republic of georgia tourism

Last updated on January 5, 2024 by Shannon

The resilience of the Georgian spirit shapes my favorite aspects of traveling there. Throughout history, this tiny country has offered the world everything from cowboys to wine. This is one of the most unexpectedly lovely countries that I have encountered on my travels. I spent the bulk of my time in the capital, and Tbilisi won me over with subtle charms and gentle nudges.

One of the key reasons tourists head to the Republic of Georgia is the country’s location in the lower Caucasus mountain range. This means there is ample hiking (best in spring and fall) as well as skiing in the winter months. But beyond the mountains, which are stunning, the people of Georgia are wonderfully welcoming and hospitable.

The country has only begun rapidly expanding for tourism since 2008, so it’s still a budget destination, and the internal road infrastructure is a bit rough. Backpackers can easily navigate on a budget, but there are also many cozy and beautiful high-end options for travelers looking for comfort as well as culture.

The Republic of Georgia is utterly charming and I highly recommend adding it to a Central Asian trip, or visiting as a single destination in its own right. Continue on for a look at the history and travel facts you’ll need to know before you visit Georgia! Or skip right to the city guide recommendations .

Table of Contents

Things to Know Before Traveling to the Republic of Georgia

You would be forgiven for wondering if Georgia’s a part of the Middle East. The actual vibe, however, is European. Part of what makes traveling this area so fascinating is the sheer amount of history contained in a small geographic area.

In the absence of context, it’s hard to imagine what the Republic of Georgia is like. Located on the edge of the Caucasus Mountains, the country is neighbored by cultures as varied as its topography. Once a stop on the Silk Road, the city became a confluence of the civilizations over the millennia.

This peculiar positioning means many consider Georgia a part of Europe or Asia, depending on who you ask. And you would be forgiven for wondering if it’s a part of the Middle East. But the actual vibe: It’s European. Part of what makes traveling this area of the world so fascinating is the sheer amount of history contained in a small geographic area.

Wine is a big part of the Georgian culture and for good reason: Archaeologists found the oldest traces of wine production in present-day Georgia. The wine-production dates back as far as 8,000 BC. Even more, Georgians have a unique clay-jar process of winemaking that has even made it onto the UNESCO list for Intangible Heritage.

This history is important, alongside its long religious history, because Georgians are very proud of their well-preserved cultural heritage and legacy. Christianity came to Georgia in the first century, and now Georgia is predominantly Eastern Orthodox—to the tune of 84%.

The country is dotted with monasteries and churches, giving the Republic of Georgia a visible and strong Christian presence. It’s actually this adoption of Christianity that is credited with aligning Georgia more with European culture versus the surrounding Middle Eastern culture arranged around Islam.

While a country’s ancient history plays a part in any trip, so too does recent history. For countries with recently attained peace, understanding a foundational history is paramount. It shapes the experience with compassion and empathy. It invites the visitor deeper into the psyche of the culture and people.

Only by understanding the past can you enjoy what makes the Republic of Georgia unique. Georgia was a part of the former Soviet Union. The country also dealt with political and social unrest throughout the 90s and early aughts.

After the fall of the Soviet Union, Georgia has a precarious and complex relationship with Russia. Most international governments recognize that Russia is occupying two areas that belong to Georgia—South Ossetia and Abkhazia. This is an ongoing point of contention, with the country going to war with Russia in 2008.

All of this is a current stressor on present-day Georgia, so it’s important for travelers to understand the country’s history, be sensitive to the political nature of this topic, and always research the current safety of these two contested regions if planning a visit to anywhere in that area.

The Fast Facts About Georgia Travel

Georgian Lari (GEL) ( current exchange rate )

Electricity

220V, 50Hz (European plug)

Primary Airports

• Tbilisi (TBS)
• Batumi (BUS)

Can you drink the water in Georgia?

While it’s generally safe to drink the water in the city centers, it can vary widely throughout the country. Interestingly, Georgian mineral water is highly rated, tasty, and a big export item. It’s also affordable to buy bottled while in the Republic of Georgia.

How’s the wifi in the Republic of Georgia?

WiFi is rampant; available at most guesthouses and cafes. Also central Tbilisi has a free WiFi network, TbilisiLovesYou. Some places may even boast fiber-optic networks.

Local SIM Cards

Securing a local SIM card is a cinch in Georgia, and I highly recommended getting one for language translation and such. I had speedy, cheap 4G throughout Tbilisi.

When you arrive in Tbilisi, there are a handful of Magti shops (Google it or ask your guesthouse). Bring your passport and for less than US $10 you can get a SIM and high-speed data. This will work in most non-mountainous regions of the country.

You’ll need a VPN if you plan to access many U.S. sites and to stream U.S. Netflix. I’ve used NordVPN since 2016 while living abroad and it’s never failed me once.

Georgians speak Georgian, which is its own unique language and has its own alphabet. Most locals also speak Russian. English is only prevalent in touristy areas of Tbilisi and some of the mountain ski regions. Have patience though, as Georgians have a deep culture of hospitality and will work with you to communicate.

Possible Issues

Georgia is one of the safest countries in Europe (except the two occupied areas). Corruption is now low and it’s safe to walk around.  Altitude sickness is a possible issue: Be warned and be cautious if you are visiting the mountains.

Pick out accommodation on Booking.com.

This is the only booking platform I use because it rewards you for loyalty, and I regularly score free breakfasts and 15% off my hotel.

Festivals of Note

Tbilisoba takes place in mid-October every year. Information in English can be scarce, but you can often find the dates and schedule on the Georgian Tourism website. I also just Facebook messaged the tourism board and asked for the schedule in English and they sent me one. It’s a huge cultural event that takes over Tbilisi for a number of days and it’s a great way to taste a range of foods and see a broad representation of Georgian song and dance.

Black Sea Jazz Festival in Batumi (July)

Tushetoba in Tusheti (August)

Food Considerations

Georgians are quite proud of their national cuisine, and it’s also popular in Russia and other countries. It’s tasty! They many several signature dishes that you can try at every price level. Nice restaurants will have fancy versions, but there are also many fast street-eats versions too.

The food is very bread and cheese based, with fresh salads and meat also quite prevalent. Food and wine is affordable and a big part of traveling Georgia—they enjoy the ceremony of meals!

Vegetarians can get by, but celiacs and vegans will have a harder time since bread and cheese are the base of most dishes. This is the best food guide I’ve seen, and it includes the dish names in Georgian, too.

Accommodation

Finding a place to stay is easy. The country has rebounded strongly from the issues of the mid-2000s and with the Georgian focus on hospitality you can expect comfortable accommodation at every price level.

I was Old Town adjacent during my stay and everything was cozy and well-appointed. Find budget options and apartment rentals on Booking.com —you want to stay near the City Center, Old Town, or the River.

Getting Around Georgia

Georgian driving is not the safest. Wear a seatbelt. The country has some of the highest traffic accident rates in the region. There are trains between a few of the cities, otherwise there are minibuses ( marshrutka ) connecting all major cities in Georgia, as well as connecting Georgian cities to its neighbors.

It’s surprisingly affordable to hire private transport if you’re in a group to split the costs. For more transport information, Bookaway shares detailed regional information on routes between cities .

Socially Responsible Travel

If you’re trekking, consider these tips for responsible travel . Even with extensive research and asking locals, I could not find any social impact organizations in the country. It seems like sustainable and community-based tourism organizations have a goal of implementing projects by 2020, so ask around!

How much should you budget for Georgia travel?

This is a pretty decent budget destination. It’s not rock-bottom, but the Georgian Lari lost value over the past few years, making it a more affordable travel spot. Everything is moderately priced and wine and food is reasonable, so you can eat well here.

Plan on moderate, average budget of US $30-45 per day for a single person, slightly less per person in a couple. Couples can share private transport for an affordable way to make the travel more comfortable. Your budget will likely lessen outside the capital. This is a good single day solo budget (does not include averaging in price of day-trips).

Americans, Canadians, and those with EU passports do not need a visa to visit, and they may stay in Georgia for up to a year. For other countries, check your visa requirements here .

World Travel Planning Resources

From the best travel gear to how to pick travel insurance—a detailed list of resources, tips, and advice to help you plan an amazing trip.

Is Georgia a Safe Country to Visit?

In the wake of Georgia’s 2008 Rose Revolution, the country is safe and growing. The police department cleaned up corruption and many Georgians assured me their country was safe for solo travelers. After having wandered solo for weeks, I agree.

That said, travelers should use caution when visiting areas near the Russian-occupied areas of Georgia. Also, I highly recommend picking good travel insurance before you leave— IMG Global is a solid choice for most travelers, and SafetyWing is great for digital nomads and long-term travelers. You can also check the latest U.S. Government warnings .

Pre-Trip Reading: Books About the Republic of Georgia

Fiction & Nonfiction Books About Georgia

• One More Year : A fascinating account of stories from across the collapsed Soviet Union. This collection of stories explores everyday life and culture alongside the fallout from this region’s history.
• The Caucasus: An Introduction : The one book you should add to your Kindle if you are visiting the Georgia and/or the Caucasus region. Journalist Thomas de Waal takes a close and well-accounted look at the turbulent history of this region, as well as the cultural nuance that makes it a fascinating region to explore.
• Georgian Folk Tales : A fun way to learn more about Georgian history. These are free here as a part of project Gutenberg, but you should spring for the $1.99 version for a clean reading experience.
• Fiction from Georgia : This is not in a travel-able form, only in paperback, but it’s the newest collection of fiction recently translated from Georgian authors.

Podcasts and Online Reads

• A Pilgrimage to the Cradle of Wine : This NY Times longread takes a close look at Georgia’s remarkable history of winemaking and why it’s such an important part of our collective world heritage.
• Time Turned Back: On the Use of History in Georgia : An interesting read about how the Soviet Union used historians and the manipulation of history to push ideology and shape Georgia differently.. This loads up as a PDF that you could download and put on an e-device.
• Adjika: Sauce of Glory, Pride of Abkhazia : A dose of Georgian history through a struggle to identify the origins of adjika , a delicious sauce from this region. Fascinating longread.
• Reasons to Love Tbilisi, Georgia : I wrote this piece and it gives a good overview of what you can expect from a visit to the capital. It enumerates all the reasons I crushed hard on this pretty little capital city, as well as the Georgian culture.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

Best Things to Do in Georgia

My 5 Favorite Georgia Travel Experiences

• Wandering the streets of Old Town Tbilisi with a camera in hand.
• Climbing behind the gorgeous David Gareja monastery for views of Azerbaijan .
• Sipping tea in a Parisian style cafe overlooking the river in Old Town.
• Visiting the Mother Georgia statue at night and meeting local friends.
• Accepting the many offers of genuine hospitality and friendship from Georgians.

Things to Do in Tbilisi, Georgia

Such a charming city and one of my favorite spots in the world. You can fill many weeks just exploring the town, and relaxing at the adorable coffee shops scattered all over Tbilisi. My post shared a high level view of the many things to do in Tbilisi , as well as why it’s just so charming.

Visit Narikala Fortress

This site is gorgeous and looms over Old Town. The aerial tram in the easiest way to get to the fortress, it drops you just at the base and then you can wind up into the ruins.

There are very little safety measures though, and you can climb up some crumbly areas, so be warned. It’s very pretty views at the very top but you will have to climb with all four limbs just a short ways.

This is near the Mother Georgia, but best to be visited with enough time to just see it. The views are also stunning at night, and the tram is cheap, so consider visiting both times.

Wander Tbilisi’s Historic Old Town

This is the heart of the tourist activities and most of the churches and historic sites are all located in a walkable area. You will likely stay in or adjacent to Old Town, so take an afternoon to simply get lost in the back streets.

Climb to the Mother Georgia Statue

This is the symbol of Georgia and Georgians just love her. Consider seeing her up close by climbing up to her from Old Town. Then you can weave down the back side of the hill toward the botanical gardens. This is pretty from spring through fall, and shouldn’t take more than six or seven hours. You can also bail on the hike at parts as there are other transport options near Mother Georgia, so you can just take the aerial tram back down.

Try the Sulphur Baths

This is located just near the main intersection in the old part of town, it’s called the Abanotubani area, and is on the south side of the Metekhi bridge. You’ll want to bring a friend and get the full washing/scrubbing experience. Locals also love doing this in the cold weather as a fun activity to get warm and enjoy each others company.

Visit a Tbilisi Fresh Market.

There are many but the main one is a great spot for a wander and is across the river, near Didube.

Shop the Saturday Flea Market

Also know as the “Dry Bridge Market,” this place is easy to spot near the river and about 15 minutes beyond (west of) the main Metekhi intersection. It’s fun to wander the antiques spread on the sidewalk, and there’s also a lot of artwork too. Even kids would enjoy poking around the weird and quirky things on offer. I picked up some interesting knick-knacks as gifts for friends that you won’t find anywhere else.

Relax at a Parisian-Style Cafe

There are a lot of these popping up in the city and they are cozy and quiet and a great place to relax with a book. Try  Entree  (20 Rustaveli Ave) or Cafe Canape (Abashidze Street – Vake).

Try a New Food and Restaurant Every Night

Try all of the best Georgian foods by switching it up for lunch and dinner every night you’re in town. The best way to get the lay of the land is by taking a food and drink tour your first day in town so that you can understand the food landscape, try a lot of local dishes, and also pump your tour guide for additional recommendations.

Save this food guide and use it to try all of the beautiful traditional dishes on offer around the country. They also have a list of cute restaurants and cafes in Tbilisi .

Find a Great Place to Sleep

Stay at a cute vacation rental from VRBO . I used Bacho’s tiny apartment and it was just lovely. But check out all of his listings because they are thoughtfully and carefully arranged and beautifully done. And they’re all in a great spot too.

Consider Fox Hostel or Cozy Hostel . Both of these are in great areas of town and have everything you might need. Fox is super clean and a bit quieter. Maria has a backpacker vibe and a tour desk so it’s super easy to arrange things with them. Even if you pick a different hotel, consider using Booking.com as I find they usually have the best deals and selection.

Stay in a nice spot . I enjoyed staying just near Old Town—this is where the tourism is focused, there is good nightlife and it’s close to all of the major sites. With that in mind, consider Sunny House Apartment and the charming Apartment Piccolo , both of which are mid-range prices and in a good location. If you’re there on business, or if you simply want a more formal hotel, then  Rooms Hotel  for midrange, and Citrus Hotel  for a nice place from which to visit the city. These are in a different part than Old Town, but still a lot to visit and see.

Best Day Trips from Tbilisi

Hike Around the David Gareja Monastery

This is a stunning day trip from Tbilisi and one of my favorite trips out of the city. It’s pretty far though, and there’s not a lot between Tbilisi and the monastery, so you will surely need transport and/or a guide.

I used my Airbnb host, but you can also book a tour near the tourist information booth in Freedom Square (there are brochures and always people there offering services), or this day tour on Viator includes Rainbow Mountains and looks amazing.

One reader notes: “Make sure you get honey from their shop—it is a divine honey from almond tree blossom.” One of the coolest parts of the visit is climbing behind the monastery to the top of the cliff and looking out into Azerbaijan. Then you go explore the cave paintings and make your way back down.

Venture Out to Kazbegi

You can do this as a weekend trip and it’s enjoyable. Plan on visiting the monastery on the hill overlooking the village, Tsminda Sameba Church. One reader recommends trying hinkali , a meat dish, at the tiny cafe nearby. This is one of the highlights for people visiting Georgia as the mountains are one of the country’s most prominent features and this page has more information on planning time in Kazbegi.

Bookaway shares details on how to get there , and if you’re short on time, book this day tour to see it in a day and maximize every moment.

Tour Monasteries and Churches Near Mtskheta

This is a very easy day trip from the city and a must-see as this is the historic former capital of Eastern Georgia and the centre of the Georgian Orthodox Church.

Visit Gori and Uplistsikhe

This will be a long day trip from Tbilisi, but it’s definitely possible to visit in just a day.  Uplistsikhe is a 3,600 year old Silk Road cave city and Gori is Stalin’s birthplace.

Begin your journey by taking a train or bus from Tbilisi to Gori, where you can delve into the life of Joseph Stalin at the Stalin Museum and visit the house where he was born. From Gori, a short distance away, Uplistsikhe awaits—a remarkable ancient cave city. Marvel at the intricate rock-cut structures, religious sites, and panoramic views that transport you back in time to an ancient civilization.

The combination of visiting Stalin’s birthplace and discovering the architectural marvels of Uplistsikhe creates a contrasting and thought-provoking experience, shedding light on different aspects of Georgia’s past.

Using a local guide or joining a guided tour would really enhance your experience by providing informative commentary and historical context. Here’s how to hire a car to get you to Uplistsikhe .

Head to Ananuri Fortress

This day trip offers sweeping views along the Aragvi River from the fortress, and it’s only 45 miles from Tbilisi. You could visit this en route to the mountain towns.

If you’re visiting in the winter months, the Gudauri Ski Resort is one gorgeous option in Stepantsminda District and just 75 miles from Tbilisi. It’s easy for those looking for a bit of skiing in addition to other sightseeing and such.

Venture into Armenia

The Armenian border is not far from Tbilisi and you can easily take a weekend trip into Armenia while still keeping a base in Tbilisi. While you could do this solo and there are easy bus and van transport here , it’s a lot easier with a local guide if you’re doing it as a one-day trip— this is a great and affordable option .

Other Adventures Around Georgia

Go hiking in the Svaneti region , arguably one of the prettiest around. The official tourism website has route information on the most popular treks, and this is the best place to research specific trekking ideas for this region.

Getting there . You can either take private transport from Tbilisi (a rental car or a hired driver). Or you can take a the entire 12 hour journey. Or you can split the difference by using the overnight train from Tbilisi to Zugdidi.

From Zugdidi you will take a minibus from Zugdidi to Mestia (in Zugdidi, the bus toward Mestia leaves from near Svanish Tower). If you’re sleeping at one of the homestays in Mestia, then you’ve arrived!

Otherwise, you will pair up with others heading in that direction and share a jeep to Ushguli. At the end of this post you will find a more detailed guide on how to get there . And as I’ve noted elsewhere, the roads in Georgia have high accident and fatality rates, I would consider trains when possible to cover long distances.

Where to sleep in Mestia . Mestia has a large homestay network and it’s a cinch to find one either once you arrive, or you can use the Svaneti Trekking & Tourism Centre  to connect with a family within the local homestay network. This group is dedicated to developing regional tourism and is responsible for a lot of the development and infrastructure you will find in the region.

I’ve also read from others that Guest House Folk Music (+995-599-15-9694 or [email protected]) is lovely. Have your guesthouse call ahead (or hopefully you took my advice and bought a SIM card since they are so cheap!).

What to pack . Trekkers should have a solid waterproofing outer-layer, as well as sturdy shoes, and a strong headlamp for sure. Ask your trekking guide for additional suggestions, but those three things are the bare minimum you should have before arriving in the region.

Kakheti Wine Region

Tour the Kakheti wine region , and learn about the country’s long legacy of wine (Georgia’s wine-making process is actually recognized by UNESCO for its intangible heritage). This is a great tour option from Tbilisi .

Do a wine tasting . The Twins Wine Cellar in Naparevli  offers a lovely wine tasting and museum to learn more about the unique way that Georgians prepare and process wine.

Explore the gorgeous churches . This is a strong list of sights to see while in the region. They took their trip with the tourism board, so it’s  everything ; you’ll likely want to pick and choose a few of the sights that interest you most when constructing your own itinerary.

Swim in the pretty waters of the Black Sea in Batumi.

Watch sunset from the Argo Entertainment Complex , with has an aerial tram and cable car with stunning views over the city.

Visit the Piazza Square , a landmark and a pretty Italian renaissance square with upscale boutiques and restaurants.

Getting there . Taking a train between Tbilisi and Batumi is likely the easiest option, and the bus is six hours and also very cheap . Batumi’s train station is new and very nice (and has luggage storage if needed). You could also rent a car and make it a road trip, taking in all of the lovely towns along the way—if you are doing this, then you won’t need to take a daytrip to see places like Mtskheta (a town with a name I  still can’t pronounce!).

Read my full guide on how to get under the skin of Tbilisi, Georgia .

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

Tours in Georgia and the Caucasus

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VisitGeorgia has been welcoming the travelers from all over the world since 1997. We’ve hosted thousands of guests and have made many devoted friends and partners. During all these years each employee of the company has been working hard and put a lot of energy in keeping the trust of every guest and partner. It’s essentially important for us to offer only tailor-made and high quality service to our numerous customers.

Risk Management System

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Organize your Next Event in Georgia

Whether it is a corporate party, team building activities, classical tour program, conference, or any other MICE event, we can help you to achieve all of your aspirations, on time, and on budget. We offer complete event management, from the development of innovative ideas and organization to the final implementation of the program. 

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Having gone from backpacker secret to mainstream darling in just a decade, Georgia today is by far the most visited country in the South Caucasus, and it’s easy to see why: its rich culture and astonishingly diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination for anyone loving history and nature on the grandest of scales.

Best Places to Visit

Things to know, attractions, must-see attractions.

Gelati Monastery

Western Georgia

This Unesco World Heritage–listed monastery complex, on a wooded hillside 8km northeast of Kutaisi, is an outstanding example of Golden Age architecture…

Tsminda Sameba Church

Stepantsminda

This 14th-century church 2200m above Stepantsminda has become almost a symbol of Georgia for its incomparably photogenic hilltop setting with mighty Mt…

Shatili Old Town

Great Caucasus

This magnificent agglomeration of koshkebi (defensive watchtowers) and atmospheric slate houses packed tightly together on a steep hillside to create one…

Chavchavadze Estate

Prince Alexander Chavchavadze (1786–1846) was one of the most colourful and influential characters in Georgian history, and the palace and gardens he…

Narikala Fortress

Dominating the Old Town skyline, Narikala dates right back to the 4th century, when it was a Persian citadel. Most of the walls were built in the 8th…

Alaverdi Cathedral

At the beginning of the 11th century, when Georgia was entering its cultural and political golden age, King Kvirike of Kakheti had this majestic cathedral…

National Gallery

For most visitors the highlight here is the hall of wonderful canvases by Georgia’s best-known painter Pirosmani (Niko Pirosmanashvili, 1862–1918),…

Tbilisi's most exhilarating ride is its massively popular cable car, which swings from the south end of Rike Park high over the Mtkvari River and the Old…

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15 Amazing and Unique Places to Visit in Georgia

Wondering what to see in Georgia and where to go in this beautiful country in the Caucasus?  After spending almost one year here (and returning for more visits), I made a list of the 15 best and most beautiful places to visit in Georgia.

