Georgia 15-Day Itinerary – Highlights of Two Weeks in Georgia

This Georgia 15-day itinerary is a part of our broader travel guide for the country. We recommend you check it out for the best travel tips and the most accurate information on transportation, hotels, restaurants and best hikes in Georgia.

Georgia 15-Day Itinerary – Where to go in Georgia in 2 weeks

If you’re wondering whether a country as small as Georgia really requires a full two-week vacation, then the answer might surprise you. Besides the fact that road conditions and the mountainous terrain significant increase travel times, the Pearl of the Caucasus also offers plenty to see and do. Besides the vibrant and surprising capital city of Tbilisi, 15 days will allow you to explore the hiking regions of Svaneti and Kazbegi, visit historical towns like Akhaltsikhe and Mtskheta, see historical sites carved directly into rock such as Uplistsikhe and Vardzia, go on a scenic road trip through Kakheti, and, if the weather Gods are on your side, take a dip in the Black Sea waters of Batumi.

However, if you don’t have the availability for such an extended trip, you are always welcome to take a look at our shorter itineraries for Georgia:

• Georgia 7-Day Itinerary – What to See and Do in One Week
• Georgia 10-Day Itinerary – Best Places to Visit in the Country

So, without further ado, here are the cities, places and tourist attractions you should visit in a 15-day itinerary through Georgia:

Georgia 7-Day Itinerary: Day 1 – Tbilisi: Avlabari and the Old Town

The largest and most important city in all of Georgia, Tbilisi is the natural starting point for most Georgian travel itineraries. Surprisingly, the capital offers plenty to see and do, with most tourist attractions located in its extensive historical center that stretches along both banks of the Kura River. The city’s architecture is eclectic, and you’ll notice that while some buildings have been thoroughly renovated, most maintain this picturesque state of semi-disrepair. Nevertheless, this bizarre concoction of old buildings and terraces are an integral part of Tbilisi’s unique charm, since the historic center is still home to many local families, something increasingly rare in most European capitals. In fact, one of my favorite activities in Tbilisi is to randomly enter old buildings. That’s because, historically, the city center was a highly coveted area, where the noble and the wealthy lived comfortably and made intricate palaces out of their homes (income inequality was rampant). As such, when the Soviet Union was established, these spaces were expropriated. With a big influx of migrants coming from the provinces to work in Tbilisi’s brand-new factories, the government decided to split these former manor houses and convert them into multiple units. To this day, the downtown population still lives in these former mansions, with each tiny apartment usually surrounding a shared courtyard. As a result, when you step into a random building lobby in Tbilisi, you never really know what you’re going to find. Naturally, most of the opulent stucco works and vivid paintings have been eroded by time, but you can still find quite a few hidden gems. Such examples include the Kaleidoscope House and the Moorish House, though there are literally dozens of other sites worth stopping by.

After exploring these nearby houses, follow that up with a visit to Lado Gudiashvili Square, one of the city’s most picturesque squares, before climbing up the Betlemi Stairs. Given Tbilisi’s rather unique topography, where the center was built on the slopes of a small gorge/canyon, the city offers a wide variety of stunning viewpoints, with the Betlemi Stairs standing as one of the very best. After reaching the top and taking in the view, you’ll be a short walking distance from the Mother of Georgia Statue (a staple of the former Soviet republics) and from the imposing Narikala Fortress, the defensive structure that dominates the skyline of downtown Tbilisi. Afterwards, you’ll start heading down to the river banks through the narrow and steep alleys of Kala, the local name given to the Old Town. Unlike the rest of the city center, this particular quarter has been extensively renovated. On your way down, make sure not to miss the Juma Mosque, the city’s only Islamic place of worship, built during the Ottoman period. Once you finally make it to the riverbank, you’ll come across the fabulous quarter of Abanotubani, home to most of Tbilisi’s sulfur baths. In fact, the city was founded in its current location due to the numerous natural hot springs found underground, having developed a bathhouse culture that has been going strong for centuries. Apart from snapping a few pics of this gorgeous district, trying out at least one of the local bathhouses is a must.

Unlike Budapest, where bathhouses are made up of spacious, communal areas and pools, in Tbilisi each customer (or group) rents a private room, which is always equipped with one hot and one cold water plunge pools. Then, depending on your budget, rooms may include extras like a sauna, Turkish bath or a jacuzzi. That being said, here are a few options worth considering in Abanotubani (boking in advance is highly recommended):

• Gulo’s: Traditional bathhouse, decorated with beautiful tile mosaics. The management provides additional services, such as scrubbings and massages. Reservations via WhatsApp: +995 599 588 122. Private cabins start from 100 GEL/hour (4/5 people);
• Orbeliani: The most luxurious option, housed inside the most iconic building in Abanotubani. These are the city’s most famous and tourist-heavier baths. You can book online. Private cabins start from 100 GEL/hour (2 people);
• Sulphur Bathhouse №5: Public baths, though guests also have the option of renting a private cabin. Arguably the most authentic option on our list, but also the less “sophisticated”. Reservations for private cabins by phone (not required for the public area): +995 322 722 090. Public baths cost 10 GEL for men and 6 GEL for women. Private cabins available from 70 GEL/hour (4/5 people).
• Royal Bath House: One of the oldest baths, allegedly in operation since 1704. Reservations made by phone: +995 322 196 700. Private cabins start from 100 GEL/hour (4 people).

