7–10 Day Georgia Itinerary (Country): Tbilisi to Kazbegi Mountains & Kakheti Wineries!
Looking for ideas for an unforgettable Itinerary for Georgia (Country), that includes top attractions, local culture and tips on less traveled spots?
Creating your perfect Georgia trip can be both exciting and a little stressful. If you don’t know the Caucasus region well, figuring out the best places to go in Georgia beyond Tbilisi can feel overwhelming. Can I drive? Is Georgia the Country safe? What do things cost?
Having lived in nearby Baku, I’ve visited often, and happily share this exciting Georgia itinerary to help you plan your ideal route. One thing to be sure of: Georgian hospitality is legendary, and you’re going to make new friends over a traditional toast!
From our travels to Georgia, we have curated this ultimate Georgia 7 Day Itinerary with an easy-to-follow map. Unlike tours that follow well-worn paths, this itinerary explores off-the-beaten-track places that make trips unforgettable.
Itinerary Overview
Start your adventures by immersing yourself in Tbilisi’s ancient charm. Then, head north to the stunning Stephensminda, Kazbegi mountain region. Next, west to relaxing Kutaisi, before returning east to historic Gori, with an overnight stay on a small farm in Ateni.
From here, travel east, discovering pretty towns and enjoying time at the excellent wineries in the stunning Kakheti region.
Here’s your framework for planning 10 days in Georgia.
- ➡️ Day 1-2: Tbilisi, Capital City
- ➡️ Day 3-4: Kazbegi Region (Stephantsminda)
- ➡️ Day 5-6: Kutaisi and Ateni Valley
- ➡️ Day 7-8: Wine Region Kakheti: Telavi and Signaghi
- ➡️ Day 9-10 Uplistsikhe Cave City & Return to Tbilisi
If you are limited to 7 days in Georgia, eliminate Kutaisi, & stay in Ateni for 1 night instead. After Kakheti, return directly to Tbilisi Airport the following day for your flight.
Georgia Itinerary Route From Tbilisi
Before we go through a day-to-day itinerary for the stunning country of Georgia, let’s chat a little about the route you will take. If you choose a local operator, you won’t actually be driving, but we feel it’s good to understand the logistics of your trip.
You might be thinking that this map below looks like a strange route, and why not do a loop? Great question!
This route is more efficient for a 7-10 day Georgia Itinerary because the main roads operate like a spoke out from Tbilisi. There are huge mountain ranges to navigate around in places, so sometimes you may need to retrace a few steps.
Don’t worry, there’s lots to see in both directions with a good guide!
Georgia (Country) Map & Caucasus Region
When you’re planning your adventure, it’s helpful to be aware that Georgia is part of the Caucasus Region, along with Azerbaijan, Armenia and Russia.
Georgia also borders Turkey. Most Georgians we know view themselves as part of Europe these days, although not part of the EU!
Around 4 million people live in Georgia, and around a third are based in Tbilisi.
The country declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Following this, Russia invaded several regions & currently occupies around 20% of Georgia’s world recognized landmass.
Best Places to Visit in Georgia
We feel that combining time in Tbilisi, the capital, with a taste of the Caucasus Mountains, ancient Kutaisi, through the Central Valleys over to the Kakheti wine region is a brilliant first time itinerary.
Read on for day to day suggestions!
Day 1-2: Tbilisi Highlights
We love the ancient and enchanting city of Tbilisi. Sitting on steep slopes, dramatic cliffs sweep down to the Mtkvari River, flowing through the city center.
The city has been conquered and burnt down time and again over the past 2000 years. A combination of Persian, Ottoman, Mongolian and Russian invaders has left their mark in today’s culture.
Unique Things To Do In Tbilisi
This guide is packed full of Unique Things To Do In Tbilisi, and tips like best places to stay, where to eat, and thrilling day tours. You will find details on all these city highlights:
- Old City Districts, including 8th century Pushkin Street, Fabrika District, Sulphur Baths (a must!), Rike Park, Cable Car to Ancient Fortress, Botanical Gardens and An Amusement Park.
- City markets, picnic spots, Meidan Bazar underground shopping, trendy cafe and bars.
- Museums and ancient churches, Georgian choirs, live music, wine tasting, cooking classes and more!
