Georgia – A Land of Cultures and History
Georgian hospitality, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating history are reasons to travel to Georgia. At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia combines influences from both continents, creating a unique atmosphere in its culture and cuisine. From the snowy peaks of the Caucasus to the sunny shores of the Black Sea, this country attracts more and more visitors with adventures, traditional wine, and unforgettable views.
Why Visit Georgia?
Georgian culture and history date back thousands of years. Ancient traditions have survived here and blend seamlessly with modernity. Despite a turbulent past and shifting influences, from Persia to the Soviet Union, Georgia has preserved its identity. Today, it is an independent, economically dynamic country open to the world. Georgia is famous for its stunning landscapes and welcoming people who gladly share their culture and cuisine with visitors.
Georgia’s Geopolitical Situation and Safety
Georgia continues to face geopolitical challenges, especially concerning Abkhazia and South Ossetia, regions that have declared independence. Despite these disputes, Georgia is considered a relatively safe travel destination. Tourists can feel at ease, particularly in popular areas like Tbilisi, Batumi, and the Georgian Military Highway.
Language and Alphabet
Georgian is the language spoken in Georgia, and its alphabet, recognized as one of the most beautiful in the world, is unique and unlike any other. However, in larger cities, English and Russian are commonly understood, making travel easier.
Economy and Tourism
Georgia is rapidly developing, with an economy based on agriculture, wine production, and a growing tourism industry. The country attracts trekking enthusiasts, history lovers, and foodies alike. Tourism is becoming a key driver of growth, leading to the development of more infrastructure for travellers.
Georgian Tradition – Wine in Every Home
In Georgia, wine is more than just a drink – it’s a way of life. As one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world, its wine traditions span over 8,000 years. Georgian wine is distinguished by its unique production method in clay vessels called qvevri, which gives it a distinct flavour. Both red and white wines are popular, and each region in Georgia boasts its grape varieties and flavours.
Georgian Toasts
Georgian toasts are an art form and an essential part of the local feasting culture. This tradition shines during a supra, a Georgian feast led by a tamada, the master of ceremonies. The tamada guides the gathering, raising toasts in a specific order and on meaningful topics.
The most important toast is usually dedicated to peace – both in the family and the world. Other toasts honour family, friends, love, the departed, or health. Participants often drink their glasses to the bottom, and every toast is an opportunity to share wisdom and stories. When raising your glass, don’t forget to say “Gaumarjos!” – the Georgian way of saying “Cheers!”
Toasts in Georgia are much more than a way to drink. They are an expression of respect and gratitude, a way to strengthen bonds and a celebration of life. If you ever join a supra, be prepared for unforgettable moments filled with heartfelt words and unmatched hospitality.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Georgia?
The best time to visit Georgia is spring (May–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are stunningly colourful. In summer, you can enjoy the Black Sea coast, while in winter, the Caucasus attracts winter sports enthusiasts. Georgia truly offers something for everyone, regardless of the season.
Georgian trip – tailor-made travel plan
7-Day Road Trip in Georgia
Below is my tailor-made travel plan for Georgia. The route minimises unnecessary travel distances and provides a complete experience of the country’s key attractions. Choose what interests you most and adapt this plan to your needs.
Georgia is a unique place on the world map, offering cultural richness, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.
Day 1: Tbilisi – Mtskheta – Tbilisi
- Distance: 20 km, approximately 30 minutes one way
- Overnight stay: Tbilisi
Start your journey in Georgia and rent a car the day before.
Mtskheta – The Ancient Capital
Begin the day with a trip to Mtskheta, the ancient capital and an important religious centre of Georgia. Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a site of great significance to Georgians.
Tbilisi – A City of Contrasts
Return to Tbilisi, a city of striking contrasts, from its historic old town to modern neighbourhoods.
Start exploring with a visit to Metekhi Church, perched on a cliff above the Metekhi Bridge. It’s one of Tbilisi’s iconic landmarks, often captured in photographs. From the church terrace, enjoy a stunning view of the city, the Kura River, the Peace Bridge, and the old town.
Nearby, you’ll find the Royal Sulfur Baths and the Meidan Bazaar underground market.
Descend to street level to reach the Old Town on the western bank of the Kura River. Stroll through its winding streets and admire the architectural details of historic houses. Visit the 13th-century Sioni Cathedral, home to a replica of St. Nino’s Cross.
Close by, you can find the Tbilisi History Museum and the Wine Museum, which showcases Georgia’s claim as the birthplace of wine. Cross the river again via the modern pedestrian Peace Bridge, featuring a glass roof.
Continue your walk through Rike Park and head to the cable car station. During peak season, the queue for tickets can take about an hour, but it shortens considerably later in the day. It’s worth the wait. The cable car operates from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM, and a round-trip ticket costs 6 GEL (approximately 2,2 $ as of 2024).
