Today we will explore several of the most significant sites in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi a city that has stood for over fifteen centuries at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

Our first stop will be the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi. It was built in the 6th century by King Dachi of Iberia (Kartli), who moved the capital from Mtskheta to Tbilisi. Originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the church was later renamed Anchiskhati, meaning “the icon of Ancha,” after the revered icon from the Monastery of Ancha (in present-day Turkey) was brought here for safekeeping. Although the icon itself is now preserved in the Art Museum of Georgia, Anchiskhati remains a treasured monument of early Georgian Christian architecture, notable for its harmonious brickwork and austere basilica design.

We will then visit the Sioni Cathedral of Tbilisi, one of the city’s most beloved spiritual landmarks. The original church was built between the 6th and 7th centuries, but it suffered repeated destruction throughout the centuries due to invasions and natural disasters. The current structure largely reflects its 13th-century reconstruction, with additional modifications from the 17th to 19th centuries. The cathedral’s most venerated relic is the cross of St. Nino (St. Nina in Georgian), the Enlightener of Iberia, who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century. This cross, made of grapevines bound with the saint’s own hair, symbolizes the deep and enduring Christian faith of the Georgian people.

In the afternoon, we will visit the National Art Museum of Georgia, home to one of the finest collections of medieval Christian art in the Caucasus. Here we will see remarkable examples of Georgian metalwork, enamel, manuscripts, and icons, many of which were miraculously preserved through the political and social upheavals of the 20th century.

Overnight stay in Tbilisi.

Today we will begin our day by visiting the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi (Sameba), the largest cathedral in Georgia and one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Constructed between 1995 and 2004, Sameba stands majestically on Elia Hill, overlooking the city as a symbol of Georgia’s spiritual revival after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The cathedral combines traditional Georgian architectural elements with modern touches, featuring a massive golden dome that dominates the Tbilisi skyline. Inside, visitors can admire the vast frescoes, marble iconostasis, and intricate carvings that reflect the timeless devotion of the Georgian Orthodox faith.

Afterward, we will drive to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of the early Georgian Kingdom of Iberia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our first stop there will be the Jvari Monastery, perched high on a rocky outcrop overlooking the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari (Kura) rivers. The site is linked by tradition to St. Nino, the enlightener of the Georgians, who is said to have erected a wooden cross here in the 4th century to mark the conversion of the local ruler to Christianity. The present stone church was built at the end of the 6th century, adjacent to the earlier small shrine that commemorated the site of St. Nino’s cross. Jvari is considered a masterpiece of early medieval Georgian architecture and remains a powerful symbol of faith.

Following our visit to Jvari, we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Mtskheta, where we will enjoy traditional Georgian cuisine.

In the afternoon, we will visit the Samtavro Monastery, an active convent that holds deep spiritual significance for modern Georgian believers. It is the resting place of Archimandrite Gabriel (Urgebadze), a beloved 20th-century saint canonized by the Georgian Orthodox Church as St. Gabriel, Confessor and Fool for Christ. According to tradition, the original monastery was founded in the 4th century during the reign of King Mirian III and Queen Nana, Georgia’s first Christian monarchs. The current complex dates to the 11th century, built under the patronage of King George I and Catholicos-Patriarch Melchizedek I. Portions of the original frescoes are still visible within the church, offering a glimpse into Georgia’s medieval artistry.

Our next stop will be the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral — the “Cathedral of the Living Pillar” — one of the most sacred and architecturally significant churches in Georgia. Built in the early 11th century by architect Arsukidze, it stands on a site associated with the earliest Georgian Christian traditions, including the legend of the Lord’s tunic, said to be buried beneath the central pillar. Until the completion of the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi, Svetitskhoveli was the largest church in the country. Today, it remains a spiritual heart of Georgia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the early evening, we will depart for Borjomi, a picturesque resort town famous for its mineral springs and lush forests. Along the way, we will stop for dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying regional specialties before arriving at our hotel for an overnight stay in Borjomi.

Today we will embark on a scenic drive through the gorges of the Kura (Mtkvari) River, exploring two of Georgia’s most important medieval monastic complexes. The route winds through dramatic mountain landscapes, where ancient faith and history are deeply intertwined with the natural beauty of southern Georgia.