- Visit Ancient Capital of Mtskheta, the UNESCO Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari 6th century monastery and Georgian Chronicles (half day tour!).
🔍 Check Out Our Epic Tbilisi City Guide!
Day 3: Tbilisi to Stepantsminda aka Kazbegi
Day 3 is going to be a wonderful drive from Tbilisi, taking you north on the Georgian Military Highway. Don’t worry, it’s a regular highway!
The other point to reassure you on up front is that Stepantsminda is the name for what many call Kazbegi. Locals use these names interchangeably but it can be confusing on a first visit.
This route of around 110 km (70 miles) threads through rural Georgia, connecting hamlets with backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains. As you drive (or are driven), the scenery becomes increasingly rugged with peaks rising abruptly from the roadside.
A remarkable sight when we drove this route were lorries, and I mean hundreds of lorries/trucks. We found out this road is also the main artery for trade transport between Armenia and Russia.
At various check-points on the road, these lorries were stacked up, one after the other, for miles. I honestly have never seen anything like it!
🎒TPOP Tip: Cars don’t have to stop at check-points, but be prepared for heavy traffic and some waiting around along the route.
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Stop #1: Mtskheta (Georgia’s Ancient Capital)
Free. Svetitskhoveli Cathedral Open 8 am to 8 pm.
Jvari Monastery: Open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Dress conservatively to enter the church & cathedral.
If you didn’t get here as part of your Tbilisi stay, it’s a short drive to this most important and impressive historical Mtskheta.
Located on the convergence of two rivers, and a UNESCO world heritage site, plan to spend an hour or so visiting Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the town itself.
Nearby is 6th century Jvari Monastery, on a hill overlooking, or as some say, almost protecting old Mtskheta. The medieval ‘tetraconch’ architecture is fascinating given how old it is.
As well as the complex of church buildings, this is also home for some monks and they farm the surrounding lands.
We found this a peaceful spot to visit, especially early in the day there are fewer visitors. Plan around an hour here.
Stop #2: Zhinvali Reservoir
Around 40 km from Mtskheta, you can take a break and enjoy the beauty of Zhinvali Reservoir.
Free Parking.
The azure blue of the water reminded me of the seas around Greece and the nature that surrounds the reservoir feels as if you’re looking at a natural lake.
FYI: This supplies water for almost half of Tbilisi’s population, and several villages were submerged to create this essential supply.
There is a viewing platform to admire views and several local stalls to browse around, buy souvenirs , or have a snack. Plan around 30 minutes here. Tempted though I was, I passed on this very warm hat 🙂
Stop #3: Ananuri Castle Fortress
Free.
A short drive (10 mins) on around the reservoir banks and you’re going to want to pull up and check out another impressive structure: Ananuri Fortress.
Sitting next to the water, this is a massive site that back in the 16th century was the home of a Georgian Duke.
Built by a ruthless warrior, the design integrates 2 churches, look-out towers, high defense walls and what would have been a family compound home.
You can enter and explore much of the site, although some of it is under reconstruction so closed off.
🎒TPOP Tip: There are a few places to buy a lunch snack in the car park area here.
Stop #4: Gudauri Ski Resort View Point
From Ananuri, it’s a 30 mile drive in the high mountains through Gudauri Ski Resort where we went ski-ing when living in Baku.
At 2000 meters, there are decent runs. During summer this is a popular spot for trekking, rafting and many outdoor pursuits. I remember one time when we got snowed in here due to incredible snow storms – best powder ski-ing ever!
There are some fantastic outdoor adventures around here and if you want to go for it, check out this Gudauri Tandem Paragliding Experience!
If not, a short photo stop is probably enough here en route to Stepantsminda (a further 20 miles), where you stay for a couple of nights.
🎒TPOP Tip: Look out for local honey for sale on the road side – it’s delicious!!
Be prepared to see views that will take your breath away as you arrive! If the weather is good Mount Kazbek will tower above other peaks that are part of the huge Caucasus Mountain range.
At 5,054 meters (16,400 ft) above sea level, this is the highest mountain in Eastern Georgia and 3rd tallest in the country.
🛏️ Where to Stay In Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)
Our picks are based on location, links to transport hubs and value for money.
