Tbilisi in 1 Day for Couples - Zhinvali (Jinvali) Reservoir viewpoint
In Collaboration with ushba travel. Updated on February 4, 2026.
A full-day guided loop from Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Road visiting Zhinvali Reservoir, Ananuri Fortress, the White & Black Aragvi confluence, Gudauri panorama (Friendship Arch) and the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church near Kazbegi — tailored for couples seeking unforgettable mountain views and intimate photo moments.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with ushba travel, inspired by the tour Kazbegi-Ananuri-Gudauri Legendary landscapes, history(Group Tour). Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Zhinvali (Jinvali) Reservoir viewpoint
- Ananuri Fortress & 17th-century Assumption Church
- Confluence of the White and Black Aragvi (Pasanauri)
- Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument (Gudauri) panorama
- Gergeti Trinity Church at sunset (Kazbegi) — jeep optional
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided scenic loop along the Georgian Military Road — ideal in September for stable weather and golden-hour mountain light.
Meeting point — Vakhtang Gorgasali Square (Tbilisi)
Meet your guide and group at the agreed meeting point for a brief welcome, ticket check and departure. Please arrive 5–10 minutes early.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a printed or electronic ticket on your phone (organiser requests to show it before departure).
- Wear a light jacket for the morning — the minibus has AC but mountain air can be cool when you board.
- If you'd like a private moment before departure, step to the riverside promenade nearby for a quick couples photo (spot is 2–3 minutes walk).
Scenic transfer along the Georgian Military Road to Zhinvali (drive)
Comfortable minibus drive following the picturesque route north; short comfort stop possible en route if needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the right side of the vehicle for the best reservoir views on the way north (guide will advise).
- Keep cameras ready — there are several roadside scenic pullouts; ask the guide for a short photo stop.
- Motion-sensitive passengers: take a small snack and water; the guide can arrange a quick restroom stop if needed.
Zhinvali (Jinvali) Reservoir viewpoint — short stop & photos
Short stop at the reservoir viewpoint for wide-water-and-mountain panoramas — great for couples' photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Golden-hour glow in September can be soft; capture silhouettes of you two with the water behind for romantic shots.
- There is limited shade — bring sunglasses and a small wrap for wind protection.
- Local sellers sometimes offer small handmade souvenirs; choose one as a keepsake of the day.
Transfer: short drive to Ananuri
Drive along the Aragvi riverbank toward the medieval Ananuri complex.
Tips from local experts:
- Window seats offer views of the Aragvi river gorge — sit together if possible for shared photo opportunities.
- Restrooms are limited at roadside stops; use them at the next scheduled stop (Ananuri has facilities).
- Listen for the guide’s short history briefing to learn a few romantic legends tied to the fortress.
Visit Ananuri Fortress & Assumption Church
Explore the lakeside Ananuri complex: medieval towers, courtyard and 17th-century Assumption Church with carved facades.
Tips from local experts:
- Take the riverside path for reflections of the fortress in the water — ideal for romantic photos together.
- The church has stone steps and uneven surfaces; wear comfortable shoes and take your time walking.
- Respect the site: modest dress is appreciated inside the church (shoulders covered).
Transfer to Pasanauri (short drive toward the Aragvi confluence)
Scenic drive into the Aragvi valley where the White & Black Aragvi meet — home to mountain restaurants known for khinkali.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit together on the side facing the valley for photo opportunities of the sweeping gorge.
- Keep small change in GEL for quick purchases from roadside stalls (sweets, water).
- Let the guide know any food preferences — you’ll have a choice of traditional restaurants in Pasanauri.
Lunch in Pasanauri — authentic khinkali & mountain cuisine
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant in Pasanauri (restaurant meal not included in base price). Choose traditional khinkali and warm mountain dishes.
Tips from local experts:
- Order khinkali to share and ask the waiter for the local way to eat them — great couple’s foodie moment.
- Restaurants in Pasanauri often have scenic terraces — request a table with a view when you arrive.