Our first stop will be the Sapara Monastery, a secluded sanctuary nestled in the forested hills above the town of Akhaltsikhe. The foundation of the monastery predates the 9th century, and it became one of the spiritual and cultural centers of the Samtskhe region. Over the centuries, Sapara was home to many prominent figures of the Georgian Church and nobility, including members of the Jaqeli princely family, who were influential rulers of the area. Within the monastic complex stand several churches built over time, the largest and most distinguished of which is the Church of St. Saba, constructed in the 13th century. The frescoes that adorn its interior are remarkably well preserved and are celebrated for their refined artistry and expressive depiction of sacred themes, reflecting the flourishing of Georgian religious art during the reign of Queen Tamar.

Our journey will then continue to the Vardzia Cave Monastery, one of Georgia’s most awe-inspiring and iconic landmarks. Carved into the cliffs above the Kura River, this extensive rock-hewn city dates from the 12th century and is traditionally associated with Queen Tamar the Great (reigned 1184–1213). Originally conceived as both a monastic center and a refuge from foreign invaders, the complex once contained over 6,000 rooms spread across up to 13 levels, including living quarters, storerooms, wine cellars, cisterns, a bell tower, and defensive tunnels. At its heart stands the Church of the Dormition of the Mother of God, adorned with magnificent frescoes dating to the 1180s. Among them is the famous depiction of Queen Tamar and her father, King George III, an invaluable record of Georgian royal iconography. Despite damage from earthquakes and invasions, Vardzia remains one of the most remarkable examples of medieval Georgian architecture and devotion.

Time permitting, we will also visit the Zarzma Monastery, located in the lush Adigeni Valley of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. Founded in the 8th–9th centuries by St. Serapion of Zarzma, the monastery flourished under the patronage of local princes and became an important religious and educational center. The main church, built in the 14th century, is renowned for its harmonious proportions and its exquisite frescoes, which have survived in excellent condition. The paintings are considered masterpieces of medieval Georgian mural art, distinguished by their vivid colors and theological depth. The monastery complex also includes a belfry and several auxiliary buildings that illustrate the enduring vitality of Georgian monastic life.

After a day filled with exploration and reflection, we will return to Borjomi for an overnight stay.

This morning, after checking out of our hotel in Borjomi, we will begin our scenic journey toward Kutaisi, one of Georgia’s oldest and most storied cities. Along the way, we will explore several remarkable ecclesiastical sites that reflect the country’s deep spiritual and artistic heritage.

Our first stop will be at the Timotesubani Monastery, located in the picturesque Borjomi Gorge. The monastery complex dates back to the 11th–13th centuries and was an important religious and cultural center during Georgia’s medieval “Golden Age.” The main church, dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, was constructed under the patronage of the powerful local noble Shalva of Akhaltsikhe, a commander who served under Queen Tamar. The church is celebrated for its magnificent frescoes painted in the early 13th century, which are among the finest examples of Georgian medieval mural art. These frescoes, rich in color and expressive detail, depict scenes from the New Testament and portray contemporary Georgian figures in courtly dress. The Timotesubani church exemplifies the perfect harmony of Georgian architecture and painting that flourished during this era of national and religious renewal.

Our next stop will be the Ubisa Monastery, a small but historically significant ecclesiastical complex founded in the 9th century. The monastery’s main church, dedicated to St. George, is especially famous for its 14th-century frescoes, executed in the Paleologian style by the local iconographer Damiane. These paintings are notable for their elegance, subtle color palette, and emotional depth, linking Georgian art to the broader currents of Byzantine culture while maintaining a distinct national character.

After our visit to Ubisa, we will stop at a local restaurant for lunch.

In the afternoon, we will visit the Motsameta Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff above the Rioni River. The name Motsameta means “Place of the Martyrs,” a reference to Saints David and Constantine, brothers from the noble family of Argveti. In the 8th century, they led an uprising against the Arab occupation of Georgia. After being captured, they refused to renounce their Christian faith and were martyred. Their relics, believed to have miraculous powers, are enshrined in the monastery. In the 11th century, King Bagrat IV built the present monastery in their honor. The complex, surrounded by lush forests and offering stunning views of the river gorge, remains a site of pilgrimage and veneration to this day.

In the early evening, we will arrive in Kutaisi, for an overnight stay.

This morning, we will begin our exploration of Kutaisi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a former capital of the ancient Kingdom of Colchis. Our first visit will be to the Bagrati Cathedral, majestically overlooking the city from Ukimerioni Hill. Built in the early 11th century during the reign of King Bagrat III, the first ruler to unite all of Georgia, the cathedral became a powerful symbol of national unity and spiritual revival. Despite suffering destruction over the centuries, Bagrati remains one of the finest examples of medieval Georgian architecture, admired for its harmonious proportions, elegant ornamentation, and commanding setting.