Budget Option
Panorama Complex Kazbegi offers affordable clean chalets, family friendly & great food. Great lunch!
Mid-Range Option
Residence Kazbegi combines an ideal location, 10/10 breakfasts, a sun terrace and mountain views.
Luxury Option
With stunning mountain views and modern amenities Rooms Hotel is a relaxing and inviting place to stay.
We stayed at Rooms Hotel, Kazbegi which may be a bland name but this hotel is anything but. Our Mountain View room had direct views onto the majestic, cloudy peaks and when they clear, Kazbegi is simply stunning.
Although our weather wasn’t the best, it didn’t disappoint!
/Day 4: Stephensminda, Kazbegi
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation before getting ready for a full day of fantastic sightseeing around Kazbegi. If you have looked out of your hotel towards the Kazbegi peaks, you will have already seen the first stop of the day: a tiny but fascinating monastery.
Stop #1: Hike or Drive to Gergeti Church
Free. Open 8 am to 8 pm.
Dress conservatively to enter the church & cathedral.
Perched right on the top of a front range hill at 2170 meters (7119 feet) is the world renowned 14th century Gergeti Holy Trinity Church.
One option is to hike up from the town to the peak. Another simpler way up is to drive to a small car park next to the site. The views of the Kazbeg mountain at 5047 meters (16558 feet) are supposedly amazing but the fog had rolled in so we were only able to use our imagination at this point.
Luckily the rain stopped and our views improved but the big ranges kept themselves out of sight. Ice-climbing and mountaineering attract people from around the planet. It’s not hard to understand why – the natural beauty is beyond words.
Stop #2: Have Lunch in A Georgian Mountain Home
Throughout our trip, we had lunches, dinners, wine tasting and rich conversations with local Georgian’s in their kitchens, living rooms and beautiful garden areas.
When we arrived Nino was busy putting the finishing touches to chingali (think dumplings but without the heavy dough. The center is filled with meat or mushrooms).
Also she baked Khachapuri (the most addictively delicious cheese bread), Georgian salads with walnuts, fresh fruits and salads – all for lunch!
Stop #3: Drive The Dariali Gorge to Russian Border
Kazbegi lies just south of the Russian Border (around 12km) so we drove through a stunning gorge called ‘The Dariali’ towards the final checkpoint.
Leaving the border-crossing behind us, we stopped at a point in the gorge for a hike to the Gveleti waterfall. It was a bit of a hike (wear walking shoes) but the top was stunning and worth it.
Back at our Rooms Hotel we were content to sit, sip another new Georgian wine, and gaze out of the floor to ceiling glass wall.
At a minimum, come here for a drink and enjoy the atmosphere. They have a swimming pool and sauna in the lower ground floor to relax in.
Day 5: Gori & Ateni Valley
Plan on an hour or two this morning to explore a little more around Kazbegi before heading south.
The drive today weaves back towards central Georgia, with stops in Gori, en route to Dedi Ateni village where you can stay overnight.
We highly recommend spending a night in rural Georgia. Spending a night in a small family run guest house was one of the highlights of our Georgia Itinerary.
Stop #1: Saguramo Wine Tour & Tasting
The central town Gori is a natural crossroads between regions. And it is near here in Saguramo, that you can enjoy a Georgian wine tasting at Guramishvili’s Marani Tasting Room.
The staff gave us an excellent short tour of the production process. From this, we started to understand the difference between the traditional way of winemaking in Georgia compared to other places we’ve visited.
The wine is often stored in ‘clay jars’ called Qvevris rather than oak barrels. (See these being handmade made near Telavi on tomorrow’s itinerary!)
After the excellent tour, we were treated to a generous tasting and lunch, again with a glorious spread of fresh Georgian fruits, vegetables, cheeses.
Stop #2: Gori, Georgian Birthplace of Stalin
To get a little exercise after our indulgences, we headed into Gori and to a museum that is dedicated to Stalin, the Soviet leader, who was born here.
A somber experience but important to appreciate the history and internal twists and turns between territories in the region over the decades and centuries.
Looking out from this building, our guide explained a little about the loss of territories from Georgia and the independent or breakaway states that were close by.
