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Comprehensive 12-Day Georgia Road Trip: From Tbilisi to Batumi and Back

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Day 1: Arrival and Tbilisi Exploration

Tbilisi, Georgia on May 17, 2025

12:45pm

Arrival at Tbilisi Airport

Land at Tbilisi International Airport and pick up your rental car for the upcoming road trip across Georgia.
0GEL, 0h30m

1:30pm

Check-in at Tbilisi hotel

Settle into a centrally located hotel such as Rooms Hotel Tbilisi, ideal for exploring the city and relaxing after the flight.
Variable, 1h

2:30pm

Lunch at Machakhela

Enjoy traditional Georgian cuisine like khachapuri and khinkali at Machakhela, open daily from 10am-11pm.
GEL30-50, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Old Tbilisi

Stroll through the Old Town with highlights including the Narikala Fortress, sulfur bathhouses, and the Bridge of Peace. Most sites are open until evening.
0GEL, 2h

5:30pm

Visit Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba)

Visit one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world, open until 7pm.
0GEL, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Barbarestan

Savor Georgian dishes made from family recipes dating back 150 years. Open 12pm-10pm; reservations recommended.
GEL60-90, 1.5h
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Day 2: Tbilisi to Kazbegi

Kazbegi, Georgia on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Café Leila

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local and organic options; Café Leila opens at 8am and offers a cozy atmosphere.
GEL20-30, 1h

9:00am

Drive from Tbilisi to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)

The scenic 3-hour drive along the Georgian Military Highway includes stops at Ananuri Fortress and the Gudauri ski resort area.
Fuel Cost Approx. GEL50, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Micha’s Place, Kazbegi

Taste local mountain cuisine with views of Mount Kazbek. Open from 11am to 9pm.
GEL40-60, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Gergeti Trinity Church

Hike or drive up to the iconic church perched above Kazbegi with stunning mountain backdrops. Accessible by a 1-hour hike or 20-min drive; open daylight hours.
0GEL, 2h

3:30pm

Relax at Hotel Stepantsminda

Check in and rest at a local guesthouse or hotel, preparing for next day’s adventures.
Variable, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel or nearby dining

Enjoy local dishes such as trout and stews with fresh mountain ingredients; many hotels have in-house restaurants open until 9pm.
GEL30-50, 1.5h
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Day 3: Kazbegi Exploration

Kazbegi, Georgia on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the hotel

Start the day with fresh Georgian bread, cheeses, and honey.
Included in lodging, 1h

9:00am

Day hike to Gveleti Waterfalls

A beautiful moderate 3-4 hour hike showcasing stunning waterfalls and pristine nature; best to start early to enjoy the whole route.
0GEL, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch in Kazbegi town

Sample local dishes with mountain views at one of the small cafés serving khinkali and soups, typically open 10am-6pm.
GEL30-40, 1h

3:00pm

Visit the local History Museum

Learn about the history and culture of Kazbegi and the surrounding region; open from 10am to 5pm.
GEL5, 1h

4:30pm

Coffee break at Coffee Room

Relax with a coffee or tea at this local favorite spot before departing Kazbegi the next day.
GEL10-15, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at a local guesthouse

Enjoy a traditional Georgian dinner with fresh mountain ingredients; many guesthouses offer homemade dishes prepared with care.
GEL30-50, 1.5h
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Day 4: Kazbegi to Kutaisi via Uplistsikhe and Gori

Kutaisi, Georgia on May 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast and check-out

Enjoy breakfast and prepare for departure to Kutaisi, ensuring all belongings are packed.
Included in lodging, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Gori

Approximately 3-hour drive south with a scenic route; prepare for archaeological and historical stops.
Fuel Approx. GEL40, 3h

11:30am

Visit Stalin Museum, Gori

Explore the birthplace of Joseph Stalin including his preserved train carriage and exhibitions; open 10am-6pm.
GEL8, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch in Gori

Dine at a local restaurant such as Café Stalin offering traditional Georgian food and relaxed ambiance; open 11am-9pm.
GEL25-40, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to Uplistsikhe

A 15-minute drive from Gori to this ancient rock-hewn town; admission open 9am-7pm.
GEL10, 3h