The cable car takes you to Sololaki Hill, where the main attraction is the Narikala Fortress (9:00 AM–9:00 PM). Although closed for renovation until August 2025, the fortress offers panoramic views of the city, especially magical after sunset.
On-site, you’ll find stalls, souvenir shops, and vendors offering wine and food. Also, visit the Mother of Georgia statue. Beyond the statue is a path leading back down to the city, or you can return by cable car.
Additional Information
- Georgia – Tbilisi Walking Tour* the fascinating heritage and local culture of Tbilisi on a 4-hour guided walking tour through the city’s most interesting spots.
Day 2: Tbilisi – Signagi – Bodbe Monastery – Tbilisi
- Distance: 110 km one way, approximately 2 hours
- Overnight stay: Tbilisi
Signagi – The City of Love
Spend the day exploring Signagi, known as the “City of Love,” where weddings are performed 24/7.
Signagi is one of the most beautifully situated towns in the South Caucasus and one of the smallest in Georgia, with about 1,500 residents. Recently restored, the town is a pleasure to visit. Stroll along its cobbled streets and admire its historic houses. The town features a picturesque collection of old Kakhetian homes with intricately decorated balconies, built from narrow red bricks in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Don’t miss the well-preserved old city walls. Passing through a historic city gate, you’ll be greeted by a panoramic view of the Alazani Valley. On your way back to the town centre, consider a brief stop at the small Wine Museum.
Walk through the town park, home to an intriguing series of bas-reliefs. This monument honours soldiers who fell during the Great Patriotic War. Many Georgians fought on the side of the Red Army in World War II, and this monument is a tribute to their sacrifice.
Bodbe Monastery
After exploring Sighnaghi (3 km), it is worth planning a visit to the Bodbe Monastery, where St. Nino, who converted Georgia to Christianity in the 6th century, is buried. The Bodbe Monastery of St. George was built in the 9th century on the initiative of King Mirian III, who ordered a small monastery to be built there. In the 17th century, the monastery underwent a major reconstruction, which is why it is in such good condition today. The monastery is a significant pilgrimage site in Georgia. Today, it functions as a convent for nuns.
Next to the Basilica of St. George, a new Church of St. Nino has been constructed in recent years. This is a remarkable place worth visiting.
About 3 km from the monastery, perched on a steep slope of the Alazani Valley, is the small Chapel of St. Zabulon and St. Sosana, the parents of St. Nino. Built in the 1990s, the chapel is accessible via a staircase with 1,300 steps. Nearby is St. Nino’s Spring, which, according to legend, has healing properties.
Optional: On your return to Tbilisi, stop at a local winery for a wine-tasting session.
Day 3: Tbilisi – Jvari Monastery – Ananuri Fortress – Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) – Gergeti Monastery
- Distance: Approximately 160 km, 3.5–4 hours (without extended stops)
- Overnight stay: Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)
Jvari Monastery
Depart Tbilisi early, and make your first stop at Jvari Monastery, a 6th-century gem offering stunning views of Mtskheta and the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. This is a must-see site.
Ananuri Fortress
Next, head to the picturesque Ananuri Fortress, an impressive 16th–17th-century defensive complex overlooking the Zhinvali Reservoir.
Admire its well-preserved walls, towers, and the fresco-adorned church. This is also a great spot for panoramic views of the turquoise waters and surrounding mountains.
Zhinvali Reservoir
The Zhinvali Reservoir, created by a dam, is worth a short stop. A small market nearby offers various Georgian souvenirs, and facilities like restrooms are available. The views are unforgettable♥!
Georgian Military Highway
Continue along the Georgian Military Road to Kazbegi, one of the most beautiful scenic routes through the Greater Caucasus. This is one of the most scenic routes in Georgia, running through the majestic Caucasus Mountains, connecting Tbilisi with Vladikavkaz in Russia. It is not only a historic trade route, but also a route full of breathtaking views, such as the Jvari Pass (2,379 m above sea level) and picturesque valleys. The road is about 208 km long and the entire route takes about 4-5 hours to drive, depending on road conditions and the number of stops along the way.
Make a brief stop at the Georgian-Russian Friendship Monument, which is located on a viewing platform over the Aragvi Canyon. This impressive, colourful mosaic was created in 1983. It commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Treaty of Georgievsk in 1783, which established an alliance between Georgia and the Russian Empire. The monument is a semicircular terrace with mosaics depicting historical and symbolic scenes from the life of Georgia and Russia, such as legends, national heroes and the most important moments of cooperation.
Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) and Gergeti Monastery
End your day with a visit to Gergeti Trinity Church, perched at 2,170 meters above sea level. Reach the monastery by hiking or hiring a local jeep in Stepantsminda.
