Borjomi, Georgia’s Epic Mineral Waters, Forest Trails & Romanov Grandeur (2026)
Ask locals about Borjomi, Georgia, and they’ll tell you about the 19th-century glass pavilion where you can still fill a bottle directly from the warm, sulfur-scented spring for just 1 GEL (about $0.35). Most guidebooks miss this completely, focusing only on the bottled water sold worldwide. Here, in the heart of the Lesser Caucasus, you’ll discover a town where tsars built summer palaces, where a 2,100-meter cable car whisks you over pristine forests, and where the taste of the earth’s minerals defines every visit.
Why Borjomi, Georgia Stands Out
A boat on a river, Borjomi, Georgia
- Historic Architecture: The Romanov-era Borjomi Palace, built in 1892-1895 as a summer residence for Grand Duke Mikhail Nikolaevich, is a stunning fusion of European and Oriental styles set within a 60-hectare park.
- Cultural Scene: The annual Borjomi-Bakuriani Summer Festival in July transforms the central park with traditional polyphonic singing, folk dance performances, and local artisan markets.
- Local Specialties: You must try Borjomi water straight from the source at the Central Park pavilion; its unique, slightly salty and effervescent taste is unlike the bottled version.
Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday in late September or early October. The summer crowds have dissipated, the forests are ablaze with autumn color, and you’ll have the therapeutic mineral water springs and hiking trails largely to yourself.
Map of Borjomi, Georgia
Use these interactive maps to explore Borjomi, Georgia and plan your route:
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Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: The nearest international airport is Kutaisi International Airport (KUT), 120km away. Wizz Air and Ryanair serve it from Europe. From there, take a 2-hour marshrutka (minibus) or pre-book a private transfer. Book flights at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: A scenic 3.5-hour train ride connects Tbilisi to Borjomi Station. Trains run twice daily; the morning departure is your best bet for views. Reserve tickets at Trainline or the national railway website.
- By Car: The drive from Tbilisi via the E60 highway takes about 2.5 hours. Parking is generally easy and free in town. Compare car rentals at RentalCars.com.
- Local Transport: Borjomi is very walkable. For trips to Bakuriani or the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, use marshrutkas from the central bus station (cost: 3-10 GEL). Taxis within town cost 5-8 GEL.
Best Time to Visit
Borjomi offers distinct seasonal charms. Summer is perfect for hiking and enjoying the vibrant park, while winter transforms it into a cozy gateway to nearby ski slopes. The shoulder seasons provide the ideal balance of pleasant weather and tranquility.
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 18°C to 25°C (64°F-77°F), sunny, occasional rain | Ideal for hiking in the national park, cable car rides, and festivals; moderate crowds. |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | -5°C to 3°C (23°F-37°F), snowy, crisp air | Magical snowy landscapes, access to Bakuriani skiing (30 min away), few tourists, and steaming outdoor springs. |
| Shoulder (Apr–May/Sep–Oct) | 10°C to 18°C (50°F-64°F), mild and fresh | Best for peaceful walks, autumn foliage, lower prices, and having the mineral water pavilion to yourself. |
Budgeting for Borjomi, Georgia
A person in a chair in the air with trees in the back, Borjomi, Georgia
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Guesthouse: 80-120 GEL/night | Boutique Hotel: 150-250 GEL/night | Historic Hotel/Romanov Palace: 400+ GEL/night |
| Meals | Bakery/Khachapuri: 10-15 GEL | Local Restaurant: 25-40 GEL | Fine Dining at Crowne Plaza: 70+ GEL |
| Transport | Marshrutkas/Walking: 5 GEL/day | Local Taxis: 20 GEL/day | Private Driver: 150+ GEL/day |
| Activities | Park entry & springs: 2 GEL, Hiking: Free | Cable Car: 15 GEL, Museum: 10 GEL | Private Guided National Park Tour: 200 GEL |
| Daily Total | 100-150 GEL ($35-$55) | 250-350 GEL ($90-$125) | 800+ GEL ($285+) |
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Borjomi Central Park | A sprawling 35-hectare green space with the iconic mineral water pavilion, Soviet-era ferris wheel, and river walks. | 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Park: 2 GEL; Water Spring: 1 GEL for bottle fill |
| Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park | One of Europe’s largest national parks, with over 12 marked trails through untouched forests and meadows. | Visitor Center: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Visitor Center Free; Guided Tours from 50 GEL |
| Borjomi Cable Car | A 2.1 km ride offering breathtaking panoramic views over the town and the Borjomi Gorge to the Plateau of St. George. | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mon) | 15 GEL round-trip |
| The Romanov Palace (Likani Palace) | The stunning former summer palace of the Russian Royal Family, set in a majestic park. The interior is occasionally open for tours. | Grounds: 24/7; Interior: Check locally | Park: Free; Interior Tour: ~30 GEL |
3-Day Itinerary: Borjomi, Georgia’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Day 1: Waters, Parks & Romanov Legacy
- Morning (9:00 AM): Start at the Central Park entrance. Walk to the Glass Pavilion, buy a ceramic *kantsi* (drinking horn) for 5 GEL, and taste the warm, therapeutic mineral water straight from the spring.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Enjoy lunch at Restaurant Borjomi on the park’s edge for superb *khinkali* (dumplings) and a view of the Mtkvari River. Then, explore the paths leading to the charming Blue Church.