Georgia , a land of rock and stone, medieval fortresses and monasteries, green hills, majestic mountains, deep caves, and rocky beaches. A country where culture and history lovers will have the feeling they’ve been transported to the past while walking through the villages and towns.

Outdoor lovers will be amazed by the stunning landscapes of the mountains and every traveler will experience the incredible hospitality of the people and will be treated to a feast of delicious food  and  wine  (and the additional hangover). 

I spent almost one year in Georgia and I’m grateful that I had the chance to discover so many beautiful regions and unique places. 

3 Fantastic Itineraries to see the best of Georgia

It was hard to make a selection of the most beautiful places to visit in Georgia as there are so many of them, but here are the top 15 places and the best cities to visit in Georgia, the country!

Tip: See my  Georgia Travel Page  for a complete overview of all my travel guides and blog posts about Georgia!

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Plan your trip to Georgia

• 19 important things to know before traveling to Georgia
• 15 Best Places to visit in Georgia
• 3 Fantastic Georgia Travel Itineraries
• Tours & Experiences: Georgia Tours
• Rent a car in Georgia
• Travel insurance for Georgia
• Book your stay in Georgia

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The best places to visit in Georgia

Tbilisi is the capital city and one of the best cities in Georgia to visit! Tbilisi lies on the banks of the Mtkvari (also known as the Kura) river and is surrounded by hills and mountains.

It has been the capital of Georgia since the 6th century and its diverse architecture reflects its long and complicated history.

One of the best ways to appreciate this unique place is to wander its streets, especially in the colorful Old Town.

During your walk in the city you’ll come across over-renovated and hyper-modern buildings but you’ll also find yourself in a warren of backstreets surrounded by ramshackle buildings that are beautiful in their own unique way.

Make sure you walk (or take the cable car) to the Narikala Fortress where you can enjoy the stunning panorama over the city.

Top Things to do in Tbilisi:

• Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral
• Go for a stroll in the old town of Tbilisi
• Take the cable car to Narikala Fortress and meet Kartlis Deda, “mother of Georgia”
• Enjoy the delicious Georgian food in one of the many traditional restaurants
• Visit the  Chronicle of Georgia, Tbilisi’s hidden gem

Recommended Tbilisi City Tours

There are many lovely guided walking tours you can take in Tbilisi to learn more about the history of the city while visiting its main points of interest.

Here’s a guided walking tour I highly recommend:

How to get to Tbilisi:

Just like all the roads in Europe lead to Rome, all the roads in Georgia lead to Tbilisi! You can easily get there by plane (the main airport of Georgia is located in this city), by train, by bus, by mini-bus and by hitchhiking !

Read more about traveling by public transportation in Georgia and Tbilisi here .

Where to stay in Tbilisi :

You can pay as much or as little as you want to stay in Tbilisi. You can find a bed in a hostel starting from €7 (10 GEL) per night or you can spend a few nights in a lovely guesthouse for only €12 per night. 

• Bude Hostel
• Tiflisi Hostel
• Boutique Fantaisie
• Luxury inn in Old Tbilisi
• Citadel Narikala Hotel in Old Tbilisi
• Stamba Hotel

Top Things to Do in Tbilisi – The Travel Guide to Georgia’s Capital City

2. Mtskheta

Mtskheta is the religious capital, the spiritual heart, and therefore the most important city of Georgia. It used to be the capital city before King Gorgasali changed his base to Tbilisi.

It’s also one of the oldest cities in Georgia, where 4000-year-old traces of human settlements were found. Mtskheta is home to three of Georgia’s most important churches: Svetitskhoveli (try to say this 3x in a row…), Jvari and Samtavro Monastery.

Saint Nino lived in this city. She’s known as the Enlightener of Georgia, is one of the most important saints in this country (many girls are named after her). She’s the woman who preached Christianity in Georgia and the reason why this religion was adopted as the state religion in the year 330.

Important Note : if you want to enter the churches, dress appropriately! Men aren’t allowed to wear shorts or hats while women have to wear a long skirt and cover their hair with a scarf.

Places to visit in Mtskheta:

• Jvari Monastery
• Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
• Shio-Mgvime Monastery
• Old Mtskheta
• Bebristsikhe Fortress

Guided tours to Mtskheta:

Mtskheta is definitely worth visiting with a knowledgeable guide while visiting the most ancient and holy places of Georgia!

I highly recommend going on a guided (half-) day tour from Tbilisi to Mtskheta you’ll get a thorough tour and background info of all the important monasteries and churches.

How to get to Mtskheta:

If you prefer to visit Mtskheta independently, it’s a 30-minute drive from Tbilisi. You can easily hitchhike there from the Tbilisi Mall (take minibus nr. 50 to get there) or take a minibus (mashrutka) all the way to Mtskheta for only 1 GEL. Here’s a very detailed guide on how to go from Tbilisi to Mtskheta .

Vardzia is a spectacular cave monastery near Aspindza in southern Georgia. It looks like one of the movie sets of Lord of the Rings, although it wasn’t the home of dwarves but of many monks.

This underground monastery was built in the 12th Century, under the reign of King Tamar, the first woman that was ever crowned as a king (not a queen!) in Georgian history. It used to be completely hidden until a severe earthquake exposed and destroyed the cave monastery. 

Things to do in Vardzia:

Read my Travel Guide to Vardzia for a complete overview of how to visit all the highlights of Vardzia.

Guided Tours to Vardzia:

It’s a bit of a journey to get to Vardzia independently. Taking a tour to Vardzia , maybe combined with a visit to Akhaltsikhe and Borjomi, might give you a more enjoyable experience and you’ll learn a lot about the cultural and historical background of these wonderful places!

How to get to Vardzia:

You can take a mashrutka from Akhaltsikhe to Vardzia. The ride takes one hour, it costs 7 GEL and they operate 3 times a day.

The first mashrutka leaves at 10.30 am, the last one from Akhaltsikhe to Vardzia leaves at 1.20 pm. The last mashrutka is at 3 pm from Vardzia to Akhaltsikhe where you can still catch another one to Tbilisi (if you want to return the same day).

You can also take a taxi to Vardzia but that will cost you at least 50 GEL (unless you’re with a group, then you can share the costs and stop along the way at the Khertvisi Fortress).

The Complete Guide to Vardzia, Georgia’s ancient cave monastery.

4. Uplistsikhe

Uplistsikhe is located in eastern Georgia, about 100 km from Tbilisi. It literally means “Lord’s Fortress” and it’s an abandoned rock-hewn town that is more than 3000 years old. 

It was founded around 1000 BC and was continuously inhabited until the 13th century AD. At one point Uplistsikhe even had 20000 inhabitants!

The cave city covers an area of almost 40.000 m2 and used to have a pharmacy, a bakery, an amphitheater and even a prison. All the structures are connected by tunnels.

On top of the whole complex is a church that was built in the 9th century. This colorful building sticks out against the gray and sober caves.

tours to Uplistsikhe:

You can opt for taking a day tour from Tbilisi to Uplistsikhe, combined with a visit to Mtskheta (see above) and Gori (I used to live there!).

There are many day tours to Uplistikhe from Tbilisi offered by local travel companies . I highly recommend the following:

How to get to Uplistsikhe:

The cheapest way to get from Tbilisi to Uplistsikhe is by taking a shared taxi (5GEL) or a mashrutka (3GEL) from Didube station to Gori. There you can take another mashrutka to the nearby village Kvakhvreli for 1 GEL. You can also negotiate with the driver and he’ll take you to Uplistsikhe for 1 extra GEL.

If you’re with a group, you can share a taxi that will cost you around 20 GEL. Entrance fee for Uplistsikhe: 15 GEL.

Visit the best places in Georgia with these 3 Georgia itineraries!

5. Katskhi Pillar

Georgia doesn’t only have unique places on the ground or in the mountains, but also in the air. Take the Katskhi Pillar, for example, a 40-meter high limestone monolith that is also known as “the Pillar of Life”.

Around the 4th century, this rock became a place of seclusion for the ‘Stylites’, a religious group who had a “slight” obsession with sitting on top of narrow pillars to come closer to God. How they got up on the Katskhi Pillar and were able to build a church on top of there is still a big mystery!

It was only in 1945 that the first researchers were able to climb it. Oh, and the most extraordinary thing: a monk has been living on top of that remote pillar for 20 years!

Day tour to Katskhi Pillar

You can go on a day tour from Tbilisi to Katskhi Pillar , combined with a visit to Chiatura (see below).

Here’s the day tour I recommend:

How to get to the Katskhi Pillar:

From Tbilisi to the Katskhi Pillar: take a mashrutka from Didube Station to Chiatura. The earliest leaves at 8 am and after that nearly every hour. The ride takes about 3 hours and costs 6 GEL.

In Chiatura take a taxi to the Katskhi Pillar, which shouldn’t cost much as it’s only 20 km away or you can hitchhike like I did.

From Kutaisi to Katskhi Pillar : take a mashrutka from Kutaisi bus station to Chiatura. It costs 6 GEL and the journey lasts an hour and a half. Once in Chiatura, you can hitchhike or take a taxi to the Katskhi Pillar.

Katskhi Pillar, the most incredible cliff church in the world!

6. Chiatura

Another point of interest in Georgia is Chiatura, a small town nestled between steep valleys and deep gorges.

Chiatura was founded in the late 1800s as a mining colony. In 1954 the Stalinist government installed a system of cable cars, also referred to as a “rope road” to get the workers more quickly to the mines, instead of them walking to the sites on the steep cliffs.

Every corner of the town was connected with the mines through these cable cars and Chiatura became known as “the cable car city”.

Most of these cable cars have rusted away but there are still some of these “air tramways” functioning today as a form of (free) public transportation.

It’s truly an amazing (and a little frightening) experience to step into these rusty flying cabins that are known as the “death-defying metal coffins”. Chiatura is a strange and charming city where you can still feel the ghost of the Soviet Empire.

Day tour to Chiatura & Katskhi Pillar:

Combine a visit to Chiatura with the Katskhi Pillar (see above) on this guided day tour from Tbilisi :

How to get to Chiatura:

From Tbilisi to Chiatura : take a mashrutka from Didube Station to Chiatura. The earliest leaves at 8 am and after that nearly every hour. The ride takes about 3 hours and costs 6 GEL.

From Kutaisi to Chiatura : take a mashrutka from the Kutaisi bus station (near McDonald’s) to Chiatura. It costs 6 GEL and the journey lasts 1,5 hours.

Where to stay in Chiatura:

When I first visited Chiatura in 2017, there was one guesthouse. Nowadays you can find about 10!

Here are my recommendations:

• Butichi Guesthouse
• Hotel in Chiatura
• Family Hotel

Visiting the ghosts of the past in Chiatura.

Batumi is a modern city on the coast of the Black Sea. It’s the second biggest city in Georgia and honestly, it doesn’t really feel like you’re in Georgia. One moment you can hear the church bells ringing, and the next you hear the muezzin’s call to prayer coming from the mosques (Batumi is right near the border with Turkey).

The architecture is a combination of European and Asian styles, often mixed with fairy-tale-like towers, statues and buildings created by some hallucinating architects. This is especially visible at night when the majority of the building is lit up and bathing in the colors of the rainbow.

Batumi is a ‘glamorous’ city, designed to attract tourists and gamblers to play in one of its many casinos. You love it or you hate it but I absolutely enjoyed living there for three months when there were barely any tourists around.

How to get to Batumi:

You can get from Tbilisi to Batumi by mashrutka, which also stops in Kutaisi. It takes about 4,5 hours and costs 15 GEL. Shared taxis or buses are also possible but will cost you at least double the price.

I would suggest you take the train from Tbilisi to Batumi , which is very comfortable and cheap (18 GEL). The journey lasts about 5 hours and will take you along some beautiful landscapes.

Where to stay in Batumi:

• Homestay Seaside by Manuchar
• Hostel in Batumi
• Orbi City Sea View
• The Admiral Hotel
• Best Western Premier Batumi
• Beach Resort in Batumi New Orbi

Top Things to do in Batumi – The Complete City Guide to Georgia’s Las Vegas

8. Ushguli & other villages in Svaneti

Located in northwestern Georgia and locked in the heart of the Caucasus mountains lies the historic province of Svaneti . The only way to get there is by driving from Zugdidi to Mestia along steep windy roads looking over beautiful gorges, wild rivers, and majestic mountains.

Svaneti consists of several small villages, built on the slopes of the snow-covered mountains and surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of alpine meadows.

Walking around in these picturesque villages that are dominated by tower houses, gives you the feeling that you’re thrown back into the European Middle Ages.

One village truly mesmerized me: Ushguli. This village is part of one of the highest inhabited settlements in Europe, at about 2200m above sea level.

It is very remote, the only road to get there is very rough and bumpy but oh so beautiful! The inhabitants live a remote and unique life. They ride on horses through the cobblestone streets while pigs, dogs, cows and goats walk next to them on the little paths. It feels like time stood still there!

Unfortunately, it’s also the most touristic village in the area (Mestia not included) but there are plenty of other villages in the area that not many tourists visit.

Tours to Svaneti

Svaneti is a beautiful region with a very unique history. It could be interesting to travel there on a guided tour.

On this 4-day tour , you travel into the Caucasian Mountains to visit Svaneti, Mestia, Hatsvali and Ushguli. You’ll visit a typical Svan house and get a taste of the local unique cuisine and folkloric music.

You can also go on a 4-day guided trekking tour to Svaneti ! You will be hiking along the beautiful trails to the Chalaadi Glacier, the Shkhara Glacier, and the Ushba waterfalls while also visiting Mestia and Ushguli where you get to learn more about the Svan history and culture, and maybe even participate in Georgian folk dances.

How to get from Tbilisi to Mestia:

Mestia is the central village of Svaneti.

You can go from Tbilisi to Zugdidi by train and you can opt for the night train (8 hours) or day train (5,5 hours) – check the schedule here . Tickets cost between 16 and 21GEL.

You can also take a mashrutka from Tbilisi to Zugdidi, which departs every day from “Vagzali” bus station (in front of Tbilisi Central building). Look for the platform with the sign ‘Mestia’. The bus departs at 7 AM, tickets cost 30 GEL and the journey will take about 9 hours.

From Zugdidi to Mestia : catch a mashrutka at the Zugdidi train station (look for the sign Mestia). They leave every time the bus is full, a ticket costs 20 GEL and the ride takes between 3 – 4 hours.

How to get From Mestia to Ushguli:

You’ve got three options to get to Ushguli: 1) Hitchhike like I did. I was told that it was nearly impossible to hitchhike there but I got very lucky that day and caught a ride within 2 minutes!

2) Walk from Mestia to Ushguli. This hike takes about 3 to 4 days and you’ll walk along the majestic valleys and meadows of the Caucasus. More about this hike here .

3) Take a shared taxi. The drivers know that this is your only way to go to Ushguli and back so they’ll easily charge USD $100. Your best option is to share the taxi with other people.

Where to stay in Mestia and Ushguli:

You’ll have plenty of space to camp in Svaneti and it’s definitely worthwhile! You can also find many guesthouses in Mestia starting from $20/night for 2 people.

• Travel Inn House Mestia
• Eka’s Guesthouse
• Nino Ratiani’s Guesthouse
• Hotel Elite-House Mestia
• Hotel Old House Mestia
• Beko’s Garden Inn

Ushguli has also facilities to accommodate guests if you’d like to spend the night in this little village. Here are my top 3 recommendations for homestays and guesthouses in Ushguli:

• Nizharadze’s Tower
• Old Tower Ushguli

21 Top Things to do in Svaneti, the Wild Heart of the Caucasus

9. Omalo & other villages in Tusheti

Tusheti is one of the most beautiful and fascinating regions of Georgia. It’s located in northeast Georgia, on the northern slopes of the Great Caucasus Mountains.

There is only one road that goes to the area over the treacherous 2900m Abano Pass. It’s a beautiful mountain pass but it’s also considered one of the most dangerous roads in the world.

You need a 4×4 vehicle and nerves of steel to cross the pass but it is definitely worth it! The road to Tusheti is only open for 5 months (late May to early October).

The inhabitants, the Tushs or Tushetians, nowadays only go up there during summer to graze their cattle, organize traditional festivals, provide accommodation and tours for tourists and reconnect with their roots.  In winter they live in the lowland villages of Alvani and Akhmeta in Kakheti.

Tours to Tusheti

As Tusheti is so remote and hard to access, I’d highly recommend taking a tour there unless you have your own vehicle and are an experienced off-road driver.

I highly recommend my own Adventure Tours in Georgia as both tours have Tusheti on the itinerary!

Discover Georgia’s Highlights or go on a unique Georgia Trekking Adventure to Tusheti , Racha , Vardzia , Katskhi and Chiatura on one of my Georgia Adventure Tours !

How to get from Tbilisi to Tusheti

It’s quite hard to get to Tusheti by public transport. Even if you’re renting a car , you have to be very cautious as it’s a very dangerous road!

Take a mashrutka from Tbilisi to Alvani. Get off in the towns of Zemo-Alvani or Kvemo-Alvani. From there you will find Delica’s (4×4 Mitsubishi mini-van) going to Omalo. It costs around 40/50 GEL per person (around $20) one way and the Delica leaves once it’s full.

The ride takes at least 5 hours so make sure to arrive in the morning in Alvani. The cars mostly leave from the central crossroads which is impossible to miss.

Another possibility is to book a private transfer from Tbilisi to Tusheti . More info & prices here .

How to visit Tusheti, one of Georgia’s most remote regions

10. Sighnaghi

Georgia has its share of big cities and tourist attractions but what’s really special about the country are the small towns. Sighnaghi is one of them.

Some of the best food & wine in Georgia, beautiful tiny streets and houses with colorful wooden balconies, breathtaking views over the Alazani valley, the smell coming from the bakeries, a variety of fancy castles and small family-owned wine cellars and vineyards.

Day trips to Sighnaghi :

Sighnaghi is known for having some of the best wine producers in Georgia. Going on a day tour from Tbilisi to Sighnaghi will not only allow you to see the highlights of this beautiful town but you’ll also get to taste some of the best wines in Georgia (and you’ll arrive safely back in Tbilisi afterward):

How to get to Sighnaghi:

It’s quite easy to get to Sighnaghi from Tbilisi by public transport. Take the minibus to Sighnaghi at the Samgori Metro Station in Tbilisi. The ride takes about 1 hour 45 minutes and it costs 6 GEL.

Where to stay in Sighnaghi:

There are many lovely guesthouses in Sighnaghi . You can already find a room for $15/night for 2 people. If you travel by yourself, you can find a bed in a dorm for $8/night:

• Zandarashvili Guest House
• Nana’s Guest House
• Boutique Hotel BelleVue
• Villa Royal
• Lost Ridge Inn, Brewery & Ranch

11. Shatili Khevsureti 

Shatili Khevsureti is a mysterious medieval fortress village, surrounded by huge green mountains. Be sure that the diversity of the scenery will amaze any traveler and inspire incurable travel lust in everyone. 

Modern life hasn’t penetrated this region in Georgia yet. Locals put all of their efforts into pleasing their guests, assuring that they are always comfortable and happy.

During important feasts, the local people put on their folk costumes and go to the church where ancient pagan traditions, mixed with Christian beliefs, are still being practiced.

Hiking Tour to Shatili

Shatili is a destination for outdoor and hiking lovers! As it’s not so easy to get there and navigate the trails by yourself, I’d recommend going on a hiking tour with a professional guide.

On my 14-day Best of Georgia Trekking Adventure , you’ll visit the highlights of the Khevsureti region (including Shatili) and Tusheti (see above). You’ll go on off-the-beaten-path hikes in both regions. It’s a tour that gets highly rated!

How to get to Shatili:

Shatili is about 140 km north of Tbilisi. Because of the snow, the road is only accessible from May to October.

Since you have to cross the Datvijvari pass, I highly recommend taking a minibus from Didube Metro station (it costs about $15), or renting a 4X4 car with an experienced local driver , because the road is unpaved and dangerous.

Where to stay in Shatili:

There are currently just a couple of guesthouses in Shatili. Check their availability here . There are also plenty of camping areas close to the river.

Juta is the most peaceful and green place in Georgia and one of the most popular climbing and trekking areas among professional climbers. There are also many equally pleasant walks to be done around the village.

Day Tour to Juta

The easiest way to reach Juta is by going on a guided day tour from Tbilisi or Kazbegi . Here are two tours I recommend:

From Tbilisi to Juta:

From Kazbegi to Juta:

How to get to Juta:

There are no buses going directly from Tbilisi to Juta.

You can take a minibus from Didube Station in Tbilisi to Stepantsminda for only 10 GEL ($4 – $5). The journey takes around 3 hours. Once you’re in Stepantsminda you can rent a Delica or any other 4×4 car to reach Juta, which is 24 km away. This will cost around 80 GEL.

Where to stay in Juta:

Whether you’re looking for a nice camping spot or a beautiful wooden guest house to stay at, Juta will suit all your needs. Check their prices and availability here .

13. Kazbegi (Stepandsminda)

Kazbegi is really an amazing travel spot for every taste and budget. From luxury lovers to hitchhikers, everyone can find something here to his or her liking.

There are plenty of walks through the amazing valleys and one will lead you to the Gergeti Trinity Church, located at an altitude of 2170m.

On the way from Tbilisi to Kazbegi, along the Military Highway, you’ll pass the Ananuri Castle, the Jinvaly water reservoir, the Sto Head sculptures and the Russia-Georgia friendship monument.

How to get to Kazbegi:

You can take a minibus from Didube Station in Tbilisi to Stepantsminda for only 10 GEL ($4 – $5). The journey takes around 3 hours.

You can also go on a day tour from Tbilisi to Kazbegi and visit all the main sights in one day:

Where to stay in Kazbegi

You can put up your tent facing the stunningly beautiful Mount Kazbek (5047 m) and enjoy nature’s grand surroundings. If this is not your thing, there are plenty of guesthouses where you can book a room for 2 people starting from €20/night.

Here are my recommendations for Kazbegi:

• Anano Guesthouse (prices starting from €8 p.p.)
• Giorgi’s Guesthouse (starting from €18 p.p.)
• Wooden Hotel Kazbegi (starting from €30 p.p.)

14. Martvili Canyon

Martvili is located in the Samegrelo region in the western part of Georgia, about 280km from Tbilisi. Despite its remote location, it’s one of the more popular places to visit in Georgia.

