A tour that combines Armenia with its spectacular heritage of medieval churches and monasteries, beautiful landscape and charming people with its northern neighbour, Georgia, which is also rich in history, architecture and mountain views.
Both countries excel in producing delicious food and wines and are particularly well suited to travel in the summer months.
Yerevan – Dilijan – Tbilisi – Telavi – Tbilisi – Akhaltsikhe – Kutaisi – Tbilisi
Trip Highlights
- Discover Uplistsikhe, a subterranean rock-cut town of churches, tunnels and homes
- Mtskheta is a key cultural and religious centre home to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
- Explore ancient Kutaisi, with its churches, cathedrals and religious complexes
- Tbilisi combines elegant architecture, Soviet relics, museums and great food
Itinerary
Day 1
UK to Yerevan
Fly to Yerevan this morning and upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel.
Hotel Republica
Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel
Day 2
Yerevan
In the morning drive out to the religious capital of Armenia, the town of Echmiadzin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Firstly, see the archaeological site of Zvartnots Cathedral, a masterpiece of 7th century architecture. Continue the main Echmiadzin Cathedral where you can listen to the choir perform the Divine Liturgy. There are outdoor handicraft markets with hand-made souvenirs and carpets from local craftsmen.
- Breakfast
Hotel Republica
Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel
Day 3
Yerevan
Head south through agricultural land to see Khor Virap Monastery. Weather permitting, there is an excellent view of Mount Ararat from here. Continue through a picturesque gorge to Noravank Monastery, with intricate exterior carvings set amongst great natural beauty. En route, visit Areni village famous for wine production. We can visit a small, family-owned winery and try the wine.
- Breakfast
Hotel Republica
Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel
Day 4
Yerevan
Today take a city sightseeing tour of the capital of Armenia. See Republic Square, the Opera House and the Cascade. Drive through Baghramyan Avenue to see Parliament, the Presidential Palace and the National Academy of Sciences. A stop at Victory Park there is a panoramic view of the city. Visit the Food Market with its variety of fresh and dried fruit. The Manuscript Museum of Matenadaran has a great collection of beautifully illuminated medieval Armenian manuscripts. Also visit the Genocide Memorial Complex.
- Breakfast
Hotel Republica
Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel
Day 5
Yerevan
Today drive east from the city and visit the unique medieval monastery of Geghard, some of which is carved from solid rock. Continue to Garni village to visit a pre-Christian pagan temple from the 1st century. If you wish you may walk through Garni canyon to see the 'Symphony of Stones' volcanic rock formations.
- Breakfast
Hotel Republica
Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel
Day 6
Yerevan to Dilijan – 95kms
In the morning drive to Lake Sevan, one of the largest, high-altitude lakes in the world at 1900m. Visit a 9th-century Sevan monastery, perched on a cliff above the lake. Drive on to Dilijan and see Haghartsin and Goshavank monasteries, hidden among the forests of Dilijan National Park. Stay one night at the Dilijan Hotel.
Tufenkian Old Dilijan Complex
Day 7
Dilijan to Tbilisi – 196kms
In the morning drive north through the valley framed by the mountains of the Lesser Caucasus. Drive via Russian-populated villages of molokans, who have striking similarities to Jewish traditions. Visit Haghpat and Sanahin medieval monasteries. Try a special Armenian barbecue for lunch before visiting Akhtala monastery. From here drive to the Armenia-Georgia border and change guides and vehicles. Continue out of the mountains to Tbilisi.
- Breakfast
Rooms Hotel
Tbilisi Marriott Hotel
Stamba Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi
Day 8
Tbilisi
This morning take a walk through old Tiflis and visit the Metekhi church, Synagogue and the Sioni Cathedral then drive up to Narikala Fortress which has fine views over the old town. Later this afternoon extra the New Town which includes a visit to the National Art Museum and a stroll along Rustaveli Avenue. Among the treasures of the city are its two major museums—the Museum of Georgian Fine Arts and the Janashia Museum of Georgia.
- Breakfast
Rooms Hotel
Tbilisi Marriott Hotel
Stamba Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi
Day 9
Tbilisi to Telavi – 94kms
Today we will explore picturesque and the most fertile part of Georgia—Kakheti, which borders the Great Caucasus range from the north Alazani Valley, summits of which are over 3,000 m. This region is known as a birthplace of viticulture and wine- making. Wine is a symbol of Georgian hospitality, friendship, tolerance and a key to the mystery of Georgian longevity. Visit Bodbe nunnery complex founded in the first part of the fourth century. During the Middle Ages Bodbe Convent represented ecclesiastical and cultural centres of the country. Enjoy breathtaking views of Kizikhi and the unusual charm of Sighnaghi Royal Town. Wooden balconies are richly decorated with carved ornaments. Drive to former Alexandre Chavchavadze family residence with a marvellous garden, house museum, park and winery dating back to the 19th century. In the evening arrive at Telavi.
