For a long time, Georgia flew under the radar. Its somewhat obscure location in the Caucasus, as well as a lack of flights and media coverage, meant its many attractions remained largely unknown outside of the local area. However the genie is well and truly out of the bottle now. Georgia is one of the up-and-coming stars of world travel, with a sustained increase in annual visitor numbers. Throughout this guide, we’ll look at why it’s becoming so popular and what the best places to visit in Georgia are.
The district of Abanotubani is one of the oldest and most charismatic in Tbilisi. Meaning “bath district,” the area is full of bathhouses, offering Tbilisi’s trademark sulfur baths. Using the warm water from the hot springs beneath the city, it’s a stimulating and enjoyable experience. There are many options available, and once you select your preferred bathhouse, you can choose between a public or private room. Many also offer massages, but be warned, a Georgian massage is quite a vigorous experience.
The cave city of Uplistsikhe is located just 10 kilometers outside of the city of Gori. Set on the rocky riverbank above the Mtkvari River, the rock-hewn structures are believed to date from the 10th century BC. The site was occupied for over 2000 years until its final destruction by the Mongol invaders in 1240. What remains today is just part of the city that once stood here. There’s plenty to explore, with several Pagan temples and Christian churches the main highlights. There’s also an excellent small museum, which provides a good background to the site’s history.
The small town of Signagi is a popular destination in Georgia. Located in the heart of the Kakheti wine region, it’s a great place to base yourself to explore the surrounding vineyards and valleys. Situated on a steep hill with cobbled streets and historic buildings, it’s a picturesque setting, particularly with the Caspian Mountains in the far distance. A walking tour of the historic town walls is highly recommended, and this will also take you to the other highlights in town, including several monuments and churches. However, the main reason to visit is the wine, with tastings at both the Pheasant’s Tears and Kerovani coming highly recommended. For something a little different, try horse riding at the Lost Ridge Ranch just outside of town.
The town of Kazbegi is one of Georgia’s standout destinations. Located near the Russian border in the country’s north, it’s a brilliant jumping-off point for spectacular hikes in the surrounding hills and mountains. The town stands in the shadow of the imposing Mount Kazbek, which provides the backdrop for one of Georgia’s most iconic sights. You can enjoy the sight of the precariously situated Gergeti Trinity Church, sitting atop a rocky outcrop at over 2200 meters altitude, by hiking up from Kazbegi. This is just one of many excellent hikes in the area, which includes glaciers, gorges, and valleys.
The picturesque and atmospheric Tbilisi old town is a highlight of any visit to the capital. Set below the imposing Narikala Fortress, the area features traditional Georgian architecture. The attractive balconies are perhaps the most striking feature of the Eurasian-style buildings, which mainly date back to the early 19th century. The area is home to several remarkable religious buildings, the bathhouse district of Abanotubani, and Freedom Square. There’s a host of fine eateries and cafes in the area as well, concentrated along several pedestrianized roads.
The city of Gori to the west of Tbilisi is famous as the birthplace of Josef Stalin, the former leader of the communist USSR. Despite being a controversial figure elsewhere, there’s no questioning his popularity in Gori. Streets, parks, and museums bear his name. The Stalin museum in town is one of the major reasons to visit. Dedicated to his life and achievements, exhibits include his original ramshackle home and his own personal rail carriage. It’s a fascinating place, if somewhat lacking in a balanced portrayal of his life. Elsewhere in Gori, you’ll find the impressive medieval fortress set atop a large hill. There are some good ruins to explore, and the views from the top are superb.
The Kakheti wine region in eastern Georgia must be included on any list of Georgia’s highlights. Not only does the region have an abundance of vineyards producing an excellent range of wines, but there are also plenty of historical sights to discover. The citadel at Gremi, the Cathedral of Alaverdi, and Nekresi Monastery are just 3 of many we could mention. However, try as we might, it’s the wine that’s the main draw to Kakheti. The Winery Khareba, Kindzmarauli Corporation Wine House, and Giuaani Winery all rank among the best to visit and receive many positive reviews.