The Martvili Canyon is a little oasis of emerald green mossy trees, 70-meters high rock walls, cascading waterfalls and turquoise-blue natural pools.

The Canyon used to serve as the bathing place for the Dadiani Family, Georgian nobles who used to rule over Samegrelo.

You can take a boat ride down the 300-meter long river through the canyon (for USD $15 per person) or follow the 700-meter long walking path leading to limestone bridges and viewing decks where you can see the waterfalls up close.

Martvili Canyon is a National Park of Protected Area so you can only visit it during opening hours (from 10 am until 6 pm). The entrance fee is 17,5 Gel (around USD $6).

You can also book the following day trip from Tbilisi, Kutaisi or Batumi to the Martvili Canyon:

How to get to Martvili Canyon from Tbilisi:

Minibusses leave every day from Tbilisi Didube bus station to Martvili (20 GEL).

Where to stay in Martvili:

Here are my 2 top recommendations for Martvili:

• Novel House
• Karma Hostel

15. The Tea Route in Guria

Guria is one of the least-visited regions of Georgia, famous for its rich culture and natural wonders, including mineral waters, alpine meadows, green forests, and sandy beaches.

Here you can feel the real vibes of rural Georgia, catch a glimpse of the sun setting on the Black Sea, enjoy magnificent views, pick berries and mushrooms in the forest, and cuddle up by the campfire, wake to the faint hint of the early morning sunlight and enjoy the sweet sounds of nature.

Guria is also known for its tea fields . Plump wild blueberries hang like treasure in Guria’s mountains from July until September.

Oceans of wild blueberry bushes blanket the slopes. Each spring, families from mountainous villages across Western Georgia head into the forests and hillsides to pluck the young leaves of these bushes, as generations before them.

They hand roll the leaves to make wild blueberry leaf tea, a delicious tea that tastes like black tea with notes of blueberry.

If you decide to visit Guria, I highly recommend following its newly introduced Tea Route ! I also recommend reading t h i s in-depth travel guide to Guria .

Book a Tea tour in Guria

I highly recommend booking the guided day tour to Guria to follow the Tea Route and learn about the interesting history and tea culture in Georgia:

How to get to Guria

The best place to get to Guria is Ozurgeti, the main municipality of the region.

There’s a train from Tbilisi to Ozurgeti, which departs in the early morning (check the train schedule here ). It takes about 9 hours to get to Ozurgeti as it’s an old slow train (but worth the journey and experience!) Tickets cost between 10 to 35 GEL and can be bought online or at the station.

You can also take a marshrutka (minivan) from every major town and city in Georgia to Ozurget. From Tbilisi, the journey takes around 6 hours.

Where to stay in Guria:

You can find many nice guesthouses in the region of Guria. Here are some I recommend:

• Menabde Winery
• Dumbo Eco Parc

A Guide to Georgian Tea – From Past to Present

Are there any places you would add to this list? Are you having plans to travel to Georgia? Let me know in the comments!

Related Posts:

How to visit Tusheti National Park in 2024, Georgia’s most beautiful and remote region

Georgia Itinerary – 3 Great Travel Itineraries to see the best of Georgia (country) in 2024

The Complete Svaneti Georgia Travel Guide – 21 Things to do in the Wild Heart of the Caucasus Mountains

How to get to the Chronicles of Georgia in Tbilisi

The Complete Georgia Travel Guide: 19 Useful Things you should know for backpacking in Georgia in 2024

10 Beautiful Historical Places in Georgia (country)

More georgia travel resources.

• Guide to Tbilisi , Georgia’s capital city
• Visit the 15 most beautiful and unique places in Georgia
• Plan your trip with these 3 awesome Georgia travel itineraries
• Discover the Chronicle of Georgia , Tbilisi’s hidden gem
• Guide to Batumi, Georgia’s most quirky beach city
• Hiking in Georgia: 7 beautiful off-the-beaten path hikes
• Visiting ghosts of the past in Chiatura, the cable car city of Georgia
• Visit Katskhi Pillar , the most incredible cliff church in the world
• Travel Guide to Vardzia , the ancient cave city of Georgia
• Visit Svaneti , the wild heart of Georgia
• Visit Tusheti , Georgia’s most remote region
• Visit these 10 beautiful historical places in Georgia
• Everything you need to know about skiing in Georgia
• 10 Georgian dishes you absolutely have to try
• Georgia, motherland of wine
• From Past to Present, a guide to Georgian Tea

94 thoughts on “15 Amazing and Unique Places to Visit in Georgia”

Interesting website with a lot of info. Thanks.

Google maps lists to cave towns named Vardzia. https://maps.app.goo.gl/CnLGbeu2LWfK8m3J7 https://maps.app.goo.gl/fZAxgEMLevQgtwsC6 They are at totally different locations. One is near little village Gogasheni, in the Mtkvari Canyon The other near Lakhundara and Achara. Are they both cave towns? Which is the one you describe? Kind regards Frank

Hi Frank, here’s the correct location of the Vardzia Caves, the one I describe. Google Maps isn’t always accurate in Georgia…

Hi Dear, We are planning our visit in the upcoming month of October ( end of October around 25th Oct) and will be there for a week. Can you tell us the must-cover places and also what would be weather out there? I and my husband are visiting and we would love to see the village, nature, its culture, wine history etc

Hi Pooja, if you have a week, I would highly recommend visiting Svaneti as it will be beautiful in autumn. It’s hard to predict the weather but definitely bring warm clothes for the evenings. For wine history, you should visit Telavi and Sighnaghi in the Kakheti region.

Thanks, Cynthia, We were thinking of covering Kazbegi and Juta in the mountain region instead of Svaneti, what do you suggest among the two?

If you want to go to a less-visited mountainous area, then Juta will be nice. Svaneti is stunning with its tower houses and the mountains there are also very beautiful but more touristy.

Hi this is an excellent post…I’m planning to visit Georgia around Middle of March for around 6 to 7 days..Could you please suggest a good itinerary…would love to have a village stay n visit some important places..thank you

Hi Santosh, I’m happy to refer you to my Georgia Itinerary Post . Check out the backpacker’s route and cultural route for itinerary inspiration. Hope this helps!

I am visiting Georgia for 4 days in first week of May.

Could you please let me know what are the places I can cover. (mostly by public transport)

Also if you can share me a map with all the public transport route. That would be appreciated.

Hi Souvik, this itinerary might help you: https://www.journalofnomads.com/georgia-itinerary/

Hello Cynthia,

I would like to ask you for help. Me and my partner are planning to visit Georgia by july 2023 for 10 days, may you please recommend us some towns or cities to visit that include historical places, bridges, natural, restaurants and shopping places. Thank You for your help

Hello Mariam,

Please see my Georgia Itinerary as this guide will give you lots of ideas and recommendations on what to do in Georgia for 10 days! If anything isn’t clear, let me know 🙂 Best wishes, Cynthia

Hi dear we are visiting Georgia in December month end. Do you have any recommendation of city to spend on? We have 7 nights.

What would you mainly like to see and do? Are you more interested in big cities, small towns or nature? Depending on your preferences, I can give you recommendations 🙂

nice article…is it possible to visit all these places during December? or any places to avoid during this month?

Thank you! Not all these places are accessible during December, like Tusheti and certain villages in Svaneti, due to snowfall.

Hi, I am planning to visit georgia in the month of noenjoyvember for 7 to 9 days with wife and 2 daughters (5 yrs and 8 month old).We are looking for calm short vaccation,so we would like to stay at places were we can enjoy the nature peacefully.can you suggest some places, thank you.

Hi Ajmal, have a look at this post: https://www.journalofnomads.com/georgia-travel-itinerary/ It includes 3 itineraries with places that you’ll enjoy! On the top of my head, I’d suggest Kazbegi and Sighnaghi.

Thanks a lot This post is really helpful Was planning to put a schedule for the last few days & find it difficult But your review make the life easy

Happy to hear this Aalaa!!

Hii I am also planning to travel georgia in the month of July. Will I be able to see Ice and I have only 4 days and places are more. What best I can do in this short span visit. Can you suggest.

Hi Ruchika, to answer your question, it depends on what you’d like to see/do. I’m not sure if you’re still going to be able to see ice and snow as it probably will all have melted by July. Would you like to go to the mountains, do you want to see historic places and/or cities,…? Let me know and I can give you suggestions 🙂

Just tripped over this and I love the info. Well done! I’m a “young” active 65 year old looking to start traveling alone to places more intriguing than Paris or Rome( which I love ,but…)

Tbilisi is a great and safe city to visit by yourself Sourab! 🙂

Hi Cynthia, Thanks for this list!! My husband and I are planning to spend 6 weeks in Georgia this summer, and we’re looking for a home-base that will provide a balance of culture and nature. Preferably a historic town or village, with restaurants within walking distance, where we can work from home and which will be a good base for weekend hiking adventures. We love good food, (we REALLY love Georgian wine), and we love hard hikes in high altitude. There are so many interesting places in Georgia, we are having a hard time narrowing our search. We’d appreciate your recommendation!

Hi Aubrey, I’m happy to hear this post was useful! What I would recommend in your situation is to spend 2 weeks in a different region. F.eg. 2 weeks in Sighnaghi (you’ll love it there as a wine lover ;)), 2 weeks in Kazbegi and 2 weeks in Mestia (Svaneti). I’d highly recommend Omalo in Tusheti for the hiking opportunities but I assume you need internet for your work? There should be a decent enough wifi connection in the 3 towns I recommended (except if you’re an online teacher, then I’d recommend Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi to have fast internet :)). I hope this helps? Let me know if you’d have more questions!

THANK YOU Cynthia!! XOXO Aubrey

Great article! Traveling is awesome in Georgia! I lived in Batumi for several months and visited Tbilisi often, too. Only 5 hours by train, super easy! 🙂 It seems like – long-term – these are two most popular cities to live, or would you recommend another city where it is fun to stay for a few months? thanks a lot!

Hi Lana, glad to hear you enjoyed my article! I think that Tbilisi and Batumi are probably the most fun cities to live for expats who like social activities and events. It really depends on what you’re looking for of course. Sighnaghi is beautiful and, as I’m an outdoor lover, I wouldn’t mind living for a while in f.eg. Mestia (Svaneti) as I’d be so close to the mountains!:)

We have visited Georgia last year and rented a 4×4 Toyota 4Runner at GSS Car Rental. It’s a local company and they have a lot of other 4×4 SUV’s available for rent. I can recommend GSS as they have a really good service…

Thank you for your suggestion Viktor!

Just want to say thanks, this website Inspired my travels to Georgia last year. I used these details base from my travels and went to 10 of the 15 places recommended (they were amazing). Some prices had gone up slightly but most of the information was still relevant. Not many websites have practical details on how to get around and expected prices to pay which was useful. thanks 🙂

Hi Kim, I’m so happy to hear this! I’m very glad that my website inspired your travels and super happy you had a great time there!

thanks for this topic

You’re welcome 🙂

Hello! Great blog post – Very informative. What is the weather in Georgia (mainly Tbilisi) like in April? I have read different accounts online, but since you live there, I thought you’d have a very localized perspective. Thank you!!

Hi Mikhail, we currently don’t live in Georgia anymore but we’ll return there this April 😀 There will still be snow in the mountains in April but the weather should be nice in Tbilisi. Some showers, soft temperatures around 15 degrees Celcius,… Of course we’re not weathermen and lately, the climate has been very unusual so we can’t predict how the weather will be this year 😉

I had never been to Georgia. But after reading this article I would love to go and visit destinations you have mentioned above.

Hi John, this is really great to hear! Georgia is a destination we definitely recommend as we had a fantastic time there visiting all these beautiful and unique places!

Hey, great post! Just one correction. Tbilisi was established in the 5th century but there wasn’t a Georgia to be capital of. It’s been a capital of Georgia since 12th century (1122). It would be great if you corrected that. And one question, how is the weather for visiting in early May?

Hi, can I ask for the source of this info please? From the resources I found is that Tbilisi was the capital of Iberia (present-day eastern Georgia) at the beginning of the 6th century, so according to my sources, this info is correct 🙂

The weather in early May is nice, it will still be chilly in the mountains but it will be nice and soft in Tbilisi, Batumi,…

How is March 15-30 , in terms of travelling to Georgia? Will it be very cold and will most places be inaccessible?

It will still be cold in Georgia in March but most places should be accessible, with the exception of Tusheti and maybe Racha.

Hi! we are traveling to Poti, Georgia to visit family. We want to stop in Tbilisi as well. Are there any cities that you would recommend visiting in between Poti and Tbilisi?

Depending on how much time you have, you could visit Kutaisi, Chatura, the Katskhi Pillar, Borjomi and Mtskheta.

Wishing you a great trip!

The list is amazing and awesome, It is just wonderful getting knowledge about these beautiful places and will definitely add it in my bucket list. All these places and pictures look amazing!

Thank you 🙂 Georgia is definitely worthy of your bucket list 😉

A chic country with amazing nature and very hospitable people. Food, wine, music … Thanks for your story. Very beautiful photos.

Hi Tori, glad to hear you enjoyed my photos and article. And yes, Georgia is such a great country. We’re going to return soon!

Hi Cynthia & niko Amazing post with Detials , going through your post I am confused where to go, I need your suggestion, I want to stay in nature (green fields ) and star gaze at night, where do you suggest.? I am planning to go on November for maximum 7 days

Hi Wahdawi, thank you! I’m glad to hear you enjoy this post!

If you want nature, go to Kazbegi or Svaneti. The road towards these places will still be accessible in November and you’ll see plenty of green fields and stars there! Enjoy your trip!!

I also enjoyed myself while I was visiting this kind of places.

Happy to hear Marckel!

addendum to Susie & Katie last query– we are now actually wondering if yo could advise us on our dream itinerary, with the intent of knowing if it is realistic for us to think we can drive a 4WD and not do marshrutki (of course we know that some smaller roads will be closed if there are blizzards and/or avalanches) Day 1: Arrive Tblisi Day 2 & 3: in Tblisi Day 4: Drive to Vardzia cave city Day 6: drive to Kutaisa Day 7: to Ushguli Day 9: to Kazbegi Day 13: to Tblisi, seeing Mtskheta en route Day 14:Tblisi Day 15: day trip Davit Gareja Day 17: home from Tblisi

Hi Susie & Katie, it might be possible that the road from Mestia to Ushguli won’t be accessible during December and January. You’ll be able to drive to Mestia and ask around in the town if the road to Ushguli is open. Same counts for Kazbegi. Just take your time to drive there as it might be very slippery and dangerous on the windy roads. If you’re not sure about the road conditions, ask the locals. They’ll be able to tell you whether it’s safe or not to go.

Wishing you happy and safe travels in Georgia! It will be beautiful and magical in winter!

hello! we are planing a trip to Georgia this December/January and we are finding your website very interesting indeed! We have one question– we take a lot of trips and love to rent a car to have the freedom to come and go as we please. We think this will be fine on the big main roads in Georgia with a 4-WD . However we would like to know if you can tell us about the smaller roads and a 4WD. For example, we would like to spend a few days in Tblisi then rent a car and go to Vardzia cave monastery. It looks like the road would be find for 4WD to Akhaltsihe but from there to Vardzia? We see there is a marshrutka f or that last leg but that would mean getting there intme for that or spending another day. So in short, can you say anything about driving on Georgia roads in winter with a 4WD? Thanks, Susie & Katie

Hi Susie & Katie,

You’ll be fine driving on most roads in Georgia during the winter. The main thing you’ll have to watch out for are the other drivers 😉 :D. The Georgians can drive a bit crazy on the roads (they love speeding and overtaking in the most impossible places) but it should be fine for you to drive. If you’re planning on going into the mountains, just make sure you have snow tires and be careful for slippery roads. Wishing you a great trip!!

I’m getting prepared for running the marathon in Erbil in October. On the way there I’ll need to train. Where do you recommend to run in Georgia? My idea for my 20 km training was Batumi. What do you think?

Hi Diana, I’m not familiar with the marathon in Erbil so I’m not sure on which terrain you have to run there. But the boulevard in Batumi is definitely a nice place for running! Niko often went for a morning run when we were living there so I’d say you’ll enjoy your training there. Wishing you all the best with the marathon!!

Really very nice !

Thank you Hussain! 🙂

Name of the river in Tbilisi is MTKVARI not kura !!!!

Hi Natia, as you can read, I’ve mentioned that the river in Tbilisi is called Mtkvari and that it’s also known as the Kura river.

KURA it is in russian language and thats why I said so Mtkvari it is in Georgian language. thanks for your reply and attention.

Tbilisi is one of the best places to visit in Georgia middle in the country nice place, I have been there the food is very much delicious and you will find new and unique recipes I might advice do try if you love food.

Yes, we totally agree with you Kanika! The food in Georgia and Tbilisi is finger-licking-delicious!! Tbilisi is also a really fun city to explore! It sounds like you had a great time there :)!

What a fabulous list, just thinking about the landscape and the food of Georgia wants me to go back!

Thank you Sarah! Yes, those are definitely two great reasons to return to Georgia! Ever since our stay there, we always look out for a Georgian restaurant, haha!

There’s a Korean program called “Wizard of Nowhere” that sent six celebrities to Georgia to meet the people while trying their homemade wine and cheese. Watching that show is what eventually led me to your site. Maybe someday I’ll be able to visit these beautiful places.

Hi Jenny, I never heard about this Korean program but I suppose it must be very entertaining to watch! 😀 I hope you get the chance to visit Georgia one day as it’s an absolutely beautiful destination!! We’ll return one day, that’s for sure!

I am surprised you did not put info on Prometheus Cave – I thought it is gorgeous ;)…

Hi Rati, we also visited the Prometheus Cave and it’s indeed very beautiful! We’ve seen similar caves like this one in other countries and this list is about the unique places that you can only find in Georgia 🙂 But you’re right, the Prometheus Cave is also worth a visit!

We had a project in Social Studies about Asia, and my assigned country happens to be Georgia, it was a total help and made me more interested with this country! Thanks a lot 🙂

Hi Jenel, oh, that’s really cool! When are you going to Georgia and what is your project about?

Sorry to interrupt you . But Georgia is thought to be Europe or else the gate between Europe and Asia it;s not Asia <3

I love mtskheta and I find it very beautiful, especially because of the cuisine.

Hi Denis, Mtskheta is indeed a very special place! What was your favorite dish there? Any recommendations for other travelers where they can enjoy the local cuisine in Mtskheta?

Hey guys ! Thank you for sharing these amazing tips . It definitely made our research easier and provided us with some sort of confidence in pulling this through. Just about to plan a little 5 day escapade to Georgia 😍… its not long but we’re hoping to enjoy the scenery, green sights , some good long hikes and in general nature with a splash of monuments and hystorical sights on the way . My Bf and I are planning to rent a 4×4 and drive through . Maybe get a guesthouse for a bit of comfort at some point but otherwise car attached 😁. I saw u had an itinerary you were planning to post a link for .. any chance you can share that ? Thanks again and happy safe travels ahead of you !

Hi Carmen, it’s great to hear from you and I’m very happy to hear you enjoyed this article! Traveling in Georgia by car is a fun way to explore the country but be careful, not for the windy roads but for the other drivers 😉 Here’s the link to the itineraries, you’ll be able to pick out the places you want to see in those 5 days you’re there: https://www.journalofnomads.com/travel-itineraries-georgia/ Have a beautiful trip and don’t hesitate to contact me if you have more questions!

Very nice article. Come back to see Racha! Should be the 16th if not before on the list 🙂

Thank you Teo and yes, we’d love to go back to Georgia! There are still so many amazing places we have to visit there!

Awesome post. Can’t wait now to explore this beautiful place. I will definitely like to plan a trip this vacation so that even my family can enjoy it.Keep sharing such useful posts.

Thank you Monica! I’m currently working on several travel itineraries for Georgia which I’ll publish in the coming week. Georgia is a wonderful country and there are so many things to see and do there! I’m sure you’ll enjoy it as much as Niko and I did 🙂 Happy travels!!

Good to see Indian Replying and reading articles.

I think you’ve got just about everything covered here. I can’t think of any place to add! Maybe hiking in Lagodekhi? Or something about wine harvest…

Thanks, great to hear that 🙂 Oh yes, Lagodekhi looks very beautiful! We’ll visit that area in the coming month before leaving Georgia. Maybe we’ll call this article ’16 amazing places’ 😉

Great article. We’ve been meaning to return to Georgia and you’ve just given us 11 new reasons why. 😉

Thanks Tim! Haha, glad to hear that. Did you already book your trip? 😉

Really wonderful article! Thank you all for loving and appreciating my country. In rhe beginning of this article , there was mentioned that in Georgia there are many beautiful and amazing places and it’s true! I would add to this list “Prometheus Cave” which is located in Imereti Region, near Tzkaltubo. Also in Samegrelo Region you must visit lake “Tobavarchkhili”. And of course Tusheti Region! Tusheti is the Eastern Caucasus, at 900 – 4 800 meters above sea leveland it is one of the biggest and high altitude parks on the territory of Europe. This is the places which suddenly came in my mind. But believe me there are also many wonderful places to visit. Best wishes 😉

Thank you Tamar! <3 There are so many wonderful places in Georgia that it was hard to make a selection for a post and not write a book 😉 Thank you for your recommendations Tamar! We heard about Tusheti but haven't made it there yet. We hope to visit the area before leaving Georgia!!

Really awesome practical info and great pics! Can’t wait to get back to Georgia and see more of the country!

Thank you Megan! When did you visit Georgia? Did you go to any of the places that are mentioned in the post?

Super useful stuff. Will definitely try to visit all of these once we’re back in Georgia. Thanks a lot!

Thanks guys! Are you planning on returning to Georgia soon? I’m sure you’ll love Chiatura (watch out with the chacha this time 😉 )!

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The Top 10 Places to Visit in the Country of Georgia

This tiny country is Europe's best-kept secret

When you think of "Georgia," you probabably think of Atlanta, peach trees and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport , the hub of Delta Air Lines. Georgia is also home to ancient citadels, ornate Eastern Orthodox Cathedrals, a budding wine culture and some of the tallest mountains in the world. The other Georgia, anyway.

With all due respect to the home of the Brave(s), the country of Georgia (known in the Georgian language as "Sakartvelo") offers a richness of experience for travelers with which the state just can't participate. The country of Georgia may be much farther away than the state, but it's well worth a visit. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Georgia.