Feeling brand-new after soaking in the sulfur baths, you may then proceed to visit the Great Synagogue and the Sioni Cathedral, completing the rather unique task of visiting historical places of worship from the three major monotheistic religions (Islam, Judaism and Christianity) within just a few hundred meters. Finally, you’ll make it across the Kura River and pay a visit to the Metekhi Church. However, more than the church itself, the real highlight is the impressive view of the Old Town from its terrace. Crossing the river also means you’ve officially entered the district of Avlabari, once the main center of the Armenian community in the country. Though there aren’t many members of the once thriving community left, the area is still worth exploring, if only to see the gigantic Sameba Cathedral up close, as this 2004 juggernaut is one of the largest religious buildings in the world. If you’re too tired by now, this may very well be the best way to cap off your first day in Georgia. However, for those interested in the history of the Soviet Union and the Bolshevik Revolution, there is another place on our list one can’t miss out on. Known as the Stalin Underground Printing House (10 GEL), this small exhibition, located under the quarters of the current Georgian Communist Party, displays the original press used by Stalin and his comrades for printing Bolshevik and anti-imperial propaganda. The press, which was brought in from Germany in 1893, is still in the exact same place where it was first hidden, inside a dried out well, and remains an integral part of the process that would lead to – for better or for worse – one of the greatest revolutions in human history.

First day wrap-up:

• Kaleidoscope House
• Moorish House
• Lado Gudiashvili Square
• Betlemi Stairs
• Mother of Georgia Statue
• Narikala Fortress
• Kala – Old Town
• Juma Mosque
• Abanotubani Quarter
• Abanotubani Thermal Baths
• Great Synagogue
• Sioni Cathedral
• Metekhi Church
• Sameba Cathedral
• Stalin Underground Printing House

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Avlabari and the Old Town:

• Racha Tavern (Georgian traditional)
• Elene Dariani (Georgian traditional)
• Shemomechama (Georgian traditional)
• Vakhtanguri’s Chebureki (Georgian traditional)
• Maspindzelo (Georgian traditional)
• Café Palermo (Georgian traditional)
• Cheers (pizza)
• Organique Josper (hamburgers and grilled meats)

Georgia 7-Day Itinerary: Day 2 – Tbilisi: Mtatsminda and Chugureti

On your second and final day of exploring Tbilisi, although you’ll still spend a couple more nights in the capital, you’ll venture into the districts of Chugureti, on the other side of the river from the Old Town, and Mtatsminda, the city center area that excludes Kala (the Old Town). However, your first pit stop will take place quite far away from downtown Tbilisi, at one of the most impressive yet underrated sites in the capital: the Chronicle of Georgia monument. This monumental memorial, perched atop a staircase with a view of the water reservoir known as the Sea of Tbilisi, boasts 16 massive columns adorned with important and legendary figures from the country’s ancient history. It’s a true testament to the might of stone and metal. To get there, you can either take a combination of metro and bus (metro to Ghrmaghele station + bus 360) or just go for a taxi (around 15 GEL from the center). After visiting the monument, you’ll still have time to enjoy a filling buffet brunch at Fabrika (27 GEL). Although the food is great, this place has become a cult classic among locals, visitors and expats, coming to represent the rebirth of post-independence Georgia. Originally a Soviet sewing factory, the space has been transformed into a massive cultural center, housing cafes and restaurants, a hostel, an art gallery, a co-working space and many artistic events. In short, it’s one of the trendiest spots in Tbilisi!

After your meal, take a stroll along Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue, one of the city’s most beautiful and bustling boulevards, before passing by Rike Park, where the cable car to Narikala Fortress departs, in case you’re up for a quick trip. After exploring Chugureti, cross the ultra-modern Bridge of Peace and you’ll be entering the district of Mtatsminda. Once you’re there, start by visiting the Anchiskhati Basilica, regarded as the oldest church in all of Georgia, before heading to the nearby Rezo Gabriadze Theatre, an old puppet amphitheater famous for its quirky building and bizarre clock tower that looks like it’s going to collapse at any moment. From there, head up the street to Freedom Square, the main gathering spot in the city for major celebrations, marches and protests, as well as the starting point of Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi’s main artery. As you walk along this thoroughfare, you’ll see a pretty diverse range of buildings, with totally different architectural styles often standing right next to each other. Along the way, you might as well visit the National Museum of Georgia (10 GEL), the Parliament of Georgia, St. George’s Church, the Rustaveli National Theatre and the Opera and Ballet Theatre of Tbilisi. As the day draws to a close, you’ll want to watch the sunset over the Georgian capital at Mtatsminda Park. Located atop a hill, this green area and amusement park are accessible via a funicular (16 GEL round-trip) that will take you to the park’s spectacular viewpoint.

