Borjomi: What to See in Georgia’s Spa Town

For two weeks now, I’ve been in Borjomi. Let me tell you, it’s one of the best places I’ve ever seen. Everything here is so good that I’m absolutely in love with Borjomi. I swear, I shed tears of delight at the beauty I encounter at every step.

Petr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Borjomi is the birthplace of the well-known mineral water, the one you find on the shelves of almost every supermarket. It is used not just as table water but also for the prevention and treatment of digestive and metabolic disorders.

Want to breathe pure, healing mountain air and visit the source itself? Then go to Georgia, to the town of Borjomi! To make your trip easier, here is a guide to getting there, what to see and where to stay.

Borjomi: the trip in brief (2026)

Borjomi is a spa town in the Borjomi Gorge in southern Georgia, the home of the famous mineral water. In short, here is what you need to know:

• How far: about 2.5–3 hours by minibus from Tbilisi.
• Borjomi Central Park: entrance 5 GEL, open 9:00–19:00 (until 18:00 from October to March). Early in the morning and in the evening you can walk in for free. Inside are the Ekaterina spring, rides, a waterfall and the Prometheus sculpture, and deeper in, about 3 km along the river trail, the thermal pools (entrance 15 GEL).
• Cable car: by the park entrance, 15 GEL one way. It takes you up to a plateau with a Ferris wheel and a view of the town.
• What to try: the warm “live” water straight from the spring. Drink it on the spot: after a couple of hours it loses its properties.
• What to combine it with: Rabati fortress in Akhaltsikhe, Vardzia, the Green Monastery and Bakuriani.

Is it worth going?

Yes, especially if you are tired of the heat and want mountains and forest. One day is enough for Borjomi itself, but it is better to stay the night: in the morning the park is almost empty, and in the evening the town is quiet and cool.

Borjomi attractions

The town is in southern Georgia, in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, 152 km west of Tbilisi. Many eco-tourists come to this resort not only as a Soviet health resort but also for its stunning nature. No matter how many times you have been here, it takes your breath away as if it were the first time! The location alone is worth it: a gorge between high Caucasus mountains, surrounded by coniferous and broad-leaved forests.

This place was visited and loved by many famous people. Tchaikovsky was madly in love with these lands. Arriving here by chance for the first time, he stayed for more than two weeks. And when he finally found the strength to leave, he missed it greatly. Doctors diagnosed him with depression: nostalgia for Borjomi. Yes, yes. This is an official diagnosis! Be careful on your trip. Symptoms of this disease are detected in many who have been here.

Borjomi Central Park (Mineral Water Park)

A great example of this beauty is Borjomi Central Park, and just outside the town begins Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, where hunting and logging are prohibited: the authorities have tried to preserve its pristine nature, and they have done it quite well.

The Central Park lies in a narrow gorge and stretches for a long way. In summer there are lots of rides, playgrounds and cafés; in winter most of the entertainment is closed.

There are outdoor thermal pools where you can bathe in healing mineral water. The water is warm, so you can swim even in winter. They are deep in the park, though: about three kilometres away, two of them along a forest trail by the river. On the way you pass a waterfall and the Prometheus sculpture. Entrance to the pools is 15 GEL.

At the entrance to the park, in a 19th-century building, there is a museum. Admission is free, but there is not much to see there. Only old photos on the walls.

Once in this building, there was a functioning spring, and the first mineral water bottling plant was located here.

Entrance to the park costs 5 GEL, free for children under 8. The park is open from 9:00 to 19:00 (until 18:00 from October to March), and before 9 am and after 7 pm you can walk in for free. There is also an information centre nearby, where you can get a park guide, ask about horse rental and hiking equipment, and find a guide.

If you want to see Borjomi from above, take the cable car. It was built in the 1960s, and a ticket costs 15 GEL one way. The cabins even look like mineral water bottles. It rises 500 m above the ground, so you see a huge area: the quiet town stays behind, and snow-capped peaks appear in the distance.

In addition, at the top, a small church awaits you, and nearby there is a Ferris wheel and a cafe where you can have a relatively inexpensive snack.

Borjomi spring: where to drink the mineral water

The most famous mineral water spring is located near the entrance, and it’s also the most well-maintained. It’s called Ekaterinskiy.

Strangely enough, the credit for discovering the mineral water goes to Russian military personnel. Although it’s essential to note that it was a rediscovery. Many centuries ago, people built baths here. But for some reason, mankind abandoned these places for a long time.

