check in travel georgia

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Georgia’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Georgia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of Georgia in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Georgia.

You might be asked to wear masks in hospitals.

Passport validity requirements

If you’re visiting Georgia, your passport should be valid for the length of your visit.

Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

British nationals do not need a visa to visit Georgia for up to one year. To stay longer or to travel for work or study, you must apply for a longer-term visa. Contact the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for more information.

If you’re in Georgia for more than 183 days and do any paid employment, you’re automatically liable for income tax and must tell the Revenue Service of Georgia . This applies whether you are on a visitor’s permit or officially resident. You’ll be fined if you do not comply.

Travel insurance

All visitors to Georgia must have adequate travel insurance to cover all healthcare needs during their visit. You may be asked for evidence of this, either by your airline at check-in or by immigration authorities when you arrive in Georgia. You may face difficulties if you do not have this evidence.

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Travelling with medicines

Georgia has a very strict anti-drugs policy. This can also cover prescription and non-prescription medicines commonly available in the UK. For example, non-prescription medicines containing codeine are illegal.

This can cause serious problems for travellers and in some cases lead to prosecution. Foreign nationals have been detained on arrival for having medicines that would not normally cause problems in the UK.

For more information on the legal status of a specific medicine, contact the Revenue Service of Georgia or the Embassy of Georgia in the UK .

If you plan to travel with prescription medicine, you must carry a doctor’s prescription and ideally the original packaging.

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Ministry Of Foreign Affairs Of Georgia

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Electronic registers, georgian visa electronic register.

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Consular department hotline : (+995 32) 2 94 50 50, ministry of foreign affairs of georgia 0118 georgia, tbilisi, sh. chitadze st. n 4, tel: (+995 32) 2 94 50 00, fax: (+995 32) 2 94 50 01.

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Before any flight, check with your airline and embassies or consulates to ensure that there are no specific measures in place in the country of destination. If you need to cancel, change or postpone a trip, contact your airline or tour operator directly. Check-in desk Just as you can check in using one of our online facilities, you can also experience a trouble-free and speedy check-in at one of our airport check-in desks using the following steps:

• Please ask at the information desk (located in the middle of Departure Hall) if you need any guidance. There are also several information displays throughout the Departures Hall that provide flight information and check-in row numbers.
• Go to your company check-in desk at the airport. Here you will meet our Ground Services staff.
• Check-in usually opens three hours before your flight’s departure time and closes 60 minutes before your flight takes off.
• For Domestic Flight Check-in usually opens 75 min before your flight’s departure time and closes 20 minutes before your flight takes off.
• Web check-in passenger can use Drop off counter facility.
• During the Pandemic Period, it is mandatory to apply check-in desk and make airport check-in for all kinds of passengers (mobile, online)
• Please make sure you’re carrying all the required travel documents with you. These include your ticket, passport, exit permit, and destination visas.
• Show all your travel documents such as ID and passport to our Passenger Service desk staff along with any other documents relating to special circumstances, for example, doctor’s notes. Passengers who have bought discount tickets must at this point show the documentation that qualifies them for the discount to our staff. 
• If there are no issues with your documents, our staff will check your baggage and take it from you. If you have exceeded your baggage allowance, extra baggage procedures will be applied. 
• Once your baggage has been processed, our staff will give you your boarding pass and direct you to your boarding gate.
• Some additional fees may be charged. You can check the relevant airline site for airline applications and additional fees. 
• Special assistance travelers should give their airline as much advance notice as possible regarding any specific requirements or needs.
• Expectant mothers who are more than 28 weeks pregnant should carry a medical certificate confirming that they’re fit for air travel.
• Parents or guardians of unaccompanied minors should give the airline as much advance notice as possible, and make sure they’re carrying all the required documentation.
• Special assistance travelers and unaccompanied minors receive priority processing when check-in at Tbilisi International Airport. 
• If you’re travelling with animals, please take the animal(s) with you to your check-in counter. Please make sure you’re carrying all the required documentation and have arranged everything with your airline in advance.
• If you’re late for check-in, please approach your airline’s office in the departure hall for assistance.

Special assistance 

• Please inform your airline in advance if you require personal assistance.
• Please arrange with your airline if you need oxygen, stretchers, or other medical assistance a minimum of 72 hours early before departure time.
• Don’t forget to carry all the necessary documentation. Please consult your airline as early as possible before you start travelling.
• To ensure the best service quality and cut your wait to a minimum, you must notify your requirements to the airline or your travel agent from the time of booking and at least 48h before your flight.
• Whether you travel by car, by taxi, or by public transport, once you reach the airport customer assistance terminals are allowing you to notify us of your arrival. You may also go to the information desk or check-in counters of your airline in the terminals to obtain our assistance. Once notified, our reception and accompanying service will come and collect you from where you placed the call. we recommend parking in the car parks closest to the terminals
• Call the number written on the information panel located at the departure terminal entrance and an escort will soon come to collect you.
• Once you have called, the escort in charge of receiving you will join you to escort you through the terminal and up to the aircraft.
• Tbilisi International Airport offers barrier-free access and dedicated facilities to make travelling more comfortable for passengers who require special assistance.
• To ensure their wellbeing, special assistance travelers are usually boarded first and off-boarded last from their aircraft.
• The airport can arrange a personal helper to accompany you at all times and assist with check-in, passport control, security checks, baggage claim, and Customs.
• Complimentary wheelchairs are available throughout our passenger terminal; please ask at the nearest information desk. If you require assistance with moving around in a wheelchair, please inform your airline in advance so that a personal helper can be arranged.
• Washrooms adapted for passengers with reduced mobility are available at many points across our passenger terminal. Just follow the signs, ask at an information desk or use our airport map to find one nearest you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Post confuses nationwide number of Harris volunteers with those in Georgia | Fact check

The claim: 400,000 people in Georgia volunteered for Kamala Harris' campaign

An Aug. 26 Threads post ( direct link , archive link ) shows a quote from South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham about the importance of former President Donald Trump winning Georgia's electoral votes in the 2024 presidential election.

"If we don’t win Georgia, I don’t see how we get to 270. But I do believe Georgia’s ours to lose," Graham said on CNN's State of the Union . "It’s really hard for Kamala Harris to tell Georgians that we’re on the right track – they don’t believe it.”

The post's caption reads, "Wanna bet, Lindsey? 400,000 new volunteers in GA! We’re sick of Trump and sick of MAGA!"

The post garnered more than 100 likes in a day. Other versions of the claim were shared on Facebook , Threa ds and X, formerly Twitter .

More from the Fact-Check Team: How we pick and research claims | Email newsletter | Facebook page

Our rating: False

The post confuses the number of volunteers in Georgia with the number of those nationwide. Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign has 35,000 volunteers in Georgia.

Post mixes up number of nationwide and Georgia volunteers

A New York Times/Siena poll published on Aug. 17 shows the margin between Trump and Harris tightening in the swing state of Georgia, signifying the rapid growth of Harris' campaign in the wake of President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race. As of Aug. 22, Harris and the Georgia Democratic Party had coordinated 26 field offices and 200 full-time staff in the state, according to the state party's vice chair, Matthew Wilson.

But the post's estimate of volunteers in the swing state is inaccurate.

Fact check : No, Kamala Harris didn't 'back out' of Sept. 4 debate

NBC News initially reported on Aug. 24 that Harris's campaign had 400,000 volunteers in Georgia but corrected the statistic the following day, prior to when the Threads post was shared. In its correction, the outlet explained it had misstated the number of volunteers in Georgia, listing the nationwide figure instead.

Harris'campaign "launched a mobilization effort in the state and now touts more than 35,000 volunteers, 174 staffers and 24 coordinated campaign offices sprawled across Georgia," reads the updated article. "The Harris-Walz campaign said it has recruited nearly 400,000 news (sic) volunteers nationally since Harris launched her presidential bid last month."

Harris campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt confirmed the volunteer numbers in an email to USA TODAY.

USA TODAY reached out to the user who shared the post for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Our fact-check sources:

• NBC News, Aug. 25, Harris and Walz heading to Georgia as campaign seeks to build on convention momentum
• Lauren Hitt , Aug. 26, Email exchange with USA TODAY

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here .

USA TODAY is a verified signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network, which requires a demonstrated commitment to nonpartisanship, fairness and transparency. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Meta .

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Georgia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise normal precautions in Georgia. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do Not Travel To:

• The Russian-occupied Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia due to risk of  crime, civil unrest, and landmines .

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Georgia.

If you decide to travel to Georgia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for Georgia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

South Ossetia and Abkhazia – Do Not Travel

Russian troops and border guards occupy both South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The precise locations of administrative boundary lines are difficult to identify. Entering the occupied territories will likely result in your arrest, imprisonment, and/or a fine. Violent attacks and criminal incidents occur in the region. Landmines pose a danger to travelers near the boundary lines of both territories.

The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens traveling in South Ossetia and Abkhazia, as U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling there.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid at the time of entry.  

One page is required for an entry stamp.

Not required for stays of 365 days or less.

Hepatitis A and pre-exposure rabies are recommended. 

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy tbilisi.

29 Georgian-American Friendship Avenue Didi Dighomi Tbilisi, Georgia, 0131 Telephone: +(995)(32) 227-7724 (M-F 8:30-5:30) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(995)(32) 227-7000 Website: https://ge.usembassy.gov/ Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Georgia  for information on U.S.-Georgia relations

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You need a valid passport to enter Georgia . U.S. citizens may enter, reside, work or study in Georgia without a visa for up to 365 days. Border authorities are free to conduct questioning and deny entry to anyone at their discretion, regardless of the traveler's citizenship. U.S. Embassy Tbilisi is unable to intercede on behalf of U.S. citizens or petition the government of Georgia to allow entry into Georgia. Visit  the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website  for the most current visa information. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control ( CDC) website  for immunization information.

• U.S. citizens who overstay the permitted 365-day period are subject to a fine.
• If transiting Georgia , law enforcement and border officials may inquire about the purpose of your travel, funds, insurance, reservations, return tickets, and invitations before granting entry.
• Georgian law requires travelers to enter and depart using travel documents of the same nationality.
• Georgian law requires that Georgian citizens, including dual nationals, enter and depart Georgia on Georgian passports. The government of Georgia may consider naturalized U.S. citizens a Georgian citizen.
• Under Georgian law, U.S.-Georgian dual-national males between the ages of 18 and 27 may be subject to military conscription. For more information, please review the  Georgian Ministry of Defense  webpage.
• Foreign documents intended for official use   in Georgia must be authenticated with an apostille. This includes documents used to apply for a Georgian residency permit or to document the birth of a child born in Georgia.
• The U.S. Embassy cannot, under any circumstances, authenticate a document issued in the United States , regardless of whether the document has been notarized in the United States. See the Department’s webpages on  Judicial Assistance  and  Notarial and/or Authentication Service  for more information on apostilles.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Georgia.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs information  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations continue to plot possible attacks throughout Europe. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism  page.

Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and Adjacent Areas:  The United States and most other countries consider these regions part of Georgia. However, de facto local authorities claim independence, and Russian troops and border guards occupy both regions. Attacks, criminal incidents, and kidnappings have occurred in and around the areas. While none of the activity has been anti-American in nature, there is a high risk of travelers finding themselves in a wrong place/wrong time situation. Follow the guidance in our Travel Advisory for Georgia and do not travel to these regions. If you choose to travel there, you should be aware:

• U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling to the Russian-occupied regions of Abkhazia or South Ossetia. We are unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in either territory.  U.S. government employees also are restricted from traveling within five kilometers of the administrative boundary line (ABL) dividing these regions from Tbilisi-administered territory.
• The administrative boundary line (ABL) of South Ossetia is not clearly marked in many places and frequently moving in other places. There is an elevated risk of wandering into South Ossetia unknowingly while hiking, particularly on the ABL’s eastern side , which could result in detention by security forces.
• Unexploded ordnance left over from previous conflicts pose a danger near the administrative boundary line of South Ossetia.
• You may only legally enter these regions from the Georgian side, per Georgian law.
• You may be arrested, detained, imprisoned, and/or fined by Russian, Georgian or de facto authorities if you enter without proper documentation. 
• Medical services in the occupied territories are extremely limited. Hospitals do not accept credit cards or medical insurance, have little to no infectious disease control, and lack medicine.
• There are no commercial airports in either region making air ambulance evacuations impossible during medical emergencies.
• It is illegal to undertake any type of economic activity in Abkhazia or South Ossetia that requires permits, licenses, or registration, per Georgian law. Laws also ban mineral exploration, money transfers, and international transit via Abkhazia or South Ossetia.

Pankisi Gorge: The Department of State cautions U.S. citizens against travel to the Pankisi Gorge region (north of the villages of Matane and Chorale, to the border with Russia, including the city of Duisk) because of the current security environment and the potential for civil unrest. There are restrictions on U.S. Embassy personnel traveling to this region or within five kilometers of it. While the Georgian government has had success in combating terrorism within its borders, U.S. citizens should remain vigilant. ISIS recruiting has occurred in Pankisi in the past, and some known terrorists have confirmed ties to the Pankisi Gorge region.  

Crime : Criminals may target foreigners. Take precautions against becoming a victim of crime as you would in any large city.

• Firearms are readily available in Georgia, assailants may be armed, and disputes with firearms could occur.
• Alcohol consumption is prevalent and has been attributed to escalating or exacerbating otherwise minor disputes.
• Carrying pocket knives or other cutting devices in Georgia is illegal under most circumstances .  You may be detained or cited if found in violation.
• There has been an increase in reports of “ confidence scams” where a traveler who orders drinks or food in a bar or restaurant is presented with a bill for exorbitantly high sums and then physically threatened if they do not pay. These are sometimes combined with “ romance scams ” wherein a traveler is taken to these establishments by someone they met online through a dating or other social meetup site.
• U.S. and other visitors have reported occurrences of sexual assault in Georgia.
• Avoid walking alone at night . 
• Exercise caution  when riding alone in private taxis or “marshrutka” mini buses.
• Maintain a low profile, do not carry large amounts of cash, and do not draw unnecessary attention to yourself.
• Use caution at  ATMs , and always check for skimming devices or other tampering.
• Avoid using  public WIFI networks or internet terminals  as they did not protect your data or personal information.
• Foreign visitors report having items stolen from locked hotel rooms. Review additional information on crime threats in the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) Georgia Country Security Report .

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredicatable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Security alerts about demonstrations can be found on the Embassy’s website here .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime : U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112, and contact the  U.S. Embassy  in Tbilisi at (+ 995) (32) 227-7724 (after hours + 995 32 227-7000). 

The  Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs  (MOIA) operates a 24-hour emergency response center similar to 911 (dial 112) and transfers emergency calls to the fire and rescue service, police, or the nearest medical emergency center. Most dispatchers speak only Georgian and Russian but will transfer calls to English-speaking operators.

Remember that the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  The U.S. Embassy has no law enforcement or legal authority overseas, nor can it investigate crimes in Georgia. U.S. embassy staff are prohibited by federal regulation from acting as agents, attorneys, or in a fiduciary capacity on behalf of U.S. citizens involved in legal disputes overseas.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of  local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Local resources for victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, or human trafficking include a hotline dial 116-006), temporary shelters, medical and rehabilitation services, interpretation and legal assistance. These may be available through a government agency known as  Atipfund Georgia .

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are not routine. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified by host government orby recognized authorities in the field. . In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities.  First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Personal Safety in Remote Areas: If you intend to camp , climb , or hike in the mountains or any remote area in Georgia:

• Research local conditions in advance.
• Go with a companion or a group. Avoid traveling alone.
• Provide route and contact information to someone not traveling with you.
• Maintain communication with your family and friends.
• If in trouble, call the emergency number 112. Most dispatchers speak Georgian and Russian but will transfer calls to English-speaking operators.

In the case of a crisis or natural disaster , U.S. citizens in Georgia may check the  Embassy’s website for U.S. Embassy emergency messages, or receive them by email by signing up for the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP).

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be fined, arrested, deported, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or praticing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

If arrested, you may be held in pre-trial detention for up to nine months. Review the State Department’s page on  Arrests or Detention of U.S Citizens Abroad.

Furthermore, some lawsare also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Notification to U.S. Embassy Tbilisi of the arrest of U.S. citizens is typically significantly delayed in Georgia. In addition, the Georgian police have the authority under the Administration Violation Code to detain individuals for up to 24 hours without court intervention and 48 hours with court approval (this is referred to as “administrative detention”). There are no due process rights assigned during an administrative hold, meaning the person has no right to counsel.

Special Circumstances : Georgia has strict regulations concerning:

• Possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in accordance with Georgian laws and controlled substance classifications. Penalties are severe and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. 
• The import or export of alcohol, tobacco, jewelry, religious materials, art or artifacts, antiquities, and business equipment.
• Export of items of historical value , such as artwork, antiques, jewelry, or paintings. You must obtain a license. Contact the  Embassy of Georgia  or see our  customs regulations  webpage.
• Firearms  cannot be imported into Georgia.
• Georgian law prohibits the  sale of real property  (land and houses) in the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Prior owners may have the right to reclaim the property in the future.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. If you attempt to bring counterfeit or pirated goods into the United States you may incur a fine or have the items seized. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual conduct or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Georgia. However, traditional cultural attitudes result in LGBTQI+ individuals often facing discrimination and harassment. Some LGBTQI+ persons in Georgia have been targets of attacks. In addition, violent anti-LGBTQI+ protests have occurred in Tbilisi, including in response to public LGBTQI+ related events.

See our  LGBTQI+ travel information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State’s Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities : Georgian law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, but the government does not enforce the law effectively. In July 2020, Georgia adopted legislation on the rights of persons with disabilities that establishes principles to guide the government’s implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The government has until this year (2023) to develop an implementation action plan and 15 years to complete accessibility of government buildings, infrastructure, and services. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited or nonexistent in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for  Women Travelers

For emergency services in Georgia, dial 112 (the equivalent of 911 in the United States)

Ambulance services  are not widely available outside Tbilisi and training and availability of emergency responders may fall below U.S. standards. Ambulances are not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Limited Medical Services in Rural Areas:  In the event of injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

We do not pay for medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most health care providers in Georgia only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription . Check with the  Ministry of Health  to ensure the medication is legal in Georgia . Georgia strictly regulates types and quantities of prescription medications that may be brought into the country. Travelers carrying prohibited prescription drugs have been detained and face heavy fines or arrest.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of English-speaking doctors and hospitals in Georgia. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.   Air pollution is a significant problem in Tbilisi. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling, if necessary. Georgia has installed and maintains air quality monitors around the country. Real-time data is available at: https://air.gov.ge/en/ .

Health Facilities in General:

• Adequate healthcare facilities are available in Tbilisi, although below U.S. standards. Outside major cities, medical facilities in Georgia are limited.
• Hospitals and doctors may require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:

• If you are considering traveling to Georgia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• The Georgian government has announced it intends to pass legislation that would ban surrogacy for foreigners starting January 1, 2024. Breaking the law will be a criminal offense. Currently, the law is in draft form and several issues related to surrogacy services, including if and how pre-existing contracts with ART facilities and surrogates in Georgia would be honored, will not be known until the law is passed. You might not be able to receive a refund if you enter into a contract for surrogacy services. Babies born through illegal arrangements might be prevented from leaving Georgia. Before you commit to a surrogacy arrangement, seek independent legal advice. A list of local attorneys in Georgia who have expressed interest in assisting U.S. citizens can be found on Embassy Tbilisi’s website.

Adventure Travel : Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel . 

• Travelers with  existing health problems  may be at risk due to inadequate medical facilities.
• There is a significant risk of rabies in Georgia. The CDC recommends some travelers complete the rabies vaccine series prior to arriving in country.
• Some spices made in Georgia contain high levels of lead. Consider purchasing spices only from recognized U.S. or international manufacturers.
• Georgia has a high rate of Hepatitis C . Exercise caution if you plan to get a tattoo, piercing, dental work , or other procedure with potential for blood exposure. Ensure the provider uses proper sterilization procedures.
• Ensure food is cooked thoroughly to reduce the risk of food-borne illness.
• Georgia has eight venomous snake  species that are active between March and October. Few medical facilities have antivenin serum.  Treat all snakes as potentially venomous.

Tuberculosis is prevalent in Georgia. Visit the CDC website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Georgia.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Road conditions in Georgia differ significantly from those in the United States. Many roads are in poor condition with stretches of road missing pavement and having large potholes.  Driving at night  can be dangerous due to varying road and traffic conditions, poor lighting, and the presence of open range livestock.