Stop #3: Ateni Sioni Church Paintings
From Gori, you will travel around 6 miles (15 km) on small single track roads towards Ateni. The 7th century Ateni Sioni Church was built on top of a cliff next to the Tana River, in the heart of a fertile valley and it’s quite beautiful.
Why stop here? As well as an opportunity to wander around the picturesque small village below the church, stop to admire the ancient fresco paintings inside. For a small church, it’s extremely ornate, even though a simple design.
🛏️ Where to Stay In Ateni, Georgia
We stayed at the hidden gem that is Nika Vacheishvili’s Guest House, located a little south of Gori in the Ateni Valley. Located between small terraces of vines, a covered dining area is surrounded by fruit trees.
Getting here is a fun adventure: here’s what to expect:
From the church car park, either walk around 10 minutes to the Guest House crossing over the river, (via a bridge). Or, ride in an old Land Rover (which comes to the Church to collect your luggage).
The family’s huge Georgian dog sat contentedly at the kitchen door to greet us! Everyone smiled, kept our glasses full and yet were humble and low-key about their amazing achievements.
Given where we were, the 10 or so rooms are fantastic, with modern fixtures and excellent showers, comfortable beds. The roof-top is a nice touch to take in the valley views.
Family Style Georgian Hospitality
As we met our fellow guests, we were invited to sit in the outdoor garden dining area and were poured a welcome Chacha. After sipping one (or maybe two) we followed the elder of the family into the room where it all happens.
No modern machinery or technology here, more the evidence of the art of good wine making.
The food at dinner was simply superb . I honestly felt Gordon Ramsay should have come here for his Unchartered Show 🙂
🎒TPOP Tip: If you have more time, stay a second night and enjoy taking their cookery class!
Day 6: Ateni to Kutaisi
This is a drive of around 121 kilometers (75 miles) to this gorgeous river side city, which dates back to 1400 BC!
Stop #1: Gelati Monastery Complex
Free Entry. Hours 9am to 5pm. Modest dress requirements.
By this stage on your amazing trip, you might feel like you’re on church overload! Gelati is a beautiful UNESCO heritage site founded in 1106 by Georgian King David IV and it evolved through the ages as both a royal burial site and center for education.
Walking through the grounds and within the buildings is very relaxing and I understand how it is viewed as ‘the crown jewel’ from Georgia’s Golden Age.
Stop #2 – Kutaisi, Imereti Region
You’re in one of the oldest continuously lived in cities in the world and reportedly the 5th oldest in Europe!
Kutaisi is split by the Rioni River into what residents refer to as the ‘old’ and the ‘new’. Once you’re settled into your central hotel, it’s easy to walk around the Old Town through atmospheric cobbled streets.
🛏️ Where To Stay in Kutaisi
Our picks are based on location, links to transport hubs and value for money.
Budget Option
Central with a modern vibe, Green Flower Boutique offers affordable central clean accommodation and basic facilities.
Mid-Range Option
Near to White Bridge, Newport Hotel Kutaisi combines an ideal location, great rooms, and yummy breakfast choices.
Luxury Option
With exceptional service, pool, A/C, tour guide & free parking, the perfectly located Communal Hotel is simply outstanding.
Unique Things To Do In Kutaisi
White Bridge, Kutaisi. Crossing the river over the White Bridge is a must when in town. It was built back in the 1950s, and subsequently painted white, hence its name! More recently it’s been restored and you can see some traditional poetic inscriptions as you walk!
Look out for ‘Picasso Boy’, a statue symbolizing the romantic nature of this bridge; the tradition of diving off the bridge into the river to declare love remains today!
You will see a small Cable Car overhead, which is one of only a few remaining Soviet Era ones still in operation. The cars are tiny and it looked a bit basic, but people were enjoying the short ride up to a local park.
There also are some lovely tea houses and cafes at the rivers edge by this bridge, so if you fancy a cocktail or beer, this is a lovely spot.
Mon Plaisir Arch leads you through to the ancient cobbled streets of the Royal Quarter of Kutaisi. For a coffee, stop at the lovely Fleur Cafe, great for food too!
Colchis Fountain. If you can, visit here just before sunset when the light shines beautifully on this city attraction. As darkness falls, it lights up into a blaze of colour.