Narikala Fortress

Emad Aljumah/Getty Images

Tbilisi's Narikala Fortress isn't technically ancient, even though it occupies a very old site. The 13th century church that originally sat perched above Tbilisi's Old City burned down, and most of what currently exists was built in the late 1990s. Still, this is a must-see when you come to Georgia, if only because of the panorama it offers of Tbilisi's city center and the Kura River, which snakes through town. If you don't feel like hiking up to the fortress, which takes about 15-20 minutes, ride the cable car inside.

Sameba Cathedral

Nutexles/Getty Images

One of the most conspicuous Tbilisi attractions you can see from Narikala is the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, known colloquially as Sameba. Whether you see it from afar or close up, it's most beautiful at night, when it lights up in a bright golden color that beautiful contrasts it from the more dim tones of the surrounding neighborhood. Sameba is the world's third-largest Eastern Orthodox church as of 2018, and is one of the largest religious structure on the planet in general.

Stepantsminda and Mount Kazbeg

Emad Aljumah/Getty Images 

Georgia is a treasure trove of Orthodox architecture, it so happens, with another beautiful example being the hilltop 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church, located in the Caucasus Mountains a few hours north of Tbilisi. From the town of Stepantsminda, the nearest settlement to the church, it's about 90-minutes on foot at a brisk pace on a relatively steep incline. On a clear day, you can spot Mount Kazbeg (one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus Mountains) towering above the church from many points in the town, including the Rooms Hotel.

Davit Gareja Cliff Monastery

Juergen Rittenbach/Getty Images

Want to see an amazing religious site in Georgia, but can't devote an entire day and night to visiting Kazbegi? Another option would be to take a day trip from Tbilisi to Davit Gareja, a massive monastery complex a couple of hours from the city that's literally carved into a mountainside. Tour buses to Davit Gareja, which dates back to the 6th century, leave from Tbilisi's Freedom Square every morning.

Batumi's Black Sea Coast

Ihar Paulau/Getty Images

Not in a religious mood and aren't a mountain person? Not to worry. Though relatively short in length, Georgia's Black Sea coast is idyllic, and the city of Batumi has some lovely beaches to visit. One of the things many visitors to Georgia love about the city beach in Batumi is the fact that it's made of rocks, not sand. This means not only that the water is clearer, but that you won't get sand everywhere when you sunbathe!

Kakheti's Wineries

 Anna Bogush/Getty Images

Among the many reasons Georgia is rising to mainstream prominence? The country's long-secret wine scene (the Caucasus region is arguably where the modern wine tradition was born) is gaining more and more positive press, from the honey-sweet white wine Tvishi to fruity Aguna rosé. Popular wineries in the Kakheti region southeast of Tbilisi include Pheasant's Tears and Shumi Winery Khaketi.

Historical Sighnaghi

Sebastiano Garilli/Getty Images

Like Narikala in Tbilisi, much of the town of Sighnaghi (which, like the wineries listed above, is also located in the Kakheti region of Georgia) is significantly re-built. However, if you can overlook this fact, this is sure to be one of your favorite Georgia destinations. Notable Sighnaghi attractions include the Bobde Monastery, which sits just outside the town center, and eighth-century Kvelatsminda Church. A day or two in Sighnaghi town pairs perfectly (pun very much intended) with a trip to one or more of the Georgia wineries listed above.

Stalin's Hometown

Epics/Getty Images

Although Joseph Stalin and his mythology are mostly associated with Russia, he actually hails from Georgia (which was, to be fair, a Soviet Republic, albeit a reluctant one). Apart from the massive Stalin Statue and extensive Stalin Museum that sits in the center of Gori Town, you can visit the ancient Gori Fortress or Uplistsikhe, an architectural site that dates back to the Iron Age. Keep in mind that while locals here are proud of the fact that Stalin hails from here, it's probably not a good idea to confuse them as being Russian, or to refer to them as such.

Affordable Ski Resorts: Bakuriana and Pasanauri

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

Thrifty European skiers have long known Georgia as an affordable alternative to the slopes of France and Switzerland, and a beautiful one as well. The country's Caucasus mountains are every bit as beautiful as the Alps, and their comparative lack of development makes them arguably more charming. While some would-be Georgia skiers might feel doubtful about their decision after video footage of a recent mishap circulated online , resorts like Bakuriani and Pasanauri are generally very safe, and are always an incredible value.

Tbilisi's Rustaveli Avenue

 Emad Aljumah/Getty Images

Tbilisi is not only where Georgia begins for most travelers, but also where it tends to end, being the location of the country's main international airport. Presuming you follow the advice on this list and devote the first part of your Georgia trip to seeing Tbilisi's ancient sites, spend your last day or two in the country walking up and down cosmopolitan Rustaveli Avenue. Whether you enjoy high-end shopping, having a coffee or cocktail in trendy cafés that evoke Western Europe or simply watching the sunset over Freedom Square, you're sure to have a lovely time in Tbilisi.

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The Best Time to Visit Georgia: Month by Month Comparison

When is the best time of year to visit the country of Georgia? Find the answers you’re looking for in this month-by-month guide to weather in Georgia, seasonal activities, festivals, events and more.

Trying to figure out the ideal month (or even just the best season) to visit Georgia can be tricky. For such a tiny country, Georgia has a very diverse geography and climate – the east differs vastly to the west, while the different mountain regions and coast have their own microclimates.

This means there’s no definitive ‘best time to visit Georgia’: Every season offers something different.

Having said that, there are certainly months that are better suited to travel – and a few times of year you should try to avoid.

I’ve lived in Georgia for over three years now and have experienced every season. This guide draws on my knowledge to give you a seasonal overview and month-by-month breakdown of weather to help you decide the best time to travel to Georgia for your interests.

I’ll also cover the best places to visit in each season plus key festivals and events to plan your trip around.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Travel Georgia Like a Pro

Planning a trip to Georgia? Here are 5 essential resources that I recommend you check out.

• For private transfers in Georgia: GoTrip.ge . Find a professional, English-speaking driver. Prices are locked in when you book & you can stop wherever you want.
• For hiring a car in Georgia: Local Rent . Save money when you rent directly from a local agent. Pick-up & drop-off are available from any address in Georgia.
• For finding accommodations: Booking.com . This website has the biggest selection of properties in Georgia, including guesthouses in rural areas.
• For Tbilisi tours & day trips: Friendly.ge . Friendly.ge has knowledgeable guides, safe drivers & creative itineraries. I especially like their off-road tour to David Gareja.
• For tailored advice: Book a call with me! My Georgia Travel Consultation service is perfect if you need feedback on your itinerary or personalised travel tips.

Understanding the climate in Georgia

I don’t want to dwell too much on this, but having a general understanding of Georgia’s climate can be useful.

Briefly, eastern Georgia has a Mediterranean-like climate, while the west of the country and Black Sea Coast has subtropical conditions. Tbilisi is dry, while Batumi and the coast are humid. As mentioned, the weather varies immensely from north to south, east to west.

There are four seasons in Georgia, but spring and autumn are generally short and pronounced. Summer lingers well into September in many parts of the country, while areas at higher elevations have prolonged winters. The major cities of Tbilisi , Kutaisi and Batumi are mild year-round (relatively speaking).

The east of Georgia (including Tbilisi and Kakheti region ) is dry and sees more dramatic seasons: Summers are unforgiving and winters bitter. Parts of Southern Georgia (especially Samtskhe-Javakheti region ) are under snow more often than not. The west of Georgia , by contrast, is warmer, wetter and more humid. Temperatures are more consistent here throughout the year, as are the menacing rain clouds.

One thing the whole country has in common is that the weather can be quite temperamental. Gusting winds can take the temperature up or down by 10 degrees Celsius in a matter of days, and storms and impenetrable fog can roll in extremely quickly.

While I can offer you some general guidance, you should always come prepared for anything!

Tip: This website is generally considered to be the most reliable for forecasts.

Tip: See my all-seasons Georgia packing list for guidance on what to bring with you and how to dress in Georgia.

Map of the best time to visit Georgia by location

Here is a rough map of popular destinations in Georgia with my recommendations for the ‘best’ time to go. Of course this is a bit subjective, but I’ve taken into account the average temperatures and rain fall, as well as special events and other factors.

Summer high season in Georgia: Late June-early September

→ Best time for mountain hiking & beaches on the Black Sea coast.

In Tbilisi and the lowlands around the capital, summer is dependably hot and arid. The landscape dries out to a crisp brown in early summer, and the unrelenting sunshine makes it difficult to stay outside for more than a few hours at a time.

The very warm weather (where temperatures can push 40 degrees Celsius in the shade for several consecutive days) generally sets in around mid-June and builds throughout July before peaking in August.

Most locals promptly leave the cities as soon as school holidays roll around in July, heading to the mountains or the coast for some reprieve. Because of this, popular hotels and resorts are often full, and domestic flights and trains sold out. It can be difficult to get a seat on the Tbilisi Batumi train especially. Prices go up with increased demand.

One advantage of summer travel is that the days are much longer (the sun sets well after 9pm by late June), so you can fit a lot more into your day.

Say no to sweaty marshrutka vans – summer is a great time for a Georgia road trip instead. All roads and passes are open and accessible, just watch out for flash flooding and landslides in the highlands.

Summer is prime time for trekking in the mountains of Svaneti and around Kazbegi . The wildflowers are out, and daytime temperatures are pleasant, while evenings bring short but punishing storms.

This is the best time of year to visit Tusheti , Khevsureti, Upper Adjara, Gomismta and Bakhmaro, which are all difficult (or impossible) to reach during the colder months.

In mid-September, ‘Velvet Season’ kicks off in Batumi and along the Black Sea coast and lasts until early October. This is a short window of time when crowds disperse but skies remain clear and the water is still warm enough to swim.

→ See my guide to beating the heat in Tbilisi in summer

Autumn shoulder season in Georgia: Late September-October

→ Best time for wine & cultural events.

September is sometimes referred to as the ‘fourth month of summer’ because temperatures remain warm in Tbilisi, Kutaisi and the lowlands. By mid-September and throughout the month of October, the weather is usually near perfect: Warm, breezy days, crisp nights, and clear skies. The only downside is the gusting winds that hit Tbilisi and Kutaisi – something to be mindful of if you suffer from allergies.

Autumn is my favourite time of year in and the best season to visit Georgia in my opinion. Tbilisi has an upbeat atmosphere, with outdoor markets on Rustaveli Avenue, the annual Tbilisoba festival in October, and plenty of live music , opera and ballet.

Harvest season brings a festive feel to the entire country – which is why you’ll sometimes hear autumn referred to by another name, the ‘fifth season’. Dates for the wine vintage or Rtveli differ year to year, but generally it takes place in Kakheti from early September and lasts until early November in western Georgia.

Resplendent fall foliage can be found in the highlands of Racha and Samegrelo from as early as September, while Tbilisi’s fall colours come into their own in October. Rust-coloured foliage is visible in areas such as Rkoni until November.

Autumn also brings a cornucopia of produce, including mushrooms, pomegranates and persimmons. Tbilisi restaurants often put on special menus to showcase fall’s bounty.

Most mountain areas and trails remain accessible throughout September and into early October.

→ See my guide to the best places to visit in Georgia in autumn

→ See my guide to the best things to do in Tbilisi in autumn

Winter low season in Georgia: November-March

→ Best time for winter sports or a quiet city break.

Relatively mild winters in Tbilisi make the city quite pleasant between November and March, especially when the sun is shining. Snow in Tbilisi is a rarity but there may be a few flurry days right at the end of the season, usually in late February or early March. With quiet streets, snug wine bars and the thermal baths at your disposal, Tbilisi is wonderful for a winter city break.

Conditions are freezing in the highlands, but mountain areas that are still accessible by road are a winter wonderland. The highways to Kazbegi and Svaneti remain open throughout winter (only closing temporarily in case of avalanche risk or heavy snow). Along with lower Racha, these mountain regions are the perfect place to snuggle up in a cosy cabin .

Winter sports season at Georgia’s ski resorts in Gudauri, Bakuriani , Goderdzi, Hatsvali and Tetnuldi usually starts from late December and runs through until April. It gets extremely busy in Gudauri and Bakuriani especially, so I don’t recommend staying here unless you are skiing.

→ See my guide to the best places to visit in Georgia in winter

→ See my guide to the best things to do in Tbilisi in winter

→ See my photos of snow in Tbilisi

→ See my beginner’s guide to skiing in Georgia

Spring shoulder season in Georgia: April-early June

→ Best time for hiking at lower elevations & exploring the cities.

You know it’s spring in Tbilisi when powder-pink cherry, plum and magnolia blossoms start to appear. In Kakheti, lavender shrubs and sunflowers come into bloom, while wildflowers in the mountains take their turn later in June and July.

‘Moody March’ is very unpredictable all across the country, with gusting (pollen-laden) winds and sometimes snow. The start of April can still be quite chilly.

In the east of Georgia, the weather seems to shift towards being warm right after Orthodox Easter (I know that doesn’t make much sense since the dates change every year, but it just does!), while temperatures are already rising in Kutaisi and the west by mid-month. Nights remain pleasantly cool until early June. But rain is common in most parts of the country and can put a dampener on your plans.

Georgia’s rich Orthodox traditions are on full display in the lead up to Easter, while spring also brings vibrant produce and special foods such as chakapuli (lamb, sour plum and tarragon stew) and paska , a traditional Georgian cake .

Spring is the time when vintners open their clay qvevri for the first taste of last year’s harvest. This is a wonderful tradition to observe if you can organise to visit a cellar . The New Wine Festival and Zero Compromise Natural Wine Festival both take place in Tbilisi in May, drawing hundreds of winemakers from around the country for tastings and a food bonanza.

On the Black Sea Coast, spring is normally grey and wet. It’s still too brisk for any serious hiking in the Greater Caucasus. Instead, spring is better suited to hiking at lower elevations, e.g. around Borjomi and Lagodekhi national parks .

→ See my guide on where to go in Georgia in spring

→ See my guide to the best things to do in Tbilisi in spring

When is the best month to visit Georgia?

Now that you have a rough idea of the seasons in Georgia, here is a month-by-month breakdown of weather and conditions.

I’ve also included major holidays and events to look out for, plus my tips for where to go and where to avoid for each month of the year.

January in Georgia

Temperatures in Tbilisi are relatively mild, hovering around 5-10 degrees Celsius during the middle of the day. Without the ice, sleet and drizzle typical of other European capitals, the city is quite pleasant throughout the month – especially on clear, crisp blue-sky days, of which there are many. The best way to warm up on a wintry evening is with a session at the sulfur baths .

Conditions are similarly cold but wetter in the west, while snowfall nears its peak in the mountains. High passes that close off in October/November remain inaccessible throughout winter , so this is not a time for hiking or visiting remote villages.

Orthodox Christmas falls a fortnight or so after Roman Catholic Christmas, meaning Georgia celebrates its second-biggest religious holiday in early January. Christmas is traditionally a time for family, but visitors can revel in December 31 celebrations .

As well as marking the International New Year, this is the biggest evening on the Christmas calendar (a hangover from Soviet times ) and sees a massive fireworks display take over the streets of Tbilisi. Crackers and rockets spring from windows and street corners at every angle – you’ve never seen or heard anything like it.

January 2 is Bedoba, a unique tradition where one is obliged to treat oneself and others in order to set the tone for the year ahead. A wine tasting could be just the thing.

The Alilo Parade takes place on Orthodox Christmas Day (January 7) with a procession through the streets of Tbilisi. Orthodox Epiphany in mid-January designates the official end of the holiday season, and the decorations come down shortly before that.

Unique traditions can be observed in the mountains during winter, including Lipanali , a day-of-the-dead-like commemoration in Svaneti that starts on Epiphany eve.

February in Georgia

February is cool and fresh in the cities. Or it could be grey and miserable. You never know!

Winter sports season really starts to take off on the slopes of Bakuriani and Gudauri in particular, making this a great time for skiing or snowboarding. Traditionally, Mestia and Gudauri both have their highest number of snowy days in February.

February is the coldest month of the year for most of the country so remember to pack your woollens. Snow has been known to fall in Tbilisi (and even Batumi) towards the end of the month – but it almost always melts away by nightfall.

This is a great month for riding the Kukushka train in Bakuriani (currently out of commission, sadly), snowshoe hiking, lounging in a natural hot spring , or viewing the stone towers in Ushguli on a bed of snow.

March in Georgia

March (AKA ‘Mad March’ or ‘Moody March’) is a transition month in Georgia and the weather is normally very unpredictable as a result. Generally speaking, temperatures sit at around 7-12 degrees Celsius in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi and the lowlands, while the mountain regions are still frosty. But in reality you should expect anything: Storms, gusting winds, snow, sun – or all of the above!

Snowfall remains steady in Gudauri and Mestia before trailing off at the start of April, signifying the end of the ski season.

April in Georgia

April puts a full-stop on winter and is the definitive start of spring in Georgia. The mercury rises above 10 degrees Celsius in the cities and stays there. Tbilisi and Kutaisi are both a little rainy. On the plus side, Tbilisi’s parks are festooned with cherry and magnolia blossoms, giving the city a cheery atmosphere.

Being a predominantly Orthodox country, Georgia celebrates Easter after the Roman Catholic calendar. In 2024, Easter Sunday falls on May 5, meaning preparations will be underway throughout the second half of April.

Red Friday, Great Saturday, Easter Sunday and Bright Monday are all public holidays. Easter culminates with midnight liturgy on the Saturday/Sunday, where you can hear resplendent chanting. For something truly special, head to Lanchkhuti in Guria region for Lelo Burti , a cultural festival based around a traditional full-contact ball game.

Easter is traditionally preceded by 40 days of fasting. Look out for paska fruit cake being sold at bakeries. Another tradition is dying eggs red with Madder root and displaying them at home with green wheatgrass. You’ll see these items sold on the streets in the lead-up to Easter.

If you suffer from allergies, be aware that there is usually a lot of pollen and floral debris in the air towards the end of spring.

May in Georgia

May is a crowd-pleaser and another of the best times to go to Georgia, with generally pleasant weather, hiking trails available at lower elevations, and a peaceful tempo in the cities. The downside is that the weather can still be unpredictable so you need to plan for anything. May brings rain to much of the country.

Still, it’s a nice time to visit the arid parts of eastern Georgia, including Vashlovani National Park and David Gareja Cave Monastery as it’s not too hot yet. The road to Tusheti normally opens at the end of May or in the first week of June. Spring arrives earlier in Kutaisi and Batumi. On May 2, Kutaisi celebrates Kutaisoba.

Kakheti is particularly nice in May, with blossoming flowers, budding vines, and the ceremonial cracking of the previous year’s qvevri. In Tbilisi, the New Wine Festival is held every May at Mtatsminda park , bringing more than 200 winemakers to the capital to showcase their latest concoctions. The cultural celebration includes bottomless tastings, live music and food.

May 26 is Independence Day, when Georgia commemorates its split from the Russian Empire in 1918. Part of Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi is closed to traffic and an open-air street festival takes over, with pop-up restaurants and bars, live music and a market.

June in Georgia

In most parts of the country, the first half of June feels like a continuation of spring. Temperatures become pleasantly balmy and it’s not too crowded yet, making this a nice time to visit the cities, coast and even popular mountain areas such as Svaneti – which is plastered with wildflowers come summer.

At some point (usually around mid-June) the weather changes rapidly and it gets very hot in the cities. Travelling in marshrutka vans is almost unbearable, so it’s a great time to hire your own car , taking advantage of the longer days to venture out to Georgia’s harder-to-reach corners.

More hiking trails become available, with trekking season officially on by the third or fourth week of June. The ski lifts in Gudauri open to summer visitors at the end of the month. Overall, the mountains are spectacular in June, making this the best time to rent a secluded cabin or go glamping .

July in Georgia

Things really start to heat up in July and by the middle of the month, temperatures in Tbilisi are pushing 40 degrees Celsius in the shade. Kutaisi is similarly hot but with the added bonus of humidity, while Batumi is slightly cooler thanks to the sea breeze, but much more crowded.

The dynamics of Tbilisi shift in July as local families depart for the villages or the coast and tourists flood the city in their place. It’s far too hot and dry in Tbilisi for my liking – the better move is to follow the locals’ example and escape to the mountains or to a lake.

Everyone has the same idea though, so accommodation prices can be inflated and availability limited during July and August. Summer resorts such as Abastumani , Sairme and Borjomi are at maximum capacity (as is Batumi), while the mountain regions of Racha and Upper Adjara are a nice alternative.

July is a great time in Georgia for music lovers, with the Lagodekhi Blues Fest, the Black Sea Jazz Festival and GEM Fest in Anaklia all taking place.

August in Georgia

Much like July, August brings oppressive heat to most of the country. It even starts to get hot under the collar in Svaneti and Kazbegi.

This is summer storm season in the mountains and the forecast often paints a grim picture – but in reality, downpours usually come in short, sharp bursts towards the end of the day, with clear periods in between.

Tbilisi is full of people and the Old Town especially can feel choked and claustrophobic. The only solution is to set up in the shade by a swimming pool , a tub of your favourite Georgian ice cream (or maybe a bottle of sparkling Pet Nat) on hand.

August is the hottest and most humid month of the year in Batumi, too. Combined with summer crowds that persist until the end of school holidays, it’s far from the best time to visit the Black Sea.

Instead, you’re better off making for the higher mountain ranges. Upper Adjara, Gomismta and Bakhmaro – sealed off in winter – are stunning in summer, their colourful A-frame cottages wreathed in green pastures.

Tusheti celebrates its biggest annual festival, Tushetoba, in August, with displays of folk music, dance, archery, horse racing and sheep-shearing. As with most festivals in Georgia , the exact dates are normally finalised a couple of weeks in advance.

In both Tusheti and Khevsureti , there are cycles of roving festivals that travel from village to village throughout the month of August.

September in Georgia

September is an auspicious time of year in Georgia as the Rtveli wine vintage formally begins. Harvest dates vary year to year depending on any number of factors. As a general rule, the plucking of grapes starts in the first weeks of September in Kakheti and continues throughout the month. In western Georgia’s wine regions, the harvest starts later and continues into October/November.

One of Georgia’s biggest music festivals, Tsinandali Festival, also takes place in September at the estate in Kakheti .

As summer peak season winds down, many mountain hotels , resorts and wine chateaux offer great deals during the month of September, making the end of the month a terrific time for budget travellers to visit. The start of September is ‘Velvet Season’ on the Black Sea coast, when it’s still warm enough to swim but far quieter. This is a great time to experience the beaches sans summer crowds.

