For many travelers, the journey to Georgia begins in its vibrant capital, Tbilisi. It’s advisable to dedicate 2-3 days to exploring this enchanting city before setting off on further adventures. From Tbilisi, you have four enticing routes to choose from: head north to the mountains for breathtaking views along the Military Highway and indulge in authentic khinkali; venture east to sip exquisite wines while marveling at ancient temples and palaces; travel west to rejuvenate in Borjomi and explore its caves; or head south to the coast. Let’s start with the eastern route.
What to do in Tbilisi if you only have a couple of days to get acquainted with the city? Settle in one of the historical districts, preferably near Sololaki or Avlabari, and explore on foot.
Begin your adventure at the ancient Narikala Fortress, perched atop a hill, and don’t miss the majestic Holy Trinity Cathedral (also known as Sameba). For a unique perspective of the city, take a ride on the cable car or funicular. On a hot day, seek solace in one of Tbilisi’s parks, and in spring, be sure to stroll through the Tbilisi Botanical Garden.
The Old Town offers countless vibrant walking routes, leading you through temples, museums, theaters, and the historic bath complex. Of course, you cannot leave Tbilisi without sampling local cuisine; there are restaurants at every corner where you can savor khachapuri and khinkali!
A fantastic day trip from Tbilisi is a visit to Kakheti, the heart of Georgia’s wine country, located less than 100 kilometers from the capital. Opt for the scenic route through the Gombori Pass, which rises to 1,620 meters above sea level and offers stunning views.
Make sure to carve out several hours for the town of Telavi. The Batonis Tsikhe Fortress, a picturesque 900-year-old plane tree, the Old Town, and the charming streets where the film “Mimino” was shot will keep you entertained. Arriving in the capital of wine and merriment, you must partake in tastings of the divine nectar known as Georgian wine.
The “Kinzmarauli Corporation” winery offers a tour of its facility, showcasing the wine and chacha production process, unique wine cellars, and a museum dedicated to rare grape varieties. A tasting of several types of wine and chacha is included in the program.
Don’t miss the legendary Tsinandali, home to the wine estate and museum of Alexander Chavchavadze. Located in the heart of Kakheti, Tsinandali has been in the possession of the princely Chavchavadze family for centuries, but it was Alexander who transformed it into a cultural hub. Today, the complex includes a museum house, a garden, a historic winery, a cellar, a hotel, and a café. You’ll enjoy a delightful time learning about history, admiring the beauty of the park, visiting the wine cellar, and tasting local wines.
If you plan to see Sighnaghi, the capital of Georgian romance, consider taking a different route from Tbilisi. This path will lead you through narrow cobblestone streets, winding balconies, and dizzying views of the Alazani Valley, along with the sacred sites of the Bodbe Monastery, and the medieval fortress of Chailuri.
Architecturally, the Nino Tsmininda Cathedral is particularly interesting. Built in the 6th century, it is considered one of the oldest churches in Georgia. Today, only the eastern wall remains, with ruins located within the grounds of a women’s monastery, sheltered behind fortress walls. You can observe stone ornaments and fragments of frescoes on the façade.
Another noteworthy site is the Ikalto Monastery complex. In the Middle Ages, it was a center of knowledge and housed an academy where the famous poet Shota Rustaveli studied. Nearby is the Nekresi Monastery, a charming sanctuary perched on a mountainside above the Alazani Plain. Once a bustling city, it is now a serene monastic complex.
The monastery is still active, with its oldest structure being the Basilica of the Virgin Mary, renowned for its ancient frescoes. It is revered as one of the oldest sacred sites in Georgia. The grounds feature benches where you can enjoy stunning views of the Alazani Valley. In fact, almost any church in Kakheti serves as a free observation point, perfect for photography, appreciating the landscape, or simply sitting in silence to relax.
