Georgia offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring ancient fortresses, sampling world-renowned wines, or marveling at the dramatic landscapes of the Caucasus, each day promises a new adventure and a deeper appreciation of this captivating destination. Here is a 7-day itinerary that can help you explore the best of Georgia.
Day 1: Tbilisi Sightseeing
Begin your exploration of Tbilisi with a visit to Narikala Fortress, an ancient citadel perched high above the city. Take a ride on the cable car from Rike Park, enjoying stunning views as you ascend to the fortress. From Narikala, marvel at the panoramic vistas of Tbilisi's rooftops, the meandering Kura River, and the distant Caucasus Mountains—a perfect start to your Georgian adventure.
Descend into the heart of Old Tbilisi, where history comes alive in its narrow streets and centuries-old architecture. Explore Abanotubani, the district renowned for its sulfur baths nestled beneath the fortress. Here, you can experience the therapeutic waters that have attracted visitors for centuries.
Wander through the labyrinthine streets lined with traditional Georgian houses adorned with intricate balconies. As you explore Old Tbilisi, make sure to visit the Metekhi Church, located on a cliff overlooking the Kura River. This historic church dates back to the 13th century and provides another vantage point to admire the cityscape below.
Continue your journey through Old Tbilisi to Freedom Square, a central hub adorned with statues and fountains, surrounded by elegant buildings showcasing Georgia's architectural diversity. From here, stroll along Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi's main thoroughfare lined with theaters, museums, and cafes.
No visit to Tbilisi is complete without sampling Georgian cuisine. Stop for lunch at a traditional restaurant to savor local specialties such as khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings), and grilled meats accompanied by Georgian wine or chacha, a traditional grape brandy.
In the afternoon, visit the Bridge of Peace, a modern pedestrian bridge spanning the Kura River and adorned with glass and steel, offering a striking contrast to the historic surroundings. End your day by visiting the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, commonly known as Sameba, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Marvel at its grand architecture and serene atmosphere, reflecting Georgia's deep-rooted religious traditions.
As evening falls, you can explore Shardeni Street, known for its lively atmosphere, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Immerse yourself in Tbilisi's vibrant nightlife, where you can unwind with live music performances or simply relax with a drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the illuminated city skyline.
Day 2: Uplistsikhe and Mtskheta Day Trip
Start your day early with a comfortable drive from Tbilisi to Mtskheta, the ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located about 20 kilometers north of Tbilisi, Mtskheta is nestled at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
Begin your visit with a tour of Jvari Monastery, perched on a hilltop overlooking Mtskheta. This 6th-century monastery offers breathtaking views of the town and the fertile Mtskheta Valley below. Admire its cross-shaped design and UNESCO-listed status as a testament to early Georgian Christian architecture.
Next, proceed to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, another UNESCO site and a spiritual center of Georgia. Known as the burial site of Christ's mantle, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral boasts stunning frescoes, intricate carvings, and a palpable sense of history. Explore its interior, soak in the ambiance, and learn about its significance in Georgian religious and cultural life.
After lunch, depart for Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town located approximately 10 kilometers from Gori. Uplistsikhe dates back to the early Iron Age and served as a strategic center along the Silk Road. Explore its cave dwellings, tunnels, and ancient temples carved into the rock, offering a glimpse into Georgia's pre-Christian history.
Continue your journey to Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin and home to the Stalin Museum. Visit the museum to learn about Stalin's life, his rise to power, and his impact on Soviet and global history. Explore exhibits showcasing personal items, photographs, and a reconstruction of Stalin's birth house.
Day 3: Kakheti Trip
Start your day early with a drive from Tbilisi to Sighnaghi, a picturesque town located about 110 kilometers east of the capital. Sighnaghi is often referred to as the "City of Love" due to its charming cobblestone streets, colorful houses with wooden balconies, and stunning views of the Alazani Valley.
Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll through the town, visiting the Sighnaghi Wall, a well-preserved defensive wall with 23 towers offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the Caucasus Mountains. Explore the town's historic center, filled with art galleries, cafes, and local craft shops.
Next, head to the Bodbe Monastery, located just a few kilometers from Sighnaghi. This 9th-century monastery is a significant pilgrimage site, as it is the final resting place of St. Nino, the enlightener of Georgia. Wander through the beautifully maintained gardens, visit the church, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred site.
Take a wine-tasting tour of some of Kakheti's renowned wineries. Learn about the unique Qvevri winemaking method, where wine is fermented and aged in clay vessels buried underground, a technique that has been used for over 8,000 years. Enjoy tasting sessions and appreciate the diversity of Georgian wines.
Day 4: Batumi Sightseeing
Start your day with an early morning arrival in Batumi. Whether you’re arriving by train, flight, or car, the journey to this seaside gem is an adventure in itself. Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, it’s time to start exploring.