- Breakfast
Chateau Mere Hotel
Day 10
Telavi to Tbilisi – 94kms
In Alazani valley visit the elegant 12th century Alaverdi cathedral. En route, visit Gremi complex, the citadel and royal residence, from where there is a beautiful view of the valley. Nekresi monastery complex in Kvareli region was founded by St. Abibo Nekreseli, one of the Thirteen Syrian monks who came to Georgia in the 6th century to strengthen Christian faith. In the evening return to Tbilisi.
- Breakfast
Rooms Hotel
Tbilisi Marriott Hotel
Stamba Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi
Day 11
Tbilisi to Akhaltsikhe – 202kms
Explore Mtskheta, one of the oldest towns and the cultural and religious centre of Georgia. Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is the main church of Mtskheta and a sacred place where the robe of Christ is said to be kept. Later visit the impressive rock cut town of Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave town dating from the first half of the 1st millennium BC. The entire town is a complex of rock-cut streets, residences, churches, secret tunnels, water passages, markets and the oldest theatre in Georgia. Nearby is the town of Gori, birthplace of Joseph Stalin.
- Breakfast
Lomsia Hotel
Day 12
Akhaltsikhe to Kutaisi – 176kms
After breakfast explore Vardzia, inextricably linked to Queen Tamar, Georgia's most famous and beloved royal who reigned during the 12th century. She founded the cave town of Vardzia which became the most important monastery and primary centre of culture in Georgia. Inside the caves view the remarkably well-preserved frescoes depicting the young queen.
- Breakfast
Communal Hotel Kutaisi
Day 13
Kutaisi
After breakfast explore Kutaisi - an ancient city, the capital of the Kingdom of Colchis. Visit Gelati complex, which comprises the churches of the Virgin (the main church), of St Nicolas, of St. George, as well as the academy which was the centre of cultural and spiritual life. Visit Bagrati Cathedral (11th century) located on Ukimerion Hill. The next stop will be at the 12th century Gelati Academy built by King David the Builder. Visit Prometheus Caves, characterised by a variety of underground rivers and beautiful landscapes.
- Breakfast
Communal Hotel Kutaisi
Day 14
Kutaisi to Tbilisi – 226kms
In the morning return to Tbilisi. En route visit a ceramic market and Ubisi architectural complex. This evening there is a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Rooms Hotel
Tbilisi Marriott Hotel
Stamba Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi
Day 15
Tbilisi to the UK
Morning at leisure. In the afternoon transfer to Tbilisi airport for the Turkish Airlines flight to London via Istanbul.
- Breakfast
Extending your stay...
Discover Kakheti which is located in the heart of Georgia's wine country. The country’s premier wine-producing region, a special microclimate, diverse soil types and traditional methods of fermentation in large clay vessels has resulted in distinctively unique and flavourful wines.
Sighnaghi is widely considered to be the prettiest town in Georgia. Encircled by a crenelated defensive wall, explore the cobbled streets, marvel at traditional Georgian houses complete with distinctive wooden balconies and visit the 19th century St George's Church.
Explore the Ananuri Fortress, a vast fortified complex located around one hour to the north of Tbilisi. Dating to the 16th century, there are breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains whilst the complexes Church of the Assumption is adorned with delicate frescoes.
Gudauri, located in northern Georgia within the high Caucasus Mountains, is renowned for its spectacular alpine scenery. Aside from the setting, a highlight is remote Gergeti Trinity Church which dates to the 14th-century and houses ancient frescoes and religious artefacts.
Guide to Price
15 days from £3975 - £4350 per person
What's Included
- International flights
- Private car and driver
- Accompanying English speaking guide
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's Not Included
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Meals unless specified
from £3975 - £4350
Travel Information
Getting There
There are no direct flights to Georgia from the UK with all journeys requiring a stop en-route. Lufthansa via Munich, Turkish Airlines via Istanbul and Qatar Airways connecting in Doha are the best options.
Flying Times From UK
An indirect flight to Georgia will take between 6 to 8 hours.
Time Zone
Georgia is +4 hours ahead of GMT.
Visa Requirements
No visa is required for British Citizens visiting Georgia. On arrival you may be asked to show proof of your return journey and first night’s accommodation.
Do’s & Don’ts
Georgia is known for its hospitality and the local people are very friendly.
Try to learn a few phrases in Georgian as this will be well received.
Always ask permission before taking photographs of people. Also note that photography is prohibited at airports and military installations.
It is respectful to cover arms, shoulders and legs if visiting religious sites.