Second day wrap-up:

• Chronicle of Georgia
• Fabrika
• Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue
• Rike Park
• Bridge of Peace
• Anchiskhati Basilica
• Rezo Gabriadze Theater
• Liberty Square
• Rustaveli Avenue
  • Georgian National Museum
  • Parliament of Georgia
  • Saint George’s Church
  • Rustaveli National Theatre
  • Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi
• Mtatsminda Park (viewpoint)

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Mtatsminda and Chugureti:

• Mapshalia (Georgian traditional)
• Batoni (Georgian traditional)
• Pasanauri (Georgian traditional)
• Salobe bia (Georgian traditional)
• Nikolozi (Georgian traditional)
• Restaurant Margalita (Georgian traditional)
• Asi Khinkali (Georgian traditional)
• Fabrika (brunch)
• Linville (varied
• Melograno (varied)

Georgia 7-Day Itinerary: Day 3 – Day trip to Mtskheta, Gori and Uplistsikhe

Although Tbilisi will remain your home base, this day will be dedicated to exploring three nearby towns. Therefore, you’ll turn on the early-riser mode and catch a marshrutka (specific details available in our broader Georgia travel guide) bound for Mtskheta, the country’s holiest city, often referred to as the “Vatican” of the Georgian Orthodox Church. While there are undoubtedly churches and monasteries to explore, Mtskheta offers more than just religious sites, standing out as one of the nation’s most picturesque towns and its ancient historical capital. Besides, its monuments have been designated by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites! Upon arriving in the city, located just 20 minutes away from Tbilisi, you’ll first hire a taxi (20 GEL round-trip + waiting time) to take you to the Jvari Monastery, arguably Mtskheta’s most famous spot. Perched on a hill, this church is regarded as the crib of Christianity in Georgia. Be that as it may, and no matter how beautiful the monastery is, it’s the breathtaking view of Mtskheta’s Old Town, at the confluence of the Kura and Aragvi rivers, that takes the spotlight. Once you’re ready to return, the same taxi will bring you back to the city center, where you can finally explore the charming historic center on foot. Despite its small size, this quarter boasts lovely ancient stone architecture and countless street stalls that form a sort-of impromptu bazaar. While roaming around, one cannot miss the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the most important church in all of Georgia. Not only is this the spiritual center of the nation and the final resting place of many of its former kings, but the cathedral is also known to house (allegedly, since you can never know for sure) the cloak worn by Christ before the crucifixion, as well as a piece of the actual wooden cross. While in Mtskheta, you can also pay a visit to the Antioch of Mtskheta, the Samtavro’s Convent and the Bebristsikhe Fortress.

Before lunch, and to make sure you can set foot on all the places we’ve planned for the day, it’s time to take another short trip inside an always-uncomfortable marshrutka – this time, the destination is the unassuming city of Gori. Birthplace of the legendary and horrific Joseph Stalin, Gori hosts one of the most unusual museums you’ll ever see. While most 20th-century bloodthirsty dictators are either loathed or ignored by their contemporary societies, the Stalin Museum (15 GEL) openly celebrates the life and work of its prodigal (if infamous) son. Additionally, visitors can explore the wooden cabin where Stalin was born, as well as main carriage of the official train where the dictator used to travel during his lengthy journeys across the vast Soviet Union. Though the museum is the undisputed highlight of Gori and its main tourist attraction, the city has other noteworthy points, such as the Gori Fortress or the Old Town, a beautiful old quarter that somehow survived the devastating earthquake of 1920. To end the day on a high note, you’ll need to find another taxi (40 GEL round-trip + waiting time) or, if you still have plenty of time, take a van from the local station and travel the 15 km that separate Gori from Uplistsikhe (15 GEL), a 4000-year-old town entirely carved into the rocky surface. Now converted into an open-air museum, it’s hard to believe that Uplistsikhe was a prominent stop on the famous Silk Road, as well as Georgia’s main city until the 13th century. Back then, even the kings and rulers lived inside these cave dwellings. After visiting the site, you’ll return to Gori, where you’ll catch another marshrutka back to Tbilisi for the night.

Third day wrap-up:

• Mtskheta
  • Jvari Monastery
  • Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
  • Antioch of Mtshkheta
  • Samtavro’s Convent
  • Bebristsikhe Fortress
• Gori
  • Stalin Museum
  • Gori Fortress
  • Old Town of Gori
• Uplistsikhe

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Gori:

• Dzmobis Duqani (Georgian traditional)
• Berikoni (Georgian traditional)
• Chinebuli (Georgian traditional)
• Shin da Gori (Georgian traditional)
• KE&RA (Georgian traditional)
• L’Avenue (varied)

Georgia 7-Day Itinerary: Day 4 – Kakheti Road Trip

As your time in the capital comes to an end, you will once again go on a day trip, this time to the wine region of Kakheti, celebrated as the place where the world’s first wine was allegedly produced! On an important sidenote, this is the only day of the itinerary where we strongly recommend renting a car (as detailed in the general guide), given that Kakheti’s roads are generally flat, reasonably maintained and experience minimal traffic. Besides, having your own vehicle will make it much easier to explore the region’s most prominent tourist attractions. In all fairness, one would ideally need at least two days to fully experience the very best of Kakheti, but given the time constraints, we’ve crafted a special “express” itinerary, (though you’ll still need to rush a bit). If renting a car is not an option, we suggest sticking to the places mentioned in the next paragraph, as there are regular marshrutkas between Tbilisi and Sighnaghi, meaning you can at least visit this town (and the nearby monastery) using public transportation.

