A well-planned Georgia itinerary reveals the country’s unique charm. From Tbilisi’s vibrant streets to the scenic Caucasus Mountains, Georgia blends history, culture, and adventure. This guide offers 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day itineraries to help you explore Georgia’s highlights.
Enjoy ancient churches, local wines, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re exploring Tbilisi’s Old Town or traveling through Kakheti and Svaneti, each day is packed with experiences to make your trip unforgettable.
3-Day Georgia Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Old Town and Modern Spots
Start your trip in Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital. Walk around the Old Town in the morning, with its small, stone streets. See the Holy Trinity Cathedral and Metekhi Church. Then, take the cable car to Narikala Fortress for great city views. Afterward, visit the sulfur baths in Abanotubani to relax. In the evening, walk along Rustaveli Avenue, and for dinner, try local food like khachapuri and khinkali at a Georgian restaurant.
Day 2: Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery
On day two, visit Mtskheta, one of Georgia’s oldest cities. This is a quick trip from Tbilisi and has important sites like Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Then, head to Jvari Monastery for some really nice views over the rivers. Come back to Tbilisi in the afternoon to see the modern side. Visit the Bridge of Peace, then have dinner and maybe taste some local wine at a bar.
Day 3: Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church
For your last day, go on a scenic drive to Kazbegi. Along the way, stop at Ananuri Fortress by the water. In Kazbegi, hike up to Gergeti Trinity Church. The views from there are amazing. After the hike, eat lunch in Stepantsminda before heading back to Tbilisi for the evening.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Tbilisi – Old Town and Modern Spots | Walk the Old Town, visit Narikala Fortress, relax at sulfur baths, and explore Rustaveli Avenue. Enjoy Georgian food for dinner. |
| Day 2: Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery | Visit Mtskheta and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, then Jvari Monastery. Return to Tbilisi and visit the Bridge of Peace. Taste local wine. |
| Day 3: Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church | Drive to Kazbegi, visit Ananuri Fortress, hike to Gergeti Trinity Church, then have lunch in Stepantsminda before heading back to Tbilisi. |
5-Day Georgia Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – City Walks
Begin with a day like in the 3-day plan. Explore the Old Town, Narikala Fortress, and the sulfur baths. Spend more time seeing modern Tbilisi, like the Fabrika art space, and maybe go to some local cafes or art spots. End your day with a nice Georgian dinner.
Day 2: Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery
Take the same short trip to Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery. When you return to Tbilisi, go check out the Dezerter Bazaar. This market has a lot of fresh food, spices, and sweets. You’ll get a good feel for Georgian flavors here.
Day 3: Kakheti – Wine Region
Today, drive to Kakheti, known for its wine. Start in the town of Signagi, famous for its views and streets. Visit a local winery, enjoy some tastings, and have a traditional Georgian lunch. Walk around Signagi a bit more before heading back or staying overnight.
Day 4: David Gareja Monastery
On day four, head to David Gareja Monastery, near the border with Azerbaijan. This monastery is carved into rocks and is surrounded by a desert-like area. Walk around and see ancient cave paintings. In the evening, go back to Tbilisi.
Day 5: Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church
End your trip with a visit to Kazbegi. Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church and take in the mountain views, just like in the 3-day itinerary. If you have time, grab some fresh bread from a local bakery before returning to Tbilisi.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Tbilisi – City Walks | Explore the Old Town, Narikala Fortress, and sulfur baths. Check out Fabrika art space and local cafes. Have Georgian dinner. |
| Day 2: Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery | Visit Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery. Explore Dezerter Bazaar in Tbilisi for fresh food and spices. |
| Day 3: Kakheti – Wine Region | Drive to Kakheti, explore Signagi, visit wineries, and enjoy tastings. Have lunch and walk around Signagi. |
| Day 4: David Gareja Monastery | Visit David Gareja Monastery, see the rock-carved structures and cave paintings. Return to Tbilisi. |
| Day 5: Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church | Visit Kazbegi, hike to Gergeti Trinity Church, enjoy local bakery treats before heading back to Tbilisi. |
7-Day Georgia Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Old and New
Start your 7-day trip in Tbilisi. Visit the Old Town, the sulfur baths, and Narikala Fortress. With more time, you can visit places like the Tbilisi History Museum and the Dry Bridge Market for antique shopping. For dinner, explore the Sololaki neighborhood, where you can find some cool restaurants.