Next, we will visit the Kutaisi Historical Museum, which houses a rich collection of artifacts that trace the region’s long and diverse history — from the ancient kingdoms of Colchis and Iberia to the medieval Georgian monarchy. The museum’s exhibits include royal treasures, ecclesiastical objects, manuscripts, and examples of Georgian craftsmanship that illuminate the cultural and artistic achievements of the region.

After lunch, we will travel west toward the Hobi Monastery (also known as the Monastery of St. John the Baptist), located in the lush lowlands of Samegrelo. The monastery complex, dating from the 13th–14th centuries, was one of the principal religious centers of the Dadiani princes, rulers of Mingrelia. The main church is renowned for its grand scale and its unique architectural style, which blends Georgian and Byzantine influences. Fragments of its original frescoes survive, offering a glimpse into the rich artistic tradition of medieval western Georgia.

In the late afternoon, we will return to Kutaisi for an overnight.

In the morning, we will attend the Divine Liturgy at a local Orthodox church, joining the faithful in worship and experiencing the living tradition of Georgian Christianity. After the service, we will transfer to two minibuses and begin our journey toward the mountainous region of Svaneti, a remote and breathtakingly beautiful part of Georgia renowned for its medieval stone towers, highland villages, and deep-rooted Christian faith.

Our first stop on the way will be the Martvili Monastery, one of the most important religious centers of western Georgia. The site, dramatically situated on a hill above the Abasha River valley, was originally a pagan sacred place before Georgia’s conversion to Christianity. The first Christian church was constructed here in the 7th century, and fragments of carved stone lintels and reliefs from that early structure still survive. The main monastic church was rebuilt in the 10th century, during the height of the unified Georgian kingdom, and its vivid frescoes, dating from the 14th to 17th centuries, are remarkably well preserved. For centuries, Martvili served as the seat of a bishop and played a major role in spreading Christianity throughout western Georgia.

Continuing northward, arrive to Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe, located at an altitude of around 2,200 meters (7,200 ft). The journey from Mestia to Ushguli follows a dramatic mountain road along the Enguri River valley, offering spectacular vistas of the Shkhara massif, Georgia’s highest peak (5,201 meters).

Ushguli is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its exceptional preservation of medieval architecture and vernacular traditions. The village complex consists of four small hamlets clustered beneath the towering mountains, where ancient Svan defensive towers (koshki) rise beside stone houses, creating a striking medieval skyline. These towers, many of which date from the 9th to 12th centuries, once served both as dwellings and fortifications for local families.

At the heart of Ushguli stands the Lamaria Church of the Mother of God, a small but historically and artistically significant church dating to the 10th–12th centuries. According to local tradition, the church was built on a pre-Christian sacred site, and its walls are adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting Christ Pantocrator, the Virgin, and various saints, reflecting both Byzantine and uniquely Georgian artistic influences. Lamaria remains an active place of worship and pilgrimage, embodying the enduring faith of the Svan people.

In the late evening, we will arrive in Mestia, where we will settle into our hotel for an overnight stay, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Caucasus.

This morning, after breakfast, we will begin our exploration of Mestia, the cultural and administrative center of the Svaneti region. Nestled high in the Caucasus Mountains at an elevation of nearly 1,500 meters (4,900 ft), Mestia is surrounded by soaring snow-capped peaks and medieval stone towers that stand as symbols of Svaneti’s proud and independent spirit. The Svans, an ancient highland subgroup of the Georgian people, have preserved their distinct traditions, language, and architecture for over a millennium, largely due to the region’s geographic isolation.

Our first visit will be to the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography, one of the most important regional museums in the Caucasus. Originally founded in the 1930s and completely renovated in recent years, the museum houses a priceless collection of medieval Georgian icons, manuscripts, and ecclesiastical treasures that were safeguarded in Svaneti’s remote churches and towers during centuries of foreign invasions. Among the highlights are 12th–14th century processional crosses, illuminated gospels, icons of the Virgin and Christ, and exquisite examples of Georgian cloisonné enamel work, all testifying to the deep Christian faith and refined artistic culture of medieval Georgia. The museum also presents displays on traditional Svanetian life, including household artifacts, weapons, and jewelry, offering a vivid insight into the region’s unique mountain civilization.