Now that we’re all done with the intro, let’s hit the road and head towards Sighnaghi, often promoted as the most romantic town in Georgia. It’s easy to see why. With its traditional architecture, narrow cobblestone streets and colorful balconies, it boasts those pleasing visual aesthetics reminiscent of a quintessential European small town. Plus, being perched atop a plateau, the views of the expansive and lush Alazani Valley are nothing short of breathtaking. While visiting this town, it’s worth walking along the Sighnaghi Wall, the town’s ancient defensive structure; exploring the Basilica of Saint George; climbing to the roof of St. Stephen’s Church; and checking out the Soviet memorials and mosaics at the 9^th of April Park. Nevertheless, simply meandering through the streets and alleys of the city is already quite the activity, as you’ll find dozens of stalls selling the typical local embroideries, while massive, colorful carpets lean against the stone façades. Located just a 40-minute walk away from Sighnaghi (or a short taxi ride), make sure not to miss the Monastery of St. Nino at Bodbe, one of the most impressive monasteries in Kakheti, a region packed with many other worthy competitors. Plus, the road there passes by one of the best viewpoints in Sighnaghi. For another iconic view of the village and the vast valley lying down below, we also recommend the dining area of The Terrace, a local restaurant. Finally, and while the entire region is dotted with wineries and small producers offering tastings or allowing visitors to partake in the traditional wine-making process in Georgia, we recommend a tour/tasting at Pheasant’s Tears Winery (30 GEL). This winery is located in Sighnaghi, so this tip can serve both those who choose to rent a car, as well as visitors who take the marshrutka instead. As for the traditional production method in Georgia, grapes, seeds and stems are placed inside a traditional clay pot – known as qevri – and buried for 6 months, with the slow and 100% natural fermentation process giving rise to the popular local wine.

For our readers who will not be renting a car, this marks the end of your Kakheti side trip. For everyone else, it’s time to hit the road again, covering another 60 km to Telavi, the largest city in the region of Kakheti. Despite this misleading title, Telavi looks more like a village than a proper city, boasting a pretty relaxed atmosphere and some of the country’s finest traditional architecture, which you can appreciate while walking along Erekle II Street and Cholokashvili Street. Furthermore, you’ll want to take a look at the bustling Telavi Bazaar and enjoy the nice view from Nadikvari Park. However, Telavi’s standout attraction is the Batonistsikhe Castle (5 GEL), a Persian-style defensive fortress whose interior houses the Telavi Historical Museum and the Palace of King Erekle II, a former royal residence that has been recently renovated.

With the day drawing to a close, we couldn’t finish our adventure in Kakheti without recommending a visit to at least two other monasteries. The first one, the Ikalto Monastery, allows visitors to wander the ruins of an ancient 1000-year-old school and see many old qvevris up close. However, the real highlight is the spectacular Alaverdi Monastery – one of my personal favorites in Georgia!

Fourth day wrap-up:

• Sighnaghi
  • Sighnaghi Wall
  • Basilica of Saint George
  • Stephan’s Church
  • 9^th of April Park
  • The Terrace (restaurant – amazing view)
  • Pheasant’s Tears Winery (wine tasting)
  • Monastery of St. Nino at Bodbe
• Telavi
  • Batonistsikhe Castle (Telavi Historical Museum and Palace of King Erekle II)
  • Erekle II Street
  • Cholokashvili Street
  • Telavi Bazaar
  • Nadikvari Park
• Ikalto Monastery
• Alaverdi Monastery

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Sighnaghi and Telavi:

• Lali (Georgian traditional)
• Varikelebi (Georgian traditional)
• The Terrace (Georgian traditional)
• Pheasant’s Tears (Georgian traditional)
• Kusika (Georgian traditional)
• Natella (Georgian traditional)
• Doli (Georgian traditional)
• Bravo (Georgian traditional)
• Zodiako (Georgian traditional)
• Kapiloni (Georgian traditional)

Georgia 7-Day Itinerary: Day 5 – Georgian Military Highway

Although it may sound odd to us, Westerners, hitchhiking is actually a relatively common practice in the Caucasus. Therefore, it’s not unusual to spot locals extending their arms for a lift in some of the most remote areas. Therefore, because it’s so ingrained in the culture, hitchhiking in Georgia is extremely easy, and you’ll seldom find yourself waiting more than 5 or 10 minutes until someone stops. Well, since are several noteworthy spots along the Georgian Military Highway, the modern road that links Georgia to Russia and reaches a staggering altitude of over 2400 meters, why not put this theory to the test? After all, your base for the next few days will be Kazbegi (also known as Stepantsminda), a town that is also located along the same iconic highway, so it makes sense to try to see as many places as possible on the way! Without further ado, start your journey by taking a marshrutka to Kazbegi from the Didube terminal in Tbilisi. This marshrutka will follow the Georgian Military Highway, but instead of completing the journey, you’ll ask to be dropped off at the Ananuri Fortress, the first highlight of the day. Located on the shores of the Zhinvali Reservoir, this fortress houses a Georgian Orthodox church and is an exceptionally beautiful place. Entry is free, and you can climb the walls to enjoy panoramic views of the complex’s domes standing against the backdrop of the reservoir’s waters.

