Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia - Caucasus Route in 14 Days
Follow the Caucasus Route on an optimized 14-day journey connecting the capitals and most emblematic landscapes of all three countries. An intense cultural experience focused on historical heritage and mountain routes.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Transfer from Baku Airport to Baku
We will transfer from the airport to the hotel with the assistance of our guide, who will accompany you throughout the journey.
Accommodation: Baku Midtown Hotel 4*
20 km | 00:30 by car
DAY 2: Baku - Absheron - Baku
After enjoying a full breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our immersive exploration of historic Baku by visiting the Shirvanshahs' Palace. This medieval complex, a jewel of the Old City and World Heritage Site, will allow us to travel back in time through its exquisite architecture. Next, we will connect with the mystical essence of the country at Ateshgah, the ancient Zoroastrian fire temple, whose eternal flames are fed by natural gas. Following the trail of the legendary "Land of Fire," we will marvel at Yanardag, the famous mountain that burns perpetually. The architectural contrast will arrive as we head to the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, an avant-garde design masterpiece created by Zaha Hadid. To top off the day, we will immerse ourselves in the authenticity of Yashil Bazaar, a vibrant traditional market.
Accommodation: Baku Midtown Hotel 4*
43 km | 01:04 by car
DAY 3: Baku - Gobustan - Baku
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will begin a fascinating excursion into the past at the Gobustan Reserve, an open-air museum declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will marvel at an impressive collection of petroglyphs dating back 40,000 years. The adventure will continue as we venture into the Mud Volcanoes area, a unique geological phenomenon. Back in the capital, we will culminate by visiting the iconic Carpet Museum in Baku.
Accommodation: Baku Midtown Hotel 4*
204 km | 03:30 by car
DAY 4: Baku - Shamakhi - Sheki
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will begin our route by immersing ourselves in the mysticism of the Diri Baba Mausoleum. This fascinating 15th-century monument, partially carved into a cliff, will surprise us with its unique fusion of Islamic architecture and wild nature. Next, we will travel to historic Shemakha to discover the Mausoleum of the Seven Domes (Yeddi Gumbez). The day will reach its peak upon arriving in Sheki, where we will visit the exquisite Khan's Summer Palace with its famous colored stained glass windows ("Shebeke"). Finally, we will explore the Albanian Church of Kish, considered one of the oldest Christian temples in the Caucasus.
Accommodation: Sheki Macara Hotel 4*
347 km | 05:27 by car
DAY 5: Sheki - Lagodekhi - Kvareli - Alaverdi - Telavi
We will leave the historic city of Sheki behind to head to the Lagodekhi border crossing. After completing immigration procedures and stepping onto Georgian soil, we will venture into the fertile region of Kvareli to visit the famous Khareba Winery. There, we will explore its impressive complex of tunnels ("Gvirabi") carved into the Caucasus rock and enjoy an exquisite wine tasting. With our palates satisfied, we will continue by visiting the majestic Alaverdi Cathedral, an 11th-century jewel. Finally, we will arrive at Telavi, the historic capital of the region.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Telavi 4*
230 km | 03:50 by car
DAY 6: Telavi - Sighnaghi - Bodbe - Tbilisi
We will leave Telavi behind to head to the charming Sighnaghi. Known as the "City of Love," we will stroll through its picturesque cobblestone streets and admire its traditional architecture, enjoying the impressive views of the Alazani Valley. A short distance away, we will visit Bodbe Monastery, a place of deep spirituality where we will venerate the tomb of Saint Nino, the evangelizer of Georgia. After enjoying the history and landscapes, we will embark on the return journey to Tbilisi.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*
181 km | 03:08 by car
DAY 7: Tbilisi - Guided Tour
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our cultural immersion on the vibrant Rustaveli Avenue, the beating heart of Tbilisi. On this elegant boulevard, we will admire architectural jewels such as the imposing Parliament and the neo-Moorish Opera Theater. Our tour will take us to Metekhi Square, where the historic church and equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali will offer us privileged views. The experience will gain height as we ascend by cable car to Narikala Fortress, from the 4th century. Subsequently, we will venture into the picturesque district of Abanotubani, known for its historic sulfur baths. Finally, we will visit the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in the city.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*
2 km | 00:26 by car
DAY 8: Tbilisi - Jvari - Svetitskhoveli - Kazbegi - Gudauri
We will leave Tbilisi for a deep immersion into the country's spiritual history. Our first stop will be at Jvari Monastery, a 6th-century jewel from where we will enjoy the iconic view of the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Next, we will visit the grand Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, a World Heritage Site. We will resume the route north through the panoramic Georgian Military Highway to reach Kazbegi. There, the highlight will be the climb to the Gergeti Trinity Church, which stands solitary against the imposing summit of Mount Kazbek. After enjoying this postcard landscape, we will head to the mountain resort of Gudauri.
