Our tour to Georgia starts in the charming city of Tbilisi. After settling into our hotel, we are taken to a cooking class. There we learn how to make Georgian dumplings and pizza. Dinner and wine tasting  are included for this evening.

We are going on a daytrip today. Firstly, we are taken by car to the village of Sighnaghi. Also known as the ‘city of love’, Sighnaghi features valley views, 18th-century fortress walls, charming cobblestone streets with colorful balconies and local wines. We are provided with a guided walking tour there. Next, we are taken to a winery called Khareba. It was previously a bomb shelter and today serves as a tourist destination. This winery operates the Kvareli Wine Cave, which is a large tourist complex featuring tunnels for aging wine, tasting rooms and a restaurant within the cave complex which offers traditional cuisine and views of the valley. There we are provided with a guided tour of the premises as well as wine samples.

After the winery, we are taken to an architectural complex called Gremi. It is comprised of a 16th-century church featuring beautiful frescoes, a royal tower with panoramic valley views and a museum with artifacts from the times of the ‘Silk Road’, all set in a famous wine region. The Silk Road was a vast, ancient network of trade routes connecting East Asia (primarily China) with the Middle East and Europe. We are provided with a guided tour of the complex. Next, we are taken to a winery called Shumi. This is a renowned winery and tourist complex which houses the country’s first wine museum as well as a vast collection of 2,000 grape varieties. There we are provided with a guided wine tour. Wine samples and dinner are included this evening.

We are making another daytrip today. Firstly, we are taken by car to Dashbash Canyon. It features lush greenery, waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. Perhaps it is most famous for its unique Diamond Bridge, a massive glass-bottomed structure with a cliffside café which offers breathtaking views. Next, we are taken to the Chronicle of Georgia, which is located on the outskirts of Tbilisi. These are massive pillars depicting Georgian history and Christian themes, offering a unique blend of art, history and panoramic views over the Tbilisi Sea. Next, we are taken to Saint Trinity Cathedral. This is the country’s largest cathedral.

Next, we are taken to a cable car station called Rustaveli. There we take the cable car to a viewing platform located at Saint Mountain Park. Upon returning to the station, we are taken by foot to the Opera House (a.k.a. Ballet Theatre), then the Rustaveli Theatre, then the Youth Palace and then the parliament building. Next, we visit Freedom Square, which is essentially the city’s main square. It also features the iconic Saint George monument. We are then walked back to our hotel. In the evening, we can consider checking out the nightlife on Chardeni Street and the parallel Bamba Street.

We are making another daytrip today. Firstly, we are taken by car to Jinvali Dam, which features a stunning turquoise reservoir. Next, we are taken to Ananuri Castle. It is known for its combination of breathtaking scenery (overlooking the Zhinvali Reservoir and mountains), rich medieval history, well-preserved fortifications and beautiful Orthodox churches with intricate frescoes. Following Ananuri Castle, we go on a rafting tour. Please note that this activity is offered from early-June through August only.

Next, we are taken to a ski resort called Gudauri. Upon arrival, we go on a buggy ride. Expect to see locals selling honey while on our tour. Next, we are taken to a cable car station called New Gudauri. There we take the cable car to the top to enjoy the surrounding landscape. Please note that the cable car ride is offered from early-June through August only. Upon returning to the station, we are taken to the Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument. It was built in 1983 to mark 200 years of friendship between the two nations. Next, we go horseback riding. After enjoying this activity, we can go paragliding over the beautiful surroundings. Note that this year-around activity is optional and comes with an upcharge. After the Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument, we are taken back to our hotel.

We are exploring the capital today. Firstly, we are taken by car to Metekhi Church. Its cliffside location offers panoramic views of the old town. Next, we are taken to a cable car station, located at the European Square. We take the cable car to a viewing platform, which also hosts a city monument called ‘Mother of Georgia Statue’. Next, we are taken by foot to the nearby botanical gardens. One of the highlights is the waterfall. Next, we are taken by foot to Jumah Mosque (a.k.a. Central Mosque). This is one of the oldest mosques in the country.