Once you’re ready to keep going, just stand by the side of the road and lift your thumb. To ease you up a bit, we need to let you know our choice was far from innocent, since this is likely the easiest spot in the country to hitchhike. The road is in excellent condition, traffic flow is good enough (meaning you won’t have to wait long for cars to pass) and you won’t even face the challenge of having to find a specific ride heading to your exact destination, since pretty much every car/truck is either heading to Kazbegi or to the Russian border. As such, I bet it won’t take you more than 5 or 10 minutes until you’re on your way to the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument – our next stop! While the monument is indeed impressive, featuring a gigantic semi-circular mosaic depicting important episodes in the history of both nations, the real reason to stop here is its extraordinary viewpoint, overlooking the wild and mountainous landscape of the Caucasus range. Back on the highway, you’ll extend your thumb once again, this time looking for a kind soul to take you to Sno. Less than 10 km away from Kazbegi, this unassuming village is famous for its bizarre stone sculptures of giant heads. Representing kings and other famous rulers from Georgia’s history, these sculptures photograph beautifully against the mountain peaks and idyllic natural scenery of the village. Plus, Sno is also a customary stop for those planning a few days of hiking in the Juta Valley. Finally, for the last leg of the journey, you’ll have to specifically ask your ride if they’re heading to the Russian border, 11 km north of Kazbegi, or if they’ll stop there. If you’re dropped off in Kazbegi, you’ll need to arrange a taxi to take you to the Dariali Monastery afterwards, since this place is located practically at the border (hence why it’s better to find a ride from Sno that can take you beyond Kazbegi). Beyond the grandeur of the religious site, its setting, on the banks of the Terek Gorge, is also quite scenic. The time has come to hitch the final ride of the day! Just cross to the other side of the road and find your way back to Kazbegi, where you’ll spend the night.

If all of this seems unnecessarily risky or complicated, you can always rent a car in Tbilisi or seek the services of a private taxi, so as long as you detail in advance all the places you wish to stop at.

Fifth day wrap-up:

• Georgian Military Highway
  • Ananuri Fortress
  • Russia–Georgia Friendship Monument
  • Sno
  • Dariali Monastery

Georgia 7-Day Itinerary: Day 6 – Truso Valley

Now that you’ve finally made it to the mountains, what better way to start your adventure than by going on your very first Caucasus’ trek? In Kazbegi (also known as Stepantsminda), a popular basecamp surrounded by hiking opportunities, you’ll find plenty of good options. The Gergeti Glacier, the Gveleti Waterfalls or the Chaukhi Valley are all great 1-day hikes, though you can also venture into the nearby Juta Valley if you have more time. However, our pick for the top one-day hike in Kazbegi is undoubtedly the extraordinary Truso Valley! Spanning approximately 20 km, this hike links the village of Kvemo Okrokana to the ruins of the Zakagori Fortress, the location where local authorities installed a military outpost tasked with monitoring the contentious border with South Ossetia. Along the trail, you’ll come across abandoned villages, mineral deposits (which paint the scenery in hues of red and orange), mountain gorges, remote monasteries and ancient defense towers, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the valley. Though long, the hike is relatively simple and with minimal altitude changes, taking about 6 hours to complete (including stops for photos).

Regarding logistics, you’ll need to arrange round-trip transportation covering the 22 km distance between Kazbegi and Kvemo Okrokana, where the trail begins. You can easily hire a taxi in Kazbegi and prearrange a pickup time for your return trip from Kvemo Okrokana. The driver will go back to the city and pick you up at the pre-agreed time, since there’s no chance in hell he’ll be waiting for six hours in the middle of nowhere while you complete the trail. The total cost would hover around 90 to 100 GEL. Alternatively, you can rely on local agency Mountain Freaks, which arranges daily transfers (from May 1st to October 31st) between the two locations, departing from Kazbegi at 9h15 and picking up passengers in Kvemo Okrokana at 16h30. You can buy tickets at the agency’s offices. These cost 45 GEL.

Sixth day wrap-up:

• Truso Valley

Georgia 7-Day Itinerary: Day 7 – Kazbegi and back to Tbilisi

Before bidding farewell to Kazbegi and heading back to Tbilisi, one can’t leave without visiting the former’s most iconic landmark. Enter the mesmerizing Gergeti Trinity Church, arguably one of Georgia’s most portrayed and popular sites, and a true symbol of the country. While the church itself is quite pretty and ancient-looking, it’s the location that truly sets it apart. Perched atop a mountain, surrounded by some of Georgia’s staple majestic peaks, the church features a terrace with a phenomenal view of Kazbegi, making it an absolute must-see for anyone exploring the country.

To get to the church, you can easily hop inside one of the shared taxis stationed near Kazbegi’s main bus stop. If you’re willing to wait until the vehicle fills up, the fare is typically around 15/20 GEL for the round-trip (including waiting time), while a private taxi will set you back no less than 70/80 GEL. However, for an even more memorable experience, the best way to access the church is through the 2-hour (round-trip) walking trail along the left side of the mountain. Note that Google Maps may not recognize the trail, often sending visitors through the paved road (same as cars), so we recommend using Maps.me for navigation. Be that as it may, you can also use this location as a starting point for the trail.

After exploring the church, just get back down and catch the marshrutka to Tbilisi, where you’ll spend the night before setting out to explore Western Georgia.

