IBEROGEORGIA - Travel Catalog

3033 Cave Cities Route

3 Days  |  Georgia

About this trip

Explore the underground world on the "Cave Cities Route", a 3-day themed journey focused on Georgia's rock-cut architecture. From Tbilisi, we will travel west to visit Uplistsikhe, a pagan city carved into rock dating from the Iron Age.

Vardzia: The Crown Jewel

The highlight of the trip is the visit to the south of the country to explore the immense cave city of Vardzia. This 12th-century monastic complex is a marvel of medieval engineering, with hundreds of rooms connected by tunnels. We will also visit the Rabati fortress in Akhaltsikhe and the monasteries of Kutaisi on the way back. A fascinating immersion into how Georgians have used stone to live, pray and defend themselves throughout the centuries.

Mapa Ruta

Itinerary Summary

DAY 1: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi
267 km
DAY 2: Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Promete - Bordjomi-Akhaltsikhe
239 km
DAY 3: Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Tbilisi
287 km
🗺️ Road Map

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi

We will leave behind Tbilisi to first visit the ancient capital and religious center of Georgia, Mtskheta. There we will explore its treasures declared World Heritage Sites: the panoramic Jvari Monastery and the sacred Cathedral of Svetitskhoveli. Next, we will travel through ancient history in Uplistsikhe, an impressive Iron Age rock city where we will walk among caves and temples carved into the sandstone rock. Our next stop will be in the nearby city of Gori, where we will visit the Stalin Museum to learn about the birthplace and career of the Soviet leader. Finally, we will continue our journey westward, venturing into the legendary land of Colchis, until reaching Kutaisi, where we will stay.
Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4* ⭐⭐⭐⭐
267 km  |  04:44 coche

DAY 2: Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Promete - Bordjomi-Akhaltsikhe

Our today's route starts from Kutaisi, heading first to the imposing Catedral de Bagrati. From its privileged location on Ukimerioni hill, we will enjoy a complete panoramic view of the city before continuing towards the Gelati Monastery. This site, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will allow us to appreciate the medieval architecture and valuable frescoes of what was a great academy in the 12th century. Leaving behind human history, we will delve into the spectacular geology of the Prometheus Cave, touring its halls full of millenary formations and, if water level conditions are favorable, navigating its underground river. Finally, the journey will take us south until we reach Borjomi, an oasis of tranquility famous for its volcanic springs. In this charming destination, surrounded by the National Park, we will be able to breathe pure air and learn about the origin of its celebrated healing mineral waters, thus closing a day that perfectly combines cultural heritage with the relaxing beauty of Georgian landscapes before continuing towards Akhaltsikhe.
Accommodation: Hotel Gino Wellness Rabath ⭐⭐⭐⭐
239 km  |  04:57 coche

DAY 3: Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Tbilisi

Today, we will begin the day exploring the majestic Vardzia, an extraordinary 12th-century rock-hewn monastery-city that will transport us to the past. We will venture into its labyrinthine tunnels to discover unique medieval frescoes and visit its ancient cellars, witnesses to the millennia-old winemaking tradition of the area. We will continue our route towards the imposing Fortaleza Khertvisi, one of the oldest fortifications in Georgia, strategically located in the Samtskhe-Javakheti valley; there we will admire its robust walls and enjoy unparalleled panoramic views. Finally, we will head towards Tbilisi to conclude the day. Although an extensive road journey awaits us, this will become a memorable experience in itself, offering us a continuous visual spectacle. We will cross dreamlike landscapes dominated by the imposing mountains of the Lesser Caucasus, where wild nature and peaks will accompany us throughout the entire journey until we reach the vibrant capital, thus closing a day full of history and natural beauty.
Accommodation: Fin del viaje
287 km  |  05:30 coche

Rates per Person without meals (Indicative prices)

Group of... Price per Person Single Suppl.
1 People 1,240€ +100€
2 People 790€ +100€
3 People 660€ +100€
4 People 580€ +100€
5 People 530€ +100€
6 People 530€ +100€
7 People 500€ +100€
8 People 480€ +100€
✅ PRICE INCLUDES
  • Accommodation: 2 nights in selected hotels.
  • Meal plan: Bed & Breakfast.
  • Transport: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel.
  • Guide: Professional Spanish-speaking guide.
  • Logistics: Staff expenses (guide/driver).
  • Water: 1 bottle per person/day.
  • Taxes: Local taxes.
  • Tickets: Monuments according to itinerary.
❌ NOT INCLUDED
  • International flights.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Lunches and Dinners (unless indicated).
  • Alcoholic beverages and tips.
  • Personal expenses.
Nota: Indicative prices subject to availability.