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Self-drive tour in Georgia 12 days
This perfectly organized 12-day Self-drive tour in Georgia takes you to the country’s most remarkable sights in your own rental car, offering flexibility, independence, and the convenience of a well-planned itinerary.
Begin your adventure in Georgia’s charming capital, Tbilisi, with its vibrant old town, before immersing yourself in the sun-soaked wine region of Kakheti, home to ancient winemaking traditions. Continue along the spectacular Georgian Military Road into the majestic Kazbegi region, where the panoramic view of Gergeti Trinity Church will leave a lasting impression.
Discover the mystical cave towns of Uplistsikhe and Vardzia, and explore Georgia’s UNESCO World Heritage treasures. Remote villages, medieval fortified towers, and breathtaking mountain scenery await you in the wild beauty of Svaneti. Finally, the Black Sea coast and the seaside resort of Batumi invite you to relax after your journey through so many unforgettable landscapes.
This self-drive tour of Georgia combines the freedom of independent travel with the reassurance of a well-supported trip, including accommodation, route suggestions, and local assistance. It’s the perfect choice for travelers who want to explore Georgia independently without compromising on comfort or organization.
Come and experience the unforgettable highlights of Georgia on your self-drive tour, organized by your local experts at Enjoy Georgia.
Highlights of the self-drive tour:
√ Capital Tbilisi
√ Family-run hotels with regional cuisine
√ All Georgia's UNESCO World Heritage Sites
√ Cave cities Uplistsikhe & Vardzia
√ Svaneti, defence towers & mountains over 5,000m
√ The Black Sea coast
Itinerary
Your trip to Georgia for self-drivers starts in Tbilisi, but the tour can also be organised to start in Kutaisi. You will be picked up at the airport and taken to a nice hotel in the old city Centre.
Day 1: Arrival in Georgia
You will be picked up at the airport and taken to a nice hotel in the old city centre.
* Please note that check-in at the hotel is only possible from 3 pm.
If you arrive earlier, you can store your luggage in the hotel, until you can check into your room.
Accommodation: Hotel in Tbilisi 3*
(2 nights)
Day 2: City tour in Tbilisi
Even though this tour to Georgia is designed for self-drivers, we would like to offer you city tour of Tbilisi. This will not only give you a first, exciting insight into the capital, but you will also get to know a local contact person who will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
The city tour starts at around 9 a.m. and lasts around 4 to 5 hours - enough time to get to know the most important sights and charming corners of the city.
The handover of your hire car is completely flexible - depending on your wishes, either directly after the city tour or relaxed the next morning
Accommodation: Hotel in Tbilisi 3*
(B/-/-)
Day 3: The city of love & Kakheti wine region
After breakfast, your self-drive adventure in Georgia begins with a special cultural highlight: a journey eastward (about 2 hours’ drive) to the beautifully situated Bodbe Monastery, one of the country’s most important pilgrimage sites. Here lies St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century—a place steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Your trip then continues to the romantic town of Signagi, also known as the “City of Love.” A leisurely stroll through its charming alleyways reveals Mediterranean flair, breathtaking views over the Alazani Valley, and the warm atmosphere of a typical Georgian town.
In the afternoon, your route leads you through the picturesque Alazani Valley, the heart of Georgia’s Kakheti wine region. At a traditional winery, an engaging guided tour awaits, where you’ll discover the secrets of Georgia’s millennia-old winemaking tradition. During a delightful tasting, you’ll experience the unique contrasts between the ancient Qvevri method and European winemaking—a true feast for the senses!
To end the day in comfort, you’ll spend the night in a stylish winery, surrounded by Georgian hospitality and charm.
Distance to drive: 190 km.
Accommodation: Comfortable winery
(B/wine tour) 1 overnight
Day 4: Spiritual centre and the Greater Caucasus
After a relaxed breakfast, set out for the charming town of Telavi—perfect for a leisurely stroll through its historic old town, where medieval, neoclassical, and Soviet architecture blend in fascinating ways. Don’t miss a short detour to the impressive 900-year-old plane tree, a silent witness to centuries of Georgian history.
Your journey continues over the scenic Gombori Pass to Mtskheta, the spiritual heart of Georgia. Here you may visit the Jvari Church and the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites offering profound history and magnificent views.