4:30pm

Continue drive to Kutaisi

A drive of approximately 2.5 hours; check into your hotel and relax.
Fuel Approx. GEL35, 2.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Palaty

Enjoy Georgian and regional dishes in a charming garden setting; open until 10pm.
GEL50-70, 1.5h
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Day 5: Exploring Kutaisi and surroundings

Kutaisi, Georgia on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Stamba Café

Start your day with fresh coffee and Georgian pastries; open from 8am.
GEL20-30, 1h

9:00am

Visit Bagrati Cathedral

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing beautiful medieval Georgian architecture; open daily 9am-7pm.
GEL5, 1h

10:15am

Gelati Monastery

A 15-minute drive from the city center, this 12th-century monastery is a cultural treasure; open 9am-7pm.
GEL5, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Palaty

Return to Palaty for a midday meal enjoying fresh, seasonal Georgian cuisine.
GEL40-60, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kutaisi Market

Explore the bustling Kutaisi Market for local produce, spices, and crafts; perfect for souvenirs.
Free entry, 1h

2:30pm

Drive to Sataplia Nature Reserve

15-minute drive to Sataplia, known for dinosaur footprints and a scenic cave tour; open 9am-6pm.
GEL12, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel and relax

Enjoy some leisure time at your hotel.
Included in lodging, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Qibla

Dine on Georgian dishes with a contemporary twist in a cozy atmosphere; open until 10pm.
GEL50-70, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Kutaisi

Day 6: Kutaisi to Batumi

Batumi, Georgia on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive from Kutaisi to Batumi

Approximately a 2.5-hour, scenic coastal drive along the Black Sea.
Fuel Approx. GEL40, 2.5h

11:30am

Check in to hotel in Batumi

Settle into a seaside hotel, such as Hilton Batumi, ideal for exploring the city and beach.
Variable, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Retro

Enjoy fresh seafood and Georgian dishes in a trendy setting; open 12pm-11pm.
GEL50-80, 1h

1:30pm

Batumi Boulevard and beach

Walk along the scenic boulevard and enjoy the Black Sea beach, perfect for relaxation and photos. Open all day.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Visit Batumi Botanical Garden

Explore the extensive gardens showcasing flora from diverse climates; open 9am-7pm.
GEL15, 2h

6:00pm

Return to hotel to freshen up

Relax after the day of exploration.
Included, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Chacha Time

Try traditional Georgian dishes and chacha (local spirit) in lively surroundings; open until 11pm.
GEL40-70, 1.5h
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Day 7: Batumi Relax and Explore

Batumi, Georgia on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the hotel or Café Writers’ House

Enjoy fresh coffee and breakfast options; Café Writers’ House opens at 8am.
GEL20-30, 1h

9:00am

Visit Dolphinarium

Watch engaging dolphin shows, open from 10am to 6pm; arrive early to get good seats.
GEL25, 1.5h

11:00am

Batumi Archeological Museum

Learn about Batumi’s history and artifacts; open 10am-5pm.
GEL7, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Laguna

A great spot for fresh seafood near the beach; open noon until late.
GEL50-80, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Mtirala National Park

Short drive from Batumi, offers hiking trails and waterfalls; open daylight hours.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Return to Batumi

Relax at your hotel or stroll the city streets.
Included, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Heart of Batumi

Historic building with upscale Georgian dining and elegant ambiance; open 12pm-11pm.
GEL70-100, 1.5h
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Day 8: Batumi to Vardzia via Akhaltsikhe

Vardzia, Georgia on May 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast and check-out

Prepare for a longer drive south towards Vardzia.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Akhaltsikhe

Approximately 2 hours drive; visit the Rabati Fortress on arrival.
Fuel Approx. GEL40, 2h

10:30am

Visit Rabati Fortress

Explore this renovated medieval fortress complex with museums and cafes; open 9am-7pm.
GEL10, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Fortress Café

Enjoy local dishes with a view inside the fortress area; open until 5pm.
GEL25-40, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to Vardzia

Approximately a 1-hour drive to the cave city of Vardzia.
Fuel Approx. GEL20, 1h

2:30pm

Tour Vardzia Cave Monastery

Explore the remarkable ancient cave city carved into cliffs, open 9am-7pm.
GEL10, 2h

