Georgia’s capital is surprisingly charming, reflecting a unique blend of Persian, Ottoman, Russian, and Soviet influences that have become distinctly Georgian. You will have a full day of exploring the Old City’s winding cobblestone roads, from the Abanotubani area famous for its historic sulfur bath houses, to historic churches like Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Basilica, which dates to the 6th century. After a group lunch at a local bakery, head to the Georgian National Museum to learn more about the country’s history, from the Bronze Age on. End the day with panoramic sunset views at the Narikala Fortress.

From Tbilisi, you will head east into Kakheti, Georgia’s picturesque wine region (approx. 2 hour total drive time, not including stops). Along the way, stop at the hilltop monastery of Bodbe, a historic site that also offers incredible views across the valley to the Caucasus. Continue to the town of Sighnaghi, a village whose fortress-like walls were built in the 18th century to protect the town from marauders. You’ll have a moment at leisure to wander the ramparts and explore the town before continuing to your guesthouse. Enjoy a true Georgian welcome with a glass of amber wine - qvevri, named for the vessels in which the grapes are fermented - before winding down for the rest of the day.

Winemaking in Georgia dates back 8,000 years, and this day’s vineyard visits are designed for you to experience how the tradition has evolved. Beginning at a small marani that preserves the Bronze Age technique of fermenting grapes in buried clay vessels, you will then continue to an independent estate founded by a husband-wife duo who gave up their life in Moscow to return to her family’s land. The day ends at a winery that is coupling modern winemaking techniques with rare, indigenous grapes. Along the way, stop for a leisurely picnic lunch at one of the estates. After returning to the guesthouse and enjoying a siesta, learn how to make khinkali, Georgian dumplings, while indulging in another glass of wine or two.

Today is a more relaxed day: in the morning, the group will visit Alaverdi Cathedral, whose monks have been producing wine for over 1,000 years, a tradition which they continue to this day. On the way back, stop at Nekresi, another historic monastery which has beautiful views over the Alazani Valley. Return to the guesthouse in time for lunch, and have the rest of the day to relax with a good book, or stroll among the grapevines.

While the drive from Kakheti to Kazbegi will take most of the day (approx. 5.5 hour total drive time, not including stops), you’ll have beautiful views along the way, as you cross the mountains over the historic route that has long connected Georgia to Russia. You’ll have a chance to stretch your legs at the Ananuri fortress and the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument. In the late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Stepantsminda, tucked into a cozy valley and surrounded by Caucasian peaks on all sides.

Today, explore one of Georgia’s most iconic sites: Gergeti Trinity Church. This landmark of the Caucasus sits beneath the snowy flanks of Mount Kazbek. You’ll have the option to either hike to the church (3 hours; steep in places) or arrive by 4x4. You’ll have ample time to explore the grounds and soak in the views before returning to the village, for lunch and time to explore at your leisure.

Enjoy the entire day at Stepantsminda at your leisure. Your guide will be happy to recommend a few activities or sights (some of which have an extra cost), and usually will lead a few members of the group for an easy walk to visit the nearby Gveleti waterfalls (approx. 2 hours, free). It’s also the perfect opportunity to finish that book and just relax, soaking in the rural atmosphere where nothing is rushed or urgent.

After a leisurely morning, the group will drive back to Tbilisi (approx. 3 hours total drive time). After arriving mid-afternoon, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Your guide will be happy to make some recommendations for sites to visit.

During your final day in Georgia, explore the iconic Dezerter Bazaar, where you will select the fresh ingredients for that evening’s farewell feast. Afterwards, enjoy some time at your leisure for shopping, or perhaps take a dip in one of the city’s iconic sulphur baths. For your final evening, the group will come together for a supra, or traditional Georgian feast, done the traditional style, hosted in a family house with a very special tamada (toastmaster) MC’ing.

Transfer to Tbilisi airport. Your transfer will be organized based on the timing of your departure flight, and may be shared with other travellers leaving at a similar time.