After a short break by the River Kura, your self-drive tour leads you onto the famous Georgian Military Road. One of the highlights along the way is the impressive 17th-century fortified church of Ananuri, picturesquely perched on the shores of the Aragvi Reservoir—a perfect spot to pause and take photos.
The route then carries you through Gudauri, Georgia’s best-known ski and holiday resort at 2,200 meters, where the crisp mountain air of the Caucasus greets you. Soon after, you’ll cross the spectacular Cross Pass at 2,400 meters—an unforgettable experience on any self-drive tour of Georgia.
In the evening, you’ll arrive in the charming mountain village of Stepantsminda (formerly Kazbegi), nestled at the foot of the mighty Mount Kazbek. Tonight, you’ll stay in a welcoming family-run guesthouse, where homemade Georgian specialties await—a perfect ending to an eventful day.
Distance to drive: 230 km.
Overnight in Stepantsminda
Family-run hotel
(bath/WC free WLAN in the room)
(B/-/D) 2 overnight stays
Day 5: Mount Kazbek and Gergeti Trinity Church
Another special day of your self-drive tour through Georgia begins with a visit to the famous Gergeti Trinity Church. Perched picturesquely on a hilltop, the church offers magnificent views of the majestic Mount Kazbek. For hiking enthusiasts, there is also the option of walking up to the church—an easy three-hour round trip that rewards you with unforgettable scenery.
Afterwards, you can drive through the dramatic Dariali Gorge toward the Russian border. Along the way, stop at the newly built Archangel Monastery. Just next door, a small wine cellar run by monks produces traditional Georgian wine—an excellent opportunity for a tasting. A charming café nearby completes the experience.
For even more immersion in nature, you might take a detour to the peaceful Sno Valley before returning to Stepantsminda. Tonight, you will once again stay in a welcoming guesthouse, where comfort and mountain charm create the perfect setting for rest.
Distance to drive: 60 km.
Overnight in Stepantsminda
Family-run hotel
(bath/WC free WLAN in the room)
(B/-/D)
Day 6: Legendary Silk Road & the Kingdom of Colchis
Today’s stage of your self-drive tour through Georgia follows the historic Silk Road into the fascinating Kartli region. An optional stop in Gori offers the chance to see the birthplace of the infamous dictator Stalin, along with his historic train carriage—an intriguing stop for history enthusiasts.
Next, visit the impressive cave city of Uplistsikhe, dating back to the 6th century BC. Once a thriving trading center, its rock-hewn streets and chambers reveal centuries of history.
In the afternoon, your journey continues over the scenic Rikoti Pass (750 m) into the Imereti region, the legendary land of the “Golden Fleece.”
By evening, you will arrive in Kutaisi, where a welcoming family-run hotel awaits. Here, you can enjoy a hearty dinner of regional specialties and experience the warmth of Georgian hospitality—authentic moments that make your self-drive tour truly unforgettable.Distance to drive: 280 km.
Overnight stay in Kutaisi
Family-run hotel
(bath/WC free WLAN in the room)
(B/-/D)
Day 7: UNESCO World Heritage Site – Ushguli
Today, a particularly memorable stage of your self-drive tour of Georgia awaits: the journey into picturesque Svaneti, a region of towering mountains, ancient glaciers, and living traditions.
Along the way, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gelati Monastery with its 12th-century academy, as well as the 11th-century Bagrati Cathedral in Kutaisi—both offering fascinating insights into Georgia’s spiritual and cultural history. Afterwards, a stroll through the colorful farmers’ market, filled with fresh herbs and regional produce, provides a taste of local life.
In the afternoon, continue via Lentekhi and cross the winding Zagaro Pass (2,610 m) before reaching Ushguli—one of the highest permanently inhabited villages in Europe, nestled at the foot of mighty Mount Shkhara (5,200 m). The medieval defensive towers rising above the settlement give Ushguli its distinctive charm and have secured its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
This evening, enjoy the warmth of Georgian hospitality with an overnight stay in a family-run guesthouse, where traditional specialties await.
Distance to drive: 170 km.
Overnight in Ushguli
Family-run hotel
(bath/WC free WLAN in the room)
(B/-/D) 1 overnight
Day 8: Mestia and the Famous Svan Towers
After breakfast, another exciting day of your self-drive tour through Georgia begins. Start with a visit to the impressive 12th-century Lamaria Church—the region’s most important sacred site. Its idyllic setting and historic walls invite a leisurely stroll in the surrounding area, offering a peaceful introduction to Svaneti’s rich heritage.
