Most Popular Day Trips from Tbilisi
- Levan Iashvili
- Feb 1
- 7 min read
Updated: Mar 19
While Tbilisi has plenty to offer, a short trip outside the city can reveal even more of Georgia’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique culture. From ancient monasteries and picturesque wine regions to breathtaking mountain views, there are plenty of easy day trips worth considering. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular one-day tours from Tbilisi, helping you choose the best destination for your interests.
Ananuri, Gudauri and Kazbegi day trip
If you're looking for a day trip that blends history, breathtaking views, and iconic landmarks? The Ananuri–Gudauri–Kazbegi route has it all. Start with Ananuri Fortress, a 16th-century stronghold overlooking the stunning Zhinvali Reservoir. Then, head to Gudauri’s Friendship Monument, where panoramic mountain views steal the show. As you cross the Jvari Pass (2,395m), the landscape becomes even more dramatic, leading you to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi). The highlight? Gergeti Trinity Church, perched at 2,170 meters, with Mount Kazbegi (Mkinvartsveri) towering behind it. Whether you’re here for the history, nature, or adventure, this unforgettable journey is one of Georgia’s must-do experiences.
Mtskheta, Jvari & Uplistsikhe day trip
Uncover Georgia’s rich past with a visit to Jvari Monastery, Mtskheta, and Uplistsikhe—a perfect blend of spiritual heritage and ancient wonders. Begin at Jvari Monastery, a 6th-century UNESCO-listed site, where breathtaking views overlook Mtskheta, Georgia’s former capital. Explore Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a sacred landmark where Georgian kings were crowned and buried. Finally, step back in time at Uplistsikhe, a 3,000-year-old rock-hewn city with cave dwellings, tunnels, and temples carved into the cliffs. This history-packed day trip offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s past, just a short drive from Tbilisi.
Bodbe Nunnery, Sighnaghi, and a winery day trip
Discover the beauty of Kakheti with a visit to Bodbe Monastery, Sighnaghi, and a local winery. Start at Bodbe Monastery, the tranquil resting place of Saint Nino, surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the Alazani Valley. Then, explore Sighnaghi, the "City of Love," known for its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and stunning mountain views. Walk along its historic fortress walls and soak in the town’s romantic charm. Finish the day with a wine tasting at a local Winery, where you’ll learn about Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions while enjoying some of the region’s finest wines. A perfect mix of history, scenery, and authentic flavors!
In addition to our standard sightseeing tours, we offer an exclusive, all-inclusive experience in Sighnaghi, focused on the rich flavors of Georgian cuisine and the warmth of local hospitality. Enjoy an intimate, heart-warming family dinner in a local home, where you'll experience the true essence of Georgian culture. Share in the joy of a traditional Supra, a lively feast filled with toasts, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Telavi, Alaverdi
A day trip to Telavi and Alaverdi offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Begin your adventure in Telavi, the heart of Georgia's wine region, where you can explore the charming streets, visit the historic King Erekle II's residence "Batonis Tsikhe" fortress, and enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries. Afterward, make your way to the Alaverdi Cathedral, one of Georgia’s oldest churches, dating back to the 6th century. Surrounded by the stunning Caucasus Mountains, the cathedral provides a serene spot to reflect on the region's rich history. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or wine enthusiast, this day trip will leave you with unforgettable memories.
In addition to our standard sightseeing tours, we offer a unique, all-inclusive Wine Tasting and Culinary Tour to Kakheti. This immersive experience allows you to explore the region’s renowned wineries, meet with the winemakers in person, enjoy expert-led wine tastings, and savor traditional Georgian dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. With all transportation, meals, and wine included, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and exceptional wine, providing a truly unforgettable experience, where every detail is taken care of so you can sit back, relax, and indulge in the best Kakheti has to offer.
Borjomi & Bakuriani Day Trip
A day trip to Borjomi and Bakuriani is a refreshing escape into South-central Georgia's natural beauty. Start your day in Borjomi, famous for its mineral waters and lush forests. Take a stroll through the Borjomi Central Park, where you can sample the famous spring water and enjoy the peaceful walk in the park. Then, head to Bakuriani, a charming mountain resort town just a short drive away. Known for its winter sports and summer hiking trails, it offers stunning views of the Caucasus and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. If you're looking for an outdoor activity, such as horse-riding, ATV ride, Buggy ride, Mountain coaster ride, then this is the right trip for you.
Prometheus caves & Martvili Canyon
A day trip to the Prometheus Caves and Martvili Canyon is an unforgettable adventure through Georgia's natural wonders. While it takes up to 3.5-4 hours to drive to the Prometheus Caves from Tbilisi, the journey is well worth it as you explore this mesmerizing underground world filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. After the cave tour, continue your adventure with a one-hour drive to Martvili Canyon, where turquoise waters carve through lush landscapes, creating dramatic cliffs and serene pools. You can even take a boat ride through the canyon to fully immerse yourself in its beauty. Both sites offer unique glimpses of Georgia’s wild, untamed landscapes, making this trip perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. However, if you’d prefer not to spend most of your day driving back and forth, we recommend either staying overnight in Kutaisi and combining this trip with another activity or choosing a destination closer to Tbilisi.