Another hallmark of Kakheti is the Gremi Castle. Technically, it is not quite a castle but rather a temple complex surrounded by fortress walls. The Church of the Archangels and the tower housing a museum are all that remain today of what was once a thriving city.
In medieval times, Gremi encompassed a significant territory, with a royal castle, a monastery, and the main cathedral built atop a rocky outcrop at its center. This site was a focal point for weddings, funerals, and coronations. The most remarkable features that have survived to the present day are the frescoes in the Church of the Archangels and the breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley from the bell tower.
Another captivating destination is a trip from Tbilisi westward towards Borjomi. While it can be done in a day, staying overnight is more comfortable. On your way, be sure to stop by the ancient town of Mtskheta, which was once the capital of Georgia, the magnificent fortress in Gori, and the mysterious cave city of Uplistsikhe.
Upon arriving in Borjomi, don’t miss the Central Park: it’s a delightful place to stroll, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the famous mineral water from the springs without restrictions. The most beautiful spring is called the Catherine Spring, where you’ll find delicate blue arches—head there for a taste of the “living” mineral water, still warm from the source. The park also features a waterfall and a cable car with charming cabins. The lower station is conveniently located to the right of the main entrance to the park.
The cable car will take you up to a height of 500 meters, offering excellent viewing platforms overlooking the city surrounded by towering mountains. You can ride back down or choose to walk, which will lead you to the trails of Central Park.
Don’t miss the thermal pools, which can be reached by car or via a half-hour walk from the upper cable car station. There are three pools filled with hydrogen sulfide water at varying temperatures, perfect for a relaxing evening visit when there are fewer crowds.
If you’re on the lookout for souvenirs, sweet treats, or simply want to explore tourist stalls, head to April 9 Street. Here, you can purchase jam, honey, and medicinal tinctures. You’ll also find the turquoise symbol of Borjomi, the intricately carved mansion of Mirza-Riza-Khan, known as “Firuz.” If you’re in Borjomi for a few days or on vacation, consider trekking in the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, where you can choose from hiking, biking, or horseback riding routes that last anywhere from 3 hours to 3 days.
Georgia is an ideal destination for the curious traveler. Here, you can find guided tours to suit every taste, from short walks with a guide to serious adventures in the mountains and uncharted territories. Tbilisi, thanks to its convenient location, offers the greatest variety of excursions, allowing you to explore the south, north, west, and east of the country. But don’t rush to leave; first, take a stroll through the Old Town, the authentic neighborhoods of Abanotubani and Sololaki, and discover ancient churches and the Narikala Fortress, marveling at the wonders of modern architecture.
One of the most popular excursion routes is the Military Highway, lined with fortresses, monastery ruins, and ancient mountain villages that preserve a patriarchal way of life. The endpoint is the village of Stepantsminda, home to the stunning Gergeti Trinity Church against the backdrop of Mount Kazbek.
To the east of the capital lies Kakheti, a beautiful wine region filled with vineyards, mountain passes, and the legendary Alazani Valley. Here, world-renowned wines are produced, and visitors are welcomed at the autumn Rtveli festival, proudly celebrating its historical heritage—such as the Alaverdi Cathedral, the city of love Sighnaghi, and the capital Telavi.
History and architecture enthusiasts should not miss Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Iberia with its UNESCO-listed churches, as well as the southern city of Akhaltsikhe, home to the Ottoman Rabati Fortress, the cave city of Vardzia, and the legendary mineral resort of Borjomi. Be sure to visit Kutaisi, the ancient capital of the Colchian kingdom, where a beautiful fountain commemorating those times stands in the city center.
For fans of the sea, beaches, and subtropical climates, Adjara is a must-visit. This region in the southwest of Georgia is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, as well as the resort town of Batumi—the seaside capital of Georgia. A beach holiday in Batumi and its surroundings can easily be combined with trips to the Adjara mountains, lakes, waterfalls, gastronomic masterclasses on making Adjara khachapuri, and lively celebrations.