In 1829, during the Second Russo-Turkish War, fierce battles took place in this area. The military campaign dragged on. The Rabat fortress, which was the main goal of this campaign, remained impregnable. Inopportunely, an epidemic struck the troops.

Russian forces retreated and set up camp in a beautiful gorge. Starting to drink water from local sources, they were surprised to find that the disease receded, and soldiers quickly recovered. Thus, Borjomi was revealed to the world.

In 1841, the viceroy of the Russian tsar in Tbilisi, upon hearing about the healing properties of the water, sent his terminally ill daughter to Borjomi. A miracle happened, and the daughter was healed. This event became symbolic for this place. The popularity and fame of the water spread at a staggering speed not only throughout the empire but also far beyond its borders. The spring from which the viceroy’s daughter drank was named in her honor – Ekaterinskiy.

To this day, you can drink fresh and warm Borjomi water from it. However, it should be known that the water from this spring loses all its healing properties after two hours. Therefore, there’s no need to stock up on it. Take as much as you’ll drink in the next hour.

If you want to take water with you, near the park entrance, by the river, there is a “cold” spring. Even locals collect water from there with containers. It can be stored for about a week.

What to see around Borjomi

The city has a rich history, so here you can enjoy not only natural but also architectural attractions:

Romanov Palace in Likani – now a residence of the President of Georgia. You can get there by bus or taxi from Borjomi, or by car along Rustaveli Street, which turns into Meskheti Street. It is open around the clock, and you can see this architectural gem for free.

Mirza-Riza-Khan House – the turquoise symbol of Borjomi, located in the city center on 9 April Street. Now the Golden Tulip Borjomi hotel is here.

This is one of the most stylish and beautiful hotels in the city. Located just twenty meters from the springs and the park entrance.

The hotel building is a stunning 19th-century house that once belonged to the Iranian consul. It was restored in 2016, keeping its original style and interior.

Green Monastery – a fascinating place! It is “green” because it is hidden in the forest, and the red stones nearby symbolise the blood of the monks who fought for their lives during a Turkish raid. There is also a spring. You can get there on a bus towards Akhaltsikhe: after 6 km you get off, but you have to walk to the monastery itself.

Atskuri Fortress – today it is more like fragments that remain, but it’s worth it! From here, there is a stunning view of the Atskuri village, Borjomi gorge, and the Kura River. Entrance (free) to the fortress is now paved through a tunnel that previously served to supply water. You can get there by bus going to Akhaltsikhe.

Other sights nearby: Vardzia cave city, Rabati fortress in Akhaltsikhe, Dashbashi Canyon and the Bakuriani ski resort.

Where to stay in Borjomi: hotels and sanatoriums

Unfortunately, sanatoriums in the form they existed during the Soviet era have not been preserved. Most large hotels call themselves hotel-sanatoriums, although it is conditional to categorize them as such. You can go to the springs and drink healing water from both a private house and an expensive hotel. So, the choice of accommodation class is up to you.

Arriving in Borjomi, you have several options: stay in a hotel or hostel, or choose private houses of local residents. Let’s clarify right away – if you came to relax your soul and body, it’s better to choose hotels.

Hotels with spa centres that position themselves as sanatoriums

• Borjomi Palace Health & Spa Center. Borjomi Palace is the most popular sanatorium in the resort. It’s about 400 meters from the park with the springs.

The hotel has indoor and outdoor pools and a gym, plus a wide range of spa treatments. You will love its luxurious interior and friendly staff, and the prices are reasonable.

• Crowne Plaza Borjomi Spa & Wellness Centre. Located in a gorge near the park entrance, it attracts attention with its beautiful appearance and an unusual bridge leading to it. But that’s not the only thing that sets it apart.

This is an excellent luxury option for relaxation.

This castle-style hotel lives up to its five stars: a luxurious interior, excellent service, pools, plenty of spa treatment rooms and much more.

The most popular budget options

Guest House Besarioni. A few steps from the mineral water spring, with a view of the mountains and forest, a garden on the territory, and a shared kitchen. There are only two rooms equipped with two beds, a shower, and Wi-Fi.

Guesthouse Valeria. Similar in conditions to the first guest house. Here, you have the opportunity to book triple rooms.

Gio’s Guest House. An excellent option for those who like everything to be nearby. The mountains, river, and city are visible from the window. You can sunbathe on the terrace, and on the ground floor, you can get a hairstyle. The difference from others is family rooms. There is Wi-Fi, free parking, and a transfer to the transportation junction is offered.

Metreveli Guest House. The price includes room service, a kettle, TV, Wi-Fi, and breakfast.

