Embarking on a day tour from Kutaisi to Vardzia, Rabati, and the Green Monastery is one of the best ways to experience the incredible diversity of Georgia's history, architecture, and nature in a single journey.
What You Will Experience
- Vardzia: A magnificent 12th-century cave monastery carved entirely into the side of the Erusheti Mountain.
- Rabati Castle: A stunningly restored medieval fortress in Akhaltsikhe representing a unique blend of Christian and Islamic architecture.
- The Green Monastery: A peaceful, ancient stone sanctuary tucked away deep inside a lush green pine forest near Borjomi.
- Scenic Drive: A comfortable journey through the changing landscapes of Georgia's beautiful Samtskhe-Javakheti region.
A Journey Through Time
Departing from Kutaisi, this comprehensive full-day itinerary transitions seamlessly from the lush forests of Borjomi to the semi-arid, dramatic cliffside landscapes of Vardzia. It is highly recommended for travelers who want to maximize their time in western and southern Georgia without having to arrange complex multiple-leg transfers.
Standing in the heart of Vardzia's rock-cut rooms and looking over the Mtkvari River valley makes you feel like an explorer stepping back into the golden age of Queen Tamar.
- Discover Kutaisi Guiding Team
To make the most of this adventure, remember to wear sturdy walking shoes for navigating the uneven stone steps at Vardzia, and keep a modest change of clothes or scarf handy for entering active church premises at the Green Monastery.