
Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 9 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour worth booking?
Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour is a 14-hour experience in Tbilisi, Georgia, from $146 per person. It scores 64 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 9 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 64 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (9)
- Duration
- 14 hours
- From
- $146 per person
Taking from Tbilisi a one day-tour to Vardzia is an amazing opportunity for an unforgettable experience of your time in Georgia. On the way to this magnificent ancient cave town, which was built in rocks, you will enjoy nature and discover a completely restored Rabati fortress in the town of Akhaltsikhe. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the most prominent historical sights of the South Caucasus.
What you get
About this experience
Taking from Tbilisi a one day-tour to Vardzia is an amazing opportunity for an unforgettable experience of your time in Georgia. On the way to this magnificent ancient cave town, which was built in rocks, you will enjoy nature and discover a completely restored Rabati fortress in the town of Akhaltsikhe. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the most prominent historical sights of the South Caucasus.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Professional Guide Service
Not included
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Friendly.ge Tours & Experiences
We will begin our tour in Tbilisi. Guide and driver in the morning will pick you up from the hotel anywhere in Tbilisi.
30 minutes here
Khertvisi Fortress
This is one of the oldest fortresses in Georgia and was functional throughout the Georgian feudal period. It is situated in Southern Georgia, in Meskheti region. The fortress was first built in the 2nd century BC. The church was built in 985, and the present walls were built in 1354. As the legend says, Khertvisi was destroyed by Alexander the Great.
Pass by without stopping
Vardzia
Vardzia - the monastery dating back to the twelfth century AD, located on the banks of the river Mtkvari is one of the most important historical sites in Georgia. Similar to the cave towns that can be found in Goreme region, Turkey, however this one is even bigger, carved out of the entire wall of the cliff, with beautifully decorated church. The location, in the middle of a huge gorge, offers unforgettable views. Until this day, some monks still live in those caves.
180 minutes here · Admission not included
Rabati Castle
Built in the 13th century, Rabati castle developed under the influence of different cultures over subsequent centuries and this is reflected in its architecture. Within the 7 hectares castle complex there is a Church, a Mosque, a Minaret and a Synagogue.
120 minutes here · Admission not included
Borjomi Central Park
Borjomi is a famous resort town, popular for its distinct mineral water. The water from the well here is several times stronger than the Borjomi water you can buy in the shops. Borjomi has many hotels and was very popular in soviet times, of which you will still find many buildings in the city. Above the centre of the city there lies a plateau with a ferris wheel and further hotels, providing a great view over the region and mountains. Furthermore, the nearby Borjomi Kharagauli National Park is the largest in Georgia and a popular hiking destination.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- ru, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Friendly.ge: Transfers & Tours in Georgia
Know before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Before booking, please be aware that our tours involve significant driving times due to the distances between attractions. Ensure you are comfortable with extended travel periods for an enjoyable tour experience. Your comfort and satisfaction are our priority.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 9 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
9 verified traveler reviews for Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Amazing Vardzia tour with an excellent guide from Friendly Georgia operator
I had an amazing private tour to Vardzia cave city, which is such a unique place as well as Rabati and Borjomi! The whole experience was very well organized and my guide, Aleksi, was excellent. The drive from Tbilisi is long, but he made it very comfortable and safe with his great driving. He also shared lots of interesting historical details during the tour and even helped me take beautiful photos along the way. I highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Georgia
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Elpiniki! We are absolutely delighted to hear that you had such an amazing private tour to Vardzia, Rabati, and Borjomi. As you noted, this specific route covers a lot of ground and makes for a long day of travel from Tbilisi, so we are incredibly glad that Aleksi kept you feeling safe and comfortable throughout the drive. He genuinely loves sharing the history of these ancient sites, and he will be so happy to know that his storytelling and photography skills added to your experience. We are truly thankful for your trust in our team to guide you through these unique corners of Georgia. Thank you for recommending us to fellow travelers, and we wish you wonderful future adventures wherever your travels take you next!