Borjomi, Rabati Castle & Vardzia
A day trip to Borjomi, Rabati Castle, and Vardzia is a fascinating journey through Georgia’s natural and historical treasures. Begin in Borjomi, where you can relax in the lush Central Park and taste its famous mineral waters. Next, drive to Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe, a stunning architectural complex blending medieval Georgian and Ottoman influences. Finally, explore the ancient cave city of Vardzia, a remarkable medieval city and a monastery carved into a cliffside with breathtaking views. While the drive from Tbilisi takes up to 4 hours one way, the combination of nature, history, and culture makes it a rewarding adventure. To avoid a long day of travel, consider staying overnight in Borjomi or Akhaltsikhe, combining them with other landmarks, to fully enjoy each destination.
If you find this lengthy journey overwhelming, we can offer custom tours that prioritize your comfort and interests, where in addition to popular sites, we offer exclusive access to lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations, as well as local families for home-cooked dinners and culinary masterclasses.
Tsalka Canyon Day trip
A day trip to Tsalka Canyon and the Diamond Glass Bridge is an adventure filled with breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping moments. Nestled in Georgia’s Dashbashi Canyon, this hidden gem boasts lush green landscapes, dramatic volcanic rock formations, and cascading waterfalls. The highlight of the journey is the Glass Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel that hovers 240 meters above the canyon floor, offering a thrilling, panoramic view of the gorge below. For those seeking even more excitement, the canyon also offers ATV rides, a bike suspended on a cable across the canyon, and a swing perched at the very edge, giving visitors an unmatched rush with spectacular views.
For travelers seeking a deeper cultural experience beyond the Diamond Glass Bridge, an alternative journey awaits across Georgia’s volcanic plateau. This route takes you through the lesser-explored Doukhobor villages of Gorelovka, Ephremovka, Bogdanovka and others, where abandoned settlements tell the story of a once-thriving spiritual community. Along the way, you’ll discover the serene beauty of lakes Paravani, Saghamo, and Madatapa, each offering breathtaking landscapes far from the crowds. A highlight of the trip is a traditional Armenian family lunch, where you’ll be welcomed with warm hospitality and home-cooked dishes that reflect the region’s rich heritage. This tour is perfect for those looking to connect with local culture, explore forgotten history, and immerse themselves in the untouched beauty of Georgia’s southern highlands.
David Gareja Monastery & Ninotsminda Nunnery
Step into Georgia’s rich spiritual past with a journey to David Gareja Monastery, an inspiring cave complex carved into the cliffs of the semi-desert. Founded in the 6th century, its solitude and panoramic views create a truly mystical experience. Surrounded by a surreal landscape - with red, yellow, and ochre striped mounds makes the journey feel almost otherworldly. You can also stop at a nearby Village Udabno, meaning "Desert" in Georgian, for a quick lunch. From the rugged silence of Gareja, the journey continues to the serene Ninotsminda Nunnery, a 6th century sanctuary offers a glimpse into Georgia’s enduring religious traditions.
For a more adventurous journey, take the off-road route to David Gareja, winding through rugged terrain and the vibrant, multicolored hills of Georgia’s semi-desert. This thrilling path makes the journey as unforgettable as the destination.
On the way back, stop at Manavi Fortress, where a breathtaking view of Kakheti unfolds before you—rolling vineyards and endless horizons of Georgia’s famous wine region.
If you’re seeking history, adventure, and stunning landscapes, this route is the perfect way to experience David Gareja. Ready to explore?
Armenia Day trip
Believe it or not, an Armenia day trip is among the most popular tours requested by customers! Just a short drive from Tbilisi, this journey takes you across the border to explore some of Armenia’s most breathtaking sites, blending history, culture, and stunning landscapes into a single day. Visit Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture, followed by Sanahin Monastery, another stunning complex rich in history and intricate stone carvings. Both monasteries, set against dramatic mountain backdrops, offer a glimpse into Armenia’s deep spiritual and artistic heritage. Next, head to Lake Sevan, the "Pearl of Armenia," where the blue waters stretch endlessly under the open sky. Here, you visit Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a peninsula with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake. Finally, explore Dilijan, a charming mountain town often called "Armenia’s Switzerland," known for its lush forests, traditional architecture, and fresh mountain air. This tour is perfect for travelers eager to experience Armenia’s beauty and history all just one day trip away from Georgia.
If you're eager to explore more of Armenia, we offer custom tours tailored to your interests, whether you want to dive deeper into history, explore hidden monasteries, or experience local culture and cuisine. Book an online consultation, and we'll design a detailed, personalized itinerary to make the most of your journey to our Southern Neighbor.
Comments