• Avoid traveling at night.  U.S. Embassy official travel at night outside of urban areas is prohibited, except for emergencies.
• Exercise caution when driving in Georgia at all times . Reckless driving is common, and drivers frequently ignore traffic laws.
• Be careful when crossing streets, as pedestrians are not given right-of-way .
• Winter travel can also be hazardous , especially in mountainous areas.

Traffic Laws:  Vehicles drive on the right. Speed limits range from 80 to 110 km/hr. (50 to 69 m/hr.) on highways and 30 to 70 km/hr. (19 to 44 m/hr.) on urban thoroughfares. Motorists are not permitted to make right turns at red traffic lights.

• Wear seat belts when driving.  Children under four  must travel in child-safety seats.  Children under twelve  may not ride in the front seat.
• There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol . Anything above a blood alcohol content of 0.0% is illegal.
• Vehicle safety inspections are being phased in since January 2018, but there are still many vehicles on the road in poor condition or lacking basic features such as working lights.
• The Georgian Patrol Police maintain traffic safety in Georgia, but enforcement of traffic regulations is inconsistent.

Public Transportation : Public transportation, while inexpensive, may be unreliable and uncomfortable.  Minibuses (“marshrutkas”) are often overcrowded, poorly maintained, lack seat belts, and are frequently involved in accidents.

See our  Road Safety page  and the website of the  Georgian National Tourism Agency  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight : As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Georgia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Georgia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Georgia should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Georgia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.”

Travel Advisory Levels

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Wander-Lush

The Ultimate Georgia Itinerary for 2024: How to Spend 1-4 Weeks in Georgia

The perfect Georgia itinerary for 1-4 weeks of travel in the Caucasus . Includes detailed transportation info, recommended things to do in Georgia, and up-to-date travel advice for 2024.

Oh Georgia. Where do I begin?

Georgia is a place that first captured my heart in 2017 and has been pulling me back ever since. I eventually gave in and moved here at the beginning of 2020.

I have been lucky enough to experience Georgia in every season from the perspective of both a tourist and an expat. Now that I’ve seen almost everything this country has to offer, I finally feel qualified to recommend the perfect Georgia itinerary for first-time visitors , with options for 1, 2, 3 or 4 weeks of travel.

These itineraries aren’t copied out of a guidebook, and they certainly weren’t designed for me by a tour company. Each one is cobbled together from my various travels around Georgia and based on my personal experiences, mistakes and successes. I have personally visited each and every place mentioned here multiple times, and I’ve done everything I can to make sure these itineraries are both realistic and up-to-date.

I have tried to balance the must-sees and not-so-popular spots for a good mix of nature, culture, history and adventure. For each destination, you will find detailed transportation instructions, personal recommendations for where to stay, and my insider tips for making the most of your time.

This guide includes:

• First time in Georgia? Read my 23 Practical Georgia Travel Tips .
• Want to see more of the Caucasus? Check out my epic Georgia Armenia Azerbaijan itinerary for the perfect route through all three countries.
• Hiring a car? See my alternative adventurous Georgia road trip itinerary and tips for self-driving .
• Questions? My Georgia Travel Guide has more FAQ, tips and advice.
• Want more Georgia travel goodness? Please consider subscribing to my e-newsletter for regular updates from Georgia.

5 things to consider when planning a Georgia itinerary

There are a couple of crucial things to consider in the early planning stages that will affect how your Georgia itinerary comes together. To give you a heads up – and to put my own itineraries into context – I’m going to briefly touch on just five.

Remember you can find tons more valuable information about trip planning here in my Georgia Travel Guide .

1. How long should you spend in Georgia?

Many people start planning a short trip to Georgia thinking they can see the whole country in a couple of days. But it’s important to understand that moving around chews up a lot of time.

Anything less than one full week and you’ll just want to base yourself in Tbilisi and stick to day trips (possibly with an overnight stay in Sighnaghi or Kazbegi). It’s possible to see a decent amount of the country in 2-4 weeks – but even then, you’ll be travelling at quite a fast pace and with several long travel days back to back.

The itineraries I’ve created don’t include specialty activities such as multi-day treks. If this is of interest, you’ll have to carve a few days out of your itinerary to fit it in. (I’ve included a couple of key multi-day hikes and where to do them below.)

If you have extra days, I recommend using them to slow down your overall pace and spend a bit longer in each place rather than trying to squeeze more in.

2. When to visit Georgia

There is no ‘bad’ time to visit Georgia – every season offers something different. Spring is nice for mild weather, wildflowers and Orthodox Easter celebrations; fall for the rtveli wine harvest and festivals; summer for hiking and outdoor activities; and winter for experiencing Tbilisi’s cosy side and Christmas festivities plus skiing/snowboarding .

The only time I suggest avoiding is peak summer – July/August – as it’s very warm in the cities and many places (including Tbilisi and Batumi) are overcrowded. My absolute favourite time to visit Georgia is late spring (late April/May) or fall (late September/October) . If you want to hike or visit remote mountain regions, avoid the colder months as many roads snow over and are impassable.

My itineraries are specifically designed to be trans-seasonal. The only exceptions are Ushguli and the Goderdzi Pass, which may be inaccessible in the middle of winter.

For more insights, see my month-by-month guide to the seasons in Georgia .

3. Where to start your Georgia itinerary

If you’re flying into Georgia, you have a choice between starting your itinerary in either Tbilisi or Kutaisi. Both cities have international airports with regular connections to Europe, Turkey and the Middle East. Budget travellers usually choose Kutaisi, which is serviced by Wizz Air. Tbilisi, meanwhile, has regular connections from Istanbul, the UAE and Qatar .

I love Kutaisi, but I generally recommend starting your trip in Tbilisi , the capital. The itineraries I’ve designed all start and end in Tbilisi. If you’re flying into Kutaisi, I recommend heading straight to the capital by coach. Georgian Bus runs buses direct from the airport that are timed to leave as planes land. The trip takes around 4 hours and tickets cost 25 GEL. See here for more info.

If flying into Tbilisi, do NOT take a taxi from Tbilisi Airport to your accommodation. Refer to my Airport Guide for information about using the airport bus and organising a reliable transfer.

4. How to get around Georgia

Intercity transport is something you want to consider well in advance as it will impact how long you need to spend in Georgia to see everything you want to see.

That’s because Georgia is small, but transportation is quite basic – it can take a long time to get from place to place if you’re relying on ‘public’ transport. Marshrutka vans are affordable, but schedules are flexible. Road safety is a concern in Georgia , so I strongly suggest you only travel by road during daylight hours and avoid using marshrtuka vans for long journeys or dangerous mountain roads.

Unless you hire a car (recommended for maximum flexibility, but only if you’re a confident driver), you will probably end up using a combination of marshrutka vans and trains, with a few transfers for more complex journeys.

• Hire a car from a local agent using Local Rent (the average price is $32/day)
• Read up on the basics of marshrutka travel in Georgia
• For reliable and budget-friendly private transfers, I always use GoTrip

If you do plan on self-driving in Georgia, you can broaden your itinerary even more. Here is my suggested road trip itinerary for 10 days in Georgia , focusing on harder-to-reach corners and hidden gems.

Organised day trips are very affordable in Georgia. They are a good way to make the most of your time, and to get access to alternative areas without self-driving. Even if you’re not a tour person, I suggest you at least consider an organised day trip from Tbilisi.

Friendly.ge is my preferred day tour operator in Tbilisi. Their itineraries are top-notch, as are the expert guides. Browse their private and small group tours here , and use the code wanderlush at checkout to get 10% off when you book direct.

I have sprinkled some specific day trips throughout these itineraries – or you can browse all Georgia day tours using the links below.

• View all Tbilisi day trips on Get Your Guide
• View all Kutaisi day trips on Get Your Guide

Most cities and towns in Georgia have a local bus system that is affordable and easy to use. I highly recommend downloading a taxi app (Grab works in most major cities) rather than hailing taxis on the street – they are unmetered and can be difficult to navigate if you don’t speak the language. See my taxi tips here .

5. Budgeting, insurance, visas & other logistics

Georgia offers visa-free travel for passport holders from 95-plus countries (including Australia, the US and the EU) – and you can stay for up to one year .

Passport holders from most countries in Asia and Africa are required to obtain either an e-visa or a visa in advance. I recommend using iVisa to check if you need a visa for Georgia and to apply for an expedited visa if you do.

You might like to bookmark these helpful guides for future reference:

• Budgeting for a trip to Georgia
• My tips for staying safe in Georgia
• My guide to buying travel insurance for Georgia
• Georgia packing guide & tips on how to dress in Georgia
• Where to store luggage in Tbilisi

Recommended pre-trip reading – How to get from Tbilisi airport to the city – How to buy and activate a Georgian sim card – 12 things I wish I knew before I visited the Caucasus

Georgia itineraries for 1-4 weeks of travel

Here is a brief outline of the four itinerary options included in this guide.

Under each section, you will find a day-by-day breakdown including things to do, recommended accommodations, and detailed transportation instructions for travelling from place to place.

One week in Georgia • Days 1 & 2: Tbilisi • Day 3: Day trip to Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe • Days 4 & 5: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region • Days 6 & 7: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi

Two weeks in Georgia • Days 1 & 2: Tbilisi • Day 3: Day trip to David Gareja • Day 4: Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe • Days 5 & 6: Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo • Days 7, 8 & 9: Mestia & Ushguli • Day 10: Zugdidi • Days 11 & 12: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region • Days 13 & 14: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi

Three weeks in Georgia • Days 1, 2 & 3: Tbilisi • Day 4: Day trip to David Gareja & Udabno • Day 5: Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe • Days 6 & 7: Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo • Days 8, 9 & 10: Mestia & Ushguli • Day 11: Zugdidi • Days 12 & 13: Batumi • Days 14 & 15: Khulo & Upper Adjara • Day 16: Akhaltsikhe & Vardzia • Day 17: Borjomi • Days 18 & 19: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region • Days 20 & 21: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi

One month in Georgia • Days 1, 2 & 3 : Tbilisi • Day 4: Day trip to David Gareja & Udabno • Day 5: Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe • Days 6 & 7: Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo • Day 8: Martvili • Days 9, 10 & 11: Mestia & Ushguli • Day 12: Zugdidi • Days 13 & 14: Guria • Days 15, 16 & 17: Batumi & the Black Sea Coast • Days 18 & 19: Khulo & Upper Adjara • Day 20: Akhaltsikhe & Vardzia • Day 21: Borjomi • Day 22: Tsalka & Javakheti • Days 23 & 24: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region • Day 25: Telavi • Days 26 & 27: Pankisi Valley • Days 28, 29 & 30: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi

Georgia itinerary map

Click here to open an interactive map of my Georgia itinerary in a new tab. Each of the four different options is included as a separate layer.