- Evening (6:30 PM): Take a taxi to the grounds of the **Likani Romanov Palace** (5 GEL) for a sunset stroll. Dine at Kukushka in Likani village for traditional Georgian dishes in a rustic garden setting.
Day 2: Mountain Air & Forest Trails
- Morning (10:00 AM): Ride the Borjomi Cable Car (15 GEL) to the Plateau of St. George. At the top, savor the views and a coffee at the small café. Savvy visitors know to bring a light jacket—it’s cooler up there.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM): Return to town and grab a quick, delicious *lobiani* (bean-filled bread) from a bakery. Then, take a marshrutka (3 GEL, 15 min) to the **Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park** visitor center. Hike the easier “Nikoloz Romanov’s Path” (3-4 km loop).
- Evening (7:00 PM): Relax tired muscles back in town at the Borjomi Central Spa (from 40 GEL). For dinner, head to Iasamani for exceptional *mtsvadi* (grilled meat) and local wine.
Day 3: History & Scenic Excursion
- Morning (9:00 AM): Catch a marshrutka to the nearby town of Akhaltsikhe (10 GEL, 1 hour). Explore the magnificent, recently restored **Rabati Castle**, a fortress complex with a mosque, church, and synagogue.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Have lunch at Rabati Restaurant within the castle walls, trying the regional *chakapuli* (herb stew). Return to Borjomi by 4:00 PM.
- Evening (6:00 PM): For your final evening, enjoy a leisurely walk across the central footbridge. Have a farewell feast at Mzetamze, known for its clay-pot baked dishes and friendly atmosphere.
Cultural Insights & Etiquette
- Language: Georgian is the official language. Learn *Gamarjoba* (Hello), *Didi Madloba* (Thank you), and *Gaumarjos!* (Cheers!). Younger locals often speak some English, especially in hospitality.
- Customs: Toasting is a sacred part of a *supra* (feast). Wait for the *tamada* (toastmaster) to lead. It’s polite to finish the glass after a toast, but you can politely sip if needed.
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is standard for good service.
- Dress Code: Casual and comfortable for hiking. When visiting churches, women should cover their heads (a scarf suffices) and wear skirts/dresses below the knee; men should avoid shorts.
- Business Hours: Shops typically open 10:00 AM-7:00 PM. Many smaller businesses may close for a long lunch (2:00 PM-4:00 PM). Major holidays like Easter and Christmas (both Orthodox dates) see closures.
Where to Eat: Borjomi, Georgia’s Best Bites
Dining in Borjomi is a hearty, convivial affair centered on Georgia’s legendary cuisine. You’ll find exceptional local tavernas focused on wood-fired bread, mountain herbs, and meat from local farms, all paired with the region’s distinctive mineral water.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Borjomi Mineral Water: Drink it straight from the warm spring in the park. Its high bicarbonate and sodium content give it a unique, slightly salty tang that’s an acquired taste but deeply refreshing.
- Borjomi Khinkali: These oversized dumplings are often filled with a spiced mix of beef and pork, with a rich broth inside. Locals swear by the ones at Restaurant Borjomi.
- Mtsvadi (Shashlik): Skewers of succulent pork or veal, grilled over vine cuttings. The best are found in simple garden restaurants like Iasamani, served with *tkemali* (plum sauce) and onions.
Restaurant Recommendations by Budget
| Type | Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Dodo’s Place (near the park) | Huge, delicious *khachapuri* (cheese bread) and homemade lemonade. | 15-25 GEL |
| Mid-range | Iasamani (Central Borjomi) | Authentic Georgian barbecue (*mtsvadi*) and garden seating. | 30-50 GEL |
| Fine dining | Borjomi Crowne Plaza Restaurant | Upscale, international-Georgian fusion with a superb wine list. | 70+ GEL |
Where to Stay
Accommodation ranges from charming family-run guesthouses to the historic luxury of the Romanov Palace grounds. Staying centrally near the park offers the most convenience. Compare prices and book at Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments.
Best Neighborhoods for Accommodation
- Central Borjomi (near the Park): The most convenient area, walking distance to springs, restaurants, and transport. Ideal for first-time visitors and those without a car. Can be busier in summer.
- Likani: A quieter, more upscale suburb just 3km south. Home to the Romanov Palace and several higher-end hotels and spas. Perfect for a tranquil, restorative retreat.
- Near the Cable Car/Station: A good mix of guesthouses and small hotels, offering easy access to mountain excursions and the train station. Slightly removed from the bustling park center.
A mountain with houses on it and a hill in the background, Borjomi, Georgia
FAQs: Your Borjomi, Georgia Questions Answered
1. Is Borjomi, Georgia safe at night?
Yes, Borjomi is generally very safe at night. The central areas near the park are well-lit and peaceful. As in any town, it’s wise to take normal precautions, but violent crime is extremely rare. Travelers often discover the evening ambiance to be relaxed and friendly.
2. What currency is used and are credit cards accepted?
The Georgian Lari (GEL) is the currency. As of late 2023, 1 USD ≈ 2.7 GEL. Credit/debit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants. However, for marshrutkas, small bakeries, market stalls, and the mineral water spring, you’ll need cash. ATMs are readily available in the town center.
3. How do I get from the airport to the city center?
From Kutaisi Airport (KUT), the most budget-friendly option is the airport shuttle to Kutaisi bus station, then a marshrutka to Borjomi (total ~10 GEL, 3 hours). Your best bet for convenience is a pre-booked private transfer (~150 GEL, 2 hours). Book airport transfers at GetYourGuide for convenience.
