Holidays with Downtown

In recent years, more and more tourists from all over the world have chosen Georgia as an attractive tourist destination. There are many reasons for such a boom and now we want to introduce some of them to you. What does this amazing country, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, have to offer its guests? Here is one experience you may want to live!

Day 1: Tbilisi

Early arrival at Tbilisi Airport. After Immigration and Custom formalities. you’ll be met by your guide for a transfer to the hotel.

Day 2: Tbilisi, Mtskheta, Ananuri, Gudauri

Departure to Gudauri to visit the Svetitskhoveli and Jvari (6th CE) monasteries in Mtskheta.  The first stop of the day is the Jvari Monastery, situated on a large hill that overlooks the town of Mtskheta and rises just above a huge stretch of river at the confluence of the Koura and Aragvi rivers providing a really beautiful view. Jvari Monastery was built in the 6th century, then a stone wall was erected in the Middle Ages to protect the complex. Today, only ruins remain, but the church, located in the center, is still standing and can be visited. The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (4th century) is one of the most sacred and magnificent churches in Georgia, and the second holy place of Christ, after the Church of Jerusalem, known for its bloody treasures and the cornerstones of the church. The architecture of the cathedral, surrounded by outside walls, is magnificent. Beautifully and finely decorated, it exposes many beautiful paintings and maps. Several members of the Georgian royal family, including the last two generations of the Kings of Georgia, rest there. Continue to Ananuri to explore the Castle complex, scene of numerous battles in the past. Then, head to Gudauri, one of the most famous ski resorts in Georgia at the height of 7,200 feet. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. [B/D]

Note: To visit the Churches men cannot wear shorts and women must have their heads covered.

Day 3: Gudauri, Dariali Valley, Kazbegi

Departure to Dariali Valley to admire the waterfall and the national park. Enjoy the tranquility of this harmonious place. In the afternoon, departure to Kazbegi (now Stepantsminda), which is famous with its scenic location in the Greater Caucasus Mountains and is the center for trekking and mountain climbing. Dinner and overnight. [B/D]

Day 4: Kazbegi (Sno)

A short drive to Sno village to visit the summer residence and patrimonial tower of the current Catholic-Patriarch of Georgia. Visit the towers of Phshansheta dating from the 16^th and 17^th centuries and the Church of Saint Mary in Sioni, built in the 9^th century, where the influence of western European architecture can be noted.  Enjoy the unspoiled nature while trekking in the Juta valley. Back to Kazbegi for dinner and overnight. [B/D]

Day 5: Kazbegi (Truso Valley)

Today’s excursion will take you to the beautiful Truso Valley, situated 7,217 feet above sea level. Then, we drive to Pasanauri, a popular tourist destination in Georgia due to its picturesque location, its mineral water as well, hiking routes, handcrafted items and local food. After the visit, enjoy dinner at traditional music at Guda Restaurant. Return to Kazbegi for overnight. [B/D]

Day 6: Kazbegi, Pshavi, Shatili

Departure to Pshavi with the possibility of visiting the museum-house of famous Georgian writer Vazha Phshavela. The next stop is Kistani fortress, located on a hill top, a holy place for locals. Then, stop to see the waterfall “traveler’s tears”, which falls directly down on to the road, before continuing to Shatili for dinner and overnight. [B/D]

Day 7: Shatili (Mutso)

Explore the unique complex of medieval fortresses and fortified dwellings of stone and mortar, that functioned both as a residential area which, for centuries, was the strongest outpost in northern Georgia, controlling the roads and protecting the state border. The village, strikingly integrated in the surrounding landscape thanks to the harmonious use of materials, was inhabited from the 10th century onwards. The harsh climate, the lack of arable land, the poor infrastructure together with water shortages led to its depopulation by the middle of the 20th-century. The remarkable fortified settlement consists of the terraced structures dominated by flat-roofed dwellings and about 60 towers clustering together to create a single chain of fortifications. After visiting the ruins of the ancient castles and towers we return to Shatili for dinner and overnight. [B/D]

Day 8: Shatili, Tbilisi

Morning drive to Tbilisi arriving in time for lunch. This afternoon, encounter the true Tbilisi spirit, with the visits to the Old Tbilisi Sulfur Baths, Georgian Orthodox and Armenian Gregorian churches, and a Jewish synagogue and a Turkish mosque side by side, reflecting Tbilisi's acceptance and tolerance of different religions. Observe the 19th century wooden Italian dwellings that are still preserved here. See a recent monument, the Tbilisi Sameba Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the Caucasus. Tonight, join your guide for a typical farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Tbiisi. [B/D]

Day 9: Tbilisi, USA

Very early transfer to the airport to board your flight back home.

[B] = Breakfast | [B/D] = Breakfast and Dinner