern and Northern regions of Georgia and staying in pre-arranged accommodations.

A valid driver’s license and age above 21 is mandatory to rent the car.

We’ll welcome you upon your arrival at Tbilisi airport and escort you to your hotel. Your journey commences the next morning at 10.00 am when our guide meets you at your hotel for a descriptive tour of Tbilisi.

After the city tour, we’ll meet you at our office, brief you about your ensuing journey and answer all your queries.

On day 2 at 9.00 am, you’ll take the wheel of your insured rental car, complete with a full fuel tank.

• You shouldn’t be altitude sick. You are mainly on altitudes of 500-2300 meters.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.