Seventh day wrap-up:

• Gergeti Trinity Church

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Kazbegi:

• Cozy Corner Kazbegi (Georgian traditional)
• Kazbegi Good Food (Georgian traditional)
• Maisi (Georgian traditional)
• Kazbegya (Georgian traditional)
• Restaurant Stancia (Georgian traditional)
• Lunch at Maia (Georgian traditional)

Georgia 10-Day Itinerary: Day 8 – Akhaltsikhe and Vardzia

On the eighth day of your journey, after exploring most places of interest in the eastern part of the country, it’s finally time to head into Western Georgia, starting with a couple of underrated destinations. Begin this leg of your trip by waking up early in Tbilisi and taking a 3-hour marshrutka ride to the small town of Akhaltsikhe, in the southwest of the country. Located near the borders with Turkey and Armenia, Akhaltsikhe has been conquered by several empires throughout its history, from the Ottomans to the Persians, Mongols and Russians. Though times and rulers kept changing, the fabulous Rabati Castle (18 GEL) witnessed it all, having become Georgia’s most impressive fortress, a true symbol of multiculturalism and the ultimate demonstration of how to fuse styles and creeds. Within its fortified walls, visitors can explore an Ottoman mosque, go up the watchtower for panoramic views of the citadel and wander through the many terraces, pavilions and gardens. Unlike much of the country’s historical sites, Rabati Castle underwent a huge renovation in 2012, making it one of the most stunning historical monuments in Georgia.

Alongside the fortress, Akhaltsikhe also has a few churches and synagogues worth seeing, but given you’ll still have another long marshrutka journey ahead of you, we recommend you stick to the castle. And the reason why we say that is because there is another very special place you should not miss, located not too far away from Akhaltsikhe. That being said, your next step is to arrange a taxi (80 GEL round-trip + waiting time) to help cover the 60 km distance to Vardzia Cave City (15 GEL), an enormous monastery directly carved into the wall of a cliff. Much like Uplistsikhe, Vardzia’s buildings were also shaped from the rock surface, with multiple churches, temples and halls connected through a system of tunnels, terraces and staircases. Although only a fraction of its original size remains, the monastery is still quite impressive, stretching for over half a kilometer along the cliff.

Back in Akhaltsikhe, it is then time to board the second marshrutka of the day, this time bound for Kutaisi, where you’ll spend the night.

Eighth day wrap-up:

• Akhaltsikhe
  • Rabati Castle
• Vardzia Cave City

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Akhaltsikhe:

• Old Bar (Georgian and Armenian)
• Mimino (Georgian traditional)
• Old Rabati (Georgian traditional)
• Kantora 19 (Asian + pizzas + hamburgers)
• SL Company (varied)

Georgia 10-Day Itinerary: Day 9 – Kutaisi

The third-largest city in Georgia, Kutaisi is often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations. Even for the many visitors who happen to land here thanks to the low-cost flights operated by Wizz Air, it’s not uncommon for tourists to simply head straight to Tbilisi or Batumi. Big mistake – which is why today you’ll be exploring this city, famous for its multicultural legacy. A melting point that saw the arrival of Armenians, Russians, Jews and even Catholic missionaries! However, before delving deep into Kutaisi’s history, kickstart your day by taking one of the vintage Georgian cable cars at the station near the White Bridge, for a brief 30-second journey that will take you to the Besik Gabashvili Amusement Park, a small space with Soviet-era attractions and a delightful view of the city. Staying on this side of the river, a short walk leads to Bagrati Cathedral, one of the biggest attractions in Kutaisi. Perched atop a hill, visiting this imposing 11th-century church is a must, both for its architecture and interior frescoes but also for the breathtaking panoramic view (the best in Kutaisi) from its ancient wall. From there, you’ll make your way down and cross the Rioni River again, this time towards the historic center, where you’ll start by visiting the Green Bazaar, the city’s main market. Beyond the typical bustling market experience, the bazaar is also home to the Kolkhida, a giant orange mural, intricately sculpted with depictions of important figures and scenes from Kutaisi’s history.

A short distance further south and you’ll enter the Royal District, arguably the most picturesque neighborhood in the city, boasting plenty of classical architecture. Nevertheless, this district also hosts the city’s largest urban art center, subtly tucked away in a small passage known as the Wall of Love. Continue by walking through Kutaisi Park and you’ll eventually find yourself at the Colchis Fountain, the central monument in the city’s main square and a tribute to the first great Hellenic civilization (the Colchians) that inhabited this region of Georgia. A bit to the north, and you’ll then enter the different neighborhoods that once served as home to the extensive communities of Armenian and Jews, as well as to Catholic missionaries (the latter district known as the “French Quarter”). While there aren’t many differences in architecture setting these quarters apart, the presence of different places of worship certainly does the trick. As such, you can wander through these different districts and visit the Holy Annunciation Temple (originally Catholic, now Orthodox), the Armenian Church of Saint George and the Kutaisi Great Synagogue.

To cap off your day, no visit to Kutaisi is complete without stopping at the legendary Gelati Monastery, one of Georgia’s four UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As one of the oldest and most significant places of worship in the country, this monastery certainly excels when it comes to historical importance, location (great views) and architecture/looks. No matter how many monasteries you’ve visited in Georgia so far, this one has to go into the list! Since the Gelati Monastery is located more than 8 km from Kutaisi’s center, you’ll be better off by saving your energy and flagging a taxi. Fares typically range from 35 to 45 GEL for the round-trip, including a waiting time of 30 to 45 minutes.