Next, we are taken by foot to the nearby bath district. We pass by structures of historic bathing houses (a.k.a. hammams) and then enter a bathhouse. There we enjoy this natural spa, with its sulphur springs. After bathing at this bathhouse, we are taken to Chardeni Street and the parallel Bamba Street. Although they are most popular at night and are best known for partying, they are still worth checking out in the daytime for their coffee shops, wine shops (which offer wine samples) and designer shops.

Next, we are taken to the Great Synagogue followed by the nearby Sioni Cathedral. The latter is the final resting place of the cross which introduced Christianity to Georgia. We are then taken by foot to the nearby Anchiskhati Church, which is arguably the oldest in the city. Next, we are taken to a modern glass bridge called Love Bridge (a.k.a. Bridge of Peace), which provides views of the old town. Next, we cross the bridge and reach Rikhe Park. There we enjoy the surrounding buildings and scenery. Next, we are taken by foot back to European Square. Near this square is a display of a piece of the Berlin Wall, which was given as a gift to Georgia by Germany. After checking out this display, we are taken by car back to our hotel or can be left in town.

We relocate by flight from Tbilisi to the capital city of Azerbaijan, Baku. After settling in, we are taken by car to Yanar Dag Mountain. This is a natural gas fire which blazes continuously on a hillside. Next, we are taken to the Heydar Aliyev Centre. The building’s unique, flowing and futuristic design is a work of art in itself, making it a prime spot for photography. Very near this building is the “I Love Baku” sign.

Next, we are taken to the Holy Myrrhbearers Cathedral. It is known for its interior work and serves as a historical cultural monument of Azerbaijan’s Russian Orthodox community. We then pass by a Ferris wheel called Baku Eye before reaching the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera & Ballet Theater. Along with its art nouveau architecture, this building is popular for its ballets. Next, we are taken to the National Museum of History of Azerbaijan (a.k.a. Palace of Zeynalabdin Taghiyev). Today’s museum offers unique artifacts like ancient jewelry and weapons. Perhaps more importantly, the interior has quite ornate, palatial-style rooms. Once we finish exploring the museum/palace, we recommend you purchase dinner at a place which is famous for its traditional music, displays of local art and crafts (jewelry, carpets, etc.) and historical artifacts. It is a museum and restaurant all in one.

After our meal, we are taken to Baku Crystal Hall. It is known for its crystal-like architecture illuminated at night. Baku Crystal Hall is an iconic landmark on the Caspian waterfront which hosts major events and otherwise serves as a symbol of Azerbaijan’s modern aspirations. It offers great views and a vibrant atmosphere, especially when seeing it lit up from afar. We are then taken back to our hotel.

We are exploring the capital today. Firstly, we are taken by car to the entry point into the old town, called the Double Gates (a.k.a. Gosha Gala Gapisi). From there, we are taken by foot to the Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan (a.k.a. Ismailiyya Palace). This city landmark is known for its Venetian Gothic architecture. Next, we are taken to Quadrangular Tower (a.k.a. Donjon). While we can see exhibits, the real draw is the view from the top of the tower.

Next, we are taken to the Aliagha Vahid Monument. Built in honor of the Azerbaijan poet and ghazal singer Aliagha Vahid, this monument is quite unique in its design. After seeing the monument, we are taken to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique blend of Islamic and local design, intricate carvings and a complex of historic buildings including a mosque, mausoleum and bathhouse. Next, we are taken to the Azerbaijan State Academic Philharmonic Hall. It is known for its Italian Renaissance/German Rococo architecture. Its role serves as a vibrant classical music hub hosting top ensembles and festivals and has a beautiful location in a nice garden.

Next, we are taken to Gani Mammadov Residence. It is known for its Eastern and Western architectural styles, intricate detailing and historical significance as a wealthy merchant’s home in the oil boom era. Next, we are taken to Muhammad Mosque. Next, we are taken to Beyler Mosque. It is known for unique eclectic architecture blending European basilica styles with Eastern motifs. It also serves as the last mosque built in the historic old town. Next, we are taken to Juma Mosque (a.k.a. Friday Mosque). It features a unique blend of 19th-century Islamic and earlier architectural styles and beautiful internal calligraphy and décor.

Next, we are taken to Bazar Square. This outdoor archeological site features arcades and carved stone. The square showcases classic Islamic architecture with graceful arches, intricate carvings and peaceful gardens. Inside this square is Maiden Tower. This is a unique cylindrical stone structure with incredibly thick walls. It showcases ancient engineering and defensive design, with eight floors to explore. Climbing the narrow spiral staircase rewards us with unparalleled panoramic views of the old town’s maze-like alleys, minarets, the Caspian Sea and the modern city beyond.

Next, we are taken to the Isa Bek Hajinski House. Its unique fairytale-like architecture blends diverse cultural styles with a ‘house of cards’ design. It featuring seven spires, rich decor and Assyrian-style mosaics, embodying the opulence and imagination of Baku’s first oil boom era, making it a stunning exterior landmark. Next, we are taken to the Bukhara Caravanserai. It was erected in the late 15th century over a trade route passing through the fortified city gates. The caravanserai was harnessed as a hotel, basically catering to merchants of Central Asia. Next to Bukhara Caravanserai is Multani Caravanserai. There are a lot of balconies around the courtyard of this once-lodge.

Next, we are taken by car to the Alley of Martyrs Mosque. There we have a quick peek inside before being walked to Highland Park (a.k.a. Viewing Park or Dagustu Park). This is the best viewpoint in Baku to capture the panoramic view of the city. Next, we are taken by foot to Martyrs’ Lane. This is a cemetery and memorial dedicated to those killed by the Soviet Army during ‘Black January 1990’ as well as in the First ‘Nagorno-Karabakh War’ of 1988 to 1994. Next, we are taken to Flame Towers. These are three iconic, flame-shaped skyscrapers symbolizing the country’s rich fire history and modern energy. They house luxury apartments, a hotel and offices. These buildings have LED displays at night, which mimic fire, making the visit all the more worthwhile.

Next, we are taken by car to the National Art Museum of Azerbaijan. It is known for its vast collection spanning ancient to modern Azerbaijani art, plus Russian and European works, housed in historic buildings with beautiful interiors. Next, we are taken by foot to the adjacent Azerbaijan Carpet Museum. This modern building is shaped like a rolled carpet. Inside it, we check out an extensive collection of Azerbaijani carpets and applied art dating from the Bronze Age to the modern period.

After visiting this museum, we recommend you purchase dinner at a popular restaurant located in a historic, cellar-like setting on Fountain Square. After our meal, we explore Fountain Square. This is a vibrant, central hub for people-watching, shopping, dining and experiencing local culture. It features beautiful fountains and statues. It offers a close proximity to Nizami Street’s boutiques and historic architecture, especially lively in the evenings often with festivals and shows.

Today we are exploring Baku further. Firstly, we are taken by car to Deniz Mall. It is known for lotus (a specific type of flower)-inspired architecture and offers great sea views and a mix of international and local shops. Deniz Mall serves as a unique spot for shopping, dining and leisure. Next, we are taken to Bibi-Heybat Mosque. It is an example of reconstructed Islamic architecture, blending traditional design with modern aesthetics, offering beautiful Caspian Sea views and serving as a significant cultural landmark. Next, we are taken to a bathhouse. There we experience the steam baths, a deep-body scrub, a foamy soap massage and rinsing. Afterwards, we are taken back to the old town, specifically to a local’s home. There we take a cooking class. Dinner is included this evening.

Transportation will be arranged for you to reach the airport in Baku.