Walking Tour in Telavi

The historic center of Telavi is compact and easy to explore on foot. With the help of our suggested walking route, you’ll effortlessly discover all the highlights and hidden gems this charming Georgian city has to offer.

The heart of Telavi’s historical, cultural, and leisurely life is Batonis Tsikhe Fortress, whose name translates as “The Lord’s Fortress” — in other words, the Royal Citadel. Built in the 17th century for King Archil II, ruler of Kakheti and Imereti, this formidable stronghold is today a sprawling museum complex. Inside, you’ll find a rich array of exhibits spanning archaeology and ethnography, handwritten manuscripts, military artifacts, and a fine art gallery.

Be sure to admire the preserved elements of the medieval Persian citadel — its round towers, robust entry gates, and thick stone walls. Within the fortress, a faithful reconstruction of the house where King Erekle II was born and raised brings the history of this Georgian hero to life. Don’t miss the fortress’s observation deck, which offers panoramic views over the city and the picturesque Alazani Valley.

A statue of Telavi’s most celebrated monarch, King Erekle II, proudly stands beside the outer wall of Batonis Tsikhe. Next to the monument, you’ll find another scenic viewpoint — on clear days, it reveals sweeping vistas of the Alazani Valley’s lush landscapes. Snap a few memorable photos both at the viewing platform and beside the king’s statue to capture the essence of your visit.

From the fortress and its adjacent monument begins Telavi’s central thoroughfare, named—unsurprisingly—in honor of King Erekle II. This vibrant street is perfect for a pleasant stroll. Walk toward the city administration building while enjoying the laid-back charm of the surroundings. Along the way, stop by the Tourist Information Center. There, you can collect maps of the city and its surroundings, as well as brochures highlighting Kakheti’s many attractions—ensuring you won’t miss anything worth seeing.

A short walk from the statue of Erekle II brings you to a silent witness of centuries past—Telavi’s legendary plane tree. This living monument has stood through waves of Mongol invasions, Georgia’s Golden Age, and the rise and fall of the Kakhetian Kingdom. Film lovers may recognize the tree from the classic Georgian movie Mimino, in the memorable scene where the protagonist’s license is taken away.

No one knows the exact age of this mighty tree, but estimates suggest it is between 800 and 900 years old. Towering over 40 meters high, with a trunk circumference of nearly 12 meters, the ancient plane tree has become a beloved photo spot. Visitors often join hands and pose around its colossal base, celebrating its age-old resilience.

If you’re in the mood for a slow-paced, atmospheric walk, turn off Erekle II Street and head toward Old Telavi. Beautifully restored, the historic quarter is a delightful place to explore at any time of day — whether beneath the morning sun or in the soft glow of evening. Boutique hotels, cozy cafes, and traditional shops line its streets, all designed in the harmonious style of Georgian medieval architecture, with ornate wooden balconies and graceful stone façades.

The architectural highlight of the Old Town is the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin. Built in the spirit of the late medieval period, the church’s interior retains Gothic arches and an elegantly painted dome, offering a serene space for contemplation.

We finish our walking tour in Nadikvari Park, a beloved green haven known for its cool, shaded pathways and whimsical benches shaped like khinkali dumplings. The park’s viewing terrace is one of Telavi’s finest — from here, the Alazani Valley stretches out like a painting. To top off your day, consider dining at the “Nadikvari Terrace” restaurant, where breathtaking views pair perfectly with an extensive menu and surprisingly reasonable prices. Whether you’re toasting with a glass of local wine or savoring a hearty Georgian meal, it’s the perfect spot to relax and reflect on a day well spent in Telavi.