Temperatures remain warm in Tbilisi, but cooler evenings take the edge off. The first of Georgia’s fall colours can be seen in September at higher altitudes around Racha, Kazbegi and Svaneti. Most hiking trails are still open throughout September.

October in Georgia

In the cities, festival season continues into October while in the mountains and rural areas, people start preparing for the fast-approaching winter. October is one of my favourite months in Georgia.

Tbilisi’s biggest celebration, Tbilisoba (‘Day of Tbilisi’), is normally held on the first weekend of the month and sees the entire Old Town transformed into an open-air carnival. The program includes a gastro market where farmers showcase their produce and wine, and folk performances on outdoor stages.

Meanwhile in Mtskheta , Svetitskhovloba is celebrated every year on October 14 with a street festival and mass-baptism. Both these events are worth timing your travels for.

Weather-wise, crisp temperatures become the norm, and fall colours start to show themselves at lower elevations. The best places for fall foliage include Samegrelo (especially around Martvili ), Bateti lake, and closer to Tbilisi near Rkoni, Dashbashi and Birtvisi Canyons, and Sabaduri Forest to the north.

One of the most spectacular October events is the Tusheti sheep drive, when shepherds deliver their flocks from high-altitude summer pastures down into the Alazani valley. Tusheti is well and truly closed to traffic by mid-month.

Kazbegi and Svaneti remain open throughout winter, only ever closing temporarily if there’s an avalanche risk, but it can be quite cold, wet and muddy in the mountains in October. Racha is the best mountain region to visit late in the season, because there are beautiful autumn colours and it’s usually not too wet.

November in Georgia

Come November, temperatures drop dramatically in many parts of Georgia, with daytime averages almost halving in a matter of days. Fall colours linger on in Tbilisi for the first part of the month, making this a nice time to wander the city with your collar up against the wind.

Batumi on the other hand starts to live up to its reputation for being one of the wettest cities in Europe. November is usually the dampest month of the year on the coast. Combined with warm temperatures, it can feel unpleasantly sticky and cloying.

Kutaisi remains warm, while in Tbilisi, dance companies and performers return home after touring Europe during the summer to grace the stages of the Opera Theatre, New Theatre, and other venues.

Winter arrives early in the higher mountain regions, with snow starting to fall in Mestia and Gudauri by the middle of the month.

December in Georgia

By December, the whole country is in full winter mode. Temperatures generally remain above freezing in Tbilisi. This is one of the driest months of the year in the capital, so provided you have appropriate attire, it can be nice to get outdoors and test your mettle on one of the hiking trails around the city .

Kutaisi and Batumi have similar temperatures, but more rain.

Christmas lights and decorations go up in mid-December, with the biggest displays along Rustaveli Avenue, in Freedom Square and on Atoneli Street in the capital. December 25 is a normal working day and goes by without much fanfare in lieu of Orthodox Christmas celebrations in January .

December 31 is a huge affair, with Tbilisi being the best place in Georgia to ring in the New Year.

Final words: When is the best time to visit Georgia?

Georgia offers something different in every season, so when you choose to visit really depends on your interests and priorities.

Remember that the climate and therefore the weather varies dramatically between east and west, the mountains and lowlands.

Here are my general recommendations for when to visit Georgia:

• For hiking & mountains: Late June to September
• For cities & culture: April/May or September/October
• For wine: September/October
• For beaches: July/August
• For skiing & snowboarding: February/March

Overall, September/October and April/May are by far my favourite times of year in Georgia. Even though spring weather can be volatile, temperatures are pleasant throughout most of the country.

Outstanding festivals and events are held during both periods, including Rtveli harvest celebrations in autumn and Orthodox Easter festivities in spring.

You might also be interested in…

• The ultimate Georgia itinerary : Four detailed & custom-designed itineraries
• Georgia Travel Guide : All of my 200+ posts plus my top travel tips
• Georgia travel tips : 25 essential things to know before you go
• Places to visit in Georgia : 50+ unique & underrated destinations around the country
• The best things to do in Tbilisi : Favourites, hidden gems & local picks
• 35+ best restaurants in Tbilisi : Where to eat Georgian food
• 15 best day trips from Tbilisi : With detailed transport instructions
• The best time to visit Georgia : Month-by-month guide to weather, festivals & events

47 Comments

Hello dear! Thanks for such a wonderful post.. I am Planning to visit georgia in november 1st week.. Not interested to see the snow but to move around the city.. Is the time ok to travel? Will I be able to enjoy all the scenic destinations of the country?

Hi Shraddha – November is normally a nice time of year! Not too cold, not too busy. Some mountain passes will be closed but popular destinations (Kazbegi, Svaneti) should still be easy to access by road. Wishing you a wonderful trip!

Hello! My sister and I plan on visiting Georgia in either July or August to go hiking in Svaneti and Stepantsminda. If we go in August, will there be wildflowers remaining? Will the grass be brown? Thanks!

Hi Janki, it should be nice and green in August at high altitudes. If you take a look at this guide (from Sno valley near Stepantsminda) you will see there were lots of wildflowers at the time of my visit in early August.

https://wander-lush.org/sno-village-giant-stone-heads/

Hi my partner and I are thinking of visiting Georgia from mid April for just over 2 weeks. We love outdoor pursuits – hiking kayaking etc but having researched I’m not sure April is the best time of year although the reviews I’ve read are mixed. I’d love your opinion. We are thinking of doing a circuit taking in places across the state.

Hi Tracy, the hiking season doesn’t really get underway until early June. Many passes and trails will still be closed in April. You can hike at lower altitude (e.g. Borjomi National Park, Lagodekhi), and some watersports will be available (although with the snow melt, the water levels might be too high – it depends). Ideally I would aim for June for this type of holiday.

Hey Emily! Loved reading this article and discovering more gems about Georgia in your blog. Me and my partner are planning to visit Georgia for 2 weeks towards the end of March and Early April in 2024. We’re open to most everything and wanted to explore the mountains and the cities both- just wanted to see if you had any particular suggestions for that time of year and for a 2 week holiday?

Hi Devika, thanks so much! March and April can be funny weather-wise. I would recommend heading west – Borjomi, Guria etc. can be really beautiful at that time of year, and spring arrives a bit earlier. Also Samegrelo region is a great choice.

Hi Emily My husband and I are planning to visit Georgia in the 3rd week of December. I am jit fond of very chilly weather or the snow, so please can you suggest if it’s the ideal time for us to visit this place. Thanks

Hi Padmini, it depends where you are going. Parts of Georgia (including Tbilisi and Kutaisi) are still reasonably warm in December, while in the mountains it is quite chilly of course.

I red your article and it is very helpful. We are planning to go by Mid December this year and we would love to see snow, Is there will be a snow on this date in Kazbegi?

Hi Mariel, it is impossible to say for sure. Last year the snow arrived quite late.

Hi Emily, I am planning to visit Kazbegi in the 2nd week of November with 2 kids, 8 & 3 Year old respectively. Came to know that there are chances of road closure due to snow? I hope not… What would you suggest if I wanted to travel directly from Tbilisi International Airport to Kazbegi.

Thanks for your comment! I can’t say with 100% certainty but it would be very unusual for the road to be closed at that time. There has been a little bit of snow in the previous days, but nothing to warrant a road closure. Past experience tells me that it should be fine.

There might not be snow at all in early November. Last year there was no significant snow fall until late January.

I would recommend booking a GoTrip driver to collect you from the airport and take you directly to Kazbegi. You can stop along the way for sightseeing – this guide has some ideas: https://wander-lush.org/georgian-military-highway-road/

I hope this helps!

Hi, We are planning 7 day trip in the last week of November. We would like to spend 4 days in the mountain region say gadauri or kazbegi, can we self drive in these regions during that time of the year? Also what will be the temperature we would be expecting? And what are the places you think is better around that time. Thanks.

Hi Sanah, if you are a confident driver then yes, you can. You will need winter tires so do make sure the rental car provides them.

Hi Emily I am planning a 4-5days trip in the middle of December to Tbilisi, does it snow there and is it a good month to explore the city and surrounding areas, wine fields, etc.? Please help!

Much Thanks Vikas

Hi Vikas, it sometimes snows in Tbilisi in late spring – but honestly you will not find snow in December in many places in Georgia except maybe the high mountains. It is a fine time to visit Kakheti, but it will be chilly and the vines are bare.

Hi Emily, firstly – You are amazing!! I can’t believe how informative your guides are AND how you respond to everyone who posts – that’s just great service. I have a few questions I’m hoping you can answer. In the video, there is a drone shot of you in what appears to be a hot spring – where is that? Also, I’m going to be traveling solo end of summer and wondered if you knew of any private guides who can take me around – moreso because I have a list of places I want to visit in Tblisi and they aren’t all close. Thoughts on that? Do you have any local photographers you could recommend in Tblisi – so many beautiful spots in that city alone. Thanks in advance

Hi Dee, thanks so much!

The hot spring is in Vani, not too far from Kutaisi. Here is my guide to visiting: https://wander-lush.org/vani-sulfur-pool-dikhashkho-geyser-georgia/

Do you mean a guide for Tbilisi only or for Georgia more broadly? Let me know and I can email you a couple of names.

Do you need a photographer to take photos of you, or are you just looking for some inspiration?

Hi Emily. Thanks for most informative article! We are from India and are thinking of a short holiday( around 7-8 days) to Georgia during the second half of November this year. From 15th onwards. we have two boys aged 13 & 6. Do you think this is a good time climate wise ? We are not looking for anything rushed. Thanks

Hello Suraj, it really depends on what you hope to do. November is not the best season for hiking, but I suppose you wouldn’t be doing anything too strenuous with kids anyway. The weather should be pleasant during the day and you will still find fall colours in lower-lying areas such as Martvili and even parts of Racha. The cities will be much quieter compared to summer which is another plus. Enjoy!

Hi! Great blog very informative. I’m planning to travel solo(for the first time)this first week of april and came across your page. It’s been a delight reading your blogs and it’s really helping me with my itinerary. Keep writing!

Hi Emily, my family are planning to go to Kazbegi for a day tour this coming March, and drop by to Gudauri to enjoy the snow and try skiing at least 1-2 hours, which day can you suggest to go there? Sunday or weekdays? thanks

Hi Pat – I don’t think it matters too much but a weekday could be a little quieter. Enjoy!

Hi, My name is Samy from Bahrain, we are (four families, 16members) planning to visit Georgia on 23-28th March 2023. Can we expect snow in Kazbegi, Gudauri areas – planning to do paragliding & skating activities during our visit. Please guide us, what are all the other places can we visit too.

Thanks in advance.

Hi there, thanks for your comment. The season has been late to start but March is a snowy month so the ski resorts should definitely be in full swing! Paragliding was banned in Gudauri last summer after a terrible accident occurred. Another activity you might like to check out is snow shoe hiking in Juta or Truso Valley. Enjoy your trip!

Hi Emily, we are planning to go to Georgia by April 2023 around the third week, during the Eid celebration, which place is better to visit, and is it good to travel by that time? I would highly appreciate your response. Thank you.

Hi Chloe – sure, April is usually quite nice! Tbilisi is great, cherry trees might be blooming in Kakheti, and you can hike at lower altitudes for example near Borjomi. Have a wonderful trip!

I am planning for Last week of December (22nd to 28th) in Georgia. Can we expect snow in Kazbegi, Bakuriani areas – planning to stay in Skii resort to experience winter activities?

Hi Josy – yes certainly, there should be plenty of snow by then! I believe the season starts in Gudauri on December 10 this year, so the lifts should be open. Have a wonderful trip!

Hello we are planning a tour to Georgia around 25th of November to 10th of December. would like to see some snow and outdoor activities too. we have never experienced snow. would like to visit even small villages and stay each place at least for 2 days to get feel of country. Is this is good time to go? Me and my husband are 60 yrs.old and never stayed in very cold place. kindly guide us Thanks

Hi Kalindi, certainly you should be able to find snow in the high mountains in December (Bakhmaro, Svaneti, etc.). I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Planning to go mid November with 4 year old kid who wants to see snow. It is good still? We’re coming from Dubai..

Hi Maricel – it depends on the weather but you should be able to see snow in the high mountains. It’s been snowing a bit in Svaneti already. But for Gudauri, Bakuriani etc. it won’t be snowing reliably until later in winter. Have a wonderful trip!

this will be our first trip as family, with 9 years old boy, please advise if we travel to Georgia tblisi or armenia or azarbhaijan in December 2022 will that be good or no. your honest feedback and suggestion is needed. thank you

Hi Sonali, thanks for your comment. I am writing a guide to family travel right now. Sure, it’s a nice time to visit the cities and mountain areas for snow. Just keep in mind that days are short and you’ll need to plan your travel logistics accordingly!

Thank you for this nice article! I’ve been reading about Georgia in November and this has been helpful. Unfortunately, I will only have the chance to travel in November (only time off I get from studies/work this year, 2 to 14 Nov). I am a huge fan of hiking/trekking and cultural/religious sites. I know weather is unpredictable but I am hoping to at least be able to go on one scenic and interesting hike… Will that be feasible? Or should I just skip Georgia for a few years? (I suffer from FOMO, though.) Many thanks in advance for any advice you might have!

Hey Rawad, great to hear that! November is not the best time for hiking unfortunately, but you might still be able to do one of the trails in the lower areas such as Lagodekhi or Borjomi National Park. If you want to hike the Greater Caucasus I would suggest postponing your trip – or planning a return visit!

Hi Emily, my friend and I will visit Georgia for a week this coming Sept. Planning to stay 3 days in Tbilisi and looking for another great place to spend the rest of our trip at another part of Georgia. Aside from Tbilisi, any recommendation? Looking for some serene place and just have a relaxing day. Thanks!

Hi Mary, there are so many options… Kakheti for wine, Kazbegi for mountains, Kutaisi for history. Take a look through my guides for more ideas.

Hi, I have planned to visit khazbegi at the first week of coming February.Do you think the road remain open.

Normally the road is open all winter with short closures due to the weather. It’s impossible to say this far in advance. Best to check the weather forecast/road conditions closer to the date. Safe travels!

Hi My name is Sandeep and I want to know if we travel around mid of August with my family (including kids of age 5 and 10) due you recommend to travel Georgia from Dubai is a good option. If yes which places we should visit. Pls guide. Thanks

Hi Sandeep, August is very hot, it’s better to visit in late September. You can find info about my itinerary planning service here: https://wander-lush.org/itinerary-planning/

Hi Emily, I ready your article and it’s very helpful I was planning come Tbilisi mid November for around one week. Mainly I’m interested in outdoor activities such as walking and hiking in nature. Do you recommend I postpone till early May? As I don’t want go now and regret it as it seems temperatures is low and worried that outdoor activities might not be practical. Thank you

Hi Hanan, we spoke via email and I think you decided to visit Georgia in spring instead. It’s getting pretty chilly by mid-November so if you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities, May would be more comfortable. Thanks!

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Home » Travel Guides » Georgia (Country) » 15 Best Places to Visit in Georgia

15 Best Places to Visit in Georgia

Unmatched in its mountain scenery, undeterred by its tumultuous past, the nation of Georgia is now seriously on the up, attracting travelers from both Europe and Asia (continents it straddles neatly on the Caucasus Mountains) and touting everything from the snow-tipped peaks of Svaneti to shimmering beaches on the Black Sea. Here, we take a look at the spots every visitor to Georgia should be sure to have on their bucket list. Enjoy.

1. Tusheti National Park

Cascading down the northern edges of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, right on the cusp of Russia and Chechnya, the Tusheti National Park is the historic home of the eponymous Tush peoples. It’s also breathtaking in the extreme; big on relief and made up largely of soaring peaks and grass-clad hills.

There are few roads in sight, and the villages that can be found nestled amidst the misty mountaintops are historic, brick-built affairs like Dartlo, which can be seen protruding almost organically from the Georgian lands, encompassed in rural sheep farms (the region is particularly famous for its wool and cheeses) and swathes of spruce forests to boot.

The great up-and-coming capital of this up-and-coming country, Tbilisi is the nerve centre of Georgia’s drive towards modernity. It’s also a town steeped in history, making it a great place to explore the republic’s fine balance of the old and the new. The city sprawls out along the ridges that bubble about the banks of the Mtkvari River.

The district of Old Tbilisi forms its heart; a medley of mysterious Byzantine churches, timber balconies and the occasional piece of striking modern art (check out Sioni Street). Above, draped over the hills, the mighty precipices, cathedral tops and bulwarks of Narikala stand firm, while well-to-do Vake district babbles with public fountains and pretty parks.

While Borjomi may still be best known as the source of its namesake mineral water – a salty, uber-frizzante concoction that was beloved by Georgia’s onetime Soviet masters – the city of today has plenty more to offer than just its sulphuric, volcanic springs. For one, the setting is magnificent, with the town plugged neatly between the ridges of the Borjomi Gorge. Then there’s the elegant faces of Russian imperial architecture, painted in pretty yellows an ochres and abutting neatly up to the fountains and grassy lawns of the city park.

What’s more, the mysterious Green Monastery lurks just on the edge of town, encompassed by primeval forests and oozing with dark tales of monkish massacres from the Middle Ages.

Cut and carved meticulously into the sandy rock faces that rise like phalanxes against the meanders of the Mtkvari River in the deep Georgian south, Vardzia remains without question one of the most dramatic sights to behold in the country. It’s estimated that the various tiers of monolith churches, caves and shrines seen here were inhabited from at least the middle of the 12th century, when the dynatstic kings of the Bagrationi are thought to have commissioned the first constructions on the sheer-cut edge of Mount Erusheti.

The real must-see, however, remains the glorious Church of the Dormition; a rock-carved shrine which displays an enthralling montage of murals and iconostasis that fuse Oriental, Byzantine and Romanesque styles alike.

5. Mtskheta

Situated just a short ride out of the capital of Tbilisi, UNESCO-attested Mtskheta clutches the low-lying banks of the Aragvi River confluence. Hailed for its countless Christian sites and importance as one of the nerve centres of the Georgian Orthodox Church, the town draws huge crowds throughout the year.

They come to see the beautiful rises and magnificent frescoes of the great Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, which stands as one of the finest examples of medieval Georgian religious architecture and a revered pilgrimage site for Georgians right across the country, or the Jvari Monastery on the hill, soaring high above Mtskheta – a curious mix of tetraconch architecture, Hellenistic, Byzantine and Georgian styles hidden between its apses.

Shrouded by the snow-mantled peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, deep in the legendary lands of Svaneti, the various hamlets and dabas (small historic towns) of Mestia rarely fail to draw a gasp. They are instantly recognisable thanks to their stone-clad, square-cut Svan towers, which rise majestically from between the groves of chestnut and birch here, oozing with centuries of Georgian history and culture.

Today, this ancient cluster of UNESCO-tagged villages is really on the up, with a new airport bringing new guesthouses and more and more people weaving between the striking architectural pieces of Lekhtagi and Lagami (two of the most attractive small centres). Others come to hit the Chalaadi glacier and hike the trails to massive Mountain Ushba in the distance.

Set more than 2,000 meters above the low valleys that carve their way through the heart of the Greater Caucasus range on the edge of northern Georgia, Gudauri has risen and risen in recent years to establish itself as the country’s prime winter sports destination and also a fine alternative to the bustling ski fields of the Alps. Skiers and boarders here enjoy a relatively snow-sure set of pistes that range from 22 kilometers of blue beginner runs to a welcome 10 kilometers of challenging black runs.

What’s more, the season runs well into April and new investments mean the lifts are all speedy Doppelmayr ones. The resort is also hailed as one of the world centres for Heliskiing – if that’s your sort of thing!

8. Lake Ritsa

First-time travelers to Georgia could be forgiven for thinking that the shimmering waters of Lake Ritsa, set deep in a valley of the Caucasus Mountains and surrounded by verdant dashes of buxus and Nordman firs, had been plucked straight from the Austrian Alps or the Rockies of British Columbia. But no, this picture-perfect alpine retreat between the mountains of Abkhazia (a separatist section of the country that buts up to the Black Sea in the north-west) really is in Georgia.

The lake and the surrounding forests are great for hikers looking to delve into one of the less-trodden natural reaches here, while boating and wild swimming in the icy waters are also favourite pastimes.

The kingpin of the Georgian east makes its home between the sloping foothills of the Tsiv-Gombori. Boasting a history of more than 2,000 years, Telavi was shaped by the Romans, the Kakheti kings, the Georgian monarchs and the Russian tsars alike. That means a unique array of architectural pieces to discover, going from the formidable bulwarks of the Dzveli Galavani, left over from the region’s dynastic rulers in the 9th century, to the Batonis Tsikhe, a testimony to the late medieval period that blossomed here.

Other travelers will wonder at the 45-meter high sycamore tree, whose sinewy 900-year-old trunk really is a sight to behold, and the Alaverdi Monastery, sat between the mountains just on the edge of the town.

10. Stepantsminda

The icy tendrils and muscular ridges of Mount Kazbek dominate the horizon around breathtaking Stepantsminda; a town at once remote and wild that can be found nestled deep between the Caucasus ridges in Mtskheta-Mtianeti.

Along the massifs of Kazbek just above the city, it’s possible to spy out the glistening caps of the Kuru and Shino glaciers, two of the natural wonders that have helped to catapult Stepantsminda to the forefront of Georgia’s ecotourist and adventure travel boom. Expect hiking opportunities aplenty, along with a whole host of other adrenaline-pumping pursuits, from hang-gliding over the tips of the great Holy Trinity Church to rafting and rock climbing.

11. Zugdidi

A fine stepping stone for further explorations in Svaneti, the Samegrelo region, the Georgian Black Sea coast and the autonomous region of Abkhazia, Zugdidi is shrouded by the serrated ridges of the Greater Caucasus just south of where the mountains claim the land.

A relatively new town (at least as Georgia’s wealth of ancient and medieval centres goes), this regional capital is home to the elegant facades and enthralling architectural exhibitions of the Dadiani Palace, which rises in beautiful crenulations against the flowing waters of the Chkhoushi River right in the heart of the centre. Others will come to seek a spot of adventure in the Martvili Canyon, or hit the famous hot springs that lurk in the hinterlands close to the city.

12. Ushguli

A string of five villages deep in the heart of the majestically beautiful Svaneti region, Ushguli bears its UNESCO tag with pride. Set between fields of cattle and crooked farmsteads more than 2,000 meters above sea level, the site encompasses towns like Zhibiani and Chazhashi, which pepper the grass plains below the shimmering ice of the Shkhara glacier like ancient relics strewn haphazardly amidst the Georgian highlands.