One week in Georgia itinerary

This itinerary for one week in Georgia offers a good introduction to the country. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the highlights and get a good feel for Georgian culture, food and wine.

If you only have 7 days in Georgia, don’t worry about trying to squeeze too much in – you will almost certainly be back!

Tbilisi – [Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe] – Sighnaghi & Kakheti –Kazbegi – Tbilisi

• Days 1 & 2: Tbilisi – overnight in Tbilisi
• Day 3: Day trip to Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe – overnight in Tbilisi
• Days 4 & 5: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region – overnight in Sighnaghi
• Days 6 & 7: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi – overnight in Kazbegi

Days 1 & 2: Tbilisi

Tbilisi – the coolest city in the Caucasus and one of Europe’s most talked about up-and-comers – is the logical place to begin your Georgia itinerary. This is where you’ll find some of the country’s best museums , restaurants and wine bars .

It might be the capital, but Tbilisi has an intimate feel – especially around Sololaki , the oldest neighbourhood, and in the historic Old Town proper. Tbilisi is a layer cake of different histories and influences collected over a lifetime spent sitting at the nexus of East and West , Asia and Europe.

Ottoman-Persian style bathhouses fed by sulfur springs and an urban waterfall , opulent mansion homes built by Armenian merchants and beautiful Orthodox churches sit side by side with Zoroastrian fire temples , grand synagogues and leftovers from Georgia’s Soviet period .

The cherry on top – the thing that gives the Tbilisi of today its unmistakable character – is a slew of quirky additions to the city’s skyline in the form of ultra-modern architecture .

Scaling the walls at Narikala Fortress , watching the sunset at Mtatsminda , and rummaging the Dry Bridge Market for the perfect souvenir are all must-dos.

Spend some time in the trendy Vera neighbourhood visiting coffee shops and cocktail bars , and pop over the river to Chugureti , the old German district, for unique architecture and the Fabrika creative space.

Two full days is the perfect amount of time to revel in the contrasts between old and new Tbilisi. For a full list of things to do in Tbilisi – including alternative attractions and local favourites – refer to my Tbilisi city guide .

Recommended reading :

• 52 unique things to do in Tbilisi
• The best Georgian restaurants in Tbilisi
• Recommended Tbilisi walking tours
• Best day trips from Tbilisi

If you’re not a huge fan of cities and two full days in Tbilisi feels like too much, you might choose to do a day trip on day 2, or dedicate another day to Kakheti or Kazbegi later in your itinerary.

Where to stay in Tbilisi

There is no shortage of accommodation options to choose from in Tbilisi, ranging from boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels . My Tbilisi neighbourhood guide explores the different districts and accommodation options in details. Here are a few of my favourites.

Budget hostel: Fabrika Hostel & Suites is Tbilisi’s most popular hostel and hangout. The space, a converted Soviet sewing factory, houses a cafe/bar/co-working area, boutiques and restaurants, and hosts regular events. Accommodation options include hotel dorms and private doubles.

Click here to check rates & availability on Booking.com or read my full review of Fabrika.

Mid-range hotel: For boutique on a budget, I highly recommend Hotel Manufactura in Avlabari. The property is located on a newly refurbished street and is walking distance from both the Avlabari Metro Station and the Abanotubani Sulfur Baths (via Metekhi Bridge). The breakfast here is top notch, and the rooms are very comfortable.

Click here to check rates & availability on Booking.com .

Boutique hotel: The House Hotel Old Tbilisi offers guests the chance to wake up to a typical Tbilisi courtyard, as viewed from a painted wooden balcony. Rooms feature bespoke wall paintings and vintage carpets. Service is professional and warm, and the complimentary breakfast courtesy of Blue Fox’s Michelin-starred chef is the perfect way to start your day.

I have partnered with The House to offer my readers 10% off – use the code WANDERLUSH when you book directly through the website .

Design hotel: Set in a historic 19th-century mansion house that once belonged to an Armenian merchant, Unfound Door embodies the sophistication and edgy elegance of Old Tbilisi. The painted stairwell will blow you away. Unfound Door Restaurant is one of the finest in the city for both breakfast and lunch/dinner – and cocktails.

Day 3: Day trip to Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe

Georgia’s ancient capital from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD, Mtskheta is home to the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Monuments of Mtskheta.

This is one of the most important places to visit in Georgia in terms of both religion and culture. Svetitskhoveli Cathedral , one of the oldest and most important Orthodox churches, and the stunning Jvari Monastery that overlooks the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, are both located here.

Mtskheta is a short 45-minute drive from Tbilisi, so to make it a full day trip, it’s usually paired with a visit to Gori and Uplistsikhe.

Gori is a small city famously known for being the birthplace of Joseph Stalin , who is remembered in an oh-so-Soviet museum dedicated to his life. Uplistsikhe is Georgia’s oldest cave city and an impressive introduction to the country’s medieval history and the legacy of the much-beloved Queen Tamar.

Recommended reading:

• What to see in Mtskheta
• 20 excellent things to do in Gori
• What to expect when you visit the Stalin Museum
• Tips for visiting Uplistsikhe

→ If this particular day trip doesn’t take your fancy, there are plenty of others to choose from – including German heritage and wineries in Kvemo Kartli, Soviet city planning in Rustavi , and even a one-day trip to Northern Armenia .

See my guide for the 15 best day trips from Tbilisi for more ideas .

How to do a Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe day trip from Tbilisi

You have three options here: Join an organised day tour from Tbilisi, hire a private driver, or go DIY by marshrutka.

An organised tour is the most time-efficient option, but you don’t get much flexibility. In Gori, guides tend to focus exclusively on the Stalin Museum, so you won’t get to see any of the city beyond that. Still, having a guide and guaranteed comfortable transport is the best option for some travellers.

To visit all three in a day , I recommend either this budget-friendly group tour or this flexible private tour . Both visit Mtskheta (including Jvari), Gori and Uplistsikhe, with a stop for lunch in either a local home or restaurant.

If you prefer to go in-depth on Mtskheta , this private half-day tour with Friendly.ge can’t be beat. I have done this itinerary myself and it was absolutely wonderful. It even includes the Chronicles of Georgia. Remember to use WANDERLUSH for 10% off.

Doing this trip DIY by marshrutka is possible, but it will be a bit rushed. I would recommend eliminating Mtskheta (you can visit Jvari and/or Svetitskhoveli on the way to Kazbegi instead) and focusing just on Gori and Uplistsikhe. If you want to try this day trip DIY, jump to full transport instructions in the 2-week itinerary here .

The better option in my opinion is to hire a car and driver for the day through GoTrip . You won’t have a guide, but you will have a lot more flexibility to depart Tbilisi when you want, explore Gori at your own pace, and make extra stops wherever you like.

This example itinerary I designed for Mtskheta, Gori and Uplistsikhe starts from a very affordable $45 per car, inclusive of transfers to and from your front door in Tbilisi. You can design your own route with different stops using the GoTrip platform.

Days 4 & 5: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region

Now that you’ve experienced the best of the capital and its surrounds, it’s time to escape Tbilisi and head east to Kakheti , the country’s most productive wine region . The Alazani Valley is a stunning landscape of vineyards and mountain-top churches .

You could easily spend a week or more travelling the tributaries of Kakheti’s Wine Route , visiting the different family-run maranis (cellars) that still make wine the old-fashioned way in clay qvevri and the many larger commercial vineyards. With two full days, you can see a good selection of the region’s most important churches and indulge in a healthy number of wine tastings .

Sighnaghi , the most charming town in the wine region, or Telavi , the biggest city and transport hub, are both ideal places to stay. There are plenty of guesthouses that specialise in good old-fashioned hospitality (and home cooking), so you have that to look forward to on your first night outside the capital.

If boutique is more your style, stay on the vineyards in one of Kakheti’s splendid wine chateaus . The Radisson Tsinandali Estate just outside Telavi is my personal favourite ( read my write-up of the Radisson here ) and every bit worth the splurge if only for the buffet breakfast!

In Sighnaghi, climb the City Walls , visit the local museum to see the exhibit of Pirosmani paintings (Georgia’s favourite artist was born in a nearby village), walk to the exquisite Bodbe Monastery , and drink in the panoramic mountain views from any of the restaurants and wine bars in town. On a clear day, you can see across the valley all the way out to the Greater Caucasus .

• Suggested itinerary for Kakheti
• A shortlist of my favourite wineries in Kakheti
• How to pick an excellent wine tour in Georgia
• Telavi City Guide
• Kakheti accommodation guide

Where to stay in Sighnaghi

For this itinerary, I recommend staying in Sighnaghi rather than in Telavi. Sighnaghi is the more ‘atmospheric’ of the two major hubs in Kakheti and has a good range of comfortable guesthouses.

Telavi has more boutique hotel offerings so if that’s more your style, you might consider staying there instead. Seventeen Rooms and Communal Hotel are my personal favourites. 

Budget-friendly guesthouse: Zandarashvili Guest House is a typical family-run guesthouse that’s been welcoming tourists for years. Rooms set over the family’s three-level home are all comfortably decorated and spotlessly clean. Mum cooks, dad drives (you can hire him for the day to take you around Kakheti), and son David plays the role of toastmaster at their nightly supras .

Click here to check rates & availability on Booking.com.

Boutique: 4 Rooms offers cute suites and studios with jaw-dropping mountain views. Hostess Mzia is renowned for her hospitality, and the breakfast here is particularly good.

Ranch: If you don’t mind staying a little further from the centre of Sighnaghi, Lost Ridge Inn is one of the coolest accommodations in Kakheti. Rooms are thoughtfully decorated and all have a garden-facing balcony. There’s a restaurant and even a brewery onsite – and they can organise horseback riding tours around the valley. You’ll need a taxi to get here from the centre of town because the ranch is located behind Bodbe Monastery.

Click here to check rates & availability on Booking.com or read my full review of Lost Ridge .

→ Find plenty more options in my Kakheti Accommodation Guide .