Head straight to Batumi Boulevard, a beautiful 7-kilometer-long promenade along the Black Sea. Take a leisurely walk, breathe in the fresh sea air, and enjoy the lush greenery, sculptures, and fountains. This is a perfect spot for a morning coffee at one of the many seaside cafes.
Located along the boulevard, the Alphabet Tower is a 130-meter-high structure celebrating the Georgian script. You can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Continue your morning with a visit to Europe Square, the heart of Batumi. Admire the stunning Astronomical Clock Tower and the Medea Statue, which represents the city’s connection to Greek mythology. The square is surrounded by beautiful architecture and is a great place to take some memorable photos.
In the afternoon, take a short drive to the Gonio-Apsaros Fortress, about 15 kilometers south of Batumi. This ancient Roman fort dates back to the 1st century AD and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history. Explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and museum exhibits that showcase the fortress's historical significance.
As the sun sets, make your way to the famous moving sculpture of Ali and Nino. This 8-meter-tall statue, depicting a poignant love story from a novel by Kurban Said, is a must-see. The figures move closer and pass through each other, symbolizing the tragic love between a Muslim Azerbaijani boy and a Christian Georgian girl. The statue is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
Day 5: Botanical Garden and Batumi Fountain Show
Start your second day in Batumi with a visit to the Batumi Botanical Garden, located about 9 kilometers north of the city center. This expansive garden is one of the largest and most beautiful in the region, featuring diverse plant species from different climate zones. Spend your morning wandering through the lush landscapes, enjoying the stunning views of the Black Sea, and discovering rare and exotic plants.
Take a ride on the Batumi Cable Car, also known as the Argo Cable Car. This scenic ride takes you up to Anuria Mountain, providing breathtaking views of Batumi, the Black Sea, and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you’ll find a viewing platform and a cafe where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
In the evening, visit Miracle Park, a vibrant area filled with attractions and landmarks. The park features modern sculptures, green spaces, and stunning views of the Black Sea. It’s a great place to relax and take in the contemporary art and design of Batumi. Rent a bicycle to explore the other areas of the promenade.
End your day with dinner at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and local dishes. After dinner, head to the Batumi Fountain Show near the Seaside Boulevard. This impressive musical fountain show features synchronized water jets, lights, and music, providing a spectacular finale to your Batumi adventure.
Day 6: Petra Fortress and Return to Tbilisi
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at your Batumi accommodation. Prepare for a scenic drive to Petra Fortress, located about 22 kilometers north of Batumi. You can either rent a car, hire a taxi, or join a guided tour to reach the site. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Black Sea coastline. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven, and bring water and snacks for your hike.
Arriving at Petra Fortress, you’ll be greeted by the remnants of a once-mighty Byzantine fortress. Built-in the 6th century, Petra Fortress was strategically important due to its location between the Black Sea and the Kolkheti lowlands. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s ancient history and military architecture.
Return back to Tbilisi and spend your evening shopping at the local market. You can visit Dry Bridge Market, which is an open-air flea market and is a treasure trove of antiques, artwork, and vintage items. It’s the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and get a taste of local culture. You can also explore one of Tbilisi’s main streets, Rustaveli Avenue. It is lined with shops, cafes, and galleries. Explore the various boutiques offering local crafts, jewelry, and clothing.
Day 7: Kazbegi and Ananuri
Start your day early with a scenic drive to Kazbegi, also known as Stepantsminda, located about 150 kilometers north of Tbilisi. The drive takes approximately 3 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Georgian countryside and the Greater Caucasus Mountains. If you prefer not to drive, you can join a guided tour for this trip.
On your way to Kazbegi, stop at Ananuri Fortress, a picturesque historical complex situated on the banks of the Aragvi River. The fortress dates back to the 13th century and served as a defensive stronghold for the Aragvi Dukes. Explore the well-preserved towers, churches, and walls, and enjoy the stunning views of the Zhinvali Reservoir. It will take you around 1-1.5 hours to explore the fortress complex.
Continue your journey to Kazbegi, arriving by early afternoon. The small town of Stepantsminda, commonly referred to as Kazbegi, is nestled in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains and offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Georgia.
After lunch, take a short drive or a hike to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. Perched on a hilltop at 2,170 meters above sea level, this 14th-century church offers breathtaking views of Mount Kazbek and the surrounding mountains. The hike to the church takes about 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, you can hire a vehicle to take you up.
After visiting Gergeti Trinity Church, spend some time exploring Kazbegi National Park. The park offers numerous hiking trails, stunning landscapes, and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Some popular trails include hikes to the Gveleti Waterfalls and the Truso Valley.
A week in Georgia is just enough time to fall in love with its charm and diversity. From the bustling capital of Tbilisi and the historic treasures of Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe to the coastal allure of Batumi and the majestic peaks of Kazbegi, this itinerary ensures you experience the very best of what Georgia has to offer.