The spot is also home one fascinating ethnography museum, and is known as the place where Georgia’s national treasures were hidden away during times of national conflict and strife.

13. Sighnaghi

Dressed like a Tuscan hilltop town above the verdant reaches of the Alazani valley, Sighnaghi really does live up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful towns in the country. A sea of cascading red-tiled roofs are what mark it out against the Caucasus glaciers on the horizon, while winding streets of cobblestone and painted timber bungalows showcase the traditional 19th-century Georgian style that continues to flourish here.

Be sure to tour the bulwarks of the crumbling town wall and its 23 towers, wonder at the stupa-like spire of the St Giorgi church and discover the revered pilgrimage sites of the Bodbe Convent.

Neon lights and bustling seaside promenades, soaring high-rises and the pulse of modernity are what set Batumi of the Black Sea firmly apart from Georgia’s wealth of ancient and medieval towns. But despite its stylish edge, Batumi is actually one of the oldest cities in the country, with roots going back to the age of ancient Greek colonialism.

Relics of that long-gone history still do lurk here, at spots like the Gonio-Apsarosi Fortress and between the rooms of the archaeology museum, though only amidst a shiny, steely new dash of condos and industry that’s come with Batumi’s place as the Georgian port city elect. Of course, nightlife is big, coalescing in Georgian wine bars and cafes along the beachside Boulevard.

15. Uplistsikhe

Remote and lonely on the hills of Shida Kartli, Uplistsikhe is thought to have once been one of the major political and economic centres of the Kingdom of Kartli, which dominated the heartlands of the Caucasus around the year zero. Today, and visitors who come here can discover an almost organic protrusion of the beige-brown hills Uplistsikhe is settled on; a series of monolith cave dwellings and winding staircases hewn deep into the rock.

Crowning the site is a somewhat anachronistic cathedral complex, which dates from the 10th century (after the Christianisation of Georgia) and commands sweeping views of the eastern plains.

15 Best Places to Visit in Georgia:

• Tusheti National Park
• Stepantsminda
• Uplistsikhe

9 Things You Need to Know Visiting The Country of Georgia

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It’s funny how you can be incredibly eager to visit a place and yet know very little about the place at the same time. That’s how I was with the country of Georgia . For years I’d been determined to visit Georgia and the Caucasus region, without any real justification as to why. People I knew had been and highly recommended it but no particular reasons why had stuck with me. Having been now, I can see why visiting Georgia is making so many lists for the best places to visit in 2020.

Surely part of the appeal was the idea of travelling into the unknown. While that can be good fun and all, there were definitely things that would have been good to know before going to Georgia. I’m not talking about things like spending longer than I did, even though 10 days turned out to be nowhere near enough. That alone is a reason why I’ll probably be returning to Georgia this year. Nor is it travel tips like exploring beyond the capital Tbilisi , something else you should totally do.

No, these are things to know before visiting Georgia the country that hopefully will help inform your trip and allow you to make the most of it.

Table of Contents

1. Neither Europe nor Asia

The age old question with countries like Georgia is people asking is Georgia in Europe or Asia? People, admittedly myself included, like trying to put the countries of the world in seven neat little boxes based on continents. The thing is, that really doesn’t work here.

Georgia is part of the Caucasus region, a space between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea known for the Caucasus mountains. That puts it squarely between eastern Europe and western Asia, leading many people to associate it with one or the other. Before visiting, I had assumed that Georgia would maybe similar to Turkey in some ways given that they share a border.

But no, the country of Georgia was indeed unlike any place I’ve been to in this corner of the world. It was apparent as soon as I arrived in Batumi that I was somewhere completely new to me. Yes, there were a few European elements in Georgia that made me think of the Balkans. They just were totally outnumbered by the things that were unknown to me. I love that sensation of visiting somewhere unfamiliar and can’t wait to see how it compares to Armenia and Azerbaijan.

2. Entry to Georgia

No matter which country you visit you need to be mindful of their entry requirements for foreign nationals. Thankfully Georgia is incredibly welcoming of international tourists and have one of the most generous visa free programs I’ve seen. They have a long list of countries whose nationals can visit without a visa for a year on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website . That list includes the EU, Australia and the USA among many more.

If your nationality is not listed there, you’re not totally out of luck. Travellers who are residents of certain countries or even only hold a valid visa for those countries, are able to visit Georgia for 90 days without getting a Georgian visa. That list can be found here . Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for an e-Visa or ordinary visa through the Georgian MFA .

Of course, please confirm all of this for yourself before you travel and remember that entry requirements often change over time. The information provided above is only meant to help you get started and was intended to be accurate at the time of writing.

In terms of flying to Georgia the country, you have a few choices of airport. There’s not just an airport in the capital Tbilisi, there’s also Batumi International Airport and Kutaisi International Airport. Many budget airlines provide flights to Kutaisi making it a useful option for backpackers like me.

3. Getting Around the Country

Unless you’re just planning a quick city getaway, chances are you’ll need to know how to get about Georgia. Destinations around the country are quite evenly spread out, making day trips from Tbilisi and Kutaisi a convenient approach to seeing different parts. But you also need to take into account that the landscape can often limit access and mean taking the long way around.

Getting between the cities of Georgia I took shuttle buses and trains as they were convenient and common for where I was going. The train from Batumi to Tbilisi was nice and modern, like the modern trains you’ll find in Europe.

Going from Tbilisi to Kutaisi it was an older train but still comfortable and on par with trains I’ve been on in Czech Republic or Hungary. You can search timetables and book certain tickets on the national railway site . As for the bus, I used Georgian Bus to get from Kutaisi Airport to Batumi and found that a convenient option.

Surprisingly, the one transport option I didn’t use in Georgia is the country’s most common. Like many former Soviet countries, Georgia public transport is dominated by marshrutka, shared minibuses that run specific routes. It will depend on the route, but these seem to usually be the most frequent and affordable option for getting around Georgia.

Getting Around Tbilisi

When you arrive in Tbilisi, you have the option of using public transport to get about. I only took the Tbilisi metro to get to and from the train station but found it good value. However I did have a few difficulties with their ticketing system. Because the ticket machines they have provide other services beyond metro tickets, I had a hard time navigating it and had to ask for help.

I also was led to believe the metro cards were able to be returned for their deposit, but had no luck when trying to do so. Both situations probably came down to the language barrier, but I’ve heard similar struggles from other western tourists. If you’re a tourist that has mastered the system, feel free to comment below with advice!

4. Abkhazia and South Ossetia

Seasoned travellers will know to be to careful about raising sensitive political subjects in a new country. But that can also make it hard to learn more about the issues. In Georgia, one such topic is the current status of the disputed regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Both were regions under Georgian control until the Russo-Georgian War of 2008 and now are controlled by Russian forces.

That’s just a very basic explanation of the situation from a total outsider’s perspective. I’m certainly not qualified to go any deeper on the topic, but think it’s important you’re aware there are issues related to travel there and nearby.

According to online discussion, it’s quite common for the borders with Georgia to both to be closed, meaning entering from Russia is the only option. For more information on either region, see the websites for the Abkhazia Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the South Ossetia Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

5. Money and Cost of Travel

There’s good news for budget travellers heading to Georgia, as the country is an affordable place to travel. Visitors to Georgia will find their money goes further here than Europe in general, even compared to most of the Balkans. There weren’t really any exceptions to its affordability either, so you won’t need to worry about any nasty surprises.

To give you an idea of what I’m talking about, here are some examples of costs from my trip there. A private room in hostels, guesthouses and budget hotels usually cost about 60-80 GEL which is roughly 20-25€ per night. That was for last minute bookings as well and not necessarily the cheapest rooms available.

Transport and tours were particularly cheap, with an intercity train costing just 10 GEL or 3€ and group day tours costing only 50 GEL or 15€. Considering the food, transport and accommodation is decent quality, that’s unbelievable value for money.

Regarding paying for things, you’ll find that quite a few places will accept credit cards which can be handy. You still should keep some cash on you, but Georgia isn’t solely a cash economy so that makes things easier.

6. Fantastic Food and Wine

If you’ve had friends and family who have visited Georgia, then they’ve likely raved about Georgia’s food and wine. This is definitely a country where you want to try the local cuisine. I remember someone telling me that they were gifted a bottle of red wine when entering the country, which says a lot about their wine doesn’t it? The same did end up happening to me while waiting for immigration at Kutaisi.

After polishing off the small bottle it was clear that I was going to enjoy sampling Georgia’s pride and joy. You don’t have to go far in Georgia to learn about its wines and they’re incredibly affordable as well. For me, the dry, red saperavi was quickly my go-to. However, as much as enjoyed trying Georgian wine, a drink that really surprised me was Georgian lemonade. It’s just the right amount of sweetness and there are all sorts of flavours to choose from.

As for Georgia’s food, you won’t run out of dishes to try that’s for sure. Key ingredients of the cuisine are cheese, walnuts, grapes and tarragon, but there’s more variety than that might suggest. One dish all tourists to Georgia try, even the lactose-intolerant like me, is khachapuri , a boat-shaped bread dish stuffed with cheese.

Other foods include khinkali , stuffed Georgian dishes; pelamushi , a mushy dessert of grape and walnut; and churchkhela , a treat made by coating a string of walnuts in grape juice. You’re bound to experience more, but those are some to start.

7. An Unfamiliar History

As someone who enjoys learning the history of different destinations, I had to admit I knew next to nothing of Georgia’s. I knew that it was a former Soviet Republic but everything before that was a blank. In all fairness to myself, the history of Georgia isn’t something widely taught. That doesn’t make it uninteresting, just unknown.

With a visit you should find that there are engaging tidbits from every era of Georgia’s history. Whether it’s the country’s ancient past, the medieval period or the Soviet era, there’s plenty of captivating parts to Georgia’s story. For instance, did you know that the Greek legend of Jason and the Golden Fleece was set in western Georgia? Neither did I. That part of Georgia was once known as Colchis and was where Jason and his Argonauts sailed to.

Jump forward and you’ll find plenty of landmarks around Georgia from its medieval period. A lot of them are churches and monasteries, but you will find some castles in Georgia too. Ananuri Fortress may be the most impressive and easiest to visit, with quite an entertaining history to it. During the Middle Ages Georgia was at times united in a single kingdom, while other times divided up or occupied by regional powers.

Georgia’s history since first gaining independence on 26th May 1918 greatly features its relationship with neighbouring Russia. There’s a lot to say on that topic, including the fact that Josef Stalin was born in the Georgian city of Gori, but that’s a rabbit hole you fall down on your own.

8. Learning the Language

When it comes to navigating the Georgian language, you’re going to have your work cut out for you. Not only is the Georgian language unlike any European language, it uses its own unique script. During my trip there, I only managed to get my head around a few of the most basic words and never made any real headway with the writing system.

Thankfully there is some good news, which is that I got by with English without too much trouble. As with Eastern Europe, it seems to be the language learned by younger Georgians. Russian is also quite a common language for Georgians to know a bit of, so if you know some Russian it can come in handy.

As for reading things like street signs, many things in Georgia are also written in the Latin Alphabet, so you shouldn’t have much problems there either. Honestly, the language barrier really never felt too bad, especially in the places most familiar with tourists like Tbilisi and Batumi. As always, approach language trouble with good humour and patience and you’ll work it out.

A few basic phrases to help you get by include Gamarjoba which means ‘Hello’; Madloba for ‘Thank you’; Tu Sheidzleba for ‘Please’; and Ki and Ara for ‘Yes’ and ‘No’.

9. Not Just Mountains

Given that Georgia sits along the Caucasus Mountains, you might be tricked into thinking that the entire country is mountainous. Sure, a considerable part of the country is taken up by the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains covering its north and south. Then there are the famous destinations like Kazbegi which is beautiful and Mestia which I can’t wait to see next time. But don’t think that’s all the scenery you’re going to get in Georgia.

For starters, the country has its coastline along the Black Sea with plenty of stone beaches to relax at. Cities like Kutaisi and Tbilisi aren’t found up in the mountains either, instead sitting along scenic rivers with low-lying hills around them.

If you look at the river scenery outside the city of Gori, you’ll see a different terrain again. Wide open plains often fill the gaps between the mountains of Georgia and can be just as picturesque. Georgia isn’t completely arid either, with some gorgeous forests easily visited from Kutaisi .

Resources for Visiting Georgia

• Getting There: To find the cheapest and most convenient flights to Georgia make sure to check Kayak .
• Accommodation: Here you can find hotels, hostels and guesthouses across Georgia.
• Tours: There are countless day trips and sightseeing tours available in Georgia.
• Car Hire: If you want to travel more independently, consider renting a car to drive yourself about.
• Managing Money: The Wise card can be a great option for getting cash out and making purchases .
• Travel Medical Insurance: Need coverage in case you get sick, or injured, or your luggage gets lost? Get a quote for Nomad Insurance from SafetyWing .

What questions do you have about visiting Georgia the country? Do you think there are other things people should know before going? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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A bottle of wine gifted to you upon arrival? That’s how I want to be welcomed to a country! I’ve heard sooo many wonderful things about the food and wine of Georgia, not to mention the pure beauty of it! This will certainly come in handy one day, I WILL visit!

How about getting a job in georgia. What is the percentage of job opportunity in georgia and how easy a foreigner can get one

Unfortunately I don’t know the answers to that Emirez. Perhaps you can find a forum about moving to or living in Georgia as they may have a better idea about that kind of thing.

Hi David!there are also offers from our travel agency to have dinner alongside watching performers for the traditional Georgian wedding dance..

Im Canadian and my beautiful husband is Georgian. We met online in July 2015 and he had to explain the fact tbat he didn’t live in the States! Never heard of Georgia before! First trip was October 2015. Been back 5 times ! My husband is so proud of his wonderful country…he took me everywhere and we celebrated many Georgian festivals and observances! Still waiting for him to get his approval to move to Canada…but im so proud to have experienced Georgia met all the beautiful people ive met there and to have a loving husband from there !

Fantastic post! Can’t wait to travel here now.

Hi David, I wanted your opinion and advise about travelling to Georgia with a 2 year old. Places that are family oriented. My partner and I have never used any guides during our travels and getting lost and discovering places on foot was the idea. With a toddler, I was wondering if I will be able to travel around Georgia and how safe is it to talk around cities.

Thank you, Bau

Hi, thank you for very detailed travel guide. Due covid some info is a bit outdated but hope life eventually will return to its normal routine. Best wishes from Georgia

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10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to the Republic of Georgia

Make the most of your trip to one of the world’s up-and-coming destinations with these tips from a seasoned Georgiaphile.

Benjamin Kemper

No matter how many times I visit the Republic of Georgia, there are some things I’ll never get used to— woolly traffic jams , milky tripe stew , and hair-of-the-dog chacha shots, to name a few. Every country has its quirks, and when planning a trip to Georgia, knowing what to expect is the first step in ensuring a relaxed, wrinkle-free vacation. Whether you find yourself sunbathing on the Black Sea coast or trekking some uncharted corner of the Caucasus, be sure to keep these pointers—gleaned from six trips of learning the hard way—in your back pocket.

Georgian food isn’t just khachapuri

Despite what Instagram may lead you to believe, adjaruli khachapuri—the canoe-shaped cheese bread crowned with a sunny egg and a knob of butter—isn’t the crown jewel of Georgian cuisine but rather fast food, Caucasian style. More memorable are dishes like Tushetian khinkali, fist-sized dumplings bursting with juicy, caraway-scented lamb; satsivi, braised turkey cloaked in a rich, garlicky walnut sauce; and ajapsandali, a spicy vegetable medley enlivened by handfuls of cilantro, parsley, and dill.

To sate your brain as well as your stomach, sign up for an all-day food tour with Culinary Backstreets Tbilisi . While noshing on homemade pickles in a locals-only recess of the Dezerter Bazaar or sipping from unlabeled bottles in a subterranean wine bar, your guide, Paul Rimple, will demystify Georgia’s enigmatic cuisine—and give you a brief history lesson while he’s at it.

In Tbilisi, excellent hotels abound

A decade ago, most sophisticated travelers turned their nose up at Tbilisi for its lack of fine hotels; these days, there are almost too many to choose from. Alternative types and solo travelers will fit right in at Fabrika , a graffitied art hostel housed in a Soviet-era sewing factory. Rooms Tbilisi , with its Brooklyn-cool aesthetic, is the go-to among the international yuppy set, while Stamba —the city’s most luxurious hotel, opened to much fanfare earlier this year—is turning heads with its glass-bottomed rooftop swimming pool, freestanding brass bathtubs, and in-room McIntosh sound systems.

Not all wines are amber

Chances are, if you spot a Georgian wine on a menu outside Georgia, it’s going to be of the trendy amber variety. But in Georgia, these grippy, distinctive wines—fermented in kvevri (underground clay vats) according to a millennia-old tradition—account for less than five percent of production and don’t appear on most standard wine lists. Seek out rare ambers at Vino Underground or g.Vino , wine bars in Tbilisi that buy directly from independent growers.  

You can visit Abkhazia (even if the State Department says not to)

Abkhazia is the disputed seaside territory that de facto seceded from Georgia in 1994 and has remained in something of a time warp since. Before ethnic conflict ravaged the region, it was known as the Russian Riviera for its long, European-style boardwalks and lush tropical gardens. Today, skeletons of grand Soviet buildings are reminders of this erstwhile splendor that never fully returned—even if the Russian vacationers have. Beyond the (scenic if decrepit) beaches, natural attractions here include the mile-long New Athos Cave, crystal-clear Lake Ritsa, and misty Yupsharskiy Canyon. The State Department advises against visiting Abkhazia due to “civil unrest, crime, and landmines,” but this assessment is obsolete; the region was deemed landmine free in 2012, and there hasn’t been any significant conflict in years.   

Go when it’s warm

If hitting the slopes is your jam, then by all means, visit Georgia in the winter—lift tickets cost a fraction of what they do in the Alps, and the scenery is just as stunning. But otherwise, plan your vacation between June and September, when roads to far-flung villages like Ushguli, one of the highest continually inhabited settlements in Europe, and Omalo, in the heart of Tusheti National Park, are guaranteed to be open. Summer is also the best time to post up in a seaside resort like Batumi or Gonio.  

It pays to hire a guide

Unless you’re an intrepid driver accustomed to white-knuckle switchbacks, save the money you’d spend on a rental and invest in a guide instead. Companies like Inter Georgia Travel charge around $120 (per day, flat rate) for a chauffeur who also doubles as a translator and tour guide—priceless services in small towns where hardly anybody speaks English.        

Tbilisi might be the next Berlin

If you’ve ever fantasized about clubbing in Berlin in its rakish, gritty heyday, listen close: Tbilisi might be the closest you’re going to get. From dusk till dawn, up-and-coming DJs blast everything from techno to house to disco in nightclubs like Mtkvarze , which boasts a coveted Void Acoustics sound system, and Bassiani (the “Berghain of Tbilisi,” according to clubbers), an anything-goes techno temple that occupies an abandoned swimming pool.

Marshrutki are the cheapest way to get from A to B

If you’re on a budget, marshrutki, or minibuses, are your best bet for intercity transportation. You’ll pay a paltry $1 (2.50 GEL) per 50 kilometers, but prepare for a bumpy ride: Marshrutki are invariably old, beat-up vans with threadbare seats and creaky transmissions. Avoid getting swindled by negotiating the price with the driver up front, and be prepared to stand on shorter routes.     

Don’t ask, don’t tell

Discrimination against LGBT people may be illegal in Georgia, but homosexuality is still frowned upon in most circles because of the Georgian Orthodox Church’s hardline anti-gay stance. Far-right homophobic groups, backed by the Church, regularly intimidate and silence LGBT activists; this year, they succeeded in canceling a gay rights rally . For these reasons, it’s unwise, and potentially dangerous, for same-sex couples to show affection in public. Thankfully a handful of nightlife venues in Tbilisi—such as Success, Divan, and Cafe Gallery—are gay-friendly.   

It’s cheap—like, Southeast Asia cheap

Food, accommodations, beer—you name it: Everything is probably cheaper in Georgia than wherever you call home. A light, simple meal clocks in around $4, and a night in a basic hotel will run you about $25 (breakfast included). Be ready to haggle in the bazaars and markets, though: vendors usually have separate, inflated prices for tourists.     

Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast  here .

READ THIS LIST

10 must-see places when you visit Georgia

Georgia on your mind?

If you’re looking for something extra-special, look no further. From the peaks of the Caucasus mountains to Kakheti’s rolling semi-deserts, the stony Black Sea coastline to Imereti’s lush inland forests, there’s a landscape and a slew of activities that go with it to suit just about every taste.

Add to this a vivid history of kingdoms and conquest, plus a progressive arts and food scene, and there’s a serious case to be made for Georgia’s towns and cities, too.

It’s true: In this traveller’s humble opinion, Georgia might just be the perfect all-rounder. To help you experience the best of what the country has to offer, here are 10 essential spots to you need to explore.

Discover our Georgia Trips

The top 10 places to visit in Georgia

Georgia’s capital city, Tbilisi, is a hybrid of different influences. The religion, the culture, the food, the vernacular architecture and the very way of life here is all fundamentally Georgian. If you have no idea what that means, you’ll have a wonderful time finding out.

The tumbledown courtyards and elegant balconies of the old town. Abanotubani’s Turkish-style domed baths and right next door, Betlemi Street, Tbilisi’s Jewish quarter. Provocative street art, and a fashion and electronic music scene that is coming into its own. From Bangkok-style food markets to Parisian-style boulevards, Georgia’s biggest city offers up an enticing blend of East and West. Spend at least a few days getting to know Tbilisi, an up-and-coming capital to keep an eye on.

RELATED: 8 MUST-TRY GEORGIAN DISHES TO EAT IN TBILISI

Just three hours north of Tbilisi via the spectacular Georgian Military Highway, Kazbegi (also known by its new name, Stepantsminda) has long been a popular high-altitude retreat. If you’re on a tight timeline, it’s the perfect place to get a taste for Georgia’s dramatic mountain scenery without straying too far from the city.

The small town of Kazbegi is encircled by the surreal, perennially snow-capped Greater Caucasus mountains. Gergeti Trinity Church – perched over Kazbegi at 2,000m above sea level – is a must-see. Outside of winter, you can reach the church on a two-hour climb through alpine meadows. For the more intrepid, there are plenty of single and multi-day hikes that push deeper into the mountains and glaciers along the Russian border.

Back in town, relax at a homestay or treat yourself to a suite at Rooms Kazbegi, a former Soviet spa that has been transformed into Georgia’s premier boutique hotel.

