Georgia: A Journey Through History, Wine, and Gastronomy

Overview:

This 9-day tour is designed to immerse French travelers in the rich tapestry of Georgian culture, history, and culinary delights. From the ancient streets of Tbilisi to the majestic mountains of Svaneti and the vibrant Black Sea coast, this itinerary offers a comprehensive experience of Georgia’s diverse landscapes and traditions.

Day 1: Arrival in Tbilisi & City Exploration

• Arrival:
  • Meet and greet at Tbilisi International Airport with a welcome sign.
  • Transfer to your hotel for check-in.
• Afternoon:
  • Panoramic city tour of Tbilisi:
    • Old Town: Explore the charming cobblestone streets, traditional houses with carved balconies, and ancient churches.
    • Narikala Fortress: Ascend to this 4th-century fortress for breathtaking views of the city.
    • Metekhi Church: Visit this historic church perched on a cliff overlooking the Mtkvari River.
    • Sulphur Baths District: Discover the unique domed bathhouses, a signature feature of Tbilisi.
• Evening:
  • Welcome dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant with a “Tamada” (toastmaster) leading the festivities, introducing you to Georgian hospitality and toasting traditions.

Day 2: Kakheti Wine Tour

• Full-day excursion to Kakheti, Georgia’s renowned wine region:
  • Visit local wineries to taste traditional Georgian wines made in “Qvevri” (large clay vessels).
  • Explore historical sites:
    • Telavi: Discover the heart of Kakheti, with its ancient fortress and vibrant market.
    • Sighnaghi: Known as the “City of Love,” this walled town offers stunning views of the Alazani Valley.
    • Alaverdi Monastery: Admire this 11th-century cathedral, one of Georgia’s tallest churches.
    • Ikalto Monastery or Nekresi Monastery: Depending on time and group preferences, visit one of these historical monasteries, each with its unique charm and history.
• Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Kakheti region.

Day 3: Mtskheta, Uplistsikhe, and Kutaisi

• Travel from Tbilisi to Kutaisi, with stops at significant historical sites:
  • Mtskheta:
    • Jvari Monastery: A 6th-century monastery overlooking the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers.
    • Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: An 11th-century cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spiritual heart of Georgia.
  • Uplistsikhe: Explore this ancient cave city, dating back to the 2nd millennium BC.
  • Kutaisi: Arrive in Kutaisi, Georgia’s second-largest city.
    • Gelati Monastery: Visit this 12th-century monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a center of medieval learning.
    • Explore Kutaisi’s old town and its unique architecture.
• Evening:
  • Enjoy a dinner featuring Imeretian cuisine, known for its flavorful dishes.

Day 4: Natural Wonders & Journey to Svaneti

• Explore the natural beauty of the Imereti region:
  • Prometheus Cave: Discover stunning stalactites and stalagmites in this impressive cave system.
  • Martvili Canyon: Take a boat ride through this picturesque canyon with its emerald-green waters.
• Travel to Zugdidi:
  • Stop for a lunch break in Zugdidi.
• Continue to Svaneti:
  • Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountainous landscapes to Svaneti.

Day 5: Authentic Svaneti

• Immerse yourself in the unique culture of Svaneti:
  • Explore the town of Mestia, with its medieval Svan towers.
  • Optional: Travel to Ushguli, one of Europe’s highest continuously inhabited villages (weather permitting).
  • Visit the Heshkili Cross viewpoint and take photos on the swings.
  • Visit a 12th century Svanetian house.
  • Experience traditional Svan cuisine and learn about the customs of this remote region.

Day 6: Svaneti to Batumi

• Travel from Svaneti to Batumi, on the Black Sea coast:
  • Stop at the Enguri Dam, one of the world’s highest concrete arch dams.
  • Stop in Zugdidi for a dinner and Mengrelian cuisine master class.
  • Continue to Batumi.

Day 7: Batumi & Adjara Highlands

• Explore the vibrant city of Batumi:
  • City tour of Batumi, including the Batumi Boulevard, Piazza Square, and the Alphabet Tower.
  • Optional: Explore the Adjara highlands, with its lush greenery and traditional villages.
• Evening:
  • Free evening to relax and explore Batumi’s dining scene, with recommendations for Adjarian cuisine.

Day 8: Batumi to Tbilisi

• Travel from Batumi back to Tbilisi.
• Evening: Farewell dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant in Tbilisi.

Day 9: Departure

• Transfer to Tbilisi International Airport for your departure flight.

Gastronomic Highlights:

• Traditional Georgian feasts (Supra)
• Kakhetian wine tasting
• Imeretian cuisine
• Mengrelian cuisine master class and dinner.
• Adjarian cuisine.
• Svanetian cuisine.

Historical and Cultural Experiences:

• Ancient fortresses and churches
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Cave cities
• Traditional wine-making
• Authentic Svanetian culture

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Georgia, combining historical exploration, culinary adventures, and wine appreciation, making it an ideal choice tourists.

Included in the Tour Price:

• Accommodation:
  • 4-star hotels with breakfast included.
  • Central locations in all cities visited.
• Guide Services:
  • Professional, knowledgeable guide throughout the tour.
• Transportation:
  • Comfortable, modern transportation for all transfers and excursions.
  • Pick up and drop off from Airport.
• Entrance Tickets:
  • All entrance fees for attractions and historical sites included in the itinerary.
• Wine Tastings:
  • All wine tastings as described in the tour itinerary.

What is Not Included (Extra Expenses):

• Lunches and Dinners:
  • Lunches and dinners are not included in the tour price, allowing you flexibility to choose your dining experiences.
• Extra Jeep for Ushguli:
  • If weather conditions permit a visit to Ushguli, an extra jeep will be required.
  • The cost for the jeep is approximately 25 Euros per person.
• Master Classes:
  • Master classes in cooking or other crafts are available upon request and will incur an additional fee.