Round trip in Georgia for self-drivers

Your round trip in Georgia for self-drivers begins in Tbilisi. Discover the old town with the Metekhi Church, the modern Peace Bridge and other sights on your first walk. For a great overview, take the cable car up to Narikala Fortress. Enjoy the atmosphere of this lively and multicultural city. In the second half of the day, you will visit the old capital Mtskheta, where you will visit the impressive Svetitskhoveli and Jvari monasteries.

Overnight: in Tbilisi

Today’s tour takes you to the famous wine region of Kakheti. First, you will explore Sighnaghi, affectionately known as the ‘city of love’. From the old city wall, you can enjoy fantastic views over the wide Alazani Valley. Nearby is the Bodbe Monastery, the final resting place of St Nino. Before returning to Tbilisi, stop in the village of Kakabeti for a delicious wine tasting – a true Georgian delight!

Overnight: Tbilisi

A beautiful stage of the self-drive tour in Georgia begins! Today’s journey takes you southwards, deep into the vast landscapes of the Lesser Caucasus. Your route takes you past Lake Zalka and over the impressive Paravani Pass. Up here, the picturesque lakes of Sagamo and Paravani and a very special, tranquil atmosphere on the high plateau await you. Full of anticipation for tomorrow’s exploration of the famous cave city, you reach your destination for the day, Vardzia.

Overnight: in Vardzia

The morning is dedicated to exploring the incredible cave town of Vardzia (tour approx. 1 hour). The journey then continues through the picturesque Kura Valley. In Achalkalaki you can visit the imposing Rabati fortress. You may want to make a stop at Zarzma Monastery before you reach the Goderdzi Pass – your destination for today high up in the mountains. You can expect basic accommodation here.

Overnight: on the pass

Today you can relax on the Goderdzi Pass. How about a short hike to the idyllic Green Lake or through the nearby shepherd settlements? Simply enjoy the fresh mountain air, the peace and quiet and the beautiful landscape of Adjara. Maybe you’ll have a nice chat with the locals over a coffee. A day for authentic experiences.

Overnight: on the pass

From the Goderdzi Pass, the journey today takes you downhill towards the Black Sea coast. A real little adventure awaits you in Chulo: an old cable car takes you to the remote village of Tago – the view is spectacular! After a short walk through the village, you continue to Batumi, the lively harbour town by the sea.

Overnight: in Batumi

A whole day at leisure in Batumi! Stroll along the famous boulevard by the Black Sea, marvel at the exciting architecture or simply relax on the beach. A dip in the sea? Batumi exudes holiday flair.

Overnight: in Batumi

You leave the coast and travel to Kutaisi, the second largest city in Georgia. Here, the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery are well worth a visit, as is the fascinating Prometheus Cave. Things get mountainous in the afternoon. An adventurous section of the round trip in Georgia for self-drivers begins: Your route follows the Tskhenistskali River into Lower Svaneti. Your destination today is Lentechi, the gateway to the famous mountain region of Svaneti.

Overnight: in Lentekhi

Get ready for one of the most spectacular stages of your Georgia self-drive tour! Today’s drive to Ushguli (UNESCO World Heritage Site) over the beautiful Lasdili and Zagaro passes (2600m) is challenging and an off-road vehicle is highly recommended.

The reward is immeasurable: marvel at the unique medieval fortified towers of Ushguli, which rise against the mighty backdrop of Shkhara, Georgia’s highest peak. Take time to explore the village and the small Lamaria church. If you wish and have time, you can also take an optional hike towards the glacier. Then continue to Mestia.

Overnight: in Mestia

Today you will explore Mestia, the capital and cultural heart of Svaneti. A visit to the excellent Mestia Museum provides deep insights into the history and culture of the region. The house-museum of the famous mountaineer Chergiani is also worth a visit. The absolute highlight is the cable car ride up to Mount Zuruldi – from up here you can enjoy an unforgettable 360-degree panorama of the surrounding Caucasus giants! At the top, you can also take a short hike on the plateau.

Overnight: in Mestia

Farewell to Svaneti. Your journey takes you out of the mountains again today and further east. Your destination is the charming Ateni Valley near Gori. Here you should visit the historic Ateni Sioni church with its important frescoes. A very special experience awaits you in the evening: you will spend the night with the well-known winemaker Nika Vacheishvili and enjoy an authentic wine tasting directly at the winery.

Overnight: in Ateni with Vacheishvili

Today you can expect a drive along one of the most famous routes in the Caucasus: the Georgian Military Road! There are fantastic photo opportunities along the way, such as the picturesque Ananuri Fortress directly on the Shinvali Reservoir.

Enjoy the sweeping views from Gudauri View Point (“Friendship Monument”) and cross the high cross pass (Jvari Pass, 2379m). In the afternoon you reach Stepantsminda (formerly Kazbegi), impressively situated directly at the foot of mighty Mount Kazbek. Take your time to arrive.

Overnight: in Stepantsminda

One last major highlight of your trip awaits! In the morning you drive (or optionally hike) up to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church (Zminda Sameba). In good weather, the mighty Kasbek towers directly behind it – a postcard motif and an unforgettable sight! Afterwards, you return to Tbilisi. Enjoy your last evening in the lively capital and reflect on the many impressions of your self-drive tour of Georgia.

Overnight: in Tbilisi

Depending on your departure time, you may still have some time for last-minute souvenirs in Tbilisi. This wonderful round trip in Georgia for self-drivers ends with the return of the rental car and the transfer to the airport.