Ninth day wrap-up:

• Besik Gabashvili Amusement Park (cable car)
• Bagrati Cathedral
• Green Bazar
• Kolkhida
• Royal District (Tsminda Nino Street, Kantselebi Street and Alexander Pushkin Street)
• Wall of Love
• Kutaisi Park
• Colchis Fountain
• Holy Annunciation Temple
• Armenian Church of Saint George
• Kutaisi Great Synagogue
• Gelati Monastery

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Kutaisi:

• Toma’s Wine Cellar (Georgian traditional)
• Cafe Tiflisi (Georgian traditional)
• Lilestan (Georgian traditional + pizza and pasta)
• Sisters (Georgian traditional)
• At Home (Georgian traditional)
• Palaty (Georgian traditional)
• Tea House Foe-Foe (tea salon – pancakes, waffles and crepes)

Georgia 15-Day Itinerary: Day 10 – Way to Mestia, Svaneti

After exploring Kutaisi, the time has come to immerse yourself in the pristine and untouched nature of the Caucasus by heading to the iconic region of Svaneti. In fact, this is one of the most popular destinations in the country, known for its numerous mountain peaks and exceptional trekking opportunities, making it one of the most sought-after places for lovers of the outdoors.

However, since you’ll have to go through a boring 6-hour journey aboard an uncomfortable marshrutka to reach Mestia (the main village in Svaneti), there won’t be much going on today. In short, the goal is to ensure you make it to the destination well-rested, ready to make the most of the following two days in the mountains. As for transportation, there is one daily marshrutka departing from Kutaisi at 10h00, offering a direct route to Mestia for 40 GEL. However, in case you miss this particular connection, you may always take one of the many vans heading to Zugdidi, and then transfer to another vehicle bound for Mestia.

As a footnote, it’s worth noting that the region of Svaneti, due to its remote location, remained virtually closed to the outside world for much of its history, having gained a reputation for being unconquerable by force. Consequently, the local population (the Svans) developed their own language, culture and even ethnic identity, different from the rest of Georgia. Deep down, is almost like visiting a neighboring country – it’s familiar, but it’s still different. If you arrive in Mestia while the sun is still up, it’s worth taking a stroll through the picturesque village, sharing the path with livestock and discovering the countless defense towers that became synonymous with the remote regions of the North Caucasus. In case you’re wondering, you can find similar stone structures in several republics of the Russian Federation, such as Dagestan, North Ossetia, Chechnya or Ingushetia.

Tenth day wrap-up:

• Road to Mestia

Georgia 15-Day Itinerary: Day 11 – Svaneti: Koruldi Lakes Hike

As expected, the region of Svaneti offers a wealth of trekking and outdoor activities, so choosing is really the only tough part here. Apart from the iconic 4-day trail between Mestia and Ushguli, a must for seasoned vets, casual hikers can explore several 1-day options, such as visiting the Chalaadi Glacier, the Chkhuti Ridge or the Enguri Valley. However, for this particular itinerary, we had to go with the spectacular hike to the Koruldi Lakes, a group of alpine lakes located 3000 meters above sea level, near the base of Mount Ushba.

The entire round-trip from Mestia covers about 21 km and takes approximately 7 hours to complete. While manageable for occasional hikers, the trail has an elevation gain of almost 1500 meters, which, when combined with the thin air and potentially muddy terrain, requires walkers to be in decent shape. You obviously don’t have to be an Olympic gold medalist, but the day will be physically demanding. If you wish to take a shortcut, you may always get a 4×4 taxi ride to the Cross of Mestia. The road might be nail-biting, but at least this trip will spare your knees from a strenuous climb of over 2 hours. Besides, this section is also the most boring and least impressive part of the trek, as the views only open up on the trail section between the cross and the lakes. That being said, and unless you’re running on a really tight budget, taking a 4×4 up the mountain to the cross is actually the best way to go. You may then start your trek to the Koruldi Lakes and return to Mestia on foot (the descent from the cross is far less demanding), so you don’t have to ask the driver to wait for you. Plan to budget around 50 GEL per person for the one-way journey.

Eleventh day wrap-up:

• Koruldi Lakes

Georgia 15-Day Itinerary: Day 12 – Svaneti: Ushguli

Arguably the most popular destination in all of Svaneti, a visit to this region of Georgia wouldn’t be complete without setting foot in Ushguli – one of the most beautiful rural villages in the world. Besides its impressive array of medieval defensive towers, Ushguli is located inside a valley, surrounded by the imposing peaks of Mount Shkhara. Up until not too long ago, Ushguli remained virtually cut off from the rest of the world during the extensive snow season (October to April), since all road accesses were blocked. In fact, that feeling of isolation and remoteness plays a big role in the fascination behind this time-forgotten place, since Ushguli likely hasn’t changed much in appearance over the past 200 or 300 years.

Despite the improvement of access roads, the journey to Ushguli remains a somewhat time-consuming process, taking nearly 2 hours for a four-wheel-drive vehicle to cover the 40+ km that separate Mestia from the village. To make sure you get a seat on the daily van that connects the two locations, we recommend visiting the Mestia Tourist Information Center the day before, not just to get your ticket but also to double-check schedules and prices. Anyway, the vans usually leave from Mestia at around 08h00, returning from Ushguli at 15h00. The round-trip journey costs 50 GEL.

