Classic Georgia

Arrive in Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital and the heart of the Caucasus. You will be met off the plane and whisked by luxury vehicle to a VIP lounge where you can unwind and enjoy refreshments while expedited immigration and security processes take place. After, meet your guide and driver for a private transfer by luxury sedan to your hotel. Enjoy your evening at leisure and rest up for your day tomorrow.

Today will be spent exploring the East-meets-West city of Tbilisi, with stops at iconic sights and landmarks as well as hidden gems. Conquered and reconquered for centuries, Tbilisi’s long history is evident in its buildings. Begin from the 13th-century Metekhi church where you can take in views over the Old Town before wandering the charming cobblestone streets, past colorful homes with iconic wooded balconies, restored and repurposed Soviet-era buildings, hidden cafes and bohemian boutiques, a smattering of churches, and a hodgepodge of old and modern architecture. Take a cable car up a steep hill to Narikala Fortress, an ancient Persian citadel that dominates the Old Town skyline. From here you can gaze down over the city and Mtkvari River. A meandering scenic trail will take you past the Mother Georgia statue to the historic area lined with centuries-old domed brick sulfur bathhouses. Finish the day at the History Museum where you can see the Archaeological Treasury with its famous ‘Golden Fund’, an exhibition of more than 600 ancient Georgian gold and silver items and jewelry found during excavations. Alternatively, visit the popular flea market to experience the funky side of Tbilisi. An eclectic mix of unique items is on offer at this scavenger’s wonderland, from Soviet memorabilia to household items to artwork. 

This morning, head to Mtskheta just half an hour north from central Tbilisi at the confluence of two rivers. Nowadays a small provincial capital, Mtskheta was the ancient capital of Georgia and a significant economic and political center. Due to its historical significance and collection of several cultural monuments, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. As the birthplace of Christianity in Georgia, Mtskheta still serves as its religious center and a must-see for those interested in the country’s religious foundation. The two most important sites are Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral where it is believed the Robe of Christ is buried. Afterwards, continue to Mukhrani village to the estate of Ivane Mukhranbatoni, a Georgian nobleman who was a modernizer of the winemaking industry, leading the frontier of sparkling wine production in Georgia. Enjoy lunch at the restaurant on the estate, as well as taste a selection of the estate’s wines, followed by a special wine painting master class. Finally, make your way to the Great Caucasus Mountains along the famous Georgian Military Highway. En route, stop to admire the Ananuri complex which overlooks the Zhinvali reservoir. After the scenic drive, arrive in Stepantsminda and check in to your hotel for the evening.

The first stop today is the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, arguably Georgia’s most picturesque and popular attraction. Located atop a steep hill against a grand backdrop of the snow-covered Caucasus, the juxtaposition of the modest church makes a striking and unforgettable image. You may choose to hike the two hour pilgrimage route and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way or take the road. Continue to Dariali Gorge which measures almost 3,300 feet deep and admire its dramatic beauty. Return to Stepantsminda for lunch at a local farmhouse where you will learn to prepare traditional Georgian dumplings, Khinkali, with the hostess. A favorite national dish, Khinkali originated in the mountains and consisted of minced lamb, flavored with salt and spices although nowadays a large variety of fillings can be found, depending on the region. After, visit a small gallery where a local artist will introduce the traditional handicraft of felting, which you can try for yourself.  You will also be treated to a selection of different homemade jams and herbal tea, all made with local ingredients. Around mid-afternoon, make your way back to Tbilisi and enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure. If you wish, opt to visit the famous sulfur bathhouses, a local favorite pastime where you can enjoy a hot soak with a relaxing massage or traditional kisi exfoliation scrub.

Today you will take a day-trip to the Kakheti region and experience Georgia’s wine culture. Kakheti is famous for being a winemaking area, and every guest is well-treated to the country’s signature hospitality. First visit the small town of Sighnaghi, known for its quaint 18th-century architecture of small pastel-colored homes with wooden balconies, meandering narrow cobblestone streets, and the surrounding views of vineyards and mountains in the distance from its hilltop perch. At Tsinandali town, visit the Chavchavadze estate, formerly owned by a local prince in the 19th-century. The estate features a beautiful landscaped garden, historical winery, and memorial house. It was here at Tsinandali winery that Georgian wine was first bottled. Finally, get a first-hand look at the ancient tradition of Georgian wine making at a private wine cellar. You will be treated to a tasting of unique Georgian bio-wines produced in Kvevri, large earthenware vessels used for fermentation, storage, and ageing of wines. These large amphorae are either buried below ground or set into the floors of wine cellars. Return to Tbilisi via Gombori Pass, a spectacular road that takes you past small idyllic villages, sceneries of Alazani valley and Caucasus Mountains, sheep flocks, meadows, and forests. 

Enjoy your final morning in Tbilisi, whether with a leisurely breakfast, strolling around the leafy streets, or shopping for last-minute souvenirs at trendy boutiques. When ready, a private transfer will take you to Tbilisi International Airport. You will be taken to a departures lounge where an agent will take care of check-in procedures before being escorted through security and passport control. Finally you may relax in an air-side VIP departures lounge and enjoy snacks, drinks, and business services until your flight.