How to get to Sighnaghi from Tbilisi

Sighnaghi and Kakheti Region in general is very easy to get to from Tbilisi with either a marshrutka or shared taxi. Vans depart throughout the day (roughly every 60-90 minutes) from the bus station near Samgori Metro. Shared taxis leave on demand from the street alongside Isani Metro Station.

One thing to be aware of is that there are two possible routes drivers may take. It’s faster to take the Kakheti Highway rather than the Gombori Pass through Telavi, so try to make sure your driver is heading this way.

The first marshrutka is scheduled to leave Tbilisi at approximately 8am. Tickets cost around 10 GEL , and the journey takes 2-2.5 hours via the Kakheti Highway.

A seat in a shared taxi from Isani Metro Station costs around 15 GEL per person. Travel time is slightly faster, and the driver will drop you off closer to your accommodation in Sighnaghi rather than at the bus station .

→ For updated schedules and fares, see my full guide to travelling between Tbilisi and Kakheti.

How to get around Kakheti & travel the Wine Route

The wineries and churches around Sighnaghi are spread out across the valley so you really need your own car to explore the area properly.

The easiest option is to organise a driver for the day through your guesthouse, which you can either do in advance or during your stay. This should cost somewhere in the neighbourhood of 50-60 GEL per person for a full day depending on the number of people you have and how far afield you’re going. It’s cheaper if you pool with other travellers, so you might want to wait until the day and see who else is up for a road trip.

Normally your host will recommend a standard route, but you can always make special requests if there’s a particular winery or monastery you want to see (or skip).

If you want a more intimate experience, I suggest booking a day tour with a reputable company. I use and recommend Eat This! Tours , a small outfit that specialises in family wineries and creative itineraries. They have two single-day tours that focus on Sighnaghi and Telavi, with a good balance between wine tastings, supra feasts and other cultural activities. Pick up/drop off from your accommodation in Kakheti can be arranged.

Check the programs here on the website , and use the promocode WANDERLUSH to get 5% off your booking.

Days 6 & 7: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi

It wouldn’t be a trip to Georgia without an up-close look at the Greater Caucasus mountains . Just three hours by road from Tbilisi, the town of Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) is the most convenient place to immerse yourself in picturesque scenery and do a day trek or two. The Alps without the crowds (or the price tag), this is one of the most beautiful and underrated mountain regions in Europe .

Gergeti Trinity – arguably Georgia’s most iconic Orthodox church – is perched in the hills above town against the snowy peak of Mount Kazbegi. End your Georgia itinerary on a high (literally) by hiking up to the church from town (just make sure you follow the right trail – directions here ).

This is one of my absolute favourite things to do in Georgia, especially when you treat yourself to lunch at Rooms Kazbegi afterwards.

The road that links Tbilisi and Kazbegi (and continues up into Russia) is an attraction in and of itself. There are a dozen or so places to stop along the Georgian Military Highway , ranging from Soviet mosaic monuments to scenic viewpoints, medieval churches, and even a small village that some believe is the birthplace of khinkali!

You really want to take your time on this route, so set aside a full day to make the most of it. Hire a car and driver (details below) so that you can make as many stops as possible.

• 21 things to know before you visit Kazbegi

Where to stay in Kazbegi

• Guide to the Georgian Military Highway
• Essential guide to the Gergeti Trinity Church hike (must read!)

How to travel the Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi

This is the one route I definitely recommend hiring a car and driver for . There are lots of places to see along the Georgian Military Highway, and if you’re travelling by marshrutka, you simply won’t get a chance to stop.

GoTrip is the most convenient way to find a driver. If you’re coming from Sighnaghi, you should organise for your driver to pick you up from your guesthouse as early as possible. Take the (newly sealed) backroad through Tianeti, stopping off at the cyan-domed Kvetera Fortress Church on the way.

All up, the journey up to Kazbegi takes the better part of 6 hours without stops – so I would give it 8-9 hours in total .

A flexible transfer with GoTrip from Sighnaghi to Kazbegi via Telavi, Alaverdi Monastery and the GMH – with as many stops along the way as you like – starts from 90 USD per car . Customise your own itinerary and book here .

Budget guesthouse: Red Stone Guest House is a lovely little family-run place near the trailhead to Gergeti Trinity. The home-cooked breakfast here is one of the best I’ve had anywhere in Georgia – I’ll never forget sitting in the tiny kitchen while the owner cooked us a magnificent meal on her tiny gas stove. If you’re doing the hike, she simply won’t let you leave without a stash of khachapuri to take with you.

Mid-range hotel: Hotel Stancia offers minimalist Scandi-style rooms in a very convenient location opposite the bus station in the centre of town. The onsite restaurant is really good. Think of it as a budget version of Rooms.

Boutique hotel: Rooms Kazbegi is probably Georgia’s most iconic accommodation and is definitely worth the splurge. Set inside a renovated sanatorium, every little detail is on-point – right down to the outdoor hot tubs. The verandah offers one of the best views of Kazbegi. The only downside is that it’s a bit of a walk from the centre of town. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth visiting for a meal at the restaurant.

If A-frame is more your style, there are some stunning luxury mountain cabins and bungalows in and around Kazbegi. Here are my favourite mountain cabins in Georgia .

→ Find plenty more accommodation recommendations in my guide on where to stay in Kazbegi .

When it’s time to say farewell to Georgia, head back to Tbilisi by marshrutka or taxi. If your flight leaves from Kutaisi, transfer directly to Kutaisi Airport via bus from Tbilisi.

Two weeks in Georgia itinerary

Two weeks is enough time to explore both Eastern and Western Georgia in some detail. You won’t see everything, but you will get a small taste for the regions.

For this itinerary, I’ve switched things around to visit Kakheti towards the end of the trip because it makes more sense logistically. If you prefer to visit the wine region on day 3 as in the previous itinerary, you can easily adjust this.

I’ve also chosen to leave out Batumi as you need a full day to get to the Black Sea. I personally love Batumi and Adjara region, but I don’t consider it a must-see if you only have 14 days in Georgia. If you really want to, you could trim a day off Kutaisi and swap out Zugdidi for 2 days in Batumi instead.

This route builds on the previous 7-day itinerary. Additions are bolded:

Tbilisi – [David Gareja & Udabno] – Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe – Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo – Mestia & Ushguli – Zugdidi – Sighnaghi & Kakheti – Kazbegi – Tbilisi

• Day 3: Day trip to David Gareja & Udabno – overnight in Tbilisi
• Day 4: Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe – overnight in Gori
• Days 5 & 6: Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo – overnight in Kutaisi
• Days 7, 8 & 9: Mestia & Ushguli – overnight in Mestia
• Day 10: Zugdidi – overnight train to Tbilisi
• Days 11 & 12: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region – overnight in Sighnaghi
• Days 13 & 14: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi – overnight in Kazbegi

Refer to days 1 & 2 of the one-week itinerary above.

Day 3: Day trip to David Gareja & Udabno

David Gareja and Udabno is probably my favourite day trip from Tbilisi.

The David Gareja cave monasteries are a set of religious sanctuaries composed of chambers and cloisters hewn from rock . The most famous, Udabno Monastery and Lavra Monastery , straddle the border between Georgia and Azerbaijan, and also house a collection of important religious frescoes painted directly onto rock.

As of 2024, the complex is partially closed due to an ongoing border dispute. But the area is safe, and it’s still worth visiting in my opinion.

The semi-desert around Udabno is absolutely unreal. Unmarked hiking routes can be found in the rainbow hills , a wild landscape of multi-coloured striations created by mineral deposits. It’s best to avoid visiting this area in summer as venomous snakes are common.

• Guide to visiting David Gareja (with up-to-date information about closures)

How to do a David Gareja day trip from Tbilisi

In the absence of a marshrutka service, there are two ways to get to David Gareja from Tbilisi: Either by joining an organised day trip, or by using the Gareji Line transfer. 

Gareji Line is the best option for budget travellers or anyone who is content with just visiting the main monastery. It is essentially a shuttle van that runs between Tbilisi and David Gareja, with a stop for dinner on the way back at the popular Oasis Club .

Vans run every day during high season (starting from May 1) and on demand in shoulder/low season. The cost is 40 GEL per person. More details can be found on their Facebook Page .

If you want to visit the monasteries with a guide and explore more of Udabno, including the rainbow hills, you will need to either hire a car and/or driver, or more conveniently, join an organised day tour from Tbilisi.

There are several different itineraries that combine a visit to David Gareja with either hiking in Udabno or a wine tasting in Sighnaghi. My top choice is the off-road group tour with Friendly.ge , which pays a visit to Natlismtsemeli Monastery – a lesser-seen but very impressive cave temple. Remember to use WANDERLUSH to save 10% on your booking.

Day 4: Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe

Since Gori is located between Tbilisi and Kutaisi, I suggest spending a night here as you transit from east to west rather than visiting as a day trip like I recommended for the one-week itinerary.

The easiest option is to book a one-way transfer with GoTrip (Tbilisi-Mtskheta-Uplistsikhe-Gori) so that you can leave your bags in the car while you explore Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe. This itinerary I created starts from $45/car .

Once in Gori, use your extra time to explore the city beyond the Stalin Museum , starting with the unexpected old town , and the Great Patriotic War Museum , which chronicles the city’s experience of the South Ossetian conflict in 2008. Finish with sunset at Gori Castle and dinner at Shin da Gori .

Where to stay in Gori

Nitsa Guest House , run by the lovely Lia, embodies everything I love about Georgian homestays: Bucketloads of hospitality, homemade wine and jam on tap, and extremely comfortable and clean rooms. She really is one of the sweetest hosts I’ve stayed with. During our most recent visit, we stayed up late drinking and dancing with her and her school friends, and I know other guests who’ve been invited back to join in the family wine harvest.

How to get to Mtskheta from Tbilisi

If travelling by public transport: Marshrutka vans pass through Mtskheta on the way to Gori. This is one of the most popular routes from Tbilisi, so vans depart frequently – at least every 30 minutes – throughout the day from Didube Station. Travel time to Mtskheta is 45 minutes and tickets cost 2 GEL .

Note that trains do not stop in Mtskheta – but if you are happy to go straight to Gori from Tbilisi, you can take a Poti or Zugdidi train . The journey time is 1 hour, and tickets cost 12 GEL. Check times and buy tickets on TKT.GE .

How to get to Gori from Mtskheta

To travel onwards to Gori, it’s simply a matter of jumping back on a west-bound van. You can easily flag a marshrutka on the roadside. Travel time is roughly an hour , and tickets cost around 2 GEL .