🍽️ 3 Places to Eat Dinner In Kutaisi
A lot of new restaurants are appearing in Kutaisi as it becomes more popular with visitors. We suggest the following places for dinner as they are central, authentic & have excellent food reviews:
Kutaisi’s Green Bazaar located between Paliashvili and Lermontov Streets is a vibrant local market to explore, perhaps best in the morning. The exterior facade is stunning and once inside this is an Aladdin’s Cave of local produce.
The feel of the place is so traditional, with huge sacks of dried nuts, fruits, pulses, next to stalls spilling over with the in season fruits. You pick what you want and they it’s weighed on a traditional old scales and then you pay cash.
Try a treat called ‘Georgian Snickers’, nuts coated in a fruity grape based coating. They look like long candles and are quite tasty!
Kutaisi Book Shop. Next door is a book lovers cave of delight. Take a view minutes to check out this eclectic range of mainly Russian and Georgian language books. It’s got the feel of a flea market with piles of books in corners, on stairs and it a truly unique thing to do in Kutaisi!
Mini Art is the nearest cafe to Green Bazar Kutaisi when you’re ready for a coffee.
Day 7: Kutaisi To Kakheti
Today is a drive of around 150 km with a fun couple of stops along the way to the gorgeous town of Sighnaghi for 2 nights.
Before you leave Kutaisi, spend a couple of hours exploring parts of the town you didn’t get to yesterday or enjoy a morning coffee in a local cafe.
Stop #1 – Lia Deida Farm Lunch
Yes, food features heavily on any Georgia Itinerary, and why not sample more of the freshest home made dishes in another family run restaurant.
The walk into this home is so fragrant with roses blooming through their garden. You eat in their living room, which is adorned with their own art work and family heirlooms.
Lia Deida is around 30 minutes from Kutaisi, and the best way to contact them is via Facebook.
The vegetarian food here, and across Georgia, is superb and with everything being cooked from scratch, it’s impossible not to indulge 🙂
Stop #2: Cave City of Uplistsikhe
The UNESCO 14th century city of Uplistsikhe is like landing in a whole new world. Unlike green lush Kutaisi, this landscape is barren, rocky with massive cave systems.
Much about life here is simply not known but spend a hour or so exploring this cave based ‘city’ is fascinating.
We took a short tour and it was worthwhile, as you are guided down tunnels within caves and learn more about the system of caves as you go.
I imagined travelers from the ancient silk-road stopping here, trading or exchanging goods, or the prices of building of the small church atop the cave system.
Historians believe that people lived here for over 2000 years before Mongolians decimated much of the region and the city of Uplistsikhe.
🎒TPOP Tip: This is not suitable for wheelchairs. If you are planning to walk over the rocks between caves, you’ll need sturdy shoes!
Stop #3: A Walk Around Telavi
Do make a stop in Telavi which is the largest town in the Kakheti region.
You can feel the ancient links as soon as you drive into town and see the remains of city walls, the cathedral and the huge statue of King Erekle II’s in front of Batonis Tsikhe (castle remains). Inside is a museum
A couple of minutes walk from here is the most famous and oldest tree in Georgia: the Giant Sycamore” (“Telavi’s Chadari”). At 12 meters wide and over 40 tall, it’s quite something to see in person.
Telavi Market dates back to the 17th century and is a bustle of activity. If you didn’t make it to Green Bazaar in Kutaisi, make a stop here for 30-40 minutes.
It is well known for fresh produce, spices and local cheese. When we visited stall holders were very happy to share a sample or two with us. Seek out a little bottle of cha cha (national drink) for later if you enjoy a tipple.
Stop #4: Tsinandali Palace Museum & Winery
Entrance: Adults 10 GEL; Schoolchildren 5 GEL’ >6 years Free. Additional wine tasting: 1 glass 12 GEL; 35 GEL for full wine tour.
Tsinandali Palace Museum is worth spending some time at with admiring its walkable garden grounds. They offer tours in English several times a day.
Tickets include a guided tour of Tsinandali Museum, Old Winery and access to walk around the historic gardens which are ornately designed.
Although the palace is small, the museum is really well organized and gives a rich insight into how life was back in the 19th century for the people who lived here.