Day 2: Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, and Uplistsikhe
Go to Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery in the morning. Then, head to Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave city. Walk through the tunnels and explore. Afterward, either head back to Tbilisi or spend the night in Gori.
Day 3: Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church
On your third day, follow the Kazbegi route like in the shorter itineraries. Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church. You can stay overnight at a lodge in the mountains if you want a bit more adventure.
Day 4: Kakheti – Wine Region
Spend your fourth day in Kakheti, Georgia’s wine region, like in the 5-day plan. Explore Signagi and visit the wineries, enjoy some tastings, and have a nice lunch. Walk around and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Day 5: David Gareja Monastery
Head to David Gareja Monastery for day five. Spend time walking through this remote monastery, seeing the caves and learning about the history. Return to Tbilisi in the evening.
Day 6: Mestia and Svaneti
Fly or drive to Mestia in the Svaneti region. This area is known for its mountains and stone towers. Visit the local museum and learn about the region’s history. You can also hike around the area. Stay overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 7: Ushguli and Return to Tbilisi
On your last day, visit Ushguli, one of Europe’s highest villages. Explore this village and its ancient towers. The mountain views here are amazing. Afterward, return to Mestia, and then make your way back to Tbilisi, ending your 7-day adventure.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Tbilisi – Old and New | Explore Old Town, Narikala Fortress, and sulfur baths. Visit Tbilisi History Museum, Dry Bridge Market, and dine in Sololaki. |
| Day 2: Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, and Uplistsikhe | Visit Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, and Uplistsikhe cave city. Optionally stay in Gori or return to Tbilisi. |
| Day 3: Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church | Travel to Kazbegi, hike to Gergeti Trinity Church, and stay overnight in the mountains for more adventure. |
| Day 4: Kakheti – Wine Region | Explore Kakheti’s wine region, visit Signagi, wineries, and enjoy tastings. Relax in the serene surroundings. |
| Day 5: David Gareja Monastery | Visit David Gareja Monastery, explore the caves and history, then return to Tbilisi. |
| Day 6: Mestia and Svaneti | Fly or drive to Mestia in Svaneti. Visit local museum and enjoy mountain views. Stay overnight in a guesthouse. |
| Day 7: Ushguli and Return to Tbilisi | Visit Ushguli village, explore its towers, then return to Tbilisi for departure. |
Practical Tips for Visiting Georgia
Visiting Georgia can be a delightful experience, but having a few practical tips can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Start by understanding that English is not widely spoken, so learning a few basic Georgian phrases can be helpful. The local currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL), and it’s a good idea to carry some cash as not all places accept cards.
When traveling, it’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting churches and religious sites. The weather in Georgia varies greatly depending on the region and season, so pack layers to adjust to changing conditions. If you’re visiting during the winter, be prepared for cold temperatures, especially in the mountains.
Public transportation includes buses, marshrutkas (shared minivans), and taxis. Taxis are relatively affordable, but make sure the driver uses the meter or agree on a price beforehand. For long-distance travel, consider using trains or domestic flights to save time.
Lastly, Georgian cuisine is a highlight of the trip. Don’t miss out on local specialties like khachapuri (cheese bread) and khinkali (dumplings).
Georgia’s Culture and History
Georgia is rich in culture and history, shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The country has a diverse heritage influenced by ancient kingdoms, the Byzantine Empire, and neighboring Persia.
Tbilisi, the capital, is known for its eclectic architecture, blending medieval, neoclassical, and modern styles. The Old Town, with its narrow streets and colorful houses, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Notable sites include the Narikala Fortress and the Holy Trinity Cathedral.
The Georgian language is unique, with its own script and complex grammar. It’s one of the oldest living languages in the world. Georgian Orthodox Christianity plays a significant role in cultural practices, with many beautiful churches and monasteries scattered across the country.
Georgia’s history includes periods of foreign rule, but the country has maintained a strong sense of identity and independence. This resilience is reflected in its vibrant traditions, music, and dance.
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Food and Restaurants in Georgia
Georgia’s cuisine is known for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients. Traditional dishes often feature fresh herbs, spices, and unique combinations that reflect the country’s cultural influences.