Another of Georgia’s historic cave cities is located at Vardzia, around 4 hours by road from Tbilisi. The cave complex is the largest of all the cave city sites in Georgia and dates back to the 12th century. Initially, only a monastery was constructed, but in short order, accommodation and further churches were added to the site. In total, the site extends to hundreds of different rooms. The face of Vardzia was materially changed by an earthquake in 1283, which destroyed much of the exterior walls. However, the site continued to be used until it was finally abandoned in the 16th century. The site’s highlight is the Church of the Dormition, which features impressive wall paintings dating back to the 13th century.
The attractive seaside city of Batumi is one of Georgia’s little-known gems. This port and seaside resort occupies a beautiful setting on the Black Sea. Featuring an attractive 19th-century downtown area, a long stretch of stony beach, a smattering of modern architecture, and a sub-tropical climate, there’s a lot to like. The area is a magnet for tourists during the summer months, so you’ll find plenty of accommodation options and a vibrant nightlife. It’s a fun place to visit for a few days, and it’s an ideal stop if you’re arriving or leaving via Turkey.
The remote and beautiful region of Svaneti is unlike almost anywhere else in Georgia. Set alongside the Russian border amidst the Caucasus Mountains, it remains a land largely untouched by the trappings of the 21st century. It takes a real effort to get to the area but it sure is worth the effort. There are exceptional trekking and climbing opportunities all around the area, which is also home to an abundance of wildlife, and you’ll see hundreds of traditional stone towers marking the landscape. During the winter months, there are also several ski resorts that you can revel in. If you love exploring new frontiers with strong traditions and a rustic way of living, then you’ll absolutely adore Svaneti.
The final cave complex on our list is the site at Davit Gareja, located along the border with Azerbaijan. Part of a larger complex of monasteries, the site dates back to the 6th century AD. Set on the hillside of Mount Gareja, there’s plenty of history to be discovered across the different monasteries. The biggest attraction is the Udabno monastery, which features spectacular frescos that date back over 1000 years in some instances. The site’s remote setting means you’re likely to have it all to yourself, and there’s no admission fee, although donations are welcomed.
Tusheti is another of Georgia’s impossibly beautiful regions. One of the remotest regions to access, it’s located close to Chechnya and Dagestan in the country’s northeast. It’s a mountainous land of snow-capped mountains, hills, gorges, and valleys, which provide plenty of fantastic hiking opportunities. The landscape also features many stone lookout towers, with those above the village of Dartlo particularly impressive. The area is only accessible during the summer months, such is the area’s remoteness and inhospitable climate.
We couldn’t list the highlights of Georgia without including the country’s hearty and tasty cuisine. Among the most popular dishes is Khachapuri, which is a cheese-filled bread. A different take on this is the Adjaruli Khachapuri, which includes a fried egg in the center. Another popular dish is Khinkali, a Georgian take on dumplings. Typically containing minced pork or lamb, the Georgian spices give it a unique flavor. A favorite dish amongst vegetarians is Badrijani Nigzvit, fried eggplant rolls topped with walnuts and pomegranate. We could easily list many more dishes, from game meats to salads, but you’ll need to visit to discover them yourself.
The highlights of Georgia are located throughout the country, from the remote regions of Svaneti and Tusheti in the north to the wine region of Kakheti in the east and the coastal hub of Batumi in the west. Most sights are within a few hours of Tbilisi, but as you head into the remote Caucasus Mountains, the travel time increases dramatically.
There’s no doubt about it, the summer months are the best time to visit Georgia. While the peak of summer in July and August can be hot and humid in Tbilisi and the other lower-lying regions, it’s perfect conditions at altitude. Furthermore, some remote areas in Georgia, such as Tusheti, can only be reached during these summer months. The vibrant coastal city of Batumi is also at its best during these summer months, although the beaches in the area can get very busy. If you’re keen to avoid the heat and crowds of peak season, a visit during June or September is a great alternative.
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