The small Holy Trinity Church offers a serene experience, and in good weather, you can enjoy views of the towering Mount Kazbek (5,033 m).
Worth knowing: Gergeti Monastery is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the world, and is currently the most visited tourist attraction in Georgia.
For a more adventurous return, trek back to Stepantsminda through the mountains on a 3 km trail, which takes about an hour. The route provides incredible views of the church, the Kuro Massif, and the town below.
Stepantsminda
Stepantsminda (formerly Kazbegi), picturesquely situated in northern Georgia, is the gateway to the majestic Caucasus. The town lies at the foot of Mount Kazbek (5,033 m above sea level) and is an ideal starting point for mountain hiking enthusiasts. Stepantsminda is also famous for its crystal-clear air and rugged, alpine landscapes.
Day 4: Kazbegi – Gori – Uplistsikhe – Kutaisi
- Distance: 270 km, 5 hours.
- Overnight: Kutaisi.
Gori
From Kazbegi, you can visit Gori, Stalin’s birthplace. The Stalin Museum is dedicated to his life. However, you might consider skipping it if it’s not of interest. You’ll find the house where Stalin was born and his armoured train carriage outside the museum.
In front of the museum gate, there are small stalls with unusual souvenirs: e.g. toilet paper or matchboxes with Stalin’s face.
Gori, apart from the famous Stalin Museum, offers other interesting places worth visiting. On a hill in the city centre is the medieval Gori Fortress, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Gori is also a place full of local life – markets, cafes and restaurants offering traditional Georgian delicacies, which are worth trying during your visit.
Uplistsikhe – The Cave City
Next on the route is the rock city of Uplistsikhe – one of the oldest cave cities in Georgia, dating back to the Bronze Age. It’s filled with fascinating caves, temples, and ancient tunnels. This rock complex attracts visitors with its unique architecture, rock-carved rooms and views of the Mtkvari River valley.
It is worth spending about 1.5 to 2 hours here to leisurely discover hidden temples, old dwellings and warehouses that remind you of life in Georgia thousands of years ago. Lots of stairs and steep (often slippery) climbs uphill – measure your strength, and wear suitable shoes so as not to twist your ankle.
There are quite large lizards basking on the rocks, but they will run away if you get too close.
In 2007, Uplistsikhe was added to Georgia’s tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Kutaisi – City Center Exploration
In the afternoon, arrive in Kutaisi. If you’re not too tired, take a walk around the city centre:
- Bagrati Cathedral – walk to Bagrati Cathedral, an icon of Kutaisi and one of the most important monuments of Georgia. Located on a hill, the cathedral offers beautiful views of the city and the Rioni River Valley. A walk around the cathedral and a quick tour will take about 30 minutes.
- David Agmashenebeli Square – the square is the heart of the city, with a fountain decorated with Georgian motifs and a statue of the famous King David the Builder. It is a perfect place for photos and relaxation surrounded by beautiful architecture. After dusk, the fountain shimmers with different colours.
- The Colchis Relief is an impressive 217 m² ceramic panel that adorns the entrance to the Central Bazaar. The work was begun in 1982 by Georgian artist Bernard Nebieridze and depicts historical and mythological figures associated with the city. More information about the relief can be found at Kutaisi Market Relief.
- Rioni Bridge and Market – cross the Rioni River across the historic bridge. On the way, you can stop at the Central Bazaar (if it is open), where you can buy traditional Georgian products, from spices to local sweets.
A two-hour stroll will let you enjoy Kutaisi’s charm and relax after a day of travel.
Day 5: Kutaisi – Motsameta – Batumi
- Distance: 150 km, 3 hours.
- Overnight: Batumi.
Motsameta Monastery
From Kutaisi, set off for Mocameta, a monastery hidden in the mountains. Mocameta Monastery is one of the most picturesquely situated places in the vicinity of Kutaisi.
Situated on a rocky outcrop above a bend in the Tskalcitela River, the monastery offers magnificent views of the surrounding area and an atmosphere of peace. Mocameta is not only a beautiful view but also a place of great importance to Georgians. The monastery is associated with the history of the martyrs David and Constantine – princes who died for their faith. Their relics are kept in the monastery, and pilgrims come to ask for blessings and prosperity.
It is worth planning about 1 hour to visit Mocameta. This is enough time to walk around the monastery grounds and see the relics. Don’t forget to enjoy the peace and beautiful views of the river and mountain landscapes.
Batumi – Botanical Garden
After a short visit to Mocamet, continue to Batumi on the Black Sea.
