Vardzia, Rabati & Borjomi Day Trip: Caves, Castles & Mineral Water

Summary

Ancient cave labyrinths, fortress towers and Borjomi’s healing springs

You’ll wander ancient cave tunnels at Vardzia with a local guide, taste sweet churchkhela at Rabati Fortress, and sip famous Borjomi mineral water surrounded by forested hills. Expect real stories, unexpected flavors, and moments of quiet awe—plus all transport and snacks sorted for you.

What’s the experience like?

We started out from Tbilisi before sunrise—still half asleep, honestly. By the time we reached Vardzia, the sun was warming the cliffs and our guide Nino had already taught us how to say “madloba” (thank you). The caves looked almost unreal at first—like a honeycomb carved into the rock. Inside, it felt cooler and somehow quieter than outside. I remember touching the stone walls—so smooth in places where centuries of hands have passed. Nino pointed out faded frescoes in a tiny church tucked away deep inside; she told us about Queen Tamar hiding here during invasions. I tried to imagine living in those tunnels with only candlelight and that view over the valley. Kind of humbling.

After that climb (my legs were not prepared), we drove to Rabati Castle. The fortress is this wild mix of cultures—there’s a mosque right next to a church and even a synagogue inside the walls. We wandered through courtyards where locals were selling nuts and dried fruit; one old man insisted we try his churchkhela (it’s like a chewy walnut candy covered in grape juice). I probably got grape juice on my shirt but whatever—it was worth it. The call to prayer drifted across the stones while some Georgian kids played football near the ramparts. It all felt strangely peaceful for a place that’s seen so much history.

Borjomi was last—a small town wrapped in green hills, famous for its mineral water. The smell there is different—sharp, almost metallic from the springs mixed with pine trees after rain. We filled our cups straight from an old tap in the park; it tastes… well, honestly it’s an acquired taste but people swear by its healing powers. Our driver joked that if you drink enough Borjomi water you’ll live forever—I’m not sure about that but I did feel lighter walking back through those quiet paths.

I still think about how different each stop felt—the echo inside Vardzia’s caves, sunlight on Rabati’s towers, cold mineral water on my tongue in Borjomi. It wasn’t what I expected at all (in a good way). If you’re curious about Georgia beyond Tbilisi, this day trip really shows just how layered this country is.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Vardzia, Rabati, and Borjomi

• Explore Vardzia cave city
• Visit Vardzia churches
• Learn about Georgian history
• Enjoy Vardzia scenic views
• Explore Rabati castle
• Visit Rabati mosque
• See Rabati church
• Explore Borjomi town
• Taste Borjomi mineral water
• Relax in Borjomi nature

Top questions

How long does the Vardzia, Rabati & Borjomi day trip take?

The total duration includes travel time; expect a full-day tour departing early from Tbilisi.

Is lunch included on this tour?

The tour includes local snacks like churchkhela and chacha but not a full lunch.

Do you get to enter the caves at Vardzia?

Yes, travelers can explore inside Vardzia’s caves and tunnels with guidance from your local guide.

Can I taste Borjomi mineral water during the trip?

Yes, there is time to sample Borjomi mineral water directly from the spring tap in town.

Is transportation air-conditioned?

Yes, air-conditioned vehicles are used throughout the day trip for comfort.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Service animals are allowed as per tour guidelines.

Is this group tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels though there are stairs and uneven surfaces at Vardzia.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi onboard, guidance from a professional local expert throughout Vardzia’s caves and Rabati Castle, plus tastings of traditional chacha brandy and sweet churchkhela snacks along the way before returning to Tbilisi in the evening.