This is not all; there are more than 100 accommodation options, and these are only hotels. You can view detailed descriptions, photos, locations, and travel maps, for example, on the Booking.com website.

Where to eat well in Borjomi

You can enjoy delicious Georgian cuisine in numerous cafes and restaurants while experiencing the authentic local dishes. We’ll tell you about the most budget-friendly and pricier options.

Inka Cafe – European cuisine, on 9 April Street. Tasty, clean and friendly, with delicious pastries and teas. Everything can be ordered to take away. Prices are moderate.

Bergi offers international and Georgian cuisine: a big choice of dishes and wines, good service and a pleasant atmosphere. The food is exceptionally tasty, so be sure to drop in. Location: Kostava Square.

At Old Borjomi you will find a bar, pub, barbecue and grill. It is cosy and homely, with quick service and tasty food. Address: 19 Kostava Street.

Another top spot is Cafe Tourist. The owner often greets guests himself, takes orders, cooks and serves. The menu is small, but the food is divine and the bill is very budget-friendly. Portions in Georgian cafés are big enough to share. Address: 3 Nodar Dumbadze Street.

Restaurant Bagrationi welcomes you with an excellent interior. It is in the grounds of a five-star hotel: mountain views, a terrace, great service and tasty Georgian food. Prices are above average, but it is worth it!

Want to feel like a real guest? Then head to My House at 31 Kostava Street: very friendly and attentive staff, a pleasant atmosphere, quiet music and a great choice of dishes.

A budget option is Imereti café. Despite the low prices, the food is tasty and homemade. You can find it at 2 Erekle Street.

Borjomi FAQ

What can I see in Borjomi in one day?

The Central Park with the Ekaterina spring, the waterfall and the Prometheus sculpture, the cable car up to the plateau and the Romanov Palace in Likani. If you still have energy, walk to the thermal pools.

How much is the cable car in Borjomi?

15 GEL one way. The lower station is right by the entrance to the Central Park.

Where can I drink Borjomi water from the spring?

At the Ekaterina spring by the entrance to the Central Park, where the water is warm. To take some with you, fill up at the cold spring by the river: that water keeps longer.

How do I get to Borjomi from Tbilisi?

By minibus from Didube bus station or by train from the central station. A car is more convenient: on the way you can stop in Gori and at Uplistsikhe.

How to get to Borjomi from Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi

Borjomi on the map of Georgia

You can get to Borjomi from Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi, and Bakuriani. If you are traveling with a tour company, usually, transfers are provided. For those traveling independently, there are several options.

How to get to Borjomi from Tbilisi

By train: departures from Tbilisi at 07:00 and 16:40, arriving in Borjomi at 11:30 and 21:30.

By minibus: from Didube bus station (next to the metro station of the same name), every hour from 7 am to 5 pm. The ride takes about 3 hours.

By taxi: it is a long way, so agree on the price and on whether the driver will wait in advance.

From Kutaisi

Minibuses depart from Kutaisi bus station. There is no specific building; the landmark is McDonald’s. The “bus station” is located in the passage on the left side of the restaurant and in the lane going left from the passage. You can get to Borjomi by bus Kutaisi-Akhaltsikhe. Departure times: 08:15, 08:50, 09:30, 11:30, 13:10. Travel time: approximately 3.5-4 hours.

From Batumi

The most convenient way from Batumi is by car: the road goes via Kutaisi and Khashuri, and you can stop in Kutaisi on the way. Without a car you will need to change, in Kutaisi or Tbilisi. There is sometimes a Batumi–Akhaltsikhe minibus that passes through Borjomi, but check the schedule at the bus station.

When is the best time to go?

Borjomi is located in a mountain gorge, which contributes to the mild climate and protection from temperature fluctuations and other negative atmospheric phenomena. Therefore, residents and tourists enjoy an ample amount of sunlight and warmth while savoring the pure mountain air and optimal temperature.

The resort season here lasts all year round because the summer is warm, with an average temperature of around +20°C, and the winter is mild with an average temperature of -3°C. However, the most preferable period for vacationers is May-June. During this time, you can fully enjoy the blooming of various plants and their aroma.

Visiting Borjomi in autumn is also very interesting, especially if you coincide with the celebration of the City Day. Concerts, fairs, Georgian music, and cuisine give a special atmosphere to the city. Want to experience the culture? Come during mass celebrations – it will be great.

More about Georgia:

Best hotels in the mountains of Georgia

Martvili Canyon – a wonder of western Georgia