Twelfth day wrap-up:

• Ushguli

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Mestia:

• Café Laila (Georgian traditional)
• Sunseti (Georgian traditional)
• Restaurant Lushnu Qor (Georgian traditional)
• Cafe Lanchvali (Georgian traditional)
• New Cafe Daeli (grilled meats and khachapuri)
• BBQ Garden (grilled meats and fish, salads and khachapuri)

Georgia 15-Day Itinerary: Day 13 – Zugdidi and the road to Batumi

As the time has come to bid farewell to Mestia and Svaneti, you will now cap off your trip to Georgia with a couple of more relaxed days on the quaint shores of the Black Sea. However, brace yourself for a solid six-hour overland drive to get from Mestia to Batumi, meaning you won’t really have time to do anything else today. According to official sources, there’s at least one daily direct marshrutka between these two places during the Summer months, departing from Mestia in the early morning. However, if you’re traveling during off-season or the schedule doesn’t really suit you, we recommend hopping on one of the several daily vans to Zugdidi (40 GEL) and try to enjoy a lunch break before transferring to another marshrutka headed for Batumi (25 GEL). Actually, this might very well be the most pleasant option, allowing you to stretch your legs and have at least a little bit of fun around Zugdidi.

While often treated as a mere transit point on the way to Mestia (Svaneti), Zugdidi is nonetheless worth stopping by, if only to explore the magnificent Dadiani Palace (8 GEL). Once the official residence of the family ruling the Samegrelo region, the beautiful building – in what can best be described as a wonderfully random turn of events – houses one of Napoleon Bonaparte’s original death masks. How such a piece found its way to this remote corner of the globe remains quite the quirky detail. Within the palace complex, you can also visit the Vlacherna Church and the Botanical Garden (5 GEL), originally the official gardens of the royal residence. Since you’re just here while waiting for your next van, I’m afraid you won’t have time to do anything else (aside from having lunch), but at least you got a glimpse into yet another Georgian destination. Now, it’s time for the second leg of the journey, which will have you arriving in Batumi by late afternoon.

Thirteenth day wrap-up:

• Zugdidi
  • Dadiani Palace
  • Vlacherna Church
  • Botanical Garden

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Zugdidi:

• Diaroni (Georgian traditional)
• Folk House (Georgian traditional)
• The Host (Georgian traditional)
• Iberia Palace (varied)
• Pancake House (pancakes, crepes and soups)

Georgia 15-Day Itinerary: Day 14 – Batumi, the Vegas of the Black Sea

Batumi is… weird! Due to its coastal location, its geographic proximity to the Turkish border and its previous status as one of the former Soviet Union’s largest tourist resorts, Batumi is quite different from the rest of Georgia, making it feel like it doesn’t quite belong. Add in the constant presence of many Slavic beachgoers (especially Russians), the abundance of casinos and the bizarre modern architecture, and you got yourself a recipe for a highly polarizing place: you either love it or hate it! Nonetheless, Batumi is still Georgia’s second-largest city, and therefore a place one really needs to see when spending some time on the country. As such, before delving into the historic center, kick off your day with a brief bus ride to the extraordinary Batumi Botanical Garden (20 GEL), one of the world’s largest and most impressive. Besides its vast size, the scenery is also quite stunning, as the garden serves as a natural balcony and offers breathtaking views of the Black Sea and the lush slopes of Cape Mtsvane. Arguably Batumi’s biggest tourist attraction, this one is a no-brainer!

Back in the city center, it’s time for a stroll through the quarter of Old Batumi. Although the widespread presence of classical and Art Nouveau buildings helps make it the most beautiful district in the city, Old Batumi has been through so many changes and tasteless renovations over the years that it has become hard to distinguish between genuinely historical façades and kitsch buildings created to just mimic another era. Batumi simply developed too fast in the 20^th century, so the preservation of its cultural heritage wasn’t exactly on the list of priorities. Be that as it may, exploring the streets and the historic center is still very much worth it, checking out local landmarks like the Batumi Cathedral, the Central Mosque, Cinema Apollo or Europe Square. However, if you thought the sights so far were unusual, wait until you reach the port area and set your eyes on Batumi’s modern architectural wonders. Amidst the skyscrapers and soulless casinos that earned the city its moniker of “Las Vegas of the Caucasus”, Batumi features buildings and structures that definitely defy conventional design! One notable example is the Chacha Tower, initially built to distribute chacha (a typical Georgian hard-liquor) for free every hour on the clock, a plan that never materialized for obvious reasons. Alongside this alcohol fountain, you’ll find the intriguing Alphabet Tower, whose façade is adorned with giant letters of the Georgian alphabet, and the Batumi Tower, famous for – listen to this – having its own Ferris wheel embedded in the building’s structure. Bizarre or not, by now your stomach will yearning for some food, followed-up by a nice walk along Batumi Boulevard, a scenic promenade extending for 7 km. Once the time finally comes to say goodbye to Georgia, do not leave without taking a refreshing dip at Batumi Beach, the city’s main stretch of sand.

Fourteenth day wrap-up:

• Batumi Botanical Garden
• Old Batumi
• Batumi Cathedral
• Central Mosque
• Cinema Apollo
• Europe Square
• Chacha Tower
• Alphabet Tower
• Batumi Tower Ferris Wheel
• Batumi Boulevard
• Batumi Beach

Where to eat in Georgia – Best restaurants in Batumi:

• BatuMarani (Georgian traditional)
• Café Adjara (Georgian traditional)
• Tavaduri (Georgian traditional)
• Fishlandia (fish)
• Laguna (khachapuri)
• Khinkali Ludi (khinkali)

Georgia 15-Day Itinerary: Day 15 – Back to Tbilisi

As you time in the Pearl of the Caucasus finally comes to and end, you’ll still have a 6-hour train journey towards Tbilisi, where your flight back home awaits.

Fifteenth day wrap-up:

• Train to Tbilisi