Khachapuri is a must-try dish, a type of cheese-filled bread that comes in various regional styles. The Adjarian khachapuri, shaped like a boat and topped with a runny egg, is particularly popular. Another staple is khinkali, large dumplings filled with spiced meat and herbs. These are usually eaten by holding the top knot and savoring the juicy filling.
For a full dining experience, visit a traditional Georgian restaurant. Try places like Machakhela or Puris Sakhli in Tbilisi for authentic meals. Many restaurants also offer wine tastings, showcasing Georgia’s ancient winemaking tradition. The country’s wine-making history dates back over 8,000 years, and local wines are worth trying.
In addition to Georgian cuisine, Tbilisi has a growing food scene with international options. From Italian to Middle Eastern, there are various restaurants to suit different tastes.
Transportation in Georgia
Georgia’s transportation system is diverse, catering to various travel needs. In major cities like Tbilisi, public transportation includes buses, metro, and taxis. The metro is efficient for getting around Tbilisi’s city center, while buses cover more extensive routes.
For traveling between cities, marshrutkas are a popular choice. These shared minivans offer a cost-effective and flexible way to explore the country. They run frequently and connect major towns and cities.
Tbilisi International Airport serves as the main gateway to Georgia, with flights from various international destinations. For domestic travel, trains and flights are available, especially for longer distances like from Tbilisi to Batumi or Kutaisi.
Renting a car is another option, particularly if you plan to explore rural areas or the countryside. Ensure you’re comfortable driving on Georgian roads, which can vary in quality.
Conclusion
Georgia offers a wealth of experiences, from its rich cultural heritage to its delicious cuisine and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re following a detailed Georgia itinerary or exploring on your own, the country’s unique charm will make your visit memorable. Enjoy your trip and take in everything this beautiful destination has to offer.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Georgia?
The best time to visit Georgia is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). The weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing without the summer heat or winter chill.
Do I need a visa to visit Georgia?
It depends on your nationality. Many countries, including the EU, the US, and Canada, do not require a visa for short stays (up to one year). Check with the Georgian embassy or consulate in your country for the latest visa requirements.
Is it safe to travel to Georgia?
Georgia is generally safe for travelers. Like any destination, it’s wise to take common precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings.
What currency is used in Georgia?
The currency used in Georgia is the Georgian Lari (GEL). Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Georgia?
The official language is Georgian. While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic Georgian phrases can be helpful.
What is traditional Georgian food?
Traditional Georgian food includes khachapuri (cheese bread), khinkali (dumplings), and various meat and vegetable dishes. Georgian cuisine is known for its use of fresh herbs and spices.
How can I get around Georgia?
In cities, you can use public transportation like buses and metros. For longer distances, marshrutkas (shared minivans) and trains are popular options. Renting a car is also a good choice if you plan to explore rural areas.
Do I need travel insurance for Georgia?
Yes, it is advisable to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected issues like medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
Things to do in Georgia
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10-Day Tour to Georgia, Tbilisi: Caucasus Mountains and Black Sea
– $1,702.00 Explore the Caucasus Highlands, alpine valleys, and the Black Sea shore. Visit Ushguli, the highest village in Europe, and enjoy a 4×4 Jeep adventure and beach time. |
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3 Day Tours in Georgia
– $500.00 Experience a 3-day tour visiting Ananuri Castle, a ski resort, Uplistsikhe cave town, and Jvari Church. Travel in a new car with an English-speaking driver. |
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8 Day Tour in Georgia
– $1,300.00 Enjoy an 8-day tour with guides, comfortable cars, and hotels. Travel comfortably while exploring major sights and local culture. |
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The Glimpse of Georgia 5 Day Tour
– $638.10 Experience 5 days in Georgia with visits to museums, ancient churches, and scenic landscapes. Includes historical sites and wine-making history. |
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Private 9-Day Armenia and Georgia Tour from Yerevan to Tbilisi
– $2,450.00 Visit cultural and historic highlights in Georgia and Armenia. Explore Tbilisi, Kakheti, Jvari Monastery, and Armenia’s ancient sites and Yerevan’s landmarks. |
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Henry Jenkins, a freelance writer and coder, infuses humor into his work, bringing a fresh and amusing perspective. Passionate about comics and gaming, his infectious enthusiasm extends beyond the tech realm, making him a unique and engaging presence in both freelance writing and geek culture.