In Batumi, in the afternoon I recommend a visit to the Botanical Garden. This is one of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in the region. Here you will find thousands of species of plants from all over the world, divided into different climatic zones, and a walk along the garden paths offers amazing views of the coast. It is worth planning about 2-3 hours for the tour to fully appreciate the variety of plants and enjoy the peace of this place.
- Entrance fee: 20 GEL (about 7,2$ in 2024).
- More information on the Batumi Botanical Garden website.
In the evening, stroll along the seaside boulevard of Batumi, where life goes on until late in the evening. Noise, music, stalls, a wide promenade, places for sports, beer gardens, food and many places to relax after a day of sightseeing. Batumi by night looks amazing!
Day 6: Full Day in Batumi
- Overnight: Batumi
Start the day with a stroll along the seaside promenade to soak up Batumi’s unique atmosphere. Visit Europe Square, the heart of the city, known for its historic architecture and vibrant vibe. Then, explore the Alphabet Tower, a symbol of the Georgian script, and the Neptune Fountain, which adds a touch of charm to the surroundings.
Take a break in the Seaside Park, a peaceful oasis in the city centre. Afterwards, head to the Ali and Nino Moving Statues, a famous symbol of love and tolerance. The statues’ movements tell a poignant story of eternal unity.
Additional Activities (Afternoon or Early Evening)
- Boat Tour in the Bay – A relaxing cruise to enjoy Batumi’s skyline from the sea.
- Ferris Wheel Ride – at 55 meters high, it offers stunning views of the city. Tickets cost 10 GEL (about 3,5$ in 2024), and the ride lasts 10 minutes.
- Nuri Lake Stroll – a 20-minute walk from the port leads to this serene lake. Rent a boat to enjoy a peaceful ride surrounded by the greenery of 6 May Park. This spot is ideal for families or anyone seeking a tranquil retreat.
- Argo Cable Car – one of Batumi’s top attractions. The Cable Car ride offers panoramic views of the city, the Black Sea coast, and surrounding mountains. Tickets cost 30 GEL (about 11$ in 2024). More info on the official website of the Argo Batumi.
- Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus – available only during the summer season, this is a convenient way to explore the city.
- Dolphinarium – a perfect way to end the day with a dolphin show. Performances run up to three times daily during summer and last around 40 minutes. It’s a fun and emotional experience for visitors of all ages. An attraction not only for children! Check out the link to my video from the Batumi Dolphinarium.
Evening
End your day with dinner at a restaurant serving traditional Georgian dishes and an evening walk along the seaside promenade.
For more ideas on things to do in Batumi, check out my post Georgia: Batumi for a Weekend.
Day 7: Batumi – Tbilisi / Batumi – Kutaisi
- Distance: Batumi – Tbilisi, 370 km, 5–6 hours.
- Distance: Batumi – Kutaisi, 120 km, 1 hour 50 minutes.
Depending on your departure airport, the journey to Tbilisi or Kutaisi is your last chance to take in Georgia’s landscapes. You can stop for quick meals or breaks in scenic locations along the way. If time permits, visit a smaller town or a winery in the Imereti region for a final toast to Georgia.
Georgian trip: extra tip. 1-Day Tours from Tbilisi
If you have extra time or 1 day more to spend in Georgia, consider joining one of the full-day tours from Tbilisi.
- Kazbegi and Gudauri Tour from Tbilisi* (12 hours) guided tour. Men should wear long pants and women should cover their hair when visiting the church. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women.
- From Tbilisi to Kazbegi, Gudauri & Zhinvali Guided Group Tour* (11 hours). A tour to Kazbegi along the Georgian Military Highway with views of the Caucasus Mountains. You will see the stunning confluence of the Aragvi River, and the Friendship Monument in Gudauri. Also, you will have the chance to try mineral water and local honey. In Stepantsminda, you will visit the Gergeti Monastery with a breathtaking view of Mount Kazbek – unforgettable landscapes are guaranteed!
- Kakheti Wine Region Tour from Tbilisi* (12 hours) guided tour. Visit picturesque Kakheti – Georgia’s most famous wine region! Stroll through the charming streets of Sighnaghi, known as the “City of Love,”. Taste unique wines at the largest winery, Khareba. Discover local culture and history through the stories of your experienced guide.
- Majestic Kazbegi Private Day Tour* (12 hours) guided tour*. Travel from Tbilisi to Kazbegi, stopping at Ananuri Fortress by Jinvali Lake. Then, visit Gudauri, a popular ski resort with excellent ski slopes and breathtaking views (from December to April), with lifts reaching up to 3,306 meters. Reaching the Gergeti Monastery with the majestic Kazbek in the background will provide unforgettable views and experiences.
A guided day tour from Tbilisi is an easy and comfortable way to see the highlights of Georgia. Learn from local experts, and relax without worrying about logistics.
Georgia – my Other posts:
*Links from the Klook website are affiliates.