Tours from Bologna:
Group tour – Colorful Georgia
PROGRAM STARTS EVERY-MONDAY AND FRIDAY
Please kindly note, that due to the fact that flight schedule constantly changes, the exact arrival days shall be re-checked with the manager.
DAY 1 Departure from Bologna
Departure from Bologna
DAY 2 Arrival to Tbilisi, transfer to the hotel Tour to Tbilisi and Mtskheta
Arrival to Tbilisi airport, meeting with driver and transfer to the hotel of your choice and accommodation. After breakfast, you will meet your guide in the hotel lobby and start your personal discovery of Georgia with a city tour of its capital city, Tbilisi. First stop will be at glorious Sameba – the main cathedral and the tallest religious building of the country. Next up is Metekhi Church located in the neighborhood of the same name and gracefully situated on a cliff above Mtkvari River. Your guide will then take you to the new Rike Park to admire the view and perhaps take a few photos in front of The Bridge of Peace, a stunning modern structure designed by Italian architects and one of the new symbols of the city.
One of the highlights of the day is a visit to Narikala – the capital’s ancient fortress, where the stunning views over the city will open out before you. You’ll be whisked to the top in a cable car and after your visit will wander down by foot through the narrow and historic streets of the Old Town, among them the newly renovated Shardeni street – the street which never sleeps, and one of Tbilisi’s nighttime hot spots.
Optional: Lunch at the wine cellar, where you’ll have degustation of Georgian wine and vodka Chacha – price 25 USD PP
After you’ll departure to city Mtskheta – the old, legendary capital of Georgia, just 20km from the city center. The historic capital of Eastern Georgia (Kartli) and set at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi Rivers, Mtskheta has remained at the spiritual heart of Georgia since Christianity was established. you’ll visit Jvari Monastery (Monastery of the Cross), previously a pagan temple and latterly turned into Christian church. Perched on a windblown, rocky promontory, take some time to enjoy the exceptional scenery and take some photos of this amazing UNESCO world heritage listed structure. The Svetitskhoveli cathedral remains at the center of the Orthodox church. Legend has it that a seamless robe of Christ’s is buried somewhere within the temple and you’ll find fragments of paintings dating back to the 11th century, including one depicting a hand which stories tell is the hand of the cathedrals architect which king Giorgi amputated to stop him making another cathedral as beautiful as Svetitskhoveli. After tour drive back to Tbilisi
One of the highlights of the day is a visit to Narikala – the capital’s ancient fortress, where the stunning views over the city will open out before you. You’ll be whisked to the top in a cable car and after your visit will wander down by foot through the narrow and historic streets of the Old Town, among them the newly renovated Shardeni street – the street which never sleeps, and one of Tbilisi’s nighttime hot spots.
Optional: Lunch at the wine cellar, where you’ll have degustation of Georgian wine and vodka Chacha – price 25 USD PP
After you’ll departure to city Mtskheta – the old, legendary capital of Georgia, just 20km from the city center. The historic capital of Eastern Georgia (Kartli) and set at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi Rivers, Mtskheta has remained at the spiritual heart of Georgia since Christianity was established. you’ll visit Jvari Monastery (Monastery of the Cross), previously a pagan temple and latterly turned into Christian church. Perched on a windblown, rocky promontory, take some time to enjoy the exceptional scenery and take some photos of this amazing UNESCO world heritage listed structure. The Svetitskhoveli cathedral remains at the center of the Orthodox church. Legend has it that a seamless robe of Christ’s is buried somewhere within the temple and you’ll find fragments of paintings dating back to the 11th century, including one depicting a hand which stories tell is the hand of the cathedrals architect which king Giorgi amputated to stop him making another cathedral as beautiful as Svetitskhoveli. After tour drive back to Tbilisi
DAY 3 Tour to Kakheti: Telavi, Tsinandali, Signagi
Breakfast in the hotel. Meeting with guide at the lobby. This day is dedicated to a visit of Kakheti. First stop you’ll have at winery KTW, here you’ll have excursion and wine degustation. After drive to the capital of region Kakheti city Telavi and visit nunnery Akhali Shuamta with cathedral and bell tower, both commissioned by King Levan (1520-1574) and his wife Tinatin in the second quarter of the 16th century. Then drive to Tsinandali, a noble estate and palace of the famous Chavchavadze family. This palace used to be an intellectual hub of Georgia and the estate itself is built in a European style, surrounded by English gardens. Then you will visit winery Shumi, where you’ll have excursion and wine degustation. Highlight of today’s tour will be Signagi, the so-called “city of love”. Packed full of 19th century architecture Signagi resembles an Italian city with its Mediterranean-style colorful, small houses and narrow old streets. With views over the Alazani valley to the Caucasus on the horizon the town is a very pleasant place to while away during afternoon. After excursion drive back to Tbilisi
DAY 4 Tour to Borjomi and Bakuriani
Breakfast in the hotel. You’ll drive to the resort town of Borjomi. Borjomi is an incredibly beautiful place, located in a lush valley of the Mtkvari River and famous for its spring water and Romanov Summer palace, Likani. Free time to Borjomi park to drink famous Borjomi water.
After you’ll drive up to mountain resort Bakuriani, which is situated on the northern slope of the Trialeti Range, at an elevation of 1,700 meters (5576 feet) above sea level in the sub-tropical zone. The snow blanket remains for 4-5 months but in the summer the aroma of the coniferous trees and other climatic factors create ideal conditions for rest and recreation. Free time for relax.
In the evening drive back to Tbilisi.
After you’ll drive up to mountain resort Bakuriani, which is situated on the northern slope of the Trialeti Range, at an elevation of 1,700 meters (5576 feet) above sea level in the sub-tropical zone. The snow blanket remains for 4-5 months but in the summer the aroma of the coniferous trees and other climatic factors create ideal conditions for rest and recreation. Free time for relax.
