From the Rioni to the Sea: 3 Days of History and Coast
A 3-day getaway connecting central Georgia with the western coast, visiting Mtskheta, Uplistsikhe, Batumi and the treasures of Kutaisi like Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi
We'll leave Tbilisi to first visit the ancient capital and religious center of Georgia, Mtskheta. There we'll explore its World Heritage treasures: the panoramic Jvari Monastery and the sacred Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Next, we'll travel through ancient history at Uplistsikhe, an impressive Iron Age rock-hewn city where we'll walk among caves and temples carved into sandstone. Our next stop will be in the nearby city of Gori, where we'll visit the Stalin Museum to learn about the Soviet leader's birthplace and career. Finally, we'll continue our journey westward, entering the legendary land of Colchis, until we reach Kutaisi.
Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*
267 km | 04:44 by car
DAY 2: Kutaisi - Dendrological Park - Batumi - Kutaisi
Today we'll dedicate the day to exploring the Guria and Adjara coast. Our first visit will be to the surprising Shekvetili Dendrological Park, a biodiversity oasis facing the Black Sea. We'll walk along its paths to admire transplanted century-old trees, Japanese-style gardens, and rich fauna including exotic birds in freedom. Later, we'll move to the "Pearl of the Black Sea", the city of Batumi. There we'll have time to lose ourselves in its charming old town streets full of European charm, and stroll along the modern Boulevard by the beach, observing famous sculptures like Ali and Nino. As evening falls, we'll begin our journey back to Kutaisi.
Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*
325 km | 05:32 by car
DAY 3: Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Prometheus - Tbilisi
We'll begin our day in Kutaisi climbing Ukimerioni hill to visit the imposing Bagrati Cathedral, a medieval masterpiece offering panoramic views of the city. We'll continue our journey through time at nearby Gelati Academy, a UNESCO World Heritage monastic complex famous for its impressive frescoes and educational legacy. Later, we'll head to the spectacular Prometheus Cave, an underground labyrinth of stalactites and stalagmites where, if water conditions are favorable, we'll enjoy a boat ride along its hidden river. Before leaving the city, we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Kutaisi's Agricultural Market. Finally, we'll embark on the road journey east to reach Tbilisi.
292 km | 05:08 by car
About this trip
Follow the river's course in "From the Rioni to the Sea", a 3-day getaway connecting central Georgia with the western coast. Starting in Tbilisi, we'll travel across the country visiting key historical landmarks. Our first stop is the ancient capital Mtskheta and the cave city of Uplistsikhe, witnesses to the earliest Georgian kingdoms.
Coastal Excursion
We'll reach the Imereti region and continue to the Black Sea coast for a quick but revitalizing visit to Batumi and its famous Dendrological Garden. The return journey to the capital allows us to explore Kutaisi's treasures more leisurely, including Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery, both World Heritage Sites. A perfect option for those who want to see the sea and the most important western monuments in a long weekend.
Included
- Accommodation: 2 Nights in selected hotels.
- Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast.
- Transport: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel.
- Guide: Professional English-speaking guide.
- Logistics: Staff expenses (guide/driver).
- Water: 1 bottle per person/day.
- Taxes: Local taxes.
- Entrances: Monuments according to itinerary.
Not Included
- International flights.
- Travel insurance.
- Lunches and Dinners (unless indicated).
- Alcoholic beverages and tips.
- Personal expenses.