via Tripadvisor
Really beautiful tour
Today I had a great tour to the magnificent caves of Vardzia, the historic Rabati Fortress and the beautiful town of Borjomi. I had a really nice day
Response from the operator: Dear Nino, Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for sharing such beautiful photos! We’re really happy to hear that you enjoyed exploring Vardzia, Rabati, and Borjomi — it’s truly one of the most scenic and inspiring routes in Georgia. It means a lot to know that you had a great day with us. We hope these memories will stay with you for a long time and that you’ll visit Georgia again for more adventures!
via Tripadvisor
Visiting Vardzia
You will remember your visit to Vardzia well. If you come to Georgia, I definitely recommend a visit. You will see how Georgians lived and defended themselves from enemies in the Middle Ages.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind words! We're truly happy you enjoyed the journey to Vardzia — it's one of Georgia’s most powerful and unforgettable places. The caves hold centuries of stories, and we’re honored to have shared them with you. You're always welcome back to explore more! 🌄🇬🇪
via Tripadvisor
Christian inspired Caves
Amazing Christian ruins. Caves man nade. Church was partuculary impressive. Frescos were still visible after hundreds of years. Our tour guide did an amazing job of reviewing history of the caves.
Response from the operator: Dear Jorge, Thank you so much for your wonderful review of our tour of the Vardzia Caves, Rabati Castle and Borjomi Park! We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed exploring these historic Christian ruins and found the caves and church particularly impressive. It's incredible how the frescoes have withstood the test of time. We are thrilled that our guide Jonah was able to enhance your experience with his knowledge of the history of the caves. Your kind words mean a lot to us and we appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with us. We hope to welcome you on another tour in the future.
via Viator
Varzia Caves (primary), Rabat, Barjomi
This was a fantastic all day trip! Our guide (from friendly.ge) was super knowledgeable about the history of each site, very engaging, and personable. Don't miss the amazing chapel in the Varzia caves. This was a great introduction to the region. :)
Response from the operator: Dear Aja, Thank you for sharing your fantastic experience on the Vardzia Caves - Rabati Castle - Borjomi Park one-day tour. We are thrilled to hear that you had a memorable and enjoyable trip. We're glad that our guide, Khatuna, provided you with a wealth of knowledge about the history of each site. Her expertise and passion for the region truly enhanced your experience. It's wonderful to hear that she was engaging and personable, making the tour even more engaging and enjoyable. The amazing chapel in the Vardzia Caves is indeed a remarkable sight, and we're glad that you didn't miss the opportunity to explore and appreciate its beauty. It's one of the highlights of the tour and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history. We're delighted that this tour served as a great introduction to the region for you. It's our goal to provide our guests with a comprehensive and immersive experience that showcases the beauty and cultural significance of each destination. Once again, we sincerely appreciate your kind words and recommendation. If you plan to explore more of Georgia in the future, we would be honored to welcome you back for another unforgettable journey.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 14 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $146 to $290
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 3
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Friendly.ge: Transfers & Tours in Georgia, who run 22 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.6.
See everything Friendly.ge: Transfers & Tours in Georgia runsWhy this scores 64
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Tbilisi.
How much does Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour cost?
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Prices start at $146 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Tbilisi usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour take?
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Plan for about 14 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Tbilisi is not rushed.
Is Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 64 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 9 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Tbilisi, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 14-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour?
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Around 3 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Tbilisi can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Tbilisi and add a light layer if any part of the 14-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Tbilisi within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Tbilisi?
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On Outty we rank every Tbilisi experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kakheti Wine Region Tour + 10 Premium Wine Tastings & Sunset, Tbilisi:Mtskheta,Jvari,Bazaar,Chronicles of Georgia & Wine Cellar, Day Trip to Kazbegi and Gudauri. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Tbilisi?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Tbilisi?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour?
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Included: Private transportation; Bottled water; and Professional Guide Service. Not included: Lunch; Gratuities; Entrance fees; and Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 772 listed pickup locations in and around Tbilisi. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour offered in?
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It is offered in Russian and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Vardzia caves - Rabati castle - Borjomi park from Tbilisi one-day tour?
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Across 9 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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