Tbilisi: Mtskheta, Jvari, Chronicles, Storytelling & Wine
Description
6 hour tour is a perfect balance of value, convenience, and cultural depth—all within just half a day. It’s an ideal introduction for first-time visitors to Georgia or travelers with limited time who still want to experience the country’s highlights. In a short yet enriching journey, you’ll explore some of the most iconic landmarks around Tbilisi, including the impressive Chronicles of Georgia monument and UNESCO World Heritage sites that showcase the country’s rich history across different eras. The tour also includes visit to a local winery and free time in the charming royal town of Mtskheta, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace and soak in its authentic atmosphere. Designed as a budget-friendly group experience, this tour offers a comfortable and insightful way to discover Georgia’s cultural treasures without feeling rushed.
Tour Options
Itinerary
The first stop is the monumental Chronicles of Georgia, one of the most striking landmarks in Tbilisi. This impressive architectural complex features massive pillars decorated with detailed carvings that depict key moments from Georgia’s history, as well as important religious and royal figures. You’ll have approximately 30 minutes of free time to explore the site, take photos, and enjoy panoramic views over the Tbilisi Sea and surrounding areas. Its dramatic scale and scenic setting make it a must-visit location and a favorite for Instagram and TikTok content.
Lets go back in time to visit the Jvari monastery. This ancient UNESCO World Heritage site dates all the way back to the 6th century and offers visitors a glimpse into the country's rich history. The monastery sits atop a hill overlooking the scenic confluence of two rivers, creating a truly picturesque setting that feels like something out of a fairytale. As you explore the grounds, you'll come across stunning Byzantine architecture, intricate stone carvings, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It's an experience that will transport you back centuries and leave you in awe of the craftsmanship and dedication that went into building such a magnificent structure.
Visit a local winery to explore traditional Georgian winemaking methods, including the use of Qvevri clay vessels and natural fermentation.
Following the guided visit, you’ll have approximately one hour of free time in Mtskheta to enjoy the town at your own pace. You can have lunch at a local restaurant, stroll through the charming streets, or browse the traditional bazaar for handmade souvenirs and local products. For those interested in Georgian wine culture, there is an optional wine tasting experience at a local winery. For an additional 10 GEL, you can sample three varieties of traditional Georgian wine along with Chacha, offering a unique introduction to Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, located in Mtskheta, Georgia, was built in the 11th century on the ruins of the original church that dates back to the 4th century. This stunning cathedral is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also holds immense cultural and historical significance for Georgians. Its intricate medieval architecture, rich frescoes, and ornate decorations make it a must-visit destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. The cathedral is said to house the robe of Jesus Christ, making it one of the holiest places in all of Georgia. The surrounding grounds are also home to ancient burial sites and beautiful gardens that add to the overall charm of this historic site.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(6)
Very nice visit, the sites were beautiful and the time allocated for visits was well distributed. The Georgi guide was super really nice and friendly, the vehicle very comfortable. I recommend this tour
This was a relaxing and very interesting day. The tour consisted of 3 very worthwhile sites on the outskirts of Tbilisi, so there wasn't a ton of driving (like other tours I did) and we had time at each location. David, our guide, was very good and shared many details about the history of the area.
David was very knowledgeable and gave a great tour. He was also very accommodating. It was also a very pleasant drive.
A nice half-day excursion out of town that is definitely worth making, if you still have some free time, after visiting the city of Tbilisi. The Georgian chronicles are really impressive for their cyclopic size, Jvari Monastery is a must for lovers of the genre and the town of Mtskheta with its imposing Cathedral is definitely worth a visit. A special mention for George, our guide, a very helpful and professionally prepared person.
Every thing is perfect the locations and historical places and the tour guide daivd he’s helpful and he takes a lot of pictures for us we enjoyed every moment of the trip
Amazing tour day with great guide and driver Georgi. We were able to visit all the sites I wanted to visit and more at a comfortable pace even given my tight schedule with flight in the evening. Georgi gave a lot of detailed explanations on the history and culture and knows all the sites super well. He also was very patient and helped to take a lot of nice photos. Really interesting and fun day.
