- Welcome to Tbilisi. Upon arrival at Tbilisi International Airport at 11:25 a.m.
- Meeting and transport (30-minute drive) to the hotel in Tbilisi.
- Hotel check-in (before 15:00, depending on availability)
- A visit to the Old Tbilisi On the excursion, you will go to:
Metekhi Church: In the fifth century, the valiant King Vakhtang Gorgasali ordered the construction of this church with an engraved cross. It is strikingly situated on a cliff with a view of the Mtkvari River. The important rocky outcrop above the Metekhi Bridge is home to the iconic Metekhi Church and the 1960s horse-drawn monument of King Vakhtang Gorgasali. When Vakhtang Gorgasali declared Tbilisi his capital in the fifth century, he constructed his palace and the first church at this location. The current church has undergone several reconstructions since it was established between 1278 and 1289 by King Demetre Tavdadebuli (the Self-Sacrificing). The structure is believed to be a replica of the church constructed on this location in the 12th century by King David the Builder, which was destroyed in 1235 by the Mongols.
Narikala Fortress is a historic stronghold with a view over Tbilisi. Savour the view of the cityscape. Standing tall as a Persian castle in the Old Town skyline, Narikala was built in the fourth century. The Arab emirs, whose palace was located inside the stronghold, constructed the majority of the walls in the eighth century. Georgians, Turks, and Persians later took Narikala and rebuilt it, but in 1827, a massive explosion of Russian artillery housed here destroyed the whole structure, leaving just its walls mainly intact. Today, it is a pretty lovely ruin.
In the 1990s, the Church of St. Nicholas within the citadel underwent reconstruction. Taking the cable car from Rike Park to Narikala is the preferred method. Alternatively, you may use the Betlemi Stairs, which start at Lado Asatiani Qucha in Sololaki, or stroll up from Meidan. From the summit of the stronghold, there are fantastic views over Tbilisi.
Chardin Street, named after French artist Jean-Baptiste-Simeon Chardin, is a popular meeting place in Tbilisi known for its fancy cafes, clubs, art salons, and galleries. Shardeni Street, a small walking street in the Upper Kala district, is a centre of cultural and social life, featuring art galleries, handmade items, bars, and restaurants. It is a popular destination for contemporary Georgian artists, shopping, and music. The street is known for its dark basement, which existed in the late Middle Ages. In 2002, street renovations began, and it now houses numerous cultural and entertainment establishments.
The Sulphur Old Baths: Built in the 17th century, these historic buildings with intriguing shops and old homes offer a touch of Old Tbilisi. They feature underground pavilions topped by distinctive red brick domes that stream steam from the hot springs below, creating a mystical ambiance.
In the 5th century, Georgian king Vakhtang Gorgasali built a city near the sulphur springs in Abanotubani sulphur bathhouses. Abanotubani, built by Georgian king Vakhtang Gorgasali in the 5th century, became a centre of Georgian social life. After being destroyed by Iranian ruler Agha Mohammad Khan in 1795, they remain a highlight of Tbilisi, offering affordable, authentic Georgian experiences. The district, near Narikala Fortress, features Meidan Bazaar, Metekhi Church, and Betlemi Street.
Peace Bridge: The Peace Bridge in Tbilisi, located on the Mtkvari River, connects Erekle II Street and Rike. Designed by Michele de Luca and Philippe Martino, it features a glass bridge with a 150-square-metre awning and 156 metres of path. The bridge is a symbol of renewed Tbilisi and is a popular destination for visitors. The bridge is supported by four steel columns and has up to 50,000 light bulbs for nighttime lighting. The total cost of the bridge was 12.5 million GEL, allocated by the city budget.
- Mtshketa visit, and then back to the hotel.
Mtskheta, also known as “Little Jerusalem,” is a historic Georgian town with a rich cultural and religious history. Founded by Mtskhetos in the 1st millennium BCE, it was proclaimed the capital of the Kartli Kingdom by King Parnavaz in the 4th century BCE. Despite being no longer a capital, Mtskheta remains a vital cultural and religious centre in modern-day Georgia, known for its cosmopolitan population and religious tolerance. Its city-museum status is due to its abundance of ancient churches and monuments.
Overnight stay at the hotel.