- If you prefer lighter options, ask for grilled trout or salads; many venues accommodate dietary requests.
White & Black Aragvi confluence viewpoint (short walk & photos)
See where two branches of the Aragvi river meet — dramatic valley views and mineral springs nearby.
Tips from local experts:
- Head to a quiet river bend for a private photo moment — the contrasting streams make a striking backdrop.
- Wear good shoes if you plan to walk the short riverside trails (some uneven pebbles).
- Try a sip of the mineral water if available — locals sometimes believe in its restorative qualities.
Drive up toward Gudauri / Friendship Arch (scenic pass)
Continue the ascent through the mountains to Gudauri; prepare for higher altitude and sweeping vistas.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light layer — temperatures rise and fall quickly at altitude even in September.
- Ask the driver to stop at roadside viewpoints for unhurried photo opportunities (guide can coordinate).
- If either of you gets slight altitude headaches, hydrate and rest at the next stop.
Russian–Georgian Friendship Monument (Friendship Arch) — panorama stop
Short stop at the dramatic Friendship Monument for sweeping mountain panoramas — a perfect romantic viewpoint.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a standout spot for couple portraits with wide mountain vistas — plan a 10–15 minute dedicated photo session.
- The monument can be windy; bring hair ties or a scarf for cleaner photos.
- Avoid midday glare by using the monument’s shaded niches for softer portraits — golden-hour later at Gergeti will be even better.
Quick stop at Gudauri Ski Resort viewpoint
Stretch legs and enjoy high-mountain views where the Caucasus feel close enough to touch.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want more dramatic photos, the resort's lifts and ridgelines frame the peaks well — ask the guide for a short lift viewpoint if time allows.
- Cooler temperatures nearby — a cozy sweater makes for a stylish couples shot.
- There may be local vendors selling hot drinks; a shared cup can be a nice intimate moment.
Drive from Gudauri down to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)
Scenic drive toward the foot of Mount Kazbek — the mountain rises dramatically as you approach Stepantsminda.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the left side for the best early views of Mount Kazbek as you descend toward Stepantsminda.
- Charge phone batteries during this stretch — you’ll want them for the Gergeti viewpoint photos.
- If you prefer a quieter vibe, let the guide know — they can arrange a more peaceful spot at Gergeti.
Gergeti Trinity Church (Tsminda Sameba) — jeep option to the hilltop & sunset photos
Visit the iconic hilltop Gergeti Trinity Church with Mount Kazbek as backdrop. You may opt for a short 4x4 jeep ride (extra, ~20 GEL per person) for the uphill track; otherwise it's a 45–60 min uphill walk.
Tips from local experts:
- For the most romantic light, plan to be on the hilltop toward sunset — September often gives warm golden tones.
- Jeep ride is recommended for couples who want more time at the viewpoint; it's a bumpy 4x4 track so dress accordingly (jeep cost is extra).
- Bring a small blanket or shawl to sit on the hilltop stones for a private picnic moment while you watch the clouds drift past Kazbek.
Return drive to Tbilisi (evening transfer)
Comfortable return journey to Tbilisi after a full day — relax in the minibus and enjoy a final debrief with your guide.
Tips from local experts:
- You’ll arrive in the dark; keep your phone accessible for a quick message to loved ones to let them know you’re back.
- Ask the guide for restaurant recommendations in Tbilisi if you plan to continue your romantic evening downtown.
- If you’d like a shorter trip back, request the guide to stop for a quick roadside tea before the final leg.
Drop-off — Vakhtang Gorgasali Square / Maidan (Tbilisi) — tour end
Return to the original meeting area (approx. 21:00). Farewells and final information from your guide.
Tips from local experts:
- If you'd like to extend the evening, the Old Town has several cozy wine bars and rooftop terraces ideal for a nightcap.
- Collect any personal items before leaving the minibus — it’s easy to miss small camera accessories in the evening.
- Tip the guide if you enjoyed the tour; local tips are appreciated and help support small guiding teams.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 6 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 9 |
| Total Places | 9 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Transfer, Attraction, Meal |