In case you didn’t know, wine is kind of a big deal in Georgia – one of the first countries in the world to pioneer viniculture. Georgian wine is made by fermenting whole grapes (stems, skins and all) in an underground clay vessel called a qvevri . After a few days in Kakheti, Georgian wine country, you’ll be very familiar indeed with this unusual technique and the distinctive vino it yields.

Base yourself in historic Sighnaghi, a charming town protected by high stone walls and watchtowers. Organise a driver and trace your way between dozens of wineries and cellar doors, including favourites Kindzmarauli and Shumi. The impressive Khareba winery consists of a series of long tunnels cut into a mountainside. It was supposed to be a bomb shelter; turns out the natural climate control creates the perfect conditions for storing wine!

Wine and worship go hand in hand in Kakheti. The area is also famous for its churches perched proudly on mountain tops, including Gremi and Nekresi Monastery.

Lagodekhi Protected Areas

Located at the tripoint of Georgia’s Kakheti region, Azerbaijan and Dagestan (Russia), the Lagodekhi Protected Areas cover 24,000-hectares of pristine forest and prime hiking territory.

Georgia’s oldest nature reserve includes beech forests and alpine zones and is home to East Caucasian tur and brown bears. Of the four hiking trails (Black Grouse Waterfall, Ninoskhevi Waterfall, Machi Fortress and Black Rock Lake), the latter is the park’s main drawcard. The 50km circuit can be completed in three days, sleeping in shelters along the way. The lake itself is shared between Georgia and Russia; you don’t need a visa, but you will need to carry your passport in case you’re approached by border patrol. All trails are weather dependent so make sure you do your research and check in with the visitor centre in Lagodekhi before setting off.

Georgia’s position at the crossroads of Asia and Europe has meant living under the constant threat of invasion. In centuries past, Georgians looked to cloisters and hidden settlements for protection – none of them more impressive than Vardzia, a colossal self-sufficient ‘cave village’ in the country’s south.

Set on the slopes of Erusheti Mountain, Vardzia was constructed in the 12 th century by locals seeking sanctuary from invading Mongols. In its heyday, Vardzia stretched for 500m and was 13 tiers high, boasting more than 6,000 individual grotto apartments, an irrigation system, a church, and a throne room for Queen Tamar, the monarch who decreed this incredible feat of engineering. Most of the complex was destroyed by an earthquake less than a century after it was finished, but much of the stone architecture can still be seen and appreciated today.

If you’re not one to shy away from dark tourism, pay a visit to the hometown of one of Georgia’s most notorious exports, Joseph Stalin. The infamous leader of the Soviet Union was born and raised in Gori, less than 100km east of Tbilisi. Unlike just about everywhere else in Georgia, in Gori, the former dictator is not entirely hated.

One of the first things you see after arriving in Gori is a massive Stalin poster advertising the local grocery store. The eponymous main avenue still bears Stalin’s name, as does the city park and a number of civic buildings. The zenith of Gori’s Stalin subculture is the Joseph Stalin Museum, an institution wholly dedicated to preserving his memory through photographs, documents and memorabilia. On the grounds of the Museum is the wooden house where Stalin was born and the personal armoured train carriage he used later in life. Tour guides do a suspiciously good job of glossing over the gory aspects of Stalin’s reign in favour of portraying him as a benevolent leader.

RELATED:  5 NEW UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES WORTH A VISIT 

Another blast from Georgia’s Soviet past, Chiatura was once a thriving industrial town where 60% of the world’s manganese was mined. Now a shadow of its former self, Chiatura is a wonderfully off-beat destination that you won’t find listed in your Lonely Planet.

Its main attraction is the network of ancient cable cars that crisscross the deep valley. ‘Stalin’s ropeway’ as it’s sometimes called was constructed on the leader’s orders in 1954 to improve productivity in the mines. Seventeen separate cable cars linked Chiatura’s colourful apartment buildings and marketplace with mines set high above the town. Incredibly, a handful of the original cars are still running today. The rusted cables may inspire fear in the most seasoned of travellers, but if you can muster the courage, a jaunt on Stalin’s ropeway is an unforgettable experience (ride at your own risk!).

Chiatura is best visited as a day trip from Kutaisi. If travelling by marshrutka (public minibus), ask the driver to stop at Katskhi pillar on the way so you can take a look at this most unusual monastery.

Martvili Canyon

The lush, forested landscapes of Georgia’s western Imereti, Adjara and Svaneti regions are a sharp contrast to the country’s east. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the waterfalls, caves and canyons around Kutaisi.

Okatse Canyon is famous for its ropewalk that rises 140 meters above the valley floor. The nearby Martvili Canyon is lesser-known but every bit as impressive. Mossy and overgrown, this exquisite landscape of countless shades of green was once revered as a site of Pagan worship, and later used as private baths for the noble Dadiani family. Today you can tour Martvili by foot on the paths and pretty bridges that interlace over the canyon – or better still, jump in a canoe and paddle down the waterway for a closer look at the rock formations and trickling waterfalls.

Batumi, Georgia’s Black Sea resort town and the capital of the autonomous Adjara region, is commonly thought of as a mecca for gamblers and sun worshippers. Much more ostentatious than other parts of the country, it’s not for everyone; but Batumi has its own peculiar charm.

The architecture is imaginative and downright whacky – from Alphabet Tower, an homage to the Georgian mother tongue, to a world-famous McDonalds and the Disneyland-esque Europe Square with its belle époque facades. Batumi is home to the stunning Orta Jame mosque (around 30% of Adjarians are Muslim), a great international restaurant scene, two lively local markets and the world’s second-largest botanical garden. One of the best things to do is rent a bicycle and cycle along the promenade. If you’re up for a challenge, you can negotiate the 16km water-front ride all the way down to the Turkish border crossing at Sarpi.

The ancestral home of the Svans – an ethnic group who have dwelled in Georgia’s mountains since time immemorial – Svaneti is where you’ll encounter some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery and unique cultural experiences.

Set in sheltered valleys, Svaneti’s remote hamlets are characterised by their stone towers. These aren’t fortresses but in fact family homes, a few of which are still occupied today. Mestia, Svaneti’s main centre, has great tourist infrastructure and a delightful ethnography museum. From here, you can embark on hikes around the region, including a popular three-to-four-day trek to Ushguli – by some measures, the highest village in Europe. The perilous cliff road that connects Mestia and Ushgul is not for the faint hearted, but when open, makes it possible to visit Ushguli as a day trip.

Ready to eperience Georgia’s highlights for yourself? You need an  Intrepid small group adventure ! 

Words and images by  Emily Lush , you can follow her travels at  @emily_lush

Feature image: Shutterstock 

Originally from Brisbane, Australia, Emily left her job as a magazine journalist in 2015 with the dream of travelling and living overseas for as long as possible. In between stints working for NGOs in Thailand, Cambodia and now Vietnam, she likes to travel to unusual and off-beat destinations. Emily has a passion for learning about different cultures through textiles, crafts and handmade objects, and often writes stories on these topics for her own website, wander-lush.org.

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The Ultimate Georgia Itinerary: 1, 2 or 3 weeks

Last Updated on January 23, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning a Georgia itinerary can seem a little bit overwhelming when considering just how much there is to see and do here. Though it has always been a popular holiday destination for citizens of the former Soviet Union, the small country of Georgia in the South Caucasus region has only recently begun to gain attention from nations further afield.

Whether it’s the dramatic Caucasus mountains, the world-class cuisine and viticulture, the hip atmosphere of Tbilisi or the famous hospitality that draws you to Georgia, there is no doubt that this country has a lot to offer.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Georgia?

How long do you need to spend in the Republic of Georgia in order to do it justice, visit where you want to visit and not feel rushed or unfulfilled?

You could be forgiven for thinking that, because it is so small geographically, you wouldn’t need to spend that much time in Georgia. However, you would be surprised by just how much there is to see and do in this seemingly small country.

That is why we wouldn’t recommend staying less than one week in Georgia and would only suggest staying fewer days if you are only planning a short city break to Tbilisi.

Even one week really isn’t enough to give Georgia the justice it deserves, but it does give you an adequate amount of time to get a feel for the country.

If you’re able to take more time to explore Georgia, then that is all the better. If you can, we would really suggest planning to spend at least 2 weeks in Georgia.

However, 3 weeks would be the most ideal length of time for a Georgia trip. When you have 3 weeks in Georgia, you will be able to see a good portion of the country and really feel as if you’ve got a good feel for all of the diverse places and the incredible culture.

In our experience travelling through this country (we also lived in Tbilisi for a couple of years), we have come to agree that that length of time is optimal to see as much of Georgia as possible without overwhelming yourself.

Best Time to Visit Georgia

It is fair to say that Georgia experiences a typical continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. Outside of the mountain areas, you can expect the winter months to be the coldest with temperatures hovering somewhere around freezing.

Because of its southern location, winters do tend to be fairly short (the coldest months will be December and January) and not all that snowy in the bigger cities like Tbilisi and Kutaisi.

However, it will still be necessary to have proper winter clothing if travelling to Georgia between late November – late March. Winter is also an attractive time to visit if you want to take advantage of some of the most affordable ski resorts in Europe.

In contrast, summers in Georgia can be incredibly hot, with temperatures in the lower regions and capital soaring to well over 35-40 degrees Celsius (95-102 degrees Fahrenheit), with the mountainous offering some respite from the heat.

Summer is the ideal season to visit if you plan to do a lot of hiking or trekking while in Georgia as it is the only season where mountain trails and roads are sure to be open. It is also the best time to visit the coastal area of Batumi.

Like most everywhere else in the world, I would say that the ideal time to visit Georgia would be in the shoulder seasons between March-May and September-November. Here is where you will experience the mildest of weather, fewer crowds (though there aren’t many crowds in Georgia to begin with), and the most availability when it comes to accommodation.

What is worth noting is that, if you do plan to travel in spring, the few weeks surrounding Easter tend to get as busy as it does in peak season. That is because people from countries that celebrate both Orthodox and Catholic/Protestant Easter usually have a bit of time off and use it to travel to Georgia.

Getting To & Around Georgia

Unless you arrive in Georgia overland via Russia, Turkey, Armenia or Azerbaijan , it is likely that you will come into Georgia via air. There are three main airports where you could fly into: Batumi, Kutaisi, and Tbilisi.

Kutaisi airport is the hub for the budget airline WizzAir and is where many European tourists will arrive into, however, the highest-traffic airport is in Tbilisi.

All three airports are well-connected to other major cities with buses timed with arrivals to shuttle you onto another destination. For instance, if you fly into Kutaisi (located in Western Georgia) but want to begin your trip to Georgia in Tbilisi, there is a bus connection leaving directly from the airport for those cities.

Georgia is actually a relatively easy country to travel in and has a fairly easy-to-navigate public transport system. If you’re travelling to Georgia on a budget , then your best bet is going to be to rely upon the bus, train and shared taxi network, as it will undoubtedly save you a lot of money.

The most common mode of transport is by minibus, most commonly referred to as a marshrutka in Georgia. These usually seat about 15 people and are incredibly affordable. Popular routes between various cities run frequently, though they don’t often run on absolute set schedules, rather they depart when they are full.

The train network in Georgia exists, but it is neither as developed nor as convenient as the marshrutka system. There are train routes connecting most major cities in Georgia, however, they tend to leave at odd times and can be slow going depending on the route. Trains are, however, also quite an affordable way to travel and can offer a bit more comfort than a minibus.

Travelling by shared taxi is also a popular option in Georgia, and you can usually find a driver to whichever destination you looking to travel to at the bus station.

The car usually has a set price and you will wait until there are enough people to split the fare between before you will depart. Usually, they accommodate up to four people, however, taxis will depart with only one or two provided you pay the entire fare. You can pre-book drivers here .

If you would rather not rely on public transit while in Georgia, then your best bet is going to be to rent a car. Driving in Georgia can prove to be a daunting task as the road can be in poor repair and the drivers can be aggressive and erratic, but it is nonetheless a popular option amongst travellers looking to be a bit more flexible with their Georgia travel itinerary.

If you want to rent a car in Georgia, you can rent directly from locals by using LocalRent which connects private individuals renting a car with drivers.

1-Week Georgia Itinerary

As stated above, one week can very much seem like not enough time to spend in Georgia, however, it is long enough to give you an excellent taste of the country. The only harm of this itinerary is that you are sure to leave ready to plan another trip.

Days 1-3: Tbilisi

The most logical first stop through this beautiful country is in the capital city of Georgia, Tbilisi. A metropolis known to charm all of those who care to explore it, this hip capital has a tonne of great things to do and can easily keep visitors occupied for a number of days.

However, for your 7 days in Georgia, we recommend spending three days in Tbilisi .

This will give you a solid amount of time to be able to explore all of the main sites in Tbilisi and maybe take an easy day trip to nearby Mtskheta , which was the former capital of Georgia, to the incredible Chronicles of Georgia Monument or to Stalin’s birthplace of Gori and nearby Uplistsikhe.

Spend your first day exploring Tbilisi’s old town, seeing the Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia statue and wandering over to the gorgeous botanical garden.

On your second day, hunt for interesting antiques at the Dry Bridge Market before crossing the Mtkvari River to the Marjanishvili neighbourhood.

And on your third day, you can either spend it exploring more of Tbilisi or opting to head out on one of the aforementioned day trips.

Where to Stay in Tbilisi

Pushkin 10 Hostel — A high-rated hostel located in the centre of the city, this is a great option for budget and solo travellers looking to meet others. They have both private and dorm rooms available and good common areas available to mingle with other travellers.

Guest House Rampa  – A budget guesthouse located in the Abanotubani neighbourhood is an excellent option for those looking for more of a local experience. They have a range of private rooms available for both solo travellers and couples and a kitchen available for guests to use. 

Hotel Flower   — This centrally-located hotel is an excellent place to stay if your budget allows for a bit more luxury hostel or guesthouse. It is within walking distance of most of Tbilisi’s main attractions, they have numerous rooms available (some with their own hot tub!) and a great breakfast included in your nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tbilisi hotels

Days 4-5: Kazbegi

After spending your first few days in Tbilisi, it’s time to head north and venture into the beautiful Caucasus mountains. One of the most famous places to do this and one of the best places to visit in Georgia, is in the town of Stepantsminda, commonly referred to as Kazbegi .

Nestled in a valley surrounded by the Greater Caucasus, Kazbegi may well be one of Georgia’s most picturesque areas. And while the town itself isn’t anything to write home about, the scenery surrounding it is truly spectacular.

The most popular thing to do in Kazbegi is to hike up to the Gergeti Trinity Church, which is perched in an incredible location in view of the imposing Mount Kazbek — the 7th highest peak in the Caucasus and a site to numerous legends.

Because of its small size, many treat Kazbegi as a day trip from Tbilisi, however, we would recommend spending one full day (two nights) here in order not to rush yourself and to truly be able to enjoy the incredible scenery.

Where to Stay in Kazbegi

Guest House Kavtarashvili 38 — A small, family-run guesthouse well-located within a short walk of the main drag in Kazbegi and the bus station. They have a handful of clean and comfortable rooms available and a great breakfast option.

Red Stone Guest House — Located in Gergeti Village, this guesthouse is a great option if you want to get an early start on the hike to the Gergeti Trinity Church. They have a number of great rooms available and a hearty breakfast option included.

Rooms Hotel Kazbegi — This is the place to stay if you want to live in luxury during your time in Kazbegi. They have a number of chic and comfortable rooms to choose from, great facilities such as a swimming pool and sauna and a great restaurant with commanding views of Mount Kazbek.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Kazbegi!

Days 6-7: Sighnaghi

After enjoying the cosmopolitan vibes of Tbilisi and taking in the imposing Greater Caucasus in Kazbegi, it’s time to discover another aspect that makes Georgia famous — its wine! And there is no better place to do this than the postcard-perfect town of Sighnaghi in the Kakheti region .

You will need to head back to Tbilisi in order to easily get from Kazbegi to Sighnaghi, but it isn’t far from the Georgian capital.

This walled hill town is often referred to as the prettiest town in Georgia and it is an excellent place to escape for a couple of days. Located in the heart of Georgia’s main wine-producing region, you can also opt to go on a wine tour to local vineyards and cellars and learn about Georgia’s ancient viticulture techniques — the oldest in the world!

Again, Sighnaghi is often treated solely as a day trip, however, as we believe that both the surrounding wine country and the town itself are worth exploring, we recommend spending as much time as your itinerary allows.

Where to Stay in Sighnaghi

Maya Guesthouse  – This well-located family guesthouse is a fantastic budget option in Sighnaghi. They have a few clean and comfortable rooms available, a beautiful balcony commanding spectacular views of the Alazani Valley and an option to add breakfast and dinner to your room rate. They will also organise tours of the surrounding area. 

Guesthouse Wine  – An excellent family-run guesthouse in the town centre that has numerous comfortable and clean rooms with friendly and helpful owners. They also make and sell their own delicious wine on site. 

Boutique Hotel BelleVue  – A boutique hotel in the town centre, they have myriad rooms to choose from. This is a great option if you’re looking for a romantic getaway in Sighnaghi and your budget allows for more than a guesthouse.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Sighnaghi hotels!

2-Week Georgia Itinerary

If you have a fortnight, this will give you a great amount of time to really dig deep and visit a number of different destinations and really get to know the country and its people. Here is what to do in Georgia in two weeks:

Begin your 14 days in Georgia with three days in Tbilisi. Follow the suggestions above as to how to spend your time and where to stay in the city.

Like in the one-week itinerary, your next stop should be Kazbegi, the beautiful mountain with imposing views of the stunning Mount Kazbek. Again, you only really need about two nights here (one full day) to be able to get the most out of these destinations.

Days 6-8: Sighnaghi

Like in the one-week itinerary, make your next stop be the lovely town of Sighnaghi and spend a couple of days tasting wine, walking the town walls, and enjoying the prettiest town in Georgia.

Days 9-11: Borjomi

From Sighnaghi, you can easily head to the town of Borjomi with a quick connection in Tbilisi. Borjomi is a beautiful spa town located to the west of Tbilisi and is famed for its healing, sulphuric waters.

You can spend one day exploring the lovely town of Borjomi, taking a walk through its lush central park and going for a swim in naturally warm sulphur pools which is one of the most iconic things to do in Georgia!

Borjomi is also an excellent jumping-off point to explore the incredible cave city of Vardzia, which is located about 100 kilometres south of Borjomi and accessible as a day trip from the city.

You could also venture into nature at the lovely Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, the largest national park in Georgia. Here you will find ample trekking opportunities.

Where to Stay in Borjomi

Guesthouse Metreveli  – This is an excellent guesthouse located in a quiet neighbourhood about 10 10-minute walk from the city centre. They have three comfortable rooms available, a delicious breakfast option, and friendly owners who will fill you with their homemade wine and chacha.

Crowne Plaza Borjomi  – This is the place to stay if you want a swanky, luxury hotel in Borjomi. Located next to the Central Park in a beautiful historic building, they have a myriad of luxe rooms available and numerous amenities. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Borjomi hotels!

Days 12-14: Kutaisi

End your trip to Georgia in the country’s third-largest city of Kutaisi. Though it has now become a hub for low-cost airlines that have affordably connected Georgia with continental Europe, this city is often overlooked by tourists.

We find this to be a huge mistake as there are a number of really great things to do in Kutaisi and the surrounding Imereti region. Take one day to explore the laid-back city, take in the bustling Green Bazaar, visit the Bagrati Cathedral and head to the lovely botanical gardens.

On your other days, use it as a base to explore the region and maybe go on a day trip to the impressive Prometheus Cave or lovely Martvili Canyon. There are also some excellent wineries to head to in the Imereti region and the nearby town of Tskaltubo is popular for urban explorers, as well.

Kutaisi also has a very good restaurant scene and you can eat very well in this city. All in all, Kutaisi is an excellent way to see a smaller city in Georgia and a great place to end your trip.

Where to Stay in Kutaisi

Pospolita Guesthouse  – A small, family-run guesthouse with very friendly owners, this is an excellent budget option in Kutaisi. Well-located within easy walking distance of all of the Kutaisi attractions, there is also a large homemade breakfast included. 

Hotel Green Town  – If you’re looking for a proper hotel rather than a guesthouse, then this is a great option. Located a stone’s throw from the beautiful and historic Bagrati Cathedral, they have a range of rooms available, offer a shuttle service from Kutaisi Airport and a hearty breakfast included in the nightly rate. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Kutaisi!

3-Week Georgia Itinerary

3 weeks is really the ideal amount of time to really get to know the country.

With this amount of time, you will be able to see and do as much as possible without totally exhausting yourself. If you’re wondering what to see in Georgia for three weeks, follow these suggestions:

Days 1-4: Tbilisi

Begin in the capital of Tbilisi. While we recommend spending three days here in the other routes above, we suggest upping that to 4 days if you have 3 weeks for your trip.

This will allow you to see a lot of the capital city while giving you time to go on a day trip or two. Popular and easy-to-organise day trips from Tbilisi include to Mtskheta, Gori, Telavi and beyond.

Days 5-6: Kazbegi

After spending four days in Tbilisi, head up to Kazbegi and follow the suggestions above for how to spend your time there and where to stay.

Days 7-9: Sighnaghi

Like the one- and two-week Georgia routes outlined above, we recommend heading to the lovely town of Sighnaghi to taste some fantastic wines and enjoy the lovely atmosphere.

Days 10-12: Borjomi

After visiting Sighnaghi, Borjomi makes an excellent next stop on this three-week trip.

Spend one day on a day trip to Vardzia and the Rabati Fortress complex in Akhaltsikhe and the other day either exploring the town of Borjomi itself or trekking in the national park.

Days 13-15: Kutaisi

Georgia’s third-largest city of Kutaisi is the logical next stop from Borjomi and it is worth spending a couple of days exploring the city and its surrounding area and enjoying its gastronomic scene.

Days 16-18: Mestia

After enjoying laid-back Kutaisi, it’s time to head into the Greater Caucasus once more and explore the beautiful Svaneti region. The most developed, easy-to-reach and tourist-friendly town here is the lovely village of Mestia.

While this three-week trip doesn’t give you enough time for it (unless you cut out the last stop!), Mestia is well-known as the starting point for the four-day Mestia to Ushguli trek, a hiking route that takes you from village to village until you reach what claims to be the highest town in Europe: Ushguli.

However, if you don’t have the time for this trek, you can spend one day in Mestia and going for one of the day hikes that are easily accessible from the town. On the other day, you can hire a 4WD or take a tour up to the town of Ushguli and even trek to the glacier from there.