4:30pm

Check into nearby guesthouse

Stay in guesthouses close to Vardzia for easy morning access.
Variable, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at guesthouse or local eatery

Enjoy rural Georgian cuisine in a tranquil setting.
GEL30-40, 1.5h
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Day 9: Vardzia to Tbilisi via Borjomi

Tbilisi, Georgia on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and check-out

Early breakfast before driving to Tbilisi.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Borjomi

Approximate 2-hour drive northwest to Borjomi, the famous mineral water resort town.
Fuel Approx. GEL40, 2h

11:00am

Visit Borjomi Central Park and mineral waters

Enjoy walking trails and taste the natural mineral water; park open 8am-8pm.
Free, 1.5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Balinini, Borjomi

A cozy spot offering Georgian meals and bakery items; open 10am-6pm.
GEL30-40, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to Tbilisi

Approximate 2.5-hour drive back to Tbilisi to conclude the circle trip.
Fuel Approx. GEL50, 2.5h

4:00pm

Check into Tbilisi hotel

Return to your hotel for rest and explore evening options.
Variable, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Shavi Lomi

Enjoy contemporary Georgian cuisine in an atmospheric setting; open until 10pm.
GEL50-70, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Tbilisi

Day 10: Tbilisi Historical and Cultural Day

Tbilisi, Georgia on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Prospero’s Books & Caliban’s Coffeehouse

A lovely café combining books and coffee, starting the day with a literary vibe; open 8am-10pm.
GEL20-30, 1h

9:00am

Visit National Museum of Georgia

Explore archaeological and historical exhibits; open 10am-6pm.
GEL15, 2h

11:30am

Walk to Rustaveli Avenue and Freedom Square

Experience Tbilisi’s main thoroughfare with shops, cafes, and statues; free to explore.
Free, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Gabriadze

Enjoy the whimsical setting of Rezo Gabriadze Theatre café offering great Georgian food; open noon - 10pm.
GEL40-60, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the Georgian National Opera and Ballet Theater (exterior or attend a performance)

Historic building worth seeing from outside or enjoy an afternoon show if available; tickets vary.
Variable, 1-2h

4:30pm

Relax at Mtatsminda Park

Take a funicular ride to the hilltop park offering panoramic city views; park open until 10pm.
GEL7 funicular, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Funicular Restaurant

Dine with spectacular views of Tbilisi in an elegant setting; open until 11pm.
GEL80-120, 1.5h
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Day 11: Day Trip to Mtskheta

Mtskheta and Tbilisi, Georgia on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up before the short day trip.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Mtskheta

A 30-min drive north to the ancient capital with UNESCO heritage sites.
Fuel Approx. GEL10, 0.5h

9:30am

Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

One of Georgia’s most sacred churches known for unique ancient architecture; open daily 9am-7pm.
Free, 1h

10:45am

Visit Jvari Monastery

Monastery perched on a hill with magnificent views overlooking Mtskheta; open 9am-7pm.
GEL5, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Shemoikhede Genatsvale

Traditional Georgian food in Mtskheta, with outdoor seating; open 11am-9pm.
GEL30-50, 1h

1:30pm

Return to Tbilisi

Drive back for afternoon shopping or strolling.
Fuel Approx. GEL10, 0.5h

2:00pm

Shopping at Dry Bridge Market

Famous flea market with antiques and handmade crafts; open 10am-6pm.
Free entry, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Tbilisi Botanical Garden

Largest botanical garden in the Caucasus; open 9am-8pm.
GEL5, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Azarphesha

Contemporary Georgian recipes and wines, great for a final Tbilisi meal; open till 11pm.
GEL60-90, 1.5h
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Day 12: Departure Day

Tbilisi, Georgia on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Georgia at the hotel.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Leisurely morning at Rustaveli Avenue or shopping last-minute souvenirs

Take in final sights or pick up last gifts.
Free, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Café Leila or nearby

Final Georgian meal before heading to the airport.
GEL30-50, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to Tbilisi Airport

Allow at least 3 hours for rental car return and airport check-in.
Fuel Approx. GEL10, 1h

2:30pm

Rental car drop-off and check-in

Complete airport formalities and prepare for departure flight at 5:30pm.
0GEL, 2h
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