it was hard work on a hot day climbing up to this troglodyte medieval city with many caves and quite a big church carved right into the rock , hidden away for 3 centuries but well worth while as it is just unbelievable to think about its co9nstructionj

Had lunch here following our visit to the Caves, it was a really nice meal in a lovely setting next to the river. The service was good, the food was all local cuisine with a mixture of soups, kebabs, salads and the lovely local bread and beer.
It was not expensive and would recommend.

This was the third cave monastery that we visited in Georgia. All in all a great experience, but a bit off the beaten tourist track and more difficult to get to if you are short on time. The main period of construction was 12th century and the caves stretch along the cliffiside for 500 meters and and in up to 19 levels/tiers. You ascend by minibus and at the entrance follow a fairly standard path. There are many caves most of which look similar in style and function and a few which have wall paintings. The site was surprisingly crowded - given its location.

...we had a lovely meal by the river!
Lots of salads and “pitta” and in the end the most glorious fish barbecued (and the meat too). It is unpretentious and easy after the long drive to arrive to see the caves. Couldn’t fault it!

My two daughtets and me have visited Vardzia and found it very interesting. Many stairs and some climbing but very nice view and most interesting caves curved in the mountain. A guidance is very recommended. We had a guide. Take water and a good pair of shoes.