This is truly a beautiful place in Georgia and very much cannot be missed on your 3-week itinerary for Georgia.

Where to Stay in Mestia

Guesthouse Guram Baba – This family-run guesthouse is an excellent place to stay if you’re visiting Mestia on a budget. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, a kitchen available for guests’ use, and the friendly owners will organise transport to Ushguli if you’d like.

Hotel Level – This hotel is a great option if you’re looking for a more high-end place to stay in Mestia. They have numerous rooms available and an option to include breakfast in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more accommodation in Mestia!

Days 19-21: Batumi

After ascending some of the highest peaks in Georgia, it’s time to soothe those sore muscles in the saltwater of the Black Sea in Georgia’s premier resort town of Batumi!

Batumi has been a popular holiday destination since the days when Georgia was under the rule of the Russian Empire, however, these days its grand colonial past also shares space with modern high-rises, futuristic architecture, and plenty of casinos. Acting as something like a mini Las Vegas on the sea, Batumi isn’t for everyone.

However, it is possible to have a mellow beach holiday here as well. You can spend one of your days soaking up the rays on the beach and swimming in the Black Sea and another getting lost in the massive botanical garden located a few kilometres outside of the city centre.

Batumi is a little bit out of the way for shorter Georgia routes, however, it is the perfect place to end your trip.

Depending on where you plan to visit after Georgia, it is possible to travel on to Turkey from Batumi. There are also easy connections from Batumi to Kutaisi or Batumi to Tbilisi.

Where to Stay in Batumi

Hotel N16 – This hotel is an excellent place to stay in Batumi. Located within walking distance of the beach and the promenade, they have numerous rooms available, an incredible view and a helpful staff.

Hotel Monarch – This hotel is a great option if you’re looking for a nice place to stay while still supporting a local business. Well-located close to the beach and the main sites, they also have an array of clean and comfortable rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Batumi hotels!

Planning a trip to Georgia can seem daunting when you consider just how much there is to see and do in such a small country. However, regardless of how long you have you’ll be sure to make your trip a memorable one.

Are you planning to visit Georgia? Have any questions about these routes? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

What to do in Kutaisi, Georgia: A 2 or 3 Day Itinerary

How to Travel from Kutaisi to Batumi by Bus, Train, Taxi or Car

How to Travel to Mestia from Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Zugdidi & Batumi

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

thank you so much.. this is very helpful. Can u give more details where to visit during december? we are plannig on a trip to Georgia by december end- january start. am assuming, many places will be blocked due to snow? we plan to rent a car for traveling within the country. Will snow be an issue for this? Any info would be helpful. Thank you.

Good morning,

thanks for this excellent blog, it really helps me planning my trip! I have one question: how do you get from Borjomi to Kutaisi by train? I’ve read it somewhere but cannot find it anymore, I’ve also checked the Georgian railway’s website … are you familiar with this option? Or do you recommend the marshrutka?

Thank you in advance! Katya

The most frequent and easiest way to get between Kutaisi and Borjomi is going to be the marshrutka 🙂

Thank you for these information about Georgia. This will help a lot those travellers who are planning to visit Georgia, and I hope we will also be able to visit this beautiful country soon.

Thanks for your comment! I hope that you’re able to get to Georgia soon 🙂

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The Wanderlust Kitchen

The Complete Road Trip Guide to Georgia (the Country!)

Linda Published on August 13, 2018 / Last updated on March 4, 2023

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 The Republic of Georgia is quickly becoming a favorite destination among travelers in-the-know. This complete guide features everything you need to road trip through Georgia (the country)!

If you’re planning a trip in the near future, make sure you  register for travel insurance  before you go.

You can also check out my  list of essential items for backpackers !

Georgia travel was never on my radar. I knew of it, in a vague sense, but had not considered it as a potential destination.

I’m part of a Facebook group for female travelers, and a Georgian gal posted some photos to showcase her home country.

I was blown away.

Gorgeous mountains? Check. Quaint villages? Check. Dramatic ravines? Check.

Now for the *really* important stuff…

Delicious food and wine? Check and CHECK!

We booked our flights, packed our bags, and headed to the airport.

To get the most out of our trip, we decided to rent a car and embark on a Georgia road trip.

When we returned, I knew I had to share this experience with all of you in today’s post.

To begin, I’ll give a quick run-down of Georgia and her regions.

Next I’ll cover four potential itineraries you can use, depending on how much time you have and what you want to see when you visit Georgia.

Last, I’ll go over some practical information you’ll want to know before setting off on your Georgian road trip.

Let’s Road Trip through Georgia (the Country!)

Regional Overview

There are likely two camps of people reading this post. The first are those that have already decided to visit Georgia, and are here looking for travel tips.

The second are those that came across this post and have yet to consider Georgia as a travel destination. For readers in that second group, I highly recommend reading this post which gives the The Top 10 Reasons To Visit Georgia .

Okay, now that everyone has read that and decided they need to go to on a Georgia trip immediately, let’s get into the details.

The regions I was most excited to visit in Georgia are Svaneti, Kazbegi, Kahketi, and Javakheti.

Before my trip, I saw lots of maps and descriptions of the various regions throughout the country. I didn’t see a lot of cohesion between these maps regarding boundaries, names, or even the number of regions. For traveling purposes, I found that the locals understood me when I used those four names.

I knew that I needed to learn more about those regions to determine the places to visit in Georgia.

A basic run-down of my four favorite regions:

Svaneti : (Northwest) – Breathtaking mountains and remote villages. Road conditions can make this a difficult region to get to and to travel within.

Kazbegi : (North) – Slightly smaller mountains, beautiful gorges, home the famous Gergeti Trinity Church , and slightly easier to get to than Svaneti.

Kakheti : (East) – Fields, rivers, charming villages, and loads of good wine .

Javakheti : (South) – Smaller mountains, stunning gorges, and the famous cave-city of Vardzia .

Other locations to consider:

Kvemo Kartli : (South) – Very close to Tbilisi, and the region containing the popular David Gareja Monastery .

Shida Kartli : (Central) – Also close to Tbilisi, and a great choice for a day-trip to see Uplistsikhe .

Imeriti : (Central) – Contains the original capital city of Kutaisi (and the other main airport).

Guria & Ajara : (West Coast) – Beaches, tourism, nightlife, etc. Guria contains the port town of Poti, where the ferry from Varna (Bulgaria) arrives. In Ajara you’ll find the city of Batumi, arguably the most popular Georgian town on the Black Sea.

Tbilisi : (Central) – The current capital city and likely where your plane will land. There’s plenty to see and do here !

Creating an Itinerary

The Georgia itinerary you choose will depend largely on how much time you have to spend in Georgia. I’ve put together four different itineraries that should help you get an idea of where to start.

Depending on which sights you want to see, you can elect to either complete a circular route of driving in Georgia or arrange to fly in to either Tbilisi or Kutaisi, and then fly out from the other.

If you are very short on time but want to visit Svaneti, there are a limited number of flights direct to Mestia from Kutaisi with an airline called Vanilla Sky.

If you have more time, you can complete a circular route and end up back where you started. For the sake of simplicity, each of the following itineraries begin and end in Tbilisi.

Five days is the shortest amount of time that I would recommend for planning any sort of road trip driving in Georgia country. If you have less time than this, you should plan to base yourself in a central location (such as Tbilisi) and take day trips to nearby places of interest.

Before we begin, a note about routes:

If it looks like there is some unnecessary back-tracking on your chosen route, that is intentional. There are regions of the country that are impractical or impossible to drive through. Many roads that appear on GPS maps are nothing more than mud and rocks cutting through an otherwise undisturbed field.

I recommend sticking to the main roads, and downloading your route from Google Maps to be used offline before beginning. We tried using MapsMe a few times and it usually led us through crazy back-roads that took much longer than sticking to the larger roads. 

(I’d give this road a “3” on the 1-5 scale of Georgian roads we encountered)

Itinerary #1: Ancient Sites – 5 Days

Main points of interest: Tbilisi, Khertvisi Fortress, Vardzia, Borjormi, Uplistsikhe, David Gareji Monastery

• Day 1 – Arrive in Tbilisi and pick up rental car. Spend the day enjoying the city. Overnight in town.
• Day 2 – Leave early morning to drive to the ruins of Uplistsikhe (about 1 hour, 45 minutes). Plan to arrive just before 10:00 am (when it opens) to avoid the rush of tour buses around 11:00 am. There’s a tasty restaurant near the exit where you can enjoy local cuisine on the patio. After lunch, drive to Borjomi (another 1 hour, 45 minutes) for dinner and overnight. Be sure to try the famous mineral water!

• Day 3 – Leave by 8:00 am to make the two-hour drive to Vardzia. Gates open at 10:00 am, and you will certainly appreciate the opportunity to snag some photos before the crowds arrive. After enjoying the site, backtrack to see Khertvisi fortress. You’ll be glad you did, and you have to go back this way to return to the highway anyway. This part of the drive is absolutely stunning! The drive from here to the Monastery is between 5 and 7 hours (depending on road conditions), so plan to find a guesthouse somewhere along the route. Alternatively, you can return to Tbilisi to stay the night.

• Day 4 – Make your way to the David Gareji Monastery. You’ll want to leave early because the road conditions can be quite unpredictable (and mostly unpaved). Return to Tbilisi for overnight. Alternatively, spend the day hiking through Dashbashi Canyon , or simply enjoy another day in Tbilisi City.
• Day 5 – Spend the day soaking in the famous sulfur baths, visit the flea market, and explore Old Town. If you like wine as much as I do, plan to visit a good wine shop to do some tasting and bring a few bottles (checked baggage only!) back home.

Itinerary #2: Caves, Kazbegi, and Wine Country – 7 Days

Main points of interest: Tbilisi, Uplistsikhe, Gergeti Trinity Church, Kakheti Wine Region, David Gareji Monastery

• Day 2 – Leave early morning to drive to Uplistsikhe (about 1 hour, 45 minutes). Plan to arrive just before 10:00 am (when it opens) to avoid the rush of tour buses around 11:00 am. There’s a tasty restaurant near the exit where you can enjoy local cuisine on the patio. After lunch, make the beautiful drive to Stepantsminda (about 3 hours and 15 minutes, but plan for 4 hours due to traffic and construction delays). Explore the town, have dinner, and breathe the mountain air.

• Day 3 – Wake up early to visit the Gergeti Trinity Church. Afterward, eat an early lunch and then put on your game face to brave the road into the Truso Gorge (Warning: You MUST have a 4×4 vehicle to do this!). The views are spectacular and the drive itself is a total riot. Once you come back out of the gorge, head towards the Kakheti region for an overnight in Telavi. The drive will take around four hours, so pack some snacks and load up a playlist. Once in Kakheti, you can opt to stay in a simple guesthouse, or book a room at a luxury wine chateau.

• Day 4 – Designate a driver (or arrange a tour!) and spend the day indulging in the best wine Georgia the country has to offer.

• Day 5 – Take your time and make your way back to Tbilisi City. If you’re interested in Qvervi wine, check out the local (and touristy!) wine museum . Overnight in Tbilisi.
• Day 6 –  Make your way to the David Gareji Monastery. You’ll want to leave early because the road conditions can be quite unpredictable (and mostly unpaved). Return to Tbilisi for overnight. Alternatively, spend the day hiking through Dashbashi Canyon , or simply enjoy another day in Tbilisi City.

• Day 7 -Spend the day soaking in the famous sulfur baths, visit the flea market, and explore Old Town. If you like wine as much as I do, plan to visit a good wine shop to do some tasting and bring a few bottles (checked baggage only!) back home.

Itinerary #3: Georgian Mountains, Scenery, & Hikes – 10 days

Main points of interest: Tbilisi, Khertvisi Fortress, Vardzia, Borjormi, Kutaisi, Martvili Canyon, Mestia, Ushguli, Uplistsikhe

• Day 1 – Arrive in Tbilisi and pick up rental car. Spend the day enjoying the city. Find a nice wine bar in town and pick out a few bottles to take with you on your journey. Don’t forget a wine key! Overnight in Tbilisi City.
• Day 2 – Leave early and pick up picnic supplies before leaving town. Drive two hours to Dashbashi Canyon for a refreshing hike, then park right here to enjoy your picnic lunch with a view of the lake. Continue on to visit Khertvisi Fortress (another two hours) before checking in to your guesthouse for the night (there are many near Vardzia, but we stayed at this one ).

• Day 3 – Leave your guesthouse in time to arrive at the Vardzia caves at 10:00am. Spend a few hours enjoying this incredible site before driving two hours to Borjomi for a late lunch. Spend some time wandering the beautiful park, and be sure to try the famous mineral water! Two more hours on the road and you’ll arrive in Kutaisi for dinner and overnight. While in town, pick up some more supplies for a picnic for tomorrow, as there aren’t many restaurant options along the way.

• Day 4 – After breakfast, drive one hour up the road to visit Martvili Canyon . Take some time to stretch your legs and enjoy the view, or take the little boat ride through the canyon. If the weather is poor, you can visit the Prometheus Caves instead. The rest of the afternoon will be spent driving along the beautiful route to Mestia. While the route is now (finally!) paved, it is still incredibly curvy so be sure to pack your acupressure wristbands! If you need some, grab these from Amazon before you go. Upon arrival in Mestia, check in to your guesthouse and enjoy a traditional Svanetian dinner in town.

• Day 5 – Today will be a full day spent in beautiful Mestia. For those who like to hike, trekking up to the Chalaadi Glacier is par for the course. If the trail is impassable due to weather (or if you just don’t feel like it), take the chair lift up to Khatsvali Ski Resort to check out the amazing views. There’s a great Svanetian history museum in town, as well as a museum where you can visit the inside of a traditional Svanetian tower. Buy some Svanetian salt as a souvenir and drink some chacha (local moonshine) to warm yourself up.

• Day 6 – Fuel up your car and leave as early as possible to make the drive to Ushguli. The road is now partially paved (as of 2018), so what used to be a four-hour drive is now easily made in two. You’ll still need a 4×4 vehicle and a keen sense of adventure! Spend the afternoon exploring the four villages of Ushguli on foot before checking in to your guesthouse. There’s a new little cafe down by the creek that serves beer if you’re in need of a break (that drive is a bit intense!). Ushguli used to be known as the most remote village in Europe, but with the new (partially) paved road and the increase in tourism, the town is quickly filling up with guesthouses and cafes. TANGENT: If you decide to visit, consider doing what you can to support the locals that live there and try to avoid interfering with the experience of other travelers. For example, think about parking your vehicle a little bit out of town and walking a few minutes to your guesthouse so when others come to visit there isn’t an out-of-place-looking car in their photos (<– one of my biggest travel peeves is people parking cars in front of beautiful sights!).

• Day 7 – Wake up early and get some photos of spectacular Mount Ushba. There are plenty of nice hiking trails around that will give you privacy, serenity, and incredible views. Pay attention to where you are going: you’re only about 2 kilometers from the Russian border and you don’t want to accidentally wander across it. There’s an abandoned fortress up on a hill overlooking Chazhashi (one of the villages of Ushguli) which can be reached by a mostly-overgrown path. We asked our guesthouse about it and were told it was just 45 minutes away. Two hours later we made it to the top! The view was spectacular, and probably more so because I was so out of breath from the climb that I was practically passed out. If you want to check it out yourself, the GPS coordinate of the tower is right here . It is accessible by this little bridge . Another popular route is hiking from Ushguli up to the Shkhara Glacier.

• Day 8 – After breakfast, head back the way you came towards Mestia. You might be tempted to take the other road out of town, but it is commonly blocked by a vehicle stuck in the mud and you don’t want to drive an hour that direction only to stop, turn around, and backtrack to Ushguli (trust me on this). Your next destination is the ruins of Uplistsikhe, just outside the town of Gori (the birthplace of Stalin). You can elect to push through to Gori for your overnight (about six and a half hours), or pick a guesthouse along the way to break up the drive. We originally planned to stay in Gori, but due to our snafu which required us to backtrack to Ushguli, we ended up crashing at a road-side motel in Zestafoni.
• Day 9 – Depending on where you stayed last night, wake up in time to arrive at the ruins of Uplistsikhe by 10:00am when they open the gates. There’s a tasty restaurant near the exit where you can enjoy local cuisine on the patio. After lunch, drive back to Tbilisi City and enjoy the rest of the day in town.

• Day 10 – Spend the day soaking in the famous sulfur baths, visit the flea market, and explore Old Town. Relax and prepare for your return flight home!

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About the Author

Hi, I'm Linda! Welcome to The Wanderlust Kitchen, where I share recipes and travel adventures from all around the world. Here you'll find a world of recipes you can have confidence in. These recipes celebrate authentic food heritage as well as modern techniques and ingredients. Be adventurous and try a new recipe and travel somewhere you have never been before.  Bon Appétit! Bon Voyage!  

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Thank you so much for putting this together. Your 2 week itinerary hit everything I was looking to do in Georgia.

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Where is Kamala Harris today? Here's what to know about her Arizona rally with Tim Walz

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz landed in Arizona on Thursday ahead of their Friday evening event at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale.

The visit will mark Harris’ seventh trip to Arizona as vice president, and her first as t h e 2024 Democratic presidential nominee.

As Harris and Walz come to the state and introduce themselves as the new party leaders, Republicans are working quickly to define them in the minds of voters. Arizona Republican leaders, including GOP Senate nominee Kari Lake, held a press conference on Thursday to "highlight the failed policies of Kamala Harris" and other Democratic officials.

Here's what to know about Harris' visit to Arizona and her rally in Glendale.

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz to hold rally in Glendale on Friday night

Harris and Walz will gather supporters  at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale,  a venue that can hold 19,300 people, according to arena operator  ASM Global .

Sign-up for Your Vote: Text with the USA TODAY elections team.

The campaign has not yet announced what time the rally will begin or released details about how the public can attend.

Some of Arizona’s top Democrats will be on hand for the event, including Attorney General Kris Mayes and Reps. Greg Stanton and Ruben Gallego. Sen. Mark Kelly, who Harris considered for the vice president slot, is expected to attend. So is Arizona Democratic Party Chair Yolanda Bejarano. Gov. Katie Hobbs won't be there.

Sam Campana, the first woman mayor of Scottsdale, described the political moment as a “sea change in attitude in Arizona.” Campana is a lifelong Republican and recently joined a GOP coalition backing Harris and Walz in Arizona .

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in Arizona: Live updates from campaign events in Arizona

Where is Desert Diamond Arena?

Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., is located in Glendale near State Farm Stadium. The 19,000-capacity arena is just off Loop 101 between Cardinals Way and Glendale Avenue.

When did Kamala Harris arrive in Phoenix?

Harris arrived in Phoenix via Air Force Two on Thursday evening just before 6:30 p.m. at Sky Harbor International Airport's Lincoln J. Ragsdale Executive Terminal.

The aircraft arrived from the west, flying over metro Phoenix before taxiing in front of the executive terminal. Among local dignitaries receiving her were Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Arizona Attorney General Mayes.

Walz arrived at Sky Harbor around 7:10 p.m., about 40 minutes after the vice president landed in Phoenix.

The Minnesota governor arrived in an unmarked white aircraft, taxiing about a quarter of a mile west of Air Force 2.

Where is Kamala Harris going after Arizona?

Harris' and Walz's visit to Arizona is part of a tour of seven battleground states. The pair made their debut Tuesday in Philadelphia, with stops planned in Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada for the remainder of the week.

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Tracking Hurricane Ernesto

By William B. Davis ,  Madison Dong ,  Judson Jones ,  John Keefe and Bea Malsky

Ernesto was a Category 1 hurricane in the North Atlantic Ocean Sunday afternoon Atlantic time, the National Hurricane Center said in its latest advisory .

The hurricane had sustained wind speeds of 75 miles per hour. Follow our coverage here .

What does the storm look like from above?

Satellite imagery can help determine the strength, size and cohesion of a storm. The stronger a storm becomes, the more likely an eye will form in the center. When the eye looks symmetrical, that often means the storm is not encountering anything to weaken it.

Ernesto is the fifth named storm to form in the Atlantic in 2024.

In late May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted that there would be 17 to 25 named storms this year, an above-normal amount .

This season follows an overly active year, with 20 named storms — including an early storm later given the official name of “Unnamed.” It was the eighth year in a row to surpass the average of 14 named storms. Only one hurricane, Idalia, made landfall in the United States.

Typically, the El Niño pattern that was in force last season would have suppressed hurricanes and reduced the number of storms in a season. But in 2023, the warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic blunted El Niño’s usual effect of thwarting storms.

The warm ocean temperatures that fueled last year’s season returned even warmer at the start of this season, raising forecasters’ confidence that there would be more storms this year. The heightened sea surface temperatures could also strengthen storms more rapidly than usual.

To make matters worse, the El Niño pattern present last year is also diminishing, most likely creating a more suitable atmosphere for storms to form and intensify.

Hurricanes need a calm environment to form, and, in the Atlantic, a strong El Niño increases the amount of wind shear — a change in wind speed and/or direction with height — which disrupts a storm's ability to coalesce. Without El Niño this year, clouds are more likely to tower to the tall heights needed to sustain a powerful cyclone.

Sources and notes

Tracking map Tracking data is from the National Hurricane Center. The map shows probabilities of at least 5 percent. The forecast is for up to five days, with that time span starting up to three hours before the reported time that the storm reaches its latest location. Wind speed probability data is not available north of 60.25 degrees north latitude.

Wind arrivals table Arrival times are generated from a New York Times analysis of National Hurricane Center data. Geographic locations use data from the U.S. Census Bureau and Natural Earth. Time zones are based on Google. The table shows predicted arrival times of sustained, damaging winds of 58 m.p.h. or more for select cities with a chance of such winds reaching them. If damaging winds reach a location, there is no more than a 10 percent chance that they will arrive before the “earliest reasonable” time and a 50 percent chance they will arrive before the “most likely” time.

Radar map Radar imagery is from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration via Iowa State University. These mosaics are generated by combining individual radar stations that comprise the NEXRAD network.

Storm surge map Storm surge data is from the National Hurricane Center. Forecasts only include the United States Gulf and Atlantic coasts, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The actual areas that could become flooded may differ from the areas shown on this map. This map accounts for tides, but not waves and not flooding caused by rainfall. The map also includes intertidal areas, which routinely flood during typical high tides.

Satellite map Imagery is from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Precipitation map Data for multi-day forecasts or observed rainfall totals are from the National Weather Service. The 1-day forecast is from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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