If you choose to do the full wine tasting tour, you will get to taste a couple of local varieties, including quervi stored wines, and Chacha vodka.
The best place to stay is in nearby Sighnaghi, enjoy a relaxing evening and get ready for some wine tasting.
🛏️ Where to Stay In Sighnaghi
Our picks are based on location, links to transport hubs and value for money. We loved staying at Ridge Inn & Brewery but it is a mile or so out of town on a hillside.
Budget Option
In a quiet area of town, Zandarashvili Guest House offers clean accommodation, shared cooking facilities & even has a swimming pool.
Mid-Range Option
Out of town, peaceful Lost Ridge Inn & Brewery is also a working ranch. Sip wine as you soak in endless views. Horse Riding offered here!
Luxury Option
With a reputation for exceptional service & perfectly located in Sighnaghi, BODBE Hotel & Spa offers modern luxury.
Day 8 – Kakheti Wine Region Highlights
Is Georgia the Cradle Of Wine? Georgians will tell you unequivocally yes! Trying local wines and learning about this ancient 8000 year old ‘industry’ is one of the unmissable things to do in Georgia.
Although wine is grown across the country, Kakheti is the major region for vineyards and the majority of the country’s production and export. Vines cover the land in an unstructured way, many of them growing organically to produce ‘natural’ wines.
Stop #1: Meet Za Za – Qvevri Clay Jar Artisan
ZaZa is a super friendly Georgian clay master who creates clay Qvevri wine pots and exports them around the world.
He goes and finds the clay in a specific place by a local river. Then he moulds it with a small wheel and his own hands until the vessels reach a capacity of 1100-1200 liters (if I remember correctly). Suffice to say the finished pots were taller than me!
Za Za showed us how he fires them in a small purpose-built shed. Manually, he wheels the finished wet clay vessels into this facility, sets a wood fire going, and then bricks up the building for a period of time to allow the pots to fire.
Full of talent, he also makes wine and chacha! We highly recommend you find this remarkable operation and visit. It is obvious how much skill and passion goes into each pot and we loved meeting him in his home.
Follow ZaZa on his Facebook, email him at zazakaraulashvili25@gmail.com or book a tour directly using this link:
🔍 Book A Tour to Za Za’s Workshop
Stop #2: Mossier Kakheti Wine Center
From here we left small country roads to go taste more wine and have lunch (yes, more food!) at a larger estate called Mosmieri Kakheti Wine Center.
Almost 3/4 of all the grapes in Georgia are grown here, so it’s an impressive sight as you drive around.
Mosmieri is a larger facility than others on our Georgia Itinerary, with beautiful modern tasting rooms and a huge restaurant area. You can sit outside looking onto rows of grape vines and hang out as long as you like.
The premium wines and food are both delicious and it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch after quite a busy time on the road.
It is possible to set up a wine tour from Sighnaghi so no-one has to be the designated driver. Also, hotels in the town will be happy to arrange a taxi for you to/from the wineries.
🎒TPOP Tip: There is an on-site hotel Chateau Mosmieri, so if you fancy staying in the vineyard, book yourselves in here for a night!
Things to Do In Sighnaghi
Sighnaghi is perched on a hilltop and is a gorgeous town to explore for the final night of your Georgia Itinerary. With memorizing views out over the Alazani valley, it’s got that perfect postcard feel to it.
It also has the name ‘City of Love’ owing to the fact that they have a ‘wedding palace’ open for marriage 24/7! That’s the tag line, but we found out that you now need to make an appointment, so plan ahead 🙂
Quite compact, it’s easy to walk around although it’s hilly in places. As you enter through the ancient fortress gates of Sighnaghi (dating back to 1762) over cobbled streets, top at one of the terrace cafes with stunning views over the valley.
Walk part or all of the 4km Ancient City Wall that remains today and enjoy the greenery and peaceful surroundings.
Visit St Nino Bodbe Monastery & Rose Gardens
2 Km out of town and you’re at another stunning church complex, this one dates from the 9th century. It is one of the most revered Georgian Orthodox sites and therefore you will see locals here along with visitors. Free to enter.
Even though we have suggested quite a few similar sights around Georgia, each one is a unique visit. If you’ve had your fill of these, just skip and enjoy the town and your final evening.