The van might drop you off on the highway, meaning you’ll need to walk down to the road and jump on a local bus to travel the rest of the way (I had to do this once – it’s quite straightforward, and the driver will help you out). If the marshrtuka drops you at the bus station in Gori, you will need to take a taxi into the centre of town.

How to get to Uplistsikhe from Gori

Uplistsikhe is located 14km (around 20 minutes by road) from the centre of Gori. To get there, you can take a local van from Gori’s Bus Station (see location here ) to Uplistsikhe village (around 1 GEL ) and then walk 700 m to the cave entry point.

Or you can take a taxi from Gori, which should cost around 40-50 GEL round-trip including wait time. Taxis wait behind the Stalin Museum near the Chinebuli restaurant . Your guesthouse host can usually organise a reliable driver for you.

Days 5 & 6: Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo

Kutaisi is Georgia’s fourth-biggest city and the main hub in the country’s west. It has a completely different vibe to the capital: it is much quieter, and the lush forests of Imereti give it a unique backdrop. That is one of the main reasons why I chose to move here!

I love Kutaisi , not least of all because there are so many cute restaurants and wine bars around town. UNESCO-Listed Gelati Monastery and Motsameta Monastery, linked by a forest walking trail, are both must-sees – as is watching the sunset from the grounds of Bagrati Cathedral .

In the city centre, the sparkling Colchis Fountain pays tribute to the ancient kingdom that once enveloped Kutaisi, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in Europe . The synagogues, cable car and bustling undercover market are just a few more of my favourite spots.

Tskaltubo is located 20 minutes by road from Kutaisi and is an ideal side trip. A popular summer retreat during Soviet times , it’s home to a collection of sanatoriums that were used for state-mandated health treatments.

Many of these sanatoriums and bathhouses now lay abandoned – a real playground for urbexers and photographers . You can even visit Stalin’s dacha, his former suite at the old Military Sanatorium and Stalin’s personal bath , which is located inside one of the spas that remains open.

Some of the larger buildings were converted into temporary accommodation for IDPs who fled Abkhazia in the 1990s. When exploring Tskaltubo, be a responsible traveller and keep in mind that many families still live here and that some buildings are off-limits (it’s fairly obvious which ones to avoid).

While you’re in Kutaisi, I also suggest taking a full-day trip to Chiatura and Katskhi Column . Chiatura is a small mining city that flourished in Soviet times but has since gone into decline. In the 1950s, the state erected a network of 17 cable cars across Chiatura to ferry workers to and from the manganese mines.

Some of the original cars were still running up until just a few years ago (I was lucky enough to ride on ‘Stalin’s Rope Roads’ back in 2017), but in 2021, they were replaced with a new set of gondolas. If you’re interested in Soviet nostalgia and brutalist concrete architecture, this is the perfect day trip for you.

On the way to Chiatura, stop off at Katskhi Column, a striking monastery that sits atop a tall limestone stalactite .

And if you have time, make a pit-stop in the industrial city of Zestafoni , where you will find some truly remarkable mosaics and a 1930s-era ferroalloy factory .

• Things to do in Kutaisi
• Alternative Kutaisi & quirky activities

Where to stay in Kutaisi

• 15 Kutaisi day trip ideas
• Best Kutaisi restaurants
• Best Kutaisi bars
• Detailed guide to Tskaltubo
• How to do a Chiatura day trip from Kutaisi

Budget hostel: The newly re-launched Black Tomato Hostel offers bright and airy dorms plus private rooms with ensuite bathrooms in the heart of Sapichkhia, the former Jewish Quarter. Everything is newly renovated, while antique furnishings give rooms a classic Kutaisi feel. The onsite restaurant, which takes its inspiration from Kutaisi-Jewish cuisine, is fabulous and worth trying for lunch or dinner even if you’re not staying here.

Mid-range hotel: Hotel Newport is located in the old Kutaisi courthouse, directly behind the Colchis Fountain at the entrance to the historic Jewish Quarter. Rooms are compact and tidy, and the onsite restaurant-bar is great (I often eat here). A nice buffet breakfast comes included. Don’t miss out on seeing their rooftop terrace.

Boutique hotel: The recently inaugurated Communal Kutaisi is easily the loveliest hotel in town. Set on historic Tabidze Street, rooms are small but impeccably designed, with elements that channel Old Kutaisi charm. There is a pool out back, and the hotel’s Georgian restaurant, Doli, is the best place to eat in the city.

→ Find more suggestions in my Kutaisi neighbourhood & hotel guide

How to get to Kutaisi from Gori

There are semi-regular marshrutka minivans and shared taxis departing Gori bus station for Kutaisi throughout the day, starting from as early as 9am. Travel time is around 2.5-3 hours , and the fare is approximately 12 GEL .

Kutaisi’s main bus station, where most vans terminate, is located next to the McDonalds on Chavchavadze Avenue, around 4 km from the centre (see location here ). City bus #1 will take you from the bus station to the Colchis Fountain for 60 tetri.

How to visit Tskaltubo from Kutaisi

Vans to Tskaltubo depart from the end of the Red Bridge (near the Magnolia Hotel) every 15-20 minutes between 7am and 7pm. Travel time is 25 minutes , and the fare is 2 GEL . When you arrive in Tskaltubo, jump out at the park. Alternatively, a taxi to Tskaltubo costs around 15 GEL when booked through Bolt .

To get back to Kutaisi, just flag down a van travelling the opposite way. The fare is the same.

How to visit Katskhi Column & Chiatura from Kutaisi

There are a dozen daily vans to Chiatura from Kutaisi’s main bus station starting from 7.20am and departing once an hour until 4.30pm. Drivers normally make a short stop in Zestafoni on the way, so if you want to see the mosaics and architecture in Zestafoni first, jump out here for a walk around.

Drivers can drop you off on the highway at the trailhead for Katskhi Column on request. Travel time is 1.5-2 hours to Chiatura or just over an hour to Katskhi Column. Tickets cost around 10 GEL .

After you’ve visited Katskhi, you can just jump back in a van to continue to Chiatura. See my detailed instructions for visiting Katskhi and Chiatura from Kutaisi for more tips and important information about getting back to Kutaisi at the end of the day.

You can also go further along the same highway past Chiatura to Sachkhere , where there are a few more notable mosaics and a wonderful fortress called Modinakhe (car required). See my guide to Sachkhere here for inspiration.

With a private driver booked through GoTrip, you could quite easily do all five stops in one day . Drive time is around 4 hours return. Here is my Kutaisi-Zestafoni-Katskhi-Chiatura-Sachkhere itinerary .

Optional detour: Skip Svaneti & continue to Racha region

Sachkhere is the starting point for a new high mountain road that goes all the way to Racha region . It is one of the most beautiful drives in the country, especially in autumn .

If you’re searching for an alternative to Svaneti (Mestia and Ushguli) for days 7-9 of your trip, Racha is a terrific choice – it has alpine villages, hiking trails, incredible wine and cuisine, Shaori Lake, Tskhrajvari , and the wonderful small town of Oni with its synagogue.

I recommend booking a driver to take you all the way to Oni via the Alpana-Mamisoni Pass, then basing yourself at the wonderful Family Hotel Gallery . Racha is a bit tricky to navigate without your own car, but host Nika can help you with organising transport and/or hikes.

Days 7, 8 & 9: Mestia & Ushguli

Remote Svaneti Region is one of the most ruggedly beautiful corners of Georgia. Located in the country’s far north-west, the stunning scenery here is matched by a fascinating cultural mix that comes from the diverse ethnic groups who have lived in the mountains and valleys for eons.

Svaneti offers the best mountain hiking in Georgia. You won’t have enough time for the multi-day Mestia to Ushguli trek on this itinerary, but there are a range of alternative day hikes available.

Mestia is the main hub for Svaneti and has a good selection of guesthouses and restaurants, along with frequent transport connections. This is the place to indulge in hearty mountain fare (kubdari beef pie and spiced Svanetian salt are two regional specialties that you must try), and learn about the legendary Svans at the wonderful Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography .

Ushguli is just a day trip away from Mestia. One of the highest inhabited villages in Europe (by some measures), it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its iconic medieval stone fortified towers . In the village of Chazhashi, more than 200 towers still stand proud today.

Where to stay in Mestia

Budget-friendly guesthouse: Manoni’s Guesthouse is one of the longest-running in Mestia, and the family really know how to treat their guests. Rooms are very comfortable, especially the private doubles with ensuite. Meals are served in a cosy dining room. They can organise anything and everything on your behalf, including shared vans to Ushguli.

Boutique hotel: Hotel Lahili is a 5-minute walk from the museum, with modern and stylish rooms, comfortable common spaces and a generous breakfast.

Cabin: If you’re looking for something more secluded, Bude Mestia Cottages offer gorgeous self-contained A-frame cabins set in the forest 3km from the main square.

How to get to Mestia from Kutaisi

Kutaisi to Mestia is quite the journey so be prepared for a long and windy day of travel. I highly recommend booking a shared transfer with Budget Georgia – it’s generally a safer and definitely a more comfortable option. Prices start from 80 GEL per person in summer. Mention me when you book to get 10% off.

If you opt for public transport, then depending on the time of year, you might have to change vans in Zugdidi as direct marshrutka vans only tend to run in the high season. This is nothing to worry about though – mention your final destination to your first driver in Kutaisi and they will phone ahead to the next driver to ensure you make the transfer.

Travel time by marshrutka to Mestia from Kutaisi is approximately 5-7 hours . There is one direct van from Kutaisi Central Bus Station departing between 8am-10am, and the fare is 40 GEL . Alternatively, take a van to Zugdidi (hourly; 10 GEL ) and change to a Mestia there.

This road was recently upgraded, but it’s still a nail-biter. If you prefer to go with a driver (not a bad idea, especially in winter), a private transfer with GoTrip starts from 400 GEL.

How to visit Ushguli from Mestia

Ushguli is located 50 km east of Mestia, deeper in the mountains. You can travel between the two by road in around 2 hours . Most people visit Ushguli as a day trip. It’s possible to stay overnight (there are plenty of guesthouses) but in my opinion, a day is enough.

Tourist vans ply this route and there are always a couple of daily departures leaving Mestia at around 9am and returning before nightfall. The going rate for a seat is around 40-60 GEL per person return, and itineraries usually include lunch and a few scenic pit stops on the way to Ushguli.

