Ready for your dream Georgia vacation? From the caucasus peaks of Kazbegi to the wineries of Kakheti, the cobbled charm of Tbilisi to the beaches of Batumi, this guide outlines the ultimate Georgia itinerary.
These easy-to-use itineraries help you find the best things to do in Georgia—featuring ancient monasteries, mountain hikes, cave cities, natural hot springs, and plenty of wine-fueled feasts.
Want to make your Georgia trip even more special? Learn basic Georgian before you go
- Tbilisi: Georgia’s dynamic capital blends old-world charm with a hip, creative spirit—think sulfur baths, cobbled streets, street art, and wine bars.
- Kazbegi (Stepantsminda): Home to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church and picture-perfect views of Mount Kazbek—this is alpine Georgia at its most cinematic.
- Batumi: A Black Sea resort town where beach life meets bold architecture, palm-lined boulevards, and nightlife that hums until sunrise.
- Mtskheta: Just outside Tbilisi, this ancient capital is full of spiritual vibes, hilltop monasteries, and UNESCO-listed treasures.
- Kutaisi: One of the oldest cities in Europe, known for its relaxed pace, Bagrati Cathedral, and the stunning Prometheus Cave nearby.
- Uplistsikhe: A fascinating ancient cave city carved into the rock—an easy day trip that feels like a step into a different era.
- Sighnaghi: Georgia’s “City of Love” overlooks the Alazani Valley with Tuscan-style charm, cobbled streets, and wineries galore.
- Gudauri: The country’s top ski resort offering powdery slopes, breathtaking ridgelines, and winter wonderland vibes just a few hours from Tbilisi.
- Vardzia: A 12th-century cave monastery complex tucked into the cliffs of southern Georgia—mystical, majestic, and well worth the journey.
💡 Georgia Tips
- Cash is still king: While cards are accepted in major cities, many smaller shops and rural areas only take Georgian lari (₾).
- Taxis don’t use meters: Use apps like Bolt or Yandex to avoid haggling and overpaying for rides.
- Hospitality is central: Georgians are famously warm — expect to be offered food, wine, or even invited to someone’s home.
- Learn a few Georgian phrases: Basics like “Gamarjoba” (hello) or “Madloba” (thank you) are appreciated, even though Russian and English are also spoken.
- Be ready for toasts: At Georgian feasts (supras), a toastmaster (tamada) leads heartfelt toasts. Participate respectfully — and drink wine!
- Tap water is generally safe: Especially in cities like Tbilisi, but bottled water is recommended in remote areas.
- Dress modestly in churches: Cover shoulders and legs; women may need to cover their heads.
- Public transport is cheap: Minibuses (marshrutkas) and metros are inexpensive, but sometimes crowded or informal.
- Georgian drivers can be aggressive: Be cautious if renting a car, especially in the mountains.
- Hiking is world-class: Visit areas like Kazbegi, Mestia, and Tusheti — but always check trail conditions and bring proper gear.
- The cuisine is very vegetarian-friendly: Many traditional dishes are naturally meatless and incredibly flavorful.
- Wi-Fi is widely available: Most cafés, hotels, and even villages offer free internet.
🇬🇪 Georgia Menu
- Khachapuri: Georgia’s most famous dish — a cheese-filled bread, often with variations like the egg-topped Adjarian style. Crispy, gooey, and delicious.
- Khinkali: Juicy dumplings filled with spiced meat, mushrooms, or cheese. Eat with your hands, bite the top, and slurp the broth!
- Lobio (Kakheti & Imereti): A rich bean stew often served in a clay pot, flavored with garlic, onions, herbs, and a side of cornbread (mchadi).
- Badrijani Nigvzit: Fried eggplant rolls filled with garlicky walnut paste, topped with pomegranate seeds — a flavorful cold appetizer.
- Pkhali: Minced vegetable pâtés (like spinach or beet) mixed with walnuts, garlic, and spices — colorful and nutritious.
- Chakhokhbili: A chicken stew made with tomatoes, herbs, and onions — comforting and aromatic.
- Ojakhuri: Fried pork or chicken with potatoes, onions, and Georgian spices — rustic and hearty.
- Mtsvadi: Georgian-style grilled meat skewers, often served with tkemali (sour plum sauce) and fresh herbs — popular at outdoor feasts.
- Churchkhela: Strings of nuts (usually walnuts) dipped repeatedly in thickened grape juice — chewy, sweet, and often homemade.
- Tklapi: Rolled fruit leather made from plums or apricots — tart, natural, and a popular snack.
- Elarji (Samegrelo): A thick, stretchy cornmeal dish mixed with sulguni cheese — filling and unique to western Georgia.
- Sulguni Cheese: A salty, elastic cheese often served fresh or fried — a staple in Georgian kitchens.
- Chakapuli (Kakheti): A herby, tangy stew made with lamb or veal, green plums, and tarragon — especially popular in spring.
- Matsoni: A yogurt-like fermented milk product eaten plain or with honey — a refreshing accompaniment or dessert.
- Georgian Wine (Kakheti): Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Try qvevri (clay pot) wines for a truly traditional experience.
📅 Georgia Calendar
- Tbilisi Light Festival (February, Tbilisi): City streets illuminated with immersive art projections
- Christmas & Orthodox Epiphany (January 7 & 19, Nationwide): Church services, traditional food, and Alilo parade
- Spring Trekking Season (April–June, Svaneti, Kazbegi, Borjomi): Alpine trails and wildflowers
- New Wine Festival (May, Tbilisi): Sample over 200 new-generation wines from across Georgia
- Art-Gene Festival (July, Tbilisi Ethnographic Museum): Celebration of folk music, crafts, and heritage
- Black Sea Jazz Festival (July, Batumi): International jazz, funk, and soul artists by the sea
- Shuamtoba Highland Festival (August, Beshumi or Adjara mountains): Traditional mountain culture, horse racing, and dancing
- Tushetoba Festival (August, Tusheti Mountains): Mountain games, culture, and herding traditions
- Tbilisoba (October, Tbilisi): City-wide celebration of harvest, music, and Georgian identity
- Rtveli Grape Harvest (September–October, Kakheti & Imereti): Join locals in picking grapes and stomping wine
- Batumi International Film Festival (October, Batumi): Screenings of regional and international cinema
- Christmas & Orthodox New Year (December–January, Nationwide): Festive lights, feasts, and folk songs