Planning a trip to Georgia? Don’t miss Central Georgia – where lush forests, mineral springs, and ancient cave cities transport you to another world.
Why Central Georgia Should Be on Your Bucket List
Imagine waking up to the scent of pine trees, and walking through mysterious rock-hewn cities that whisper stories from ancient times…
Central Georgia is a treasure trove that often escapes the typical tourist trail – yet it offers some of the country’s most magical and Instagrammable experiences.
In this guide, we’ll take you to two must-visit gems:
- Borjomi – the iconic spa town famous for its natural mineral water
- Cave Town of Vardzia and Uplistsikhe – where history comes alive in stone
🌿 Borjomi: The Spa Town of Royal Waters
What Makes Borjomi Special?
Nestled in the Borjomi Gorge, surrounded by the lush Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, this town is famous for its healing mineral springs. For centuries, Borjomi water has been bottled and sold around the world, known for its digestive and healing properties.
Must-Do Activities in Borjomi:
✅ Sip the famous Borjomi water straight from the spring in Borjomi Central Park
✅ Relax in Sulfur Pools surrounded by mountain greenery
✅ Hike in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, one of the largest protected areas in Europe
✅ Try Georgian food in a local family-owned restaurant (hint: the mushroom dishes here is next-level)
📸 Photo Tip: The Borjomi Cable Car and River Bridge give epic shots for Reels and Stories!
Book the best activities to Borjomi resort and cave towns here
Vardzia: Georgia’s Lost City in the Cliffs
Just a few hours from Borjomi lies Vardzia, one of the most surreal and awe-inspiring places in Georgia. Built in the 12th century under Queen Tamar, this massive cave monastery complex was carved directly into the cliffs of Erusheti Mountain.
It once housed over 2,000 monks and had 13 levels, secret tunnels, and even a wine cellar still intact today.
Top Highlights:
🔸 The Church of the Dormition – home to rare frescoes of Queen Tamar
🔸 Underground tunnels and living quarters you can explore
🔸 Panoramic views of the Mtkvari River Valley
⚠️ Insider Tip: Go early or late in the day to avoid crowds and catch magical lighting for photos.
📍 Getting There: Join a day trip from Borjomi or rent a car – the drive is part of the adventure!
Uplistsikhe: The Pagan Rock City
If you love off-the-beaten-path discoveries, Uplistsikhe is your spot. This prehistoric cave town (older than Christianity in Georgia!) is carved from sandstone cliffs overlooking the Mtkvari River.
It was once a thriving pagan city, complete with a pharmacy, theater, and temples.
What to See:
✨ The ancient rock theater and halls
✨ Panoramic viewpoints perfect for drone shots
✨ Mysterious tunnels that echo with history
🗺️ Pro Tip: Combine Uplistsikhe with a trip to nearby Gori (Stalin’s birthplace) for a full-day adventure.
📆 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary for Central Georgia
Day 1: Arrive in Borjomi – Explore Central Park, taste the spring water, relax in the pools
Day 2: Day trip to Vardzia with lunch by the river
Day 3: Visit Uplistsikhe, Mtskheta (UNESCO city) and return to Tbilisi via Gori💬 Need a custom tour with local guidance for most authentic travel experience? Contact me here.
💡 Travel Tips from a Local Guide
- Best time to visit: May till October for perfect weather and green landscapes
- What to wear: Comfortable shoes – there’s a lot of walking and some cliffs to climb at both cave towns
- Photography: Sunrise or sunset is magical in cave towns
- Connectivity: Most areas have 4G, but bring a power bank
✨ Don’t Miss Out!
Whether you’re an adventurer, history lover, photographer, or wellness seeker – Central Georgia has something unforgettable for you.
📲 Follow me on Instagram @georgia_travel_tips_by_teona for reels, behind-the-scenes, and daily travel tips
📌 Pin this post for your Georgia travel plans
💬 Comment below – What would you love to see in Central Georgia?
