Grand Tour of Georgia
A complete 10-day journey through Georgia combining the vibrant capital Tbilisi, UNESCO heritage sites of Kutaisi, and the magical Svaneti region with its medieval towers and high mountain landscapes.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tbilisi
Reception at Tbilisi International Airport and transfer to the hotel. Free time to rest and get a first impression of the Georgian capital. Accommodation in Tbilisi.
Day 2: Tbilisi - City Tour
Full day dedicated to exploring Tbilisi. We'll visit the medieval Metekhi Church, the old town with its characteristic wooden balconies, Sioni Cathedral, Anchiskhati Basilica (the oldest in the city), Narikala Fortress, and the atmospheric sulfur baths district. We'll walk across the Peace Bridge and along Rustaveli Avenue. Accommodation in Tbilisi.
Day 3: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Kutaisi (250 km)
In the morning, we head to Mtskheta, the ancient capital and spiritual center of Georgia. We'll visit Jvari Monastery (UNESCO) with its stunning views of the confluence of the rivers, and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. We continue to Uplistsikhe, a fascinating rock-hewn city dating from the first millennium BC. In the afternoon, arrival in Kutaisi. Accommodation in Kutaisi.
Day 4: Kutaisi - Gelati - Motsameta - Mestia (260 km)
We visit Gelati Monastery (UNESCO), founded by King David the Builder, with its impressive 12th-century Virgin Mary mosaic. We also explore the nearby Motsameta Monastery, set in a spectacular natural environment. In the afternoon, we begin the journey to Svaneti through increasingly impressive mountain landscapes. Stop to admire the Enguri Dam, one of the tallest in the world. Arrival in Mestia at sunset. Accommodation in guesthouse in Mestia.
Day 5: Mestia - Koruldi Lakes - Mestia
Mountain excursion day. By 4x4 vehicle, we climb to Mount Zegari (2,200 m) to enjoy panoramic views of Mestia and its towers. From there, hike to the Koruldi Lakes (2,740 m), surrounded by the impressive rocky walls of Mount Dalakora and views of the Mestiachala River valley. Return to Mestia in the afternoon. Time to visit the Svaneti Ethnographic Museum. Accommodation in guesthouse in Mestia.
Day 6: Mestia - Ushguli (45 km)
Today we venture deeper into the heart of Svaneti. In 4x4 vehicles, we travel the mountain road to Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe (2,200 m). This group of medieval villages, with their characteristic Svan towers, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We'll enjoy views of Mount Shkhara (5,193 m), Georgia's highest peak. Exploration of the village and its medieval churches. Accommodation in guesthouse in Ushguli.
Day 7: Ushguli - Exploration - Mestia
In the morning, time to walk around Ushguli and capture the unique mountain light on the towers and meadows. Optional short hike in the surroundings. In the afternoon, return to Mestia. Accommodation in guesthouse in Mestia.
Day 8: Mestia - Kutaisi (260 km)
Farewell to Svaneti and descent to Kutaisi. The journey allows us to enjoy once again the spectacular landscapes of the Western Caucasus. Arrival in Kutaisi and free time to stroll through the historic center, visit the green market, and see the Colchis Fountain. Accommodation in Kutaisi.
Day 9: Kutaisi - Martvili Canyon - Okatse Canyon - Tbilisi (300 km)
In the morning, we visit two of the Imereti region's natural wonders. Martvili Canyon offers a boat ride through crystal-clear waters between vegetation-covered rock walls. At Okatse Canyon, we'll walk along suspended walkways over the void with dizzying views. In the afternoon, return to Tbilisi. Accommodation in Tbilisi.
Day 10: Tbilisi - Departure
Free time until transfer to the airport for your return flight. End of our services.
About this trip
Discover the best of Georgia on this comprehensive 10-day tour that will take you from cosmopolitan Tbilisi to the snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus in Svaneti, passing through historic Kutaisi and its World Heritage monasteries.
This journey will immerse you in Georgia's rich history and culture, starting in Tbilisi, a city where past and present intertwine in its cobblestone streets, sulfur baths, and vibrant food scene. You'll visit the ancient religious capital of Mtskheta and the fascinating rock-hewn city of Uplistsikhe.
In Kutaisi, you'll explore the impressive Gelati Monastery, a jewel of medieval Georgian art declared a World Heritage Site. But the highlight of the trip will be Svaneti, one of the most remote and fascinating regions in Europe. Its medieval defensive towers, imposing glaciers, and the hospitality of its people will transport you to another era.
You'll hike to the Koruldi Lakes with spectacular views of the Caucasus, discover the secrets of Mestia, and reach Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe, where time seems to have stood still.
Included
- Airport - hotel - airport transfers
- Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour
- 4x4 vehicles for excursions in Svaneti (days 5, 6, 7)
- 9 nights accommodation: 3 in Tbilisi (hotel), 2 in Kutaisi (hotel), 3 in Mestia/Ushguli (guesthouse)
- Daily breakfast
- 3 dinners in Svaneti
- Professional English-speaking guide throughout the trip
- Entrance fees to monuments and sites included in the program
- Boat ride in Martvili Canyon
- One bottle of water per person per day
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Meals not specified in the program
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips
- Personal expenses
- Any service not mentioned in the "Included" section