Borjomi: Spa Town with Mineral Water and a National Park
- Borjomi is a spa town in a green valley, famous for its mineral water – across Georgia and beyond.
- In the central park you drink the warm mineral water straight from the spring.
- A small cable car runs from the park up the slope (approx. 5–10 GEL according to sources, check locally).
- From Tbilisi: marshrutka from Didube or train from the central station, approx. 3–5 h each (guide value).
- An ideal stop on the way to Vardzia or Akhaltsikhe.
Everyone in Georgia knows Borjomi – from the mineral water on every table. The small spa town sits in a forested valley and is the perfect stop to catch your breath on the way south.
Borjomi at a glance
| Location | central Georgia, between Tbilisi and Akhaltsikhe |
| Getting there | marshrutka or train from Tbilisi, approx. 3–5 h (guide value) |
| Highlights | central park, mineral spring, cable car, national park |
| Time needed | half a day to two days |
| Best time | May to October; colourful forests in autumn |
Highlights
Central park and mineral spring – the famous water bubbles warm from the spring. Bring a bottle and try it: salty, slightly fizzy, an acquired taste.
Cable car – from the park up the slope with a view over the town.
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park – large forests with marked trails, from short loops to multi-day hikes.
How to get there
- Marshrutka: from Didube bus station, regular departures.
- Train: from Tbilisi central station, slow but scenic. Check times in advance.
- Rental car: ideal if you want to continue to Vardzia.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Tbilisi to Borjomi?
By marshrutka from Didube bus station or by regional train from Tbilisi central station. Journey times and departures differ between sources (approx. 3–5 h) – please check current times with Georgian Railway or at the bus station.
Is there an entrance fee for the central park?
Sources disagree: some say entry is free, tour operators mention a small fee. Please check locally.
How much time do I need?
Half a day is enough for the park, spring and cable car. If you want to hike in the national park, plan one to two days.
Can I combine Borjomi with Vardzia?
Yes. Borjomi lies on the way to Akhaltsikhe and Vardzia. Many tours from Tbilisi combine all three.
Sources: GoTrip: 5 ways to get from Tbilisi to Borjomi · The World Was Here First: Tbilisi to Borjomi · Sakhva Travel: Borjomi from Tbilisi. All information without guarantee; rules can change at short notice.