The journey then continues to Mestia, the charming capital of Svaneti. Here, you can explore the house museum of the legendary Georgian mountaineer Mikheil Khergiani. Be sure to admire the iconic Svan towers and traditional Svan houses, which provide an authentic insight into the life and culture of this proud highland community.
In the evening, relax in cosy, family-run accommodation in Mestia, where a delicious home-cooked dinner featuring regional specialties awaits. This is the perfect opportunity to experience Svan culture and Georgian hospitality up close on your self-drive adventure.
Distance to drive: 50 km.
Overnight stay in Mestia
Family-run hotel
Bath/WC free WLAN in the room
(B/-/D) 1 overnight
Day 9: Batumi and the Black Sea Coast
Today, your self-drive tour of Georgia takes you to the stunning Black Sea coast. After breakfast, drive via the harbour town of Poti to the vibrant city of Batumi, a place where modern architecture, subtropical vegetation, and Mediterranean flair come together in a unique blend.
A detour to the Batumi Botanical Gardens is highly recommended. Take a 90-minute walk at your own pace (without a guide) to admire tropical and subtropical plants and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea.
After checking in at your hotel, the afternoon is yours to spend as you wish. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, swim in the sea, or simply relax and watch the sunset over the water.
Batumi encourages you to slow down and savor the moment—enjoying the pace of life on your own terms.
Distance to drive: 260 km
Walking time in the botanical garden 1.5 hours
Overnight in Batumi
Hotel not far from the beach 3*
(B/-/-) 1 overnight stay
Day 10: To the Lesser Caucasus over Goderdzi Pass
After a relaxing morning along Batumi’s beach promenade, another eventful day of your self-drive tour of Georgia begins around 10:00 am. Perhaps enjoy a short stroll by the sea before leaving the city, taking in its futuristic architecture and lively atmosphere one last time.
Your route then leads into the green mountains of Adjara, a region where Christian and Muslim communities have coexisted for centuries. Along the way, a stop in one of the traditional villages offers a glimpse of unspoiled nature and local life.
For those who wish, a short break at the impressive Goderdzi Pass (2,025 m) provides a chance to admire the spectacular panorama. A detour to the remote Sarsma Monastery is also highly recommended, particularly for travelers interested in culture and history.
By late afternoon, you will arrive in Akhaltsikhe, where a cosy guesthouse awaits. Enjoy home-cooked specialties and the warmth of genuine Georgian hospitality—a perfect end to the day.
Distance to drive: 170 km
Overnight in Akhaltsikhe
Family-run guesthouse
(bath/WC free WLAN in the room)
(B/-/D) 1 overnight
Day 11: Highlights of South Georgia & the Capital Tbilisi
After breakfast, continue your self-drive tour of Georgia through the picturesque Kura Valley. A stop at Khertvisi Fortress is highly recommended—its striking location atop a rock between two rivers makes it one of the country’s most photogenic fortresses. If you wish, you can also cross the small suspension bridge spanning the river.
Next, visit the famous cave town of Vardzia, a remarkable example of medieval architecture. After exploring the complex, a relaxing break by the riverbank is the perfect way to soak in the surroundings.
In the afternoon, your route leads across the Georgian high plateau and past the tranquil Lake Paravani. A stop at the spectacular Dashbashi Glass Bridge in Tsalka is highly recommended for panoramic views and photography.
A final highlight could be a walk through Asureti, a charming village with a rich German heritage. By evening, you will arrive in Tbilisi, where you can conveniently return your hire car to the Enjoy Georgia team.
Distance to drive: 280 km
Hotel in Tbilisi 3-
(B/-/-) 1 overnight
Day 12: Departure
Depending on your flight time, you will be transferred to Tbilisi International Airport for your onward journey.
Included Services
Complete organisation by Enjoy Georgia
Airport transfers to and from Tbilisi
City tour in Tbilisi
Meals: 11× Breakfast, 6× Diner
Overnight stays in 3-star hotels, double room
Rental car (Subaru Forester)
Two drivers included
Local contact person available for assistance
Detailed itinerary with optional excursions
Exclusive / Not Included
Flights
Personal expenses
Individual sightseeing or excursions
Drinks and any meals not specified
Single room supplement
Travel insurance or other optional insurances
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