Uplistsikhe Cave Town Day Tour From Tbilisi

Discover the Highlights of Georgia: Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe Embark on an unforgettable journey through Georgia’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and ancient secrets. We begin at the 6th-century Jvari Monastery, a hilltop UNESCO site offering breathtaking views where the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers merge. Next, we explore the majestic Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, the spiritual cradle of the country, famed as the burial site of Christ’s robe. Moving on to Gori, you will step back into the Soviet era at the Stalin Museum, exploring the leader's birthplace, personal artifacts, and armored railway car. Finally, travel back to the Iron Age at Uplistsikhe Cave Town, a spectacular fortress carved into sandstone cliffs, filled with ancient pagan temples and secret tunnels. Perfect for history buffs and scenery lovers alike, this tour packs centuries of heritage into one incredible day trip from Tbilisi.

1. 1

   Jvari Monastery

   30 min

   Perched dramatically on a clifftop overlooking the ancient capital of Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery is a 6th-century masterpiece of early medieval Georgian architecture and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. This sacred hilltop is where Saint Nino, the evangelist who introduced Christianity to Georgia, erected a monumental wooden cross in the 4th century, making it one of the country's holiest destinations. Visitors are drawn here not only for its profound spiritual and historical significance but also for the breathtaking, postcard-perfect panoramic views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers merging right below.

2. 2

   Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

   45 min

   Located in the heart of the historic town of Mtskheta, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is an 11th-century architectural masterpiece and a deeply revered UNESCO World Heritage site that serves as the spiritual cradle of Georgia. Known as the burial site of Christ’s robe, this majestic cathedral is steeped in sacred legends and surrounded by defensive stone walls that echo centuries of royal coronations and burials. Inside, visitors are captivated by soaring vaulted ceilings, impressive remnants of medieval frescoes, and a grand energy that beautifully showcases the golden age of Georgian Christian history.

3. 3

   Stalin Museum

   1 hour

   Located in the heart of Joseph Stalin’s hometown, the Stalin Museum offers a fascinating and unique journey back into the Soviet era. The complex includes the grand, palace-like main museum filled with personal belongings, historical photographs, and unique memorabilia, as well as the humble wooden house where Stalin was born in 1879. Visitors can also step inside his personal, armored railway carriage, which he used from 1941 onwards to travel to historic conferences like Yalta and Tehran. It stands as a powerful and intriguing historical site that provides an unfiltered, thought-provoking look into the life and legacy of one of the 20th century's most controversial figures.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   1 hour

   Carved into a rocky plateau along the banks of the Mtkvari River, Uplistsikhe is an extraordinary, ancient rock-hewn city that dates back to the Early Iron Age. As one of the oldest urban settlements in Georgia, this fascinating archaeological complex contains a labyrinth of secret tunnels, pagan temples, living quarters, and a 10th-century Christian basilica, all sculpted directly into the sandstone cliffs. Walking through its ancient streets, visitors can explore the unique blend of Anatolian and Iranian rock-cut architecture while enjoying striking, panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.