Georgia is rich in cultural heritage and craftsmanship and offers a diverse array of items that make for perfect souvenirs and mementos of your visit. From traditional crafts to modern creations, shopping in Georgia gives you a chance to explore it all. Here is a list of things you can bring back home to treasure your memories of Georgia.
1. Georgian Wine
Georgia is renowned as one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, dating back thousands of years. The country's unique winemaking methods, like using large clay vessels called qvevris, contribute to its distinct taste. Look for wines such as Saperavi (red) and Rkatsiteli (white), produced mainly in the Kakheti region. You can buy these wines directly from local wineries during wine tours or from specialty wine shops in Tbilisi and other major cities.
2. Georgian Handmade Carpets
Georgian carpets are prized for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, reflecting centuries-old traditions. Kazbegi carpets, with their bold geometric patterns, and carpets from Akhaltsikhe and Samtskhe-Javakheti regions are particularly famous. You can purchase these carpets from specialty carpet shops in Tbilisi, Batumi, and other carpet-making regions as well.
3. Georgian Ceramics and Pottery
Georgian pottery showcases traditional motifs and earthy tones, making them both functional and decorative. You can buy khachapuri baking dishes, used to make the famous Georgian cheese bread, or ornamental plates adorned with intricate designs. Tbilisi’s Old Town and artisan markets like the Dry Bridge Market are excellent places to find handmade ceramics and pottery.
4. Georgian Traditional Costumes and Accessories
Traditional Georgian attire includes items like chokhas (men’s coats) and chadors (women’s cloaks), often embellished with intricate embroidery and vibrant colors. While these items are more commonly worn during festivals and cultural events, you can find them in select boutique shops in Tbilisi’s Old Town or specialty costume stores.
5. Churchkhela
Churchkhela, often referred to as Georgian "snickers," is a traditional sweet made by stringing together nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds) and dipping them repeatedly in concentrated grape juice and flour mixture. It's a popular snack among locals and tourists alike and can be found in local markets throughout Georgia, including Dezerter Bazaar in Tbilisi.
6. Georgian Spices and Condiments
Georgian cuisine is renowned for its flavorful spices and condiments. Get yourself packets of khmeli suneli, a versatile spice blend used in many Georgian dishes, or adjika, a spicy paste made from hot peppers, garlic, and herbs. You can find these spices in local markets like Dezerter Bazaar and grocery stores across Georgia.
7. Georgian Honey
Georgia’s diverse landscapes contribute to a variety of honey flavors, each with its unique floral notes. Wildflower honey or acacia honey, often sold in local markets and specialty food stores is a great souvenir to carry home. Kakheti, known for its wine, also produces excellent honey, which you can buy directly from beekeepers or market stalls.
8. Georgian Artwork and Paintings
Georgian artists produce a wide range of artwork, from traditional landscapes to contemporary abstract pieces. Tbilisi and Batumi host numerous art galleries and exhibitions where you can purchase original paintings and prints.
9. Georgian Handcrafted Jewelry
Georgian jewelry blends traditional designs with modern craftsmanship, often featuring local gemstones like amber, garnet, and turquoise. Silver and gold are commonly used metals. You can find these at jewelry shops and artisan workshops in Tbilisi’s Old Town and Batumi’s Boulevard.
10. Georgian Chacha
Chacha is a traditional Georgian grape pomace brandy, often referred to as Georgian moonshine. It’s a strong spirit enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. You can find bottles of chacha in liquor stores and supermarkets across Georgia, or visit distilleries in the wine-producing regions for tastings and purchases.
11. Georgian Cheese
Georgian cheeses like sulguni (a soft, slightly sour cheese) and imeruli (a mild, fresh cheese) are popular amongst locals and tourists. You can find these cheeses in local markets and grocery stores across Georgia. Look for cheese shops in Tbilisi and specialty dairy farms in rural regions.
12. Embroidered Textiles
Traditional Georgian embroidery features intricate patterns and vibrant colors, often found on tablecloths, pillow covers, and clothing items. You can buy them in artisan markets and souvenir shops, particularly in Tbilisi’s Old Town and rural villages.
13. Handcrafted Musical Instruments
Georgian musical culture includes unique instruments like the panduri (a three-stringed lute) and the doli (a double-headed drum). You can purchase these instruments from music shops in Tbilisi and during cultural festivals where artisans showcase their craftsmanship.
14. Enamel Jewelry
Georgian enamel jewelry is renowned for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. This traditional craft dates back centuries and includes pieces like pendants, earrings, and bracelets adorned with enamelwork depicting floral motifs or Georgian symbols. You can buy it from specialty boutiques and artisan markets, especially in Tbilisi and Batumi.
15. Georgian Tea
Georgian tea, particularly black tea, is highly regarded for its rich flavor and quality. The region of Guria, in western Georgia, is known for producing some of the finest tea in the country. You can find Georgian tea in local markets, tea houses, and specialty shops throughout Georgia.
Shopping in Georgia is a cultural journey that allows you to explore the country’s rich heritage and artistic traditions. Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, local delicacies, or contemporary artwork, Georgia offers a diverse range of products to suit every taste and interest. Plan your shopping excursions to include visits to markets, artisan workshops, and specialty stores to discover the best of Georgian craftsmanship and hospitality.