Your guesthouse owner should be able to phone ahead and save you a seat the day before – or you can try your luck by approaching a driver near the main square (there are usually 4WDs waiting here as well if you prefer to go in a private car).

This road has improved considerably in recent years, but about 10 km is still unpaved. Note that if snow is particularly heavy in winter or if there’s a landslide in spring, the road to Ushguli may be closed for several days or more.

Day 10: Zugdidi

Zugdidi is a convenient place to stop for a few hours on the way down from Svaneti before you cross back into Eastern Georgia.

I have a soft spot for the biggest city in Samegrelo Region , a part of Georgia that’s very culturally distinct from the rest of the country. It also happens to be home to my favourite regional cuisine . Megrelian specialty restaurants such as Diaroni serve up kharcho (rich beef stew with walnuts) and elarji (cheesy cornmeal).

The biggest attraction in Zugdidi (apart from the food) is the Dadiani Palace , a former royal residence-turned-museum that holds a rare Napoleon death mask in its collection (strange, I know).

Zugdidi Botanical Garden , the former palace grounds, is now a beautiful public park. The city’s aristocratic heritage and connection to the French royal family is quite fascinating.

If you have time, take a 20-minute bus ride to Rukhi Castle for a view of Abkhazia before boarding the evening train back to Tbilisi .

• 15 things to do in Zugdidi
• Visiting a traditional Megrelian pottery workshop in Zugdidi
• The perfect day trip around Samegrelo region (coming soon!)

How to get to Zugdidi from Mestia

There are at least three direct vans from Mestia to Zugdidi daily departing from the bus station off Seti Square (see location here ). Check times when you arrive in Mestia – the owner of your guesthouse will know. Travel time to Zugdidi is around 4 hours with a stop at Enguri Dam, and the fare is around 40 GEL .

Taking the train from Zugdidi to Tbilisi

The rest of this two week Georgia itinerary is based in the east of the country. You’ll need to transfer through Tbilisi to get to Kakheti, so I recommend taking advantage of the late train to get back to the capital from Zugdidi. This will save you a full day on the road.

An evening train departs Zugdidi at around 5.20pm and arrives in Tbilisi just before midnight. Tickets start from 16 GEL and can be purchased online in advance via TKT.GE .

Spend a night in Tbilisi, then on day 11, take a metro or taxi to Samgori/Isani to catch a marshrutka/taxi straight to Kakheti (the first van of the day is scheduled for 8am).

You will arrive bright and early in Sighnaghi, so you can afford to have a rest morning to recover from the long journey. Make sure you organise an early check-in with your guesthouse in advance.

Days 11 & 12: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region

Refer to days 4 & 5 of the one-week itinerary above.

Days 13 & 14: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi

Refer to days 6 & 7 of the one-week itinerary above.

Three weeks in Georgia itinerary

Three weeks in Georgia is ideal for travelling at a slightly slower pace. You will have more time up your sleeve for specialty activities such as hiking, and you’ll be able to visit a few of the more remote corners of the country that take longer to reach by road.

This route builds on the previous 2-week Georgia itinerary. Additions are bolded:

Tbilisi – [David Gareja & Udabno] – Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe – Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo – Mestia & Ushguli – Zugdidi – Batumi – Khulo & Upper Adjara – Akhaltsikhe & Vardzia – Borjomi – Sighnaghi & Kakheti – Kazbegi – Tbilisi

• Days 1, 2 & 3: Tbilisi & day trips – overnight in Tbilisi
• Day 4: Day trip to David Gareja & Udabno – overnight in Tbilisi
• Day 5: Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe – overnight in Gori
• Days 6 & 7: Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo – overnight in Kutaisi
• Days 8, 9 & 10: Mestia & Ushguli – overnight in Mestia
• Day 11: Zugdidi – overnight in Zugdidi
• Days 12 & 13: Batumi – overnight in Batumi
• Days 14 & 15: Khulo & Upper Adjara – overnight in Khulo
• Day 16: Akhaltsikhe & Vardzia – overnight in Akhaltsikhe
• Day 17: Borjomi – overnight in Tbilisi
• Days 18 & 19: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region – overnight in Sighnaghi
• Days 20 & 21: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi – overnight in Kazbegi

Days 1, 2 & 3: Tbilisi & day trips

For things to do in Tbilisi, refer to days 1 & 2 of the one-week itinerary above.

This itinerary allows for an extra day in Tbilisi. You might choose to spend it visiting the Chronicles of Georgia and Tbilisi Sea , exploring the outdoor market at Navtlugi and visiting the Stalin Printing House Museum , or by venturing up to the Open Air Ethnography Museum, Turtle Lake , and one of my favourite restaurants in Tbilisi , Rachis Ubani.

Or you might choose to add on an extra Tbilisi day trip instead.

Day 4: Day trip to David Gareja & Udabno

Refer to day 3 of the two-week itinerary above.

Day 5: Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe

Refer to day 3 of the one-week itinerary above.

Days 6 & 7: Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo

Refer to days 5 & 6 of the two-week itinerary above.

Days 8, 9 & 10: Mestia & Ushguli

Refer to days 7, 8 & 9 of the two-week itinerary above.

Day 11: Zugdidi

For things to do in Zugdidi , refer to day 10 of the two-week itinerary above.

For this itinerary, I recommend spending the night in Zugdidi before you continue down the coast to Batumi.

Where to stay in Zugdidi

Guesthouse: Casa de Khasia is a gorgeous boutique guesthouse that’s run by a local couple who are extremely active in advancing the rights of Abkhaz IDPs and promoting Zugdidi as a tourist destination. Rooms are large and beautifully furnished, and the outdoor common spaces are delightful. Breakfast is included.

Guesthouse: Another guesthouse option in Zugdidi, Elco is conveniently located near the railway station. The owners are beyond friendly (I was invited to dinner when I stayed with them), and the rooms are really above and beyond, with tidy ensuites and a full coffee set-up for preparing your morning brew.

Optional detour: Poti & Kolkheti National Park

Located north of Batumi, the Black Sea city of Poti , also part of Samegrelo region, is a short 60-minute drive from Zugdidi. If you are more interested in nature and history, you might like to spend a day here on your way down to Batumi.

The site of an important sea port, Poti has beautiful turn-of-the-century architecture, a heritage lighthouse, and some fun street art. Just outside the city, Kolkheti National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can take a boat trip across Palistomi Lake and explore an exceptional landscape of wetlands and mangrove forests.

See my full guide to Poti for ideas, and my Kolkheti National Park guide for information about booking a boat excursion.

Days 12 & 13: Batumi

Batumi is Georgia’s biggest Black Sea resort city . I will be the first to admit that it’s not everyone’s cup of tea (it wasn’t mine either at first) – but with three weeks in Georgia, it would be a shame not to visit the Black Sea region, which is very important to Georgian culture.

Adjara (the region Batumi is part of) is another culturally distinct pocket of the country with a palpable Turkish influence and yet another scrumptious local cuisine to its name. Adjaruli Khachapuri – that iconic boat-shaped bread oozing with molten cheese, butter and a gooey egg – was born in Adjara.

Batumi revolves around the stony beachfront and Batumi Boulevard, a scenic park that traces the sealine and has been a fixture of the city since 1881. Hire a bike and cycle along the foreshore – all the way to Sarpi and the Turkish border if you’re game.

The Batumi Botanical Garden was the largest in the Soviet Union and is a must-visit for easy hiking and sea views. Eat lunch at the Fish Market , walk the old town , then take a bus down the coast to Gonio Fortress or north to Petra Fortress , Seaside Shukura at Tsikhisdziri Hidden Beach and the magnetic black sand beaches around Ureki.

Some of Georgia’s best national parks (and the country’s newest UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands), are a day trip away . Go hiking in Mtirala National Park or visit the more-spectacular and more-remote Machakhela , which straddles the Turkish border.

Admire Batumi’s street art and imaginative architecture , then finish your day with sunset drinks at high-rise Kartuli . As long as you’re visiting outside of peak summer season, you’ll no doubt find plenty of reasons to love Batumi.

• 35 things to do in Batumi
• 10 excellent day trips from Batumi
• Guide to visiting Batumi Botanical Garden
• Where to find Batumi’s best street art
• Cycling to Sarpi and the Turkish border from Batumi
• Guide to the best short hike near Batumi

Where to stay in Batumi

Boutique hotel: Kartuli Hotel is my top choice of accommodation in Batumi. Rooms range from very affordable doubles all the way to luxury suites. The location on the 37th floor of Orbi Tower is mind-blowingly good – the sea views, especially at sunset, are insane. Every little design detail is on-point and the breakfast is also top notch. Just note that the New Boulevard location is a little far from the centre of town, and food options at this end of the beach are more limited.

Click here to check rates & availability on Booking.com or read my full review of Kartuli.

Mid-range hotel: Mariinsky Boutique Hotel has an excellent location in the centre of Batumi, walking distance from both the Old Town and the Old Boulevard. Rooms are clean and contemporary. The property has a nice rooftop terrace.

Up-scale hotel: Launched in 2023, the latest Rooms hotel, Rooms Batumi , takes design inspiration from its harbourfront location. Prices for the ‘haute bunk bed rooms’ are very affordable, while suites have a higher price tag.

How to get to Batumi from Zugdidi

There are at least eight daily vans to Batumi departing from the bus depot near Zugdidi Railway Station (see location here ). Travel time is 3 hours and the fare is around 25 GEL . If there’s no van available when you arrive at the station, you can always transfer through Poti (a charming city in its own right, see the optional detour described above).

The journey down the Black Sea Coast is a real treat. Grab a seat on the righthand side of the van for the best views.

Days 14 & 15: Khulo & Upper Adjara

Upper Adjara is the mountainous region east of Batumi. Majority Muslim, it’s known for its opulent painted mosques . In summer, shepherds come here to pasture their flocks. In winter, picturesque mountain towns dotted with sweet cabins transform into ski slopes.

Khulo is not the biggest town in Upper Adjara, but it’s definitely my favourite place to base your stay. It offers a good selection of accommodation and a couple of reliable food options ( Restaurant ABX is my top pick).

As you will see, they do things a bit differently here – one of the ways to get around is by using a cable car to travel across the valley! Built in 1985, it still uses all its original mechanics. The line is just under 2 km, making it the second-longest single-span cable car in Europe .

I have done this trip twice now and let me tell you, it is mighty nerve-racking. Taxis are available from Khulo to take you to Glamping Tago if you prefer (see below).

