How to Plan Your Tbilisi: Mtskheta, Jvari, Gori and Uplistsikhe Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Tbilisi, you won’t want to miss the chance to explore its surrounding regions. One tour that comes highly recommended is the Tbilisi: Mtskheta, Jvari, Gori and Uplistsikhe Day Tour. This tour will take you through some of the most iconic landmarks in the country of Georgia including ancient cave towns, monasteries, museums and so much more.

Experience

This tour is an all-encompassing experience that will take you through the rich history and culture of Georgia. You will visit some of the most iconic landmarks of Georgia which include:

• Learn the history of the Jvari Monastery
• Visit the main Cathedral of Georgia Svetitskhoveli
• Marvel at the confluence of the rivers Aragvi and Mtkvari
• Discover Uplistsikhe cave town
• Explore Gori and the Museum of Stalin

Full Description

The tour will start by picking you up from your hotel in Tbilisi or a meeting point designated by the tour operator. From here, you will head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mtskheta.

Mtskheta is known for its historical and cultural significance as the ancient capital of Georgia. Here you will explore the Cathedral of Georgia Svetitskhoveli, a magnificent monument that has witnessed the evolution of Georgian Christianity for over a millennium.

You will then proceed to Jvari Monastery, built in the 6th century on the top of a hill overlooking the confluence of the rivers Aragvi and Mtkvari. Jvari Monastery is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has an intriguing and unique history.

Next, you will visit the town of Gori, the birthplace of one of the most controversial figures in modern history – Joseph Stalin. Your tour guide will walk you through the Museum of Stalin, which presents a rather curious and extremely informative account of the dictator’s life from birth to death.

Lastly, you will visit the Uplistsikhe cave town, one of the highlights of the tour. Uplistsikhe is an ancient rock-hewn town that dates back to the 6th century. The cave town is carved into the heart of the rocks and features homes, theaters, and even an underground tunnel that served as a water supply.

The tour concludes by taking you back to your hotel or to the designated drop-off location.

Includes

The tour cost includes the following:

• One bottle of water
• Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• A guide service to accompany you throughout the trip
• Entrance fees for all the sites in the itinerary
• Food and drink not included in the cost

Not Suitable For

Please note that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users as it involves a lot of walking and hiking.

Book the Tour Here

If you’re ready to book your Tbilisi: Mtskheta, Jvari, Gori and Uplistsikhe Day Tour, just click here.

This is an excellent opportunity to explore Georgia’s rich history and culture in the safest and most comfortable way possible. The tour is led by a highly experienced and knowledgeable guide who will ensure you have a fun and memorable experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Tbilisi: Mtskheta, Jvari, Gori, and Uplistsikhe Day Tour

Tbilisi is a stunning city, which offers a perfect blend of European and Asian cultures. It is rich in history and culture, known for its architectural diversity, gorgeous landscapes, delicious food, and warm hospitality. Tbilisi is a city you’ll fall in love with. This insider’s guide is designed to help you make the most out of your day tour from Tbilisi to Mtskheta, Jvari, Gori, and Uplistsikhe.

Mtskheta

The first stop on your day tour is the ancient town of Mtskheta. It is one of the oldest cities in Georgia, and its architectural jewels have made it a UNESCO World Heritage site. The most iconic spot in Mtskheta is the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, known as the spiritual heart of Georgia. The exterior of the cathedral is impressive, with a blend of Romanesque and Baroque styles. Its interior is even more awe-inspiring, with stunning frescoes and lavish decorations.

Another must-see spot in Mtskheta is Jvari Monastery, located on a hilltop overlooking the town. The view of Mtskheta from the monastery is breathtaking. It is believed that St Nino, the evangelist of Christianity in Georgia, erected a wooden cross here in the 4th century. The current church dates back to the 6th century and is an architectural masterpiece.

Gori

The next stop on your tour is Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, the infamous Soviet dictator. The Stalin Museum is the primary attraction for tourists in Gori. It is situated in a large park in the center of the city and exhibits the life of Stalin, including his childhood, rise to power, and the impact his leadership had on the Soviet Union. The museum is divided into several sections, including a hall of gifts given to Stalin and his death mask.

Uplistsikhe

The highlight of your day tour from Tbilisi to Mtskheta, Jvari, Gori, and Uplistsikhe is the ancient town of Uplistsikhe. The town is a historical and architectural gem, carved into a rocky hillside. It has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and was an important center for ancient Georgian culture and trade. The caves in Uplistsikhe are home to several chambers, halls, and temples, all connected by a network of tunnels and staircases. The town also features a royal palace, granaries, and a bakery.

For those interested in ancient history and architecture, Uplistsikhe is a must-visit.

Dining Spots

After a long day of touring, it’s time to grab a bite. Fortunately, Tbilisi has plenty of dining spots. One of the best is Pur Pur, situated in the Old Town. It has an excellent cocktail menu, and the food is delicious. Barbarestan is another great restaurant, specializing in traditional Georgian cuisine. It is famous for its use of forgotten recipes and is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion.

Cultural Experiences

There are several cultural experiences to be enjoyed in Tbilisi. One of the popular ones is the Sulphur Baths, located in the Abanotubani district. The thermal baths are famous for their healing properties and are a great way to relax after a long day of touring. You can also enjoy traditional Georgian music and dances at the famous Stamba Hotel or catch a performance at the world-renowned Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater.

Local History

Tbilisi is rich in history, and if you’re interested in learning more about the cultural and historical significance of the city, you can visit the Georgian National Museum. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including prehistoric tools, coinage, and weapons from different periods of Georgian history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’d like to explore Tbilisi off the beaten path, then a visit to the Dry Bridge Flea Market is a great idea. Here you can find unique souvenirs and explore antique shops selling vintage Soviet memorabilia, books, and paintings. Another must-see attraction is the Turtle Lake. Located in the outskirts of Tbilisi, this lake is perfect for a peaceful picnic or a scenic hike.

Tbilisi is a city that offers something for everyone, from history and architecture to culture and entertainment. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be able to enjoy the most unforgettable experiences while exploring the beautiful regions of Mtskheta, Jvari, Gori, and Uplistsikhe.