Money
The currency in Georgia is the Lari and is sub-divided into 100 tetri. Towns and cities have plenty of reliable ATMs so it is recommended to wait until arriving in Georgia to withdraw local currency. In the majority of Georgia all major credit cards are accepted, however, outside of Tbilisi card facilities are less common. Make sure you carry cash if you plan to take a taxi or will be visiting markets.
Tipping
Tipping is not commonly expected in Georgia and the idea is relatively new. However for good service in a hotel a tip of 10% will be gratefully accepted. A guideline for tipping your drivers and guides will be advised prior to travel.
Food & Drink
Georgian food is known for its strong flavours, use of herbs such as coriander, and, in some cases, salted dishes. Georgian cuisine also has a lot of different influences with Asian, European and Middle Eastern dishes combined to make a rich and diverse menu. Food is a big part of daily life in Georgia and evening meals are a lavish affair with plenty of drink and many shared dishes. Meat, spices and bread products are the base of most dishes with favourites being basturma, cured meats with pickled vegetables, lobio, a bean and walnut salad, and khachapuri an edible bread bowl occasionally filled with a meat-like stew and topped with melted cheese. Georgia is an underrated wine destination and there are many fine vineyards here. As a result, wine is one of the most popular drinks in the country with fruity reds the best.
Accommodation
Since the fall of the Soviet Union, the quality of hotel accommodation throughout Georgia has greatly improved. In Tbilisi there are a selection of good internationally owned hotels – the architecture of which can be quite futuristic, as much of the modern buildings are in Georgia. Facilities at these hotels are largely good, with restaurants, swimming pools, bars and spas. There are also some boutique-style hotels here too. Outside of the capital, accommodation is generally clean and comfortable but tends to be of a traditional style. In the town of Dilijan the hotel here is particularly memorable with guesthouse accommodation in charmingly renovated heritage buildings.
Shopping
The Bridge Market in Tbilisi is a great place to find local produce, ceramics, embroidery, rugs, clothing and jewellery. Alternatively take home a few bottles of Georgian wine or brandy from neighbouring Armenia. In markets remember to haggle.
Suggested Reading
Lonely Planet, Rough Guides and Bradt all have very good general guidebooks for Georgia with plenty of information and good maps. Further titles on the history and culture of Georgia include:
‘The Caucasus: An Introduction’, by Thomas de Waal
‘Edges of Empires: A History of Georgia’, by Donald Rayfield
‘Lives and Legends of the Georgian Saints’, by David Marshall Lang
‘A Time of Miracles’, by Anne-Laure Bondoux
‘Georgia, a Sovereign Country of the Caucasus’, by Roger Rosen
‘Georgia: A Rebel in the Caucasus’, by Peter Nasmyth
‘Georgia: In the Mountains of Poetry’, by Peter Nasmyth
‘Bread and Ashes: A Walk through the Mountains of Georgia’, by Tony Anderson
‘Stories I Stole: From Georgia’, by Wendell Steavenson
Health
Your doctor is the best person to advise you on staying healthy whilst abroad and whilst there are no current recommended vaccinations you may wish to consider Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Yellow Fever is compulsory, but only if you have visited an affected Yellow Fever area within 5 days prior to your arrival. In some instances anti-malarial tablets may also be needed. For current information on health advice you may wish to visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website Travel Health Pro on https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/. The Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) website (www.masta.org) is also a useful resource.
Travel Advice
For current information on Georgia the best resource is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) which is a comprehensive resource and updated regularly. We would also recommend visiting the Safer Tourism Foundation website (safertourism.org.uk) before you travel and will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Looking for something more bespoke?
Our Georgia travel consultants can help you create your perfect trip
- Experts in tailor-made holidays
- Honest pricing with no hidden extras
- ABTA and ATOL protected
Our Reviews
What our clients say
A perfect tour of this wonderful country
HR & PR - Georgia - September 2024
We just wanted to thank Pettitts for a wonderful trip to Georgia. Over our 14 days there we enjoyed the marvelous scenery, interesting churches and monasteries, fascinating history, wonderful fresh food and of course the company of our fabulous guide Maya and intrepid driver Beso. Thank you for the perfect tour of this wonderful country.
Getting to know you
A crucial part of our process, discuss your plans with us either by phone, video or in person.
Helping you to design your trip
Entirely tailor-made, there is complete flexibility to incorporate all your requirements.
On-hand support, when you need it
Our team are on hand to answer any questions and ensure you are fully ready, and excited, for your trip.
Full confidence whilst you are away
Enjoy full support from our UK team and trusted local partners throughout your journey.
We’re pleased to confirm that Pettitts Travel will not apply any surcharges to our package holidays when we are operating as a tour operator, regardless of changes in global costs. The price you agree at the time of booking is the price you will pay, a commitment we have proudly upheld for the past 38 years.
