Georgia Wine and History Tour: Tbilisi, Batumi and Kakheti

After breakfast in the morning, our wine tour begins and our first stop will be the Alaverdi Monastery. After touring this 11th-century monument on the UNESCO World Heritage List, we visit Zaza Bey’s Clay Jar (Wine Vessel) Workshop. We learn from the master about the significance of these large clay jars, their making process, and other details, and taste the homemade wine—featured on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List—right here. After leaving the workshop, we head to the Tsinandali Museum. On this land owned by the Chavchavadze family, we discover how the first bottled wine was made and learn about the origins of the conflict with Sheikh Shamil before exploring the wine cellars. After leaving the museum, our next destination is the Tsivi Cheese Factory, where we also have lunch during our visit. A magnificent cheese feast made with new techniques awaits you. Then we return to the city center and start touring Telavi. We see the palace and statue of King Erekle II and visit the famous Telavi market. After some free time there, we return to our hotel.

After breakfast, we depart from our hotel. Our first stop will be Gremi, the capital of the Kakheti kingdom. Here, we visit Gremi Fortress, the Archangels and Gabriel churches, and the royal tower. Next, we stop by the Kvareli Coin (Numismatic) Museum and visit the Kahareba cellars and vineyards, which used to be a military shelter. Afterwards, we head to Tbilisi. After settling into our hotel and resting for a bit, we set out towards Old Tbilisi. Our tour here starts from Freedom Square. We explore Tavisuplebis (the old Lenin Square), where St. George found gold, and proceed into the city through the historic walls. We see the Theater Tower, Peace Bridge, and take the cable car up to the Kartlis Deda (Mother of Georgia) statue. After visiting the Friday Mosque, the Bath district, and Gorgasali Square, we stop by the Antique Market, Rustaveli Avenue, Sameba Cathedral, and finally return to our hotel.

After breakfast in the morning, our first stop is the monument at Tbilisi Sea. At the Chronicle of Georgia, you’ll find columns depicting both the country’s history and the 2,000-year history of Christianity. After leaving here, we travel about 20 minutes to Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the capital of the Kingdom of Iberia nearly 2,000 years ago and sits between the Kura and Aragvi rivers. Our first stop here will be the Jvari Monastery, which was built in the 6th century and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll be greeted by a stunning view where the Kura and Aragvi rivers meet. Next, we continue to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, an 11th-century temple considered the religious center of the country and known as the place where the robe of Jesus was burned. Afterwards, we return to the city center. Depending on the remaining time, we may visit the Tbilisi National Museum, one of the world’s notable museums housing early human fossils, as well as the Opera and Parliament buildings on Rustaveli Avenue. Then, we stroll along Aghmashenebeli Avenue, stop by the flea market, and end our day.

With the sunrise, we begin a fascinating journey from Tbilisi, where history and nature are interwoven. 

Gori & Stalin Museum & Uplistsikhe Caves

Our first stop is the city of Gori, the heart of Georgia and the lifeblood of its culture. Here, we will visit the Stalin Museum, where we witness the life of the historic figure Josef Stalin. The museum is filled with exhibits reflecting Stalin's personal belongings and historic moments.

Our journey takes us to the Uplistsikhe Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site that sheds light on human history. Here, we'll wander among the rock-carved structures bearing traces of ancient civilizations and feel the mysteries of the past. This ancient city captivates visitors not only with its splendor but also its historical significance.

Kutaisi & UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Our next stop is Kutaisi, renowned for its rich history and natural beauty. Here, we'll visit the magnificent Bagrati and Gelati Cathedrals, both on the UNESCO World Heritage list. These cathedrals are stunning examples reflecting Georgia's religious and architectural significance throughout history.

By sunset, we arrive in Batumi, the pearl of the Black Sea. This city is famous for its vibrant streets, colorful nightlife, and stunning coastline, where modern and historical textures are intertwined. We will stay in Batumi, ending this long and discovery-filled day. While recharging for tomorrow’s adventures, we'll enjoy the unique views of Batumi.