🍽️ ChaCha Toast at ChikChiki’s Cafe
We can’t conclude this post with mentioning the national drink Chacha which you’ll of course have already toasted with throughout on your trip!
Head to ChikChiki Cafe in the town center where most nights they have live music along with a casual menu. Alternatively if you prefer a quieter restaurant try:
The Terrace – consistently high reviews with incredible valley views, it’s a perfect setting for a romantic evening. Georgian.
Amo – another stunning location with more unbelievable valley and mountain views. Some people report having difficulties finding the road to it; we say, grab a taxi from your hotel, and just enjoy the food and wine.
When you come to Georgia you won’t just visit people, you’ll make new friends. You never just have one toast, you celebrate all the positives and let go of the rest (for a wee while anyway!)
Return to Tbilisi
You can head right back to the Tbilisi Airport to drop off your car, or if you have enjoyed a tour with a local operator, maybe you can squeeze in a couple hours back in Tbilisi before you fly out.
Georgia (Country) Itinerary: Basics
Visa Requirements for Georgia (The Country)
Most travellers don’t need visas to travel to Georgia but it’s always good to check based on your nationality on the Georgian Government Visa Website.
🔍 Check Flights To Tblisi From Your Nearest Airport
Flights to Tbilisi Georgia
The best options for getting here are flying directly from London with Easyjet or BA, via Istanbul, Dubai, or Munich with Lufhansa. Wizz Air has its HQ in Kutaisi, Georgia’s 3rd biggest city.
Unless you’re on a direct routing to Kutaisi and plan to stay in this region, we recommend flying in and out from Tbilisi.
Transfers From Tbilisi Airport To City Center
The airport in Tbilisi is small, modern and efficient.
Many flights arrive late at night or early morning so we suggest a Pre-Booked Taxi to your hotel. If you’re travelling independently it’s easiest to add an airport transfer to your Tbilisi hotel when you make your booking.
Use Bolt (Uber equivalent) within the city. Just download the App. It’s simple and reliable and honestly most expat and foreign visitors use this all the time.
Best Ways To Travel Around Georgia?
Driving In Georgia
Georgia may be relatively small but it is a country of vast mountains, gorges and highland passes. In winter there is deep snow on the mountains and frequent avalanches; we will always remember getting snowed in at Gudauri Ski Resort. The road was closed for 3 days!
Driving yourself around requires real planning and you need to feel confident behind the wheel. The reality is that you can’t just rely on SatNav or signage. English is spoken in Tbilisi where directions are also sign-posted in Latin script and some in English but in rural areas, it’s not as common.
Also, some local drivers are a bit wild and the roads can be rough, some requiring an SUV/all wheel vehicle. There’s also a lot of trucks on main routes north transporting goods between Armenia and Russia.
Public Transport in Georgia
There is a limited reliable public transport service across the country. The best value option is to use local buses called ‘marshrutkas’. They aren’t the most efficient way to travel as schedule change without notice around but they are cheap.
Georgia Local Tour Operators & Tours to Consider
The easiest way to enjoy touring Georgia without the stress of driving is to use a local tour operator, or base yourself in Georgia and do day trips.
Our Tbilisi Visitor Guide has a perfect combination of time in the city and day trips if you like the sound of this.
Alternatively check out these Viator and Get Your Guide multi-day tours. We suggest taking private ones if your budget permits for more flexibility. Check these out:
🔍3 Days in Georgia: Private Tour Including Wine Region
🔍4 Days in Georgia: Kazbegi and Gudari Mountain Regions
🔍7 Day Georgia Tour, Mountains, Wine and Canyons
Food and Wine Festivals
Throughout the year you will find a number of Georgian Wine Festivals. There are many to choose from, including the Tbilisi Wine Festival to local celebrations like the Sighnaghi Wine Festival.
Traditional Georgian food is central to these festivals and it’s another way to immerse yourself in the culture, and expand to Georgian Dance & Music performances.
To find out when these Wine Festivals take place, check the
Love Breakfast? – You’ll Love Georgia!
Okay, we’re back again to food! I don’t know why Georgian food isn’t more available outside Georgia. Perhaps it is because of the fresh locally grown ingredients at its core.
