Compact Georgian Circle

Day 1: Arrival in Kutaisi

Reception at Kutaisi airport and transfer to the hotel. Free afternoon for a first stroll through the historic center of this ancient city, capital of the Kingdom of Colchis and later of the Kingdom of Georgia in the 15th century. You can walk through the streets of the royal quarter, cross the white bridge over the Rioni River, and discover the authentic atmosphere of traditional Georgia. Accommodation in Kutaisi.

Day 2: Kutaisi - Gelati - Motsameta - Tbilisi (230 km)

In the morning, we visit Kutaisi's treasures. We start with Gelati Monastery (UNESCO), founded by King David the Builder in the 12th century. This monastic complex was for centuries Georgia's main cultural and scientific center, with its academy rivaling Europe's best. We'll admire its impressive original mosaics and frescoes. We continue to nearby Motsameta Monastery, built on the edge of a cliff above a river meander, in a spectacular natural setting. In the afternoon, we depart for Tbilisi with a stop in Gori to see the exterior of the museum dedicated to Stalin, born in this city. Arrival in Tbilisi at sunset. Accommodation in Tbilisi.

Day 3: Tbilisi - City Tour

Full day dedicated to exploring the Georgian capital. We start at Metekhi Church with panoramic views over the Mtkvari River. We take the cable car up to Narikala Fortress for the best views of the city. We descend through the picturesque Abanotubani sulfur baths district, where brick domes hide the traditional thermal baths. We stroll through the old town with its characteristic carved wooden balconies, visit Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in the city. We cross the modern Peace Bridge and walk along elegant Rustaveli Avenue. Free time in the afternoon to explore the Dry Bridge market or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the cafés in the Shardeni quarter. Accommodation in Tbilisi.

Day 4: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Ananuri - Kazbegi (150 km)

We head north along the legendary Georgian Military Highway. First stop in Mtskheta, the ancient capital and spiritual center of Georgia. We visit Jvari Monastery (UNESCO), perched on a hilltop with spectacular views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers, and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where tradition holds Christ's robe is kept. We continue toward the Greater Caucasus mountains, stopping at the impressive Ananuri fortress complex beside Zhinvali Reservoir. We keep climbing through increasingly dramatic landscapes, passing Gudauri ski resort. Arrival in Kazbegi (Stepantsminda), dominated by the imposing silhouette of Mount Kazbek (5,047 m). In the afternoon, ascent by 4x4 vehicles to Gergeti Trinity Church (2,170 m), one of Georgia's icons. Accommodation in Kazbegi.

Day 5: Kazbegi - Uplistsikhe - Kutaisi (280 km)

Free morning in Kazbegi to enjoy the mountain surroundings. Option for a walk around the area or simply contemplate the Caucasus views from the hotel. After lunch, we begin the return journey westward. Stop at Uplistsikhe, a fascinating rock-hewn city that was an important Silk Road center from the first millennium BC. We'll explore its streets, temples, theaters, and dwellings carved into stone, showing a surprising mix of architectural styles. We continue to Kutaisi. Accommodation in Kutaisi.

Day 6: Kutaisi - Martvili Canyon - Okatse Canyon - Kutaisi

Day dedicated to the natural wonders of the Imereti region. We head to Martvili Canyon, where we take a magical boat ride through emerald-colored waters between rock walls covered in lush vegetation and waterfalls. It's one of Georgia's most photogenic places. We continue to Okatse Canyon, where we walk along spectacular metal walkways suspended over the void, with dizzying views of the gorge and the river flowing dozens of meters below. In the afternoon, return to Kutaisi with time to stroll through the center, visit the green market with its local products, and enjoy a farewell dinner with Imereti region specialties. Accommodation in Kutaisi.

Day 7: Kutaisi - Departure

Free time until transfer to Kutaisi airport for your return flight. End of our services.