How to Get from Tbilisi to Borjomi

Borjomi, Georgia is a famous resort town known for its unique mineral water, lush mountain forests, and thermal springs – all located just about 155 km from the capital. The distance makes it perfect for a quick day trip or a longer, relaxing getaway.

In this guide, we’ll break down all the best ways to get from Tbilisi to Borjomi: train, marshrutka (minibus), taxi, and car rental. We've included up-to-date prices and schedules for 2026.

The Route from Tbilisi to Borjomi on the Map

The main route follows the E60/S1 highway, passing through Mtskheta, Gori, and Khashuri. For most of the trip, you’ll be driving on a smooth, two-lane asphalt road. The driving distance from Tbilisi to Borjomi is around 155 km (or roughly 151 km in a straight line). While that might not sound like a lot, don't underestimate the final 30 kilometers. This stretch turns into a scenic mountain switchback winding along the Mtkvari River gorge.

With rugged cliffs, pine forests, and the sound of the rushing mountain river below, the scenery is so stunning you’ll want to pull over at every turn. The drive is comfortable for anyone behind the wheel, but the winding sections do require your full attention and a slower speed.

Here’s a quick comparison of all the transport options for your trip to Borjomi:

As you can see, each option has its own perks. Some travelers prioritize speed and freedom, while others are looking for the most budget-friendly choice. Let’s dive into the details of each mode of transport.

Tbilisi to Borjomi Transport Options

The transport you choose can really set the tone for your whole trip.

If having the freedom to explore is key, renting a car is your best bet. Looking for a cheap and atmospheric ride? Catch the train. If you want a fast, local experience without any fuss, hop in a marshrutka. And if comfort and a flexible departure time are your top priorities, taking a taxi or booking a transfer will make the journey entirely stress-free.

Let's break down each option.

Renting a Car

Renting a car is the perfect choice if you want to explore Borjomi and its surroundings at your own pace, completely free from public transport schedules. Having your own wheels gives you ultimate freedom: you can leave Tbilisi whenever you want, pull over at the Gori Fortress or a gorge viewpoint, and later continue your road trip to the Vardzia cave city (about 83 km from Borjomi) or the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, one of Europe's largest protected forests.

Why renting a car is a great idea:

• Flexible schedule: no timetables to worry about; hit the road whenever you're ready.
• Sightseeing stops: check out Mtskheta, the Gori Fortress, and beautiful panoramas along the E60.
• Access to remote spots: easily reach Vardzia, Bakuriani, and the national park's mountain trails.
• Great for groups: if you're traveling with two or three people, renting is comparable in price to a taxi but offers way more flexibility.
• Personal space: especially valuable for families with kids or if you have a lot of luggage.

For your Tbilisi borjomi trip, you can use traditional car rentals or a car-sharing app – this is especially handy if you're only going for a day and don't want to pay for a full 24-hour rental.

Car Rental & Car Sharing in Tbilisi

Wide selection of cars in Tbilisi — from economy to SUV. Book in minutes and head to Borjomi, Vardzia, or Bakuriani whenever you're ready.

Download the app Find Your Car →

Taking the Tbilisi to Borjomi Train

Taking the Tbilisi to Borjomi train isn't just a budget-friendly option – it's a little adventure of its own, offering gorgeous views of the Kartli mountain valleys, medieval monasteries, and river gorges. The commuter trains (numbers 618 and 686) run this route daily, departing from Tbilisi Central Station:

• Train 618: Departs at 06:35 → arrives in Borjomi at 10:32, and Borjomi-Park at 10:47.
• Train 686: Departs at 18:45 → arrives in Borjomi at 22:43, and Borjomi-Park at 22:58.

The ride takes roughly 4 hours and 15 minutes. Thanks to government subsidies, a ticket costs just 2 GEL. Both are standard commuter trains with basic seating; there are no sleeper cars. The morning route is particularly scenic, as the views outside your window transition from city outskirts to lush mountain slopes.

How to buy tickets for the Tbilisi to Borjomi train:

• At the Tbilisi Central Station ticket counter (cash and cards accepted).
• At the self-service terminals right on the platform (just select your destination station).

Online tickets are not available. You can only buy train tickets for this route at the station or via the terminal. During the busy tourist season (May – September), it's highly recommended to arrive early. You can always check the latest timetable on the official Georgian Railway website at railway.ge 

Marshrutka (Minibus) from Tbilisi to Borjomi

The marshrutka is the local favorite: it’s fast, cheap, and totally straightforward. Minibuses depart from the Didube Bus Station (143 Akaki Tsereteli Ave., right next to the Didube metro station). They run roughly from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM, leaving about every hour or whenever the van fills up. The ride costs between 8 and 12 GEL and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Taxi or Private Transfer

A taxi or private transfer is the best bet for families with children, groups with a lot of luggage, or anyone who values comfort and predictability. The average cost of a taxi for the Tbilisi borjomi route ranges from 80 to 120 GEL, depending on the car class and the season.

Booking a transfer with a guide is a smart move if you want to turn the drive into an educational tour: you can stop at the Gori Fortress and hear local history along the way. This is also a lifesaver if you're tight on time or arriving on a late-night flight.

A transfer is often cheaper than a taxi for groups of 3 or more – the fixed price is split among passengers, while the level of service stays high.

Things to Do and See in Borjomi

Borjomi, Georgia is so much more than just bottled water. It’s a proper mountain resort town packed with rich history, untouched nature, and plenty of attractions. Here’s what you should check out first:

1. Central Park and Mineral Water Pavilion. The heart of the resort is this sprawling 19th-century park, filled with walking paths, fountains, and a free public pavilion where you can taste warm mineral water straight from the source. Entry is free, and it’s open year-round.
2. Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. One of the largest protected forest areas in Europe, boasting 85,000 hectares of pine forests, 12 marked hiking trails (ranging from 3 to 54 km), mountain lakes, and abundant wildlife. Park admission is 15 GEL for the first day, and 10 GEL for each following day. You must register at the visitor center before entering. You can find detailed trail maps and park rules on their official website: borjomi-kharagauli-np.ge 
3. Thermal Sulfur Pools. Located deeper inside the park, you'll find three open-air pools filled with mineral water at varying temperatures (+26…+37°C). They are open year-round and are especially popular in the winter. There is a small entrance fee.
4. Prometheus Statue and Waterfall. This striking sculpture perched on a cliff above the town is one of Borjomi’s most photographed spots. Right next to it is a beautiful waterfall, accessible via a short walking trail.
5. Vardzia Cave City. Located about 83 km from Borjomi, this 12th-century monastery complex is carved straight into a cliff face as high as an 8-story building. It’s one of Georgia’s greatest architectural marvels and an absolute must-see – especially easy to visit if you have a rental car.
6. Rabati Castle (Akhaltsikhe). About 70 km away lies a stunningly restored medieval fortress featuring a mosque, an Orthodox church, a museum, and panoramic views of the city. It’s the perfect addition to a combined day trip.

If you’re driving a rental, it is entirely possible to cover Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia in a single day – a classic weekend road trip from Tbilisi.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Trip to Borjomi