Honestly, it is simply delicious. If you are a foodie, maybe build a cooking class into your travel itinerary. And although Georgians love meat, there are plenty vegetarian options.
Breakfasts are a feast, often with a nip (shot) of ChaCha! The flavors are fantastic. Walnuts feature heavily and they taste fabulous in these foods.
What To Pack For Travel to Georgia
What to pack for a trip to Georgia will really depend on when you go and what you plan to do in your itinerary. Generally clothing is more traditional. If you’re going during the months from late May, June, September, include the following basics:
- good walking & hiking footwear
- a wind-breaker/light rain jacket with a hood
- binoculars for those stunning mountain vistas
- layers – t-shirts, light sweaters
- leggings, longer trousers (pants) like light hiking style
- Sunscreen if you’re going to be outdoors.
- A scarf to cover your head for entry into cathedrals, churches etc.
For serious mountaineering your guide will provide a list of what to bring well in advance of your visit.
To help you plan out your trip departure, use our 14 Day Travel Count-Down Checklist.
Facts About Georgia Before You Go
Georgians have been practicing Orthodox Christians since 326AD. Actually, Georgia is the second country to have adopted this religion and it forms the backbone of culture. That said, respect for different beliefs is visible with Muslim, Jewish, Catholic and other religions practiced.
With almost 4 million citizens, 60% of Georgians live around Tbilisi and the Black Sea second city of Batumi. It’s popular for holidays with a coastline of around 190 miles (310km).
In Greater Caucasus, the mountain range peaks spire over 16,000 feet. The Central and Lower Caucasus ranges are equally impressive and all offer amazing hiking, trekking and climbing destinations.
Georgians have their own unique alphabet which is unconnected to any other. It’s beautiful to look at – written in its own cursive script.
‘Thank You’ in Georgian looks like this – დიდი მადლობა – but for us Latin based language speakers it sounds like ‘Matloba’.
FAQs
The country of Georgia is good value for the traveller. If you’re travelling independently on a budget you can get by on $100/day or less.
In our experience Georgia is very safe to visit. There are some areas around the country like breakaways South Ossetia and Abkhazia with travel advisories.
There may be demonstrations in Tbilisi from time to time but we have personally not experienced any issues during our travels here.
The peak tourist season runs May to October. Early May is typically a wetter month in Georgia.
In July and August, Tbilisi can get uncomfortably warm so unless you plan to be in the mountains, avoid these times in the city.
September and October are popular and less busy. Check average weather temperature in Georgia as you plan.
To visit Tbilisi and take several trips to top sightseeing spots like Kazbegi, Kutaisi or Kakheti, plan on a minimum of one week, but ideally 10 days.
Georgia Itinerary – Making It Happen!
To take the stress out of planning a trip to Georgia, here are our top recommended travel resources. We use these ourselves otherwise we wouldn’t suggest them to you!
✈️ Flights
Find flights from your local airport to Tbilisi. Expedia makes it easy to compare airlines and routes.
🏨 Hotels
B&B, boutique inns, self catering or a luxury resort booking.com has Georgia hotels & 1-click reservation.
🎫 Experiences
Need idea for tours? From Tbilisi city sights to bucket list experiences, Viator is has great new adventures to try.
🚖 Transfers
Take the stress out of Airport Transfers & avoid taxi lines. Welcome Pickups offers reliable worldwide services.
🚑 Insurance
Good Insurance is a travel necessity these days. Visitors Coverage offers tailored global coverage.
🚘 Car Rental
Looking to explore on your own. Find & compare 4×4/SUV vehicles with DiscoverCars site.
For more great travel planning essentials use our TPOP Travel Resources full of ways to get ready for your upcoming trips!
Georgia Itinerary (Country) + Baku Bonus!
Another way to explore the Caucasus region is to combine your Georgia itinerary with time in Azerbaijan, which I called home for some years.
Baku, the Azeri capital is a fantastic place to live and visit, also affordable and with a very welcoming culture.
Read our guide on Reasons to Visit Azerbaijan and specifically Things to Do in Baku, the capital city. A lively cosmopolitan city with great food and which hosts many sporting events including Formula 1 each year!