Later, we will ascend by funicular to a viewpoint overlooking the Greater Caucasus, where a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and scattered medieval towers unfolds. From this vantage point, the grandeur of Svaneti’s landscape is fully revealed, offering a dramatic backdrop to the region’s enduring culture and history.

In the late afternoon, we will return to Mestia, enjoying breathtaking mountain views along the way. Dinner and overnight stay in Mestia.

This morning, after breakfast, we will continue exploring Mestia, the heart of Upper Svaneti. The town is renowned for its medieval stone towers (koshki) and centuries-old churches, which reflect the region’s unique architectural and spiritual heritage.

We will begin with visits to some of the “under the key” churches of Mestia, small sanctuaries that are typically kept locked and are only accessible with the permission of local caretakers or clergy. Among these are the Church of the Transfiguration and the Church of the Archangels, both dating from the 10th–12th centuries. The Church of the Transfiguration features well-preserved frescoes depicting Christ, the Virgin, and local saints, while the Church of the Archangels is notable for its intricate stonework and medieval inscriptions. These hidden treasures provide an intimate glimpse into the spiritual life of Svanetian communities and showcase the high level of artistry achieved in this remote region.

In the late afternoon, we will return to our hotel in Mestia for dinner and overnight stay, surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Caucasus.

Today we will continue our exploration of Svaneti, wandering through the dramatic landscapes of the Greater Caucasus and discovering the region’s hidden treasures. We will visit secluded medieval churches, their ancient stone walls and frescoed interiors standing as silent witnesses to centuries of devotion. Along winding paths and quiet mountain trails, the natural beauty of Svaneti — from rushing alpine streams to verdant pastures and snow-capped peaks — will unfold before us, offering moments of reflection and awe.

At the close of the day, we will immerse ourselves in local culture and traditions, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Svans firsthand. Guests may join a cooking masterclass, learning to prepare traditional dishes passed down through generations, or enjoy a folk concert performed by a local ensemble, where music and song bring to life the rhythms and stories of this resilient mountain people. This intimate encounter with Svanetian life will leave a lasting impression, bridging the beauty of the land with the richness of its culture.

This morning we will leave enigmatic Svaneti and will start our lenghty transfer down to the "plains". Our first visit will be to the monastery dedicated to St. Maximos the Confessor, located on the border of Svaneti and Lechkhumi, high on a rocky ridge with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The church was built to serve as a sanctuary in honor of St. Maximos, one of the greatest theologians of the Eastern Church, who suffered for his defense of Orthodoxy against the Monothelite heresy in the 7th century. According to tradition, and confirmed by archaeological findings, the saint reposed in this region in 662 while in exile in ancient Lazika. In 2003, excavations at the site uncovered relics believed to belong to St. Maximos and his two disciples, confirming the long-standing veneration of this holy place. The monastery remains a moving testament to Georgia’s enduring ties with the wider Christian world.

Along the way we will stop for lunch and then we will visit the church in Bugeuli, a small medieval sanctuary renowned for its well-preserved frescoes. Built in the 12th–13th centuries, the church features wall paintings depicting Christ, the Virgin Mary, and local saints, executed in the distinctive Georgian style of the period. The frescoes demonstrate a blend of Byzantine influence and local artistic traditions, with expressive figures and vibrant colors that have survived remarkably well despite the church’s remote location. This hidden gem offers an intimate insight into the devotional life of the mountain communities.

The day will conclude with a visit to Nikortsminda Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Georgian medieval architecture. Constructed in 1010–1014 under King Bagrat III, the cathedral is celebrated for its harmonious proportions, elegant dome, and richly carved façades. Inside, the church retains significant fresco fragments and an intricately decorated altar screen, reflecting both the spiritual and artistic sophistication of the early 11th century. Nikortsminda stands as a symbol of the flourishing Christian culture in western Georgia during the medieval period and remains an active center of worship today.

After exploring the cathedral, we will continue to our overnight stay in the region, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Georgian mountains.

Our first stop during our final day in Georgia will be the monastery of the Nativity of Christ, commonly known as the Katskhi Monastery. This striking octagonal building was conceived at the end of the 9th century and completed by 1014. Its unique design, with three tiers rising above one another, gives the monastery a cascading profile that stands as a remarkable example of Georgian medieval architecture. Over the centuries, it served as both a family abbey and a cultural center for the influential Liparitid family of Imereti. The site was closed during the Soviet period and revived in 1990, returning it to its role as an active spiritual and cultural landmark.