In the evening drive back to Tbilisi.
DAY 5 Tour to Kazbegi: Ananuri, Gergeti Trinity Church
Breakfast in the hotel. Todays you will have excursion to Kazbegi. Our journey will take us along the Georgian Military Road to the fortress and monastery of Ananuri which is located on the bank of Jinvali reservoir. Ananuri is the seat of the Dukes of Argavi, a dynasty which ruled the area during the middle ages and saw many battles won and lost. Remaining occupied by various Dukes and Kings until the early 19th century the complex included two fortifications and two churches, one of which, the Church of Assumption contains the remains of frescos, most of which were destroyed in a fire in the 18th century. Later on we will visit the pride of many Georgians – the ski resort Gudauri, located at an altitude of 2195m. With kilometers of ski runs, the cheapest ski passes in Europe and sun drenched south facing slopes the resort offers fabulous terrain for beginners and advanced skiers alike. In summer hiking, horse riding, birdwatching and climbing are some of the many activities on offer.
Optional: Delicious lunch at the local restaurant with famous mountain Khinkali (lunch price is 12 USD PP)
Optional: Finally, we will go up the mountain to enjoy the breath-taking views from the Gergety Trinity Church – built in medieval time the church is located on the slope of Mount Kazbek with the Caucus Mountains rising in the background. The only cross-cupola church in Khevi, photos of the church and detached bell-tower have become symbols of Georgia, inspiring travelers to from across the world to visit Georgia. (Price is 5 USD PP) Drive back to Tbilisi. Free time
Optional: Delicious lunch at the local restaurant with famous mountain Khinkali (lunch price is 12 USD PP)
Optional: Finally, we will go up the mountain to enjoy the breath-taking views from the Gergety Trinity Church – built in medieval time the church is located on the slope of Mount Kazbek with the Caucus Mountains rising in the background. The only cross-cupola church in Khevi, photos of the church and detached bell-tower have become symbols of Georgia, inspiring travelers to from across the world to visit Georgia. (Price is 5 USD PP) Drive back to Tbilisi. Free time
DAY 6 Tour of Uplistsikhe, Gori
Breakfast in the hotel. Departure to Uplistsikhe – an impressive cave-city in the Eastern Georgia, which was a significant cultural center before the Christian era. Name Uplistsikhe literally means “The God’s Castle”. Step back in time as you wander the caves, passing temples, which predate Christianity, pagan sacrificial sites, bakeries, an amphitheater and a Christian basilica. You can view many of the artifacts recovered from the ancient city at the National Museum in Tbilisi. Afterwards we will drive to Gori, the regional capital of Shida Kartli in eastern Georgia. Situated on the road connecting east and west Georgia, Gori was an important medieval stronghold. The birthplace of Stalin, there is a rather biased but worthwhile museum dedicated to the man who was one of the key influencers in 20th century world history. After excursion drive back to Tbilisi. Free time.
DAY 7 Free day (optional excursion)
Breakfast in the hotel. Free day.
Optional: Excursion tour to Kutaisi (price upon request, depends on amount of pax in the group).
Check-out from Tbilisi hotel and departure for excursion. First stop will be famous Prometheus Cave. One of Georgia’s natural wonders the cave was discovered in 1984 and includes stalactites and stalagmites as well as many rivers. You will walk along a well laid path for about 1000m to the sound of quiet classical music which adds to the magical atmosphere in this beautiful place. After we’ll go to second cave under name Sataplia. Here you can also walk in the woods – enjoyable if its not hot weather, have views to Kutaisi thanks to glass platform overlooking the city and You can also see millions of years old footprints of dinosaurs, take picture with the models of dinosaurs, visit the small museum, see a nice heart-shaped stalagmite.
Drive back to Tbilisi
Optional: Excursion tour to Kutaisi (price upon request, depends on amount of pax in the group).
Check-out from Tbilisi hotel and departure for excursion. First stop will be famous Prometheus Cave. One of Georgia’s natural wonders the cave was discovered in 1984 and includes stalactites and stalagmites as well as many rivers. You will walk along a well laid path for about 1000m to the sound of quiet classical music which adds to the magical atmosphere in this beautiful place. After we’ll go to second cave under name Sataplia. Here you can also walk in the woods – enjoyable if its not hot weather, have views to Kutaisi thanks to glass platform overlooking the city and You can also see millions of years old footprints of dinosaurs, take picture with the models of dinosaurs, visit the small museum, see a nice heart-shaped stalagmite.
Drive back to Tbilisi
DAY 8 Group transfer to Tbilisi airport
Breakfast in the hotel.12:00 check-out. Free time. 16:00 From the hotel lobby transfer to Tbilisi airport. We are looking forward to arrange another vacation for you in the future.
PRICE FOR TOUR PER PERSON, USD
Accommodation | 3* economy hotel | 3* standard hotel | 4* economy hotel | 4* standard hotel |
Dbl occupancy | 615 | 690 | 745 | 840 |
SNGL occupancy | 755 | 980 | 1140 | 1300 |
TRIPL occupancy | 575 | 530 | 685 | 785 |
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
► Accommodation in Tbilisi 7 nights at the chosen hotel category with breakfasts,
► Tours according to the itinerary,
► English-speaking guide,
► Transportation,
► Cable car ride during the city tour of Tbilisi (single way),
► Entrance tickets,
► Wine degustation in KTW and Shumi,
► Group airport transfers as per tour program,
► 24/7 Customer Support Line.
NOT INCLUDED
► Optional services and excursions,
► Visa,
► Airfare,
► Insurance,
► Personal expenses,
► Tips for the guide and driver..