Accommodation: Marco Polo 4*
216 km | 04:29 by car
DAY 9: Gudauri - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi
Our day begins by diving into the pages of contemporary history by visiting the famous Stalin Museum in the city of Gori. This unique complex offers us a unique perspective on the figure of the Soviet leader. We will take a leap back in time of more than three millennia to discover Uplistsikhe, a fascinating cave city masterfully carved into the living rock. We will walk along the ancient roads of this extraordinary archaeological site, exploring its mysterious secret tunnels and rock dwellings. Finally, we will arrive at Kutaisi.
Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*
335 km | 05:20 by car
DAY 10: Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Prometheus - Borjomi - Akhaltsikhe
Our route today departs from Kutaisi, heading to the imposing Bagrati Cathedral. From its privileged location on Ukimerioni Hill, we will enjoy a complete panorama of the city before continuing to Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will delve into the spectacular geology of Prometheus Cave, exploring its halls full of millennial formations and, if conditions allow, navigating its underground river. Finally, the journey will take us south to reach Borjomi, an oasis of tranquility famous for its volcanic springs. We will continue to Akhaltsikhe.
Accommodation: Hotel Gino Wellness Rabath 4*
239 km | 04:57 by car
DAY 11: Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Bavra - Gyumri
Today we will begin an unforgettable day immersing ourselves in the majesty of Vardzia, an impressive cave monastery city carved into the rock dating from the 12th century. This monumental complex invites us to explore its intricate network of tunnels, cells and sanctuaries, where unique medieval frescoes stand out, especially the iconic representation of the legendary Queen Tamar. Subsequently, we will head toward Bavra, the strategic enclave marking the border between Armenia and Georgia. Here we will change vehicles and expert guide. We will end the day in Gyumri, the cultural capital of Armenia.
Accommodation: 21 Rooms Hotel 4*
193 km | 03:55 by car
DAY 12: Gyumri - Dilijan - Sevan - Yerevan
We will begin the day immersing ourselves in the nostalgic charm of Gyumri, considered the cultural capital of Armenia. We will enjoy a relaxed stroll through the city, walking along its historic cobblestone streets where 19th-century architecture, built with the characteristic black and red volcanic tuff, will tell us stories of resilience and local art. After absorbing the bohemian atmosphere, we will head to the picturesque Old Town of Dilijan, known as "Little Switzerland." The day will continue toward Lake Sevan, where we will be captivated by the intense blue of its waters and the alpine landscape surrounding it. Finally, we will head to Yerevan.
Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza 4*
270 km | 04:30 by car
DAY 13: Yerevan - City Tour - Garni - Geghard - Yerevan
We will begin the day immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Yerevan, one of the oldest cities in the world. During our city tour, we will walk along its elegant avenues to admire the fusion of Soviet and neoclassical architecture, stopping at the majestic Republic Square and the artistic complex of The Cascade. Subsequently, we will visit the Garni Temple, a 1st-century Hellenistic archaeological jewel, and appreciate the impressive basalt formations known as the "Symphony of Stones." To culminate, we will delve into the mysticism of Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, partially carved into the living rock of the mountain.
Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza 4*
62 km | 01:33 by car
DAY 14: Transfer from Yerevan to Zvartnots Airport
We will transfer from the hotel to the airport according to the scheduled flight time, with the assistance of our guide.
13 km | 00:25 by car
Follow the Caucasus Route on an optimized 14-day journey connecting the capitals and most emblematic landscapes of the region. This itinerary bypasses the Black Sea coast to focus on historical heritage and mountain routes, offering an intense and fluid cultural experience.
The Eastern Beginning
We begin in Azerbaijan, exploring Baku's architecture, the mud volcanoes and the palace of Sheki. It's a fascinating introduction to the Islamic and Zoroastrian side of the Caucasus.
The Georgian Heart
In Georgia, we will focus on the heart of the country. We will enjoy wine in Kakheti, explore Tbilisi and climb to Kazbegi. Instead of going to the coast, we will head south to visit the impressive cave city of Vardzia and the Rabati fortress in Akhaltsikhe, key places in medieval Georgian history.
The Finish in Armenia
We will cross into Armenia to visit Gyumri and then Yerevan. The trip includes visits to Lake Sevan, the Garni temple, Geghard monastery and Echmiadzin. Two exact weeks to understand the intertwined history of these three fascinating peoples.
Included
- Accommodation: 13 Nights in selected 4* hotels
- Meal plan: Bed and Breakfast
- Transport: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel
- Guide: Professional English-speaking guide
- Logistics: Staff expenses (guide/driver)
- Water: 1 bottle per person/day
- Taxes: Local taxes
- Entrances: Monuments according to itinerary
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and Dinners (unless indicated)
- Alcoholic beverages and tips
- Personal expenses