Further down the road, we will visit the church in Koreti, famous for its 16th–17th‑century frescoes, and then the church in Savane, which, although it no longer has murals, is celebrated for its intricate stone carvings. The Koreti church reflects a blend of local and Byzantine influences, offering a vivid glimpse into the devotional art of the region. The Savane church, a single‑nave basilica from the 11th century, features ornamented façades and interlaced stone patterns, with inscriptions marking its construction under Duke George and his community.

At the end of the day, we will visit the majestic Ateni Sioni Cathedral, perched in the scenic Ateni Gorge. Dating to the 7th century, with precursors from the 5th century, the cathedral is a stone tetraconch structure modeled on early Georgian church designs. Its interior is adorned with murals spanning from the 11th century onward, reflecting centuries of artistic and spiritual devotion. We will conclude the day with a farewell dinner at a private winery deep in the Ateni Gorge, surrounded by vineyards and the serene grandeur of the Georgian countryside.

After breakfast, group transfer (If your flight does not coincide with the group transfer, we will be happy to arrange a reasonably priced private transfer for your party.) to the Tbilisi International Airport (airport code: TBS), Republic of Georgia.

For those wishing to explore the Kakheti region and venerate the tomb of St. Nino, arrival in Tbilisi, Georgia should be on Saturday, June 20.

On Sunday, June 21, the day will begin with the Divine Liturgy at a local Orthodox church, a moving experience that introduces the spiritual traditions which have shaped Georgian life for centuries. After the service, we will visit the Ethnographic Museum in Tbilisi, a beautifully reconstructed historic village that showcases traditional Georgian architecture, domestic life, and crafts from various regions of the country. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into centuries-old customs, from weaving and pottery to wood carving and everyday household items, reflecting the diversity and richness of Georgian cultural heritage.

Following our visit, we will transfer to our hotel in Telavi, the historic heart of Kakheti, a region famous for its rolling vineyards, historic monasteries, and centuries-old wine-making traditions. Kakheti is often referred to as the cradle of Georgian wine, where viniculture has been practiced for over 8,000 years using the ancient qvevri method — clay vessels buried underground to ferment and age the wine naturally. In the evening, we will enjoy a tour of a local winery and museum, learning about the unique techniques and rituals that have preserved this ancient craft through the centuries. The day will conclude with a delightful dinner of traditional Kakhetian cuisine, where regional specialties — richly flavored stews, grilled meats, fresh breads, and local cheeses — are paired with the region’s renowned wines, offering a true taste of Georgia’s hospitality and culinary heritage. Overnight at the hotel near Telavi.

We will begin the day with a visit to the tomb of St. Nino in Bodbe, one of Georgia’s most sacred sites. St. Nino, a 4th-century female missionary, is credited with converting the Georgian kingdom of Iberia to Christianity. According to tradition, she lived her final years at Bodbe, dedicating herself to prayer, teaching, and the care of the local community. After her death, a small church was built over her tomb, which later grew into the Bodbe Monastery complex. Over the centuries, the monastery became a major pilgrimage center, attracting faithful from across Georgia and beyond. The site includes the saint’s tomb, a 17th-century church, monastic living quarters, and a spring long associated with miraculous healing, all set amidst lush gardens and serene landscapes overlooking the Alazani Valley.

Following our visit to Bodbe, we will stop in the picturesque hilltop town of Sighnaghi, known as the “City of Love.” This 18th-century town is famous for its cobbled streets, colorful wooden balconies, and defensive walls punctuated by towers. It offers breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley and the Caucasus foothills, making it one of Kakheti’s most romantic and photogenic towns. Here, we will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Kakhetian cuisine and experiencing the warm hospitality for which the region is renowned.

After lunch, we will continue to the New Shuamta Monastery, an 18th-century nunnery built several kilometers from the original Old Shuamta Monastery, which dates back to the 6th century. The New Shuamta was commissioned by Queen Tinatin, who sought to revive monastic life in the area and create a sanctuary for the growing nunnery community. While the Old Shuamta had fallen into decline, the New Shuamta was constructed as a fully functioning convent, preserving the spiritual and artistic traditions of the original site. The complex is distinguished by its elegant domed churches, richly decorated interiors, and well-preserved stone carvings. Surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, New Shuamta is both a place of devotion and a striking example of Georgian ecclesiastical architecture, reflecting centuries of religious art, iconography, and architectural tradition.

Following the visit to New Shuamta, we will transfer back to Tbilisi, where the day will conclude with a joint dinner for the entire group