From Tbilisi: Borjomi, Green Monastery & Rabati Castle Tour

Discover Georgia’s Charm on a Full-Day Tour from Tbilisi to Borjomi, Green Monastery, and Rabati Castle

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Georgia’s diverse sights, from natural mineral springs to ancient monasteries and bustling castles. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to see a mix of scenic landscapes and cultural treasures without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The highlights include the famous mineral waters of Borjomi, the tranquil Green Monastery, and the lively, multicultural Rabati Castle—each revealing a different layer of Georgia’s history and natural beauty.

One of the things we really like about this tour is how it combines comfort with authentic experiences. The scenic drive through lush forests of the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park promises plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy some fresh mountain air. Plus, the visit to Borjomi’s mineral springs, where you can taste the naturally carbonated water believed to have healing properties, is a highlight that can’t be missed.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite full, with a total duration of 11 hours, which might be a long day for some travelers. Also, some activities such as the cable car ride at Borjomi are not included, so if that’s a must-do for you, consider additional costs.

This experience is best suited for travelers interested in history, nature, and culture in Georgia, who appreciate organized excursions with a mix of sightseeing and storytelling. If you’re okay with a packed itinerary and want a comprehensive introduction to the southern region of Georgia, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Beautiful Landscapes: The scenic drive through Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park offers stunning views and photo ops.
• Authentic Experiences: Tasting the mineral water directly from its source in Borjomi adds a genuine local touch.
• Historical Insights: The Green Monastery and Rabati Castle reveal Georgia’s spiritual and multicultural past.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation and a professional driver make the long day manageable.
• Balanced Itinerary: The schedule includes enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
• Value for Money: For $270, you get key sites, entrance fees, and a guide, making it a good value for a full-day adventure.

The Detailed Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Tbilisi, ensuring a smooth start. You’ll be accompanied by a professional, English-speaking driver, who keeps things comfortable in a modern sedan or minivan. The drive from Tbilisi to Borjomi takes roughly 2 hours, during which you can settle in, enjoy the scenery, and get a quick overview of what’s to come.

Borjomi Central Park and Mineral Springs

Once in Borjomi, the first stop is the famous Central Park. Here, you’ll have around an hour to explore the lush surroundings and taste the mineral water straight from the source. The Borjomi springs are renowned for their supposed healing properties, and drinking from the natural mineral water is a simple but memorable experience. Several reviewers praise the water’s fresh, slightly salty taste, noting it as a highlight of the trip.

The park itself is beautifully maintained, with walking paths, benches, and views of the river running through. Some travelers mention the idea of taking a cable car to a higher viewpoint for panoramic shots of the gorge—though this is an optional activity not included in the tour, so you’ll want to budget extra if interested.

Borjomi & Kharagauli National Park

Next, the tour includes a brief 30-minute stop within the national park, soaking in the incredible greenery and mountain scenery. It’s a quick but scenic break, perfect for snapping more photos and appreciating the vast forested landscape.

The Green Monastery: A Tranquil Retreat

A highlight of this tour is the Green Monastery, built between the 9th and 10th centuries. Located in a peaceful, forested ravine, this active monastery invites quiet reflection. Its distinctive green stones, which give it its name, contrast beautifully against the surrounding greenery.

Visitors often comment on the sense of serenity here—“It’s an unexpected gem,” one reviewer notes. You can explore the church and the two-story bell tower, while learning about the monks’ history and some local legends, like the story of monks martyred during Persian invasions, with the red-tinged stones in the nearby stream adding a layer of historical intrigue.

Rabati Castle: A Multicultural Fortress

The final major stop is Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe, a site packed with history and architecture. Spanning seven hectares, the complex includes a variety of structures reflecting Georgian, Ottoman, and Russian influences.

Inside, you’ll find an Orthodox church, a mosque with a golden dome, a minaret, a synagogue, and a historical museum—each adding to the story of Georgia’s diverse cultural fabric. Reviewers highlight the impressive towers you can climb for panoramic views of Akhaltsikhe and the surrounding mountains. The gardens, fountains, and well-maintained grounds make it a pleasant stroll.

Guide commentary helps you understand the strategic importance of Rabati as a military and trade hub over the centuries. Visitors appreciate the chance to see different architectural styles in one place—something that really brings Georgia’s multicultural identity to life.

Wrapping Up and Return

After about an hour exploring Rabati Castle, it’s time to head back to Tbilisi. The drive gives you a chance to reflect on the day’s sights and perhaps share photos. Expect to arrive back around the evening, leaving you with a full day of memorable experiences.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. The transportation arrangements, with a private group and a professional driver, make for a comfortable journey—especially given the long hours. The entrance fees, including Borjomi’s mineral springs and Rabati Castle, are covered, adding to the value.

We appreciate how the tour combines different facets of Georgia—its healthful springs, tranquil monasteries, and lively castles—giving a comprehensive view of the region’s diversity. The scenery alone makes it worth the price, with many travelers mentioning how stunning the views are along the drive.

As with any full-day tour, it involves quite a bit of walking and some time in the vehicle, so comfortable shoes and patience are recommended. The optional activities, like the cable car, are not included, so if you want to extend your experience, be prepared for extra costs.

For those interested in a rich, varied introduction to Georgia’s southern highlights, this tour hits most marks. It’s particularly suitable for history buffs, nature lovers, and travelers who prefer guided experiences that take the hassle out of logistics.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 11 hours, including travel time and stops.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable walking and spending a full day outdoors.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to buy food during the day at some stops.

Can I do the cable car ride?
The cable car at Borjomi is not part of the tour and would require additional payment if you choose to do it.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it is a private group experience with a dedicated guide and driver, which helps keep things personalized.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for enjoying the day fully.

What is the price for?
$270 covers the entire day for a private group, including transportation, guide, entrance fees, and water tasting.

To sum it up, this full-day Georgian tour offers a compelling mix of natural and cultural sights, perfect for those seeking a taste of the country’s healthful springs, historic sites, and scenic landscapes. It balances comfort with authenticity, making it a practical choice for curious travelers eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply in search of stunning views, this tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into Georgia’s diverse character.