Where to stay in Khulo

Guesthouse: Hotel Khulo Inn is a short walk from the centre of town and boasts direct views of the valley and Tago cable car. Rooms are new and very comfortably furnished, and the owners – a young local family – are incredibly gracious. I stayed here recently and rate it highly.

Glamping: For something special, Upper Adjara has a few ‘glamping’ luxury tents and geodesic domes. Glamping Tago is located in the small village on the opposite side of the valley and can be reached via cable car from Khulo. The spectacular mountaintop location makes it one of the most memorable accommodations in Georgia.

Book a tent here , and read my review of Glamping Tago here .

How to get to Khulo from Batumi

Marshrutka vans bound for Khulo and the villages in Upper Adjara leave every hour or so from Batumi’s old bus station (see location here ). Travel time is 2.5 hours and tickets cost 10 GEL . Alternatively, a taxi costs around 150 GEL. Hotel Khulo Inn and Glamping Tago both offer this service.

The road into the mountains is windy and a bit rough, so if you suffer from motion sickness remember to have your medication on-hand.

Day 16: Akhaltsikhe & Vardzia

Akhaltsikhe is a small city in Georgia’s Samtskhe–Javakheti region , a culturally diverse part of the country that is loaded with historical monuments and archaeological sites . The most famous of them all is of course Vardzia , Georgia’s biggest cave city , which lies just east of Akhaltsikhe.

Composed of more than 4,000 individual cells and chambers hewn from a sheer rock wall , it cuts an impressive figure. It’s enthralling to explore on foot, especially when you have a guide to point out the copper pipes, bread ovens and clay qvevri – ancient amenities that once supported a large community of resident monks .

The biggest attraction in Akhaltsikhe city is Akhaltsikhe Fortress, AKA Rabati Castle , a massive fortification that was originally built in the 9th century.

Some say the recent renovations went a step too far and left the castle feeling like a theme park . I still think it’s quite beautiful , despite not being able to tell where history ends and fantasy begins! I’ll let you be the judge.

• My tips for visiting Vardzia
• Things to do in Akhaltsikhe
• Complete guide to visiting Akhaltsikhe (Rabati) Fortress
• 10 things to do in Samtskhe-Javakheti region
• Meskhetian foodie guide

Where to stay in Akhaltsikhe

Located on the steep street that leads to the castle, Old Street offers a handful of large and very comfortably furnished rooms, one with an ensuite bathroom. The family live onsite and are very helpful with organising drivers, transport and the like. A fulsome breakfast can be added for a few extra GEL. We once had to wake up at dawn to catch a van when we stayed here and they very kindly prepared breakfast for us the night before so that we wouldn’t miss out.

How to get to Akhaltsikhe from Khulo

The mountain road between Khulo and Akhaltsikhe is still unpaved in sections and quite slow-going as a result. In 2024, work will continue and hopefully the entire road will be sealed and safe to drive soon.

A vehicle with high clearance, preferrably a 4WD, is required, and it’s not recommended to travel after heavy rain. If in doubt, call the Roads department hotline (+995 322 313 076) to check conditions.

There is only one daily direct marshrutka van during summer that I’m aware of – check times locally – or else you can travel by shared or private taxi. The trip takes around 3.5-4.5 hours via a beautifully scenic stretch of mountain road that passes by Goderdzi ski resort.

Note that the high pass is closed in winter. If you are travelling in the low season (approximately November to April), you will need to re-route back through Batumi and Khashuri instead.

How to visit Vardzia from Akhaltsikhe

Vardzia is 60 km south of Akhaltsikhe and can be reached in around 75 minutes by road. There are infrequent marshrutka vans to Vardzia from Akhaltsikhe’s bus station (see location here ) for around 7 GEL one-way, but the more convenient way to travel is by hiring a car and driver to take you there and back. This should cost around 60 GEL including wait time, and your guesthouse in Akhaltsikhe will be able to organise it for you.

For times and fares, see this guide on how to get to Vardzia .

Day 17: Borjomi

In Georgia and across the former USSR , Borjomi is associated with one thing: Mineral water. Natural carbonate springs were ‘discovered’ here in the 1850s, but archaeological evidence suggests the waters have been used for health purposes since at least the 7th century BC.

Today you can visit the original spring inside Borjomi Central Park – a leafy slice of parkland with walking trails, a cable car and open-air thermal baths – and fill up a bottle with water straight from the source. 

Borjomi has traditionally been a place for rest and respite, so it’s a good place to pause for a day. Aside from the park and a short cable car, there are Soviet mosaics and Romanov-era buildings .

Unfortunately, Georgia’s only scenic railway, the Kukushka train from Borjomi to Bakuriani , was cancelled in 2020 and has not recommenced. Bakuriani village is a ski resort in wintertime and a lovely village in summer, with old sanatoriums and a Greek village in the hills nearby.

The stunning Romanov Palace in nearby Likani is also closed, with no re-opening date in sight. You can see objects from the palace on display at the Borjomi History Museum instead.

Outdoor enthusiasts can find easy day hikes and challenging multi-day expeditions in Borjomi Kharagauli National Park . Because of its lower elevation in the Lesser Caucasus, trails here open earlier than in Kazbegi or Svaneti – making it a great option for spring.

• Complete Borjomi city guide
• 7 best day trips from Borjomi

Where to stay in Borjomi

Self-contained apartment: Borjomi Cottages (formerly called Guest House on Erekle) is a terrific choice for singles or couples. They offer several self-contained studio apartments set inside little cabins, complete with a kitchenette and modern bathroom. It’s walking distance from the train station and Central Park, and Pesvebi restaurant – which happens to be run by the guest house owner’s sister – is just footsteps away.

Budget-friendly guesthouse: Guest House Besarioni is another solid choice in Borjomi. Private rooms are set inside a family home on the hill above town, accessed via a flight of stairs from the main street. Rooms are comfortable, there’s a washing machine, and the owner is extremely friendly and helpful. There are a number of short hiking trails in the hills above the guesthouse too.

Boutique hotel: Set in one of the most beautiful old buildings in Borjomi – a house built for the Iranian Consul – Golden Tulip Borjomi is steps from Central Park. Rooms are furnished in the same opulent style as the exterior. The upstairs breakfast terrace affords lovely views.

How to get to Borjomi from Akhaltsikhe

Borjomi is 50 km (around an hour by road) from Akhaltsikhe. There are minivan connections from the bus station in Akhaltsikhe throughout the day. The fare is around 5 GEL .

Optional detour: Abastumani instead of Borjomi

If you’re looking for an alternative to Borjomi, Abastumani is another former spa resort around 40 minutes north of Akhaltsikhe in the Lesser Caucasus. It too has hot springs, a Romanov Palace and heritage architecture , plus a Soviet-era mountain observatory where you take a tour of the restored telescopes or book in for an evening stargazing session.

See my Abastumani guide for more information, transport tips and accommodations.

Days 18 & 19: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region

Days 20 & 21: georgian military highway & kazbegi, one month in georgia itinerary.

If you’re able to budget four whole weeks for Georgia, you are setting yourself up for a really wonderful trip.

I call this the ‘Ultimate’ Georgia itinerary because it touches on all the major cities, historical and cultural sites and landscapes. It includes 21 cities and towns, 9 out of the 12 regions, and all 4 UNESCO Sites (plus 8 of the 15 Tentative Sites).

This itinerary follows the same format as previous routes but with more stops included. Additions are bolded:

Tbilisi – [David Gareja & Udabno] – Mtskheta, Gori & Uplistsikhe – Kutaisi, Chiatura & Tskaltubo – Martvili – Mestia & Ushguli – Zugdidi – Guria – Batumi – Khulo & Upper Adjara – Akhaltsikhe & Vardzia – Borjomi – Tsalka & Javakheti – Sighnaghi & Kakheti – Telavi – Pankisi Valley – Kazbegi – Tbilisi

• Day 8: Martvili – overnight in Martvili
• Days 9, 10 & 11: Mestia & Ushguli – overnight in Mestia
• Day 12: Zugdidi – overnight in Zugdidi
• Days 13 & 14: Guria – overnight in Ozurgeti
• Days 15, 16 & 17: Batumi & the Black Sea Coast – overnight in Batumi
• Days 18 & 19: Khulo & Upper Adjara – overnight in Khulo
• Day 20: Akhaltsikhe & Vardzia – overnight in Akhaltsikhe
• Day 21: Borjomi – overnight in Borjomi
• Day 22: Tsalka & Javakheti – overnight in Tbilisi
• Days 23 & 24: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region – overnight in Sighnaghi
• Day 25: Telavi – overnight in Telavi
• Days 26 & 27: Pankisi Valley – overnight in Jokolo
• Days 28, 29 & 30: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi – overnight in Kazbegi

Days 1, 2 & 3: Tbilisi

Refer to days 1, 2 & 3 of the three-week itinerary above.

Refer to day 4 of the three-week itinerary above.

Refer to day 4 of the two-week itinerary above.

Day 8: Martvili

This one month Georgia itinerary is full to the brim, so I recommend enjoying a bit of downtime whenever you can.

Martvili , a small town in Samegrelo region, is the perfect place to pause between Kutaisi and Svaneti, giving you a chance for some much-needed rest between long drives. If you want to power through, you can easily travel directly from Kutaisi to Mestia and enjoy an extra day in the mountains.

There are a couple of noteworthy attractions in and around Martvili, including Martvili Monastery and two popular canyons, Martvili and Okatse . I’m not a huge fan of the canyons (or the nearby Kinchkha Waterfall ) – all of these sites are overdeveloped in my opinion and charge a hefty entrance fee.

Personally I would suggest using your time in Martvili to relax at Karma Hostel , visit lesser-known canyons such as Balda and perhaps the hot springs at Nokalakevi , enjoy a meal at Oda Family Marani , and maybe visit the Martvili tea fields instead.

Don’t miss the monastery and if you happen to be in town on a Friday, be sure to attend the weekly farmers’ market .

Where to stay in Martvili

Karma Hostel offers dorms and a private room for two on the outskirts of Martvili. This is an excellent place to chill out for a day or two, drink wine on the verandah and eat meals made with fresh produce from the neighbour’s garden.

Click here to check rates & availability on Booking.com or read my full review of Karma Hostel.

How to get to Martvili from Kutaisi

There a dozen daily vans to Martvili from Kutaisi starting from 7am and departing every hour until 6pm. The trip takes around an hour , and the fare is approximately 6 GEL . