Georgia is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural traditions. One of the most fascinating aspects of Georgian culture is the ancient cave cities that dot the landscape. These underground cities were carved out of rock by hand thousands of years ago and offer a glimpse into the country's rich past. If you're planning a trip to Georgia and want to explore these incredible sites, here are some transportation options to consider.
Getting to Georgia
Before we dive into transportation options within Georgia, let's talk about getting to the country in the first place. Georgia is located in the Caucasus region of Eurasia and is bordered by Russia, Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. The easiest way to get to Georgia is by flying into Tbilisi International Airport, which is the main airport in the country. There are also several other airports throughout Georgia, including Batumi International Airport, Kutaisi International Airport, and Mestia Airport.
Flights to Georgia are available from several major cities around the world, including Istanbul, Moscow, Dubai, and London. If you're traveling from North America, you'll likely need to connect through one of these cities.
Transportation Options in Georgia
Once you've arrived in Georgia, you'll need to figure out how to get around. Here are some transportation options to consider:
Renting a Car
Renting a car in Georgia is a popular option for tourists who want to explore the country at their own pace. There are several car rental companies in Tbilisi, including Avis, Europcar, and Budget. However, it's worth noting that driving in Georgia can be challenging, especially if you're not used to driving on narrow, winding roads. Additionally, many of the cave cities are located in remote areas that may be difficult to access by car.
If you do decide to rent a car, be sure to get an international driver's license before you leave home. This will make it easier to rent a car in Georgia and will ensure that you're legally allowed to drive in the country.
Taking a Taxi
Taxis are a convenient and affordable way to get around Georgia, especially if you're traveling in a group. Taxis are readily available in Tbilisi and other major cities, and fares are generally quite reasonable. However, it's important to negotiate the fare before you get into the taxi to avoid any surprises.
If you're not comfortable negotiating fares, you can use a ride-hailing app like Bolt or Yandex.Taxi to book a taxi. These apps will give you an estimate of the fare before you book, so you'll know what to expect.
Using Public Transportation
Georgia has a fairly extensive public transportation system, including buses, minibusses, and trains. Buses and minibusses are the most common form of public transportation and are generally quite affordable. However, they can be overcrowded and uncomfortable, especially on long journeys. Trains are a more comfortable option, but they're not as widely available as buses.
If you're planning to use public transportation to get around Georgia, be sure to plan your route in advance. Schedules can be unpredictable, and it's not uncommon for buses to be delayed or canceled without notice.
Hiring a Private Driver
If you want to explore Georgia's cave cities in comfort and style, hiring a private driver is a great option. There are several companies that offer private tours of Georgia's cave cities, including Georgian Holidays and Caucasus Travel. These tours typically include transportation in a comfortable vehicle, as well as a knowledgeable guide who can provide insight into the history and culture of the sites you're visiting.
Private tours can be expensive, but they're worth it if you want to get the most out of your visit to Georgia. You'll be able to explore the cave cities at your own pace, and you'll have the flexibility to make stops along the way.
Exploring Georgia's Cave Cities
Now that you know how to get around Georgia, let's talk about some of the cave cities you can explore.
Uplistsikhe
Uplistsikhe is one of the oldest cave cities in Georgia, dating back to the 6th century BC. The city was carved out of a rocky plateau and features a complex network of tunnels, streets, and buildings. Highlights of Uplistsikhe include the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Palace, and the amphitheater.
To get to Uplistsikhe, you can take a taxi or a bus from Tbilisi. The journey takes about 2 hours, and the cost is around 20 GEL (about $6 USD) per person.
Vardzia
Vardzia is a massive cave city that was built in the 12th century. The city was carved out of a cliff face and features hundreds of rooms, tunnels, and staircases. Highlights of Vardzia include the Church of the Dormition, the Throne Room, and the underground irrigation system.
To get to Vardzia, you can take a taxi or a bus from Tbilisi. The journey takes about 4 hours, and the cost is around 30 GEL (about $9 USD) per person.
David Gareja
David Gareja is a complex of cave monasteries that dates back to the 6th century. The monasteries were built into the side of a mountain and feature stunning frescoes and murals. Highlights of David Gareja include the Lavra Monastery, the Udabno Monastery, and the stunning views from the top of the mountain.
To get to David Gareja, you'll need to hire a private driver or join a tour. The site is located in a remote area, and public transportation is not available.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Georgia's ancient cave cities is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn't be missed. Whether you choose to rent a car, take a taxi, use public transportation, or hire a private driver, there are plenty of transportation options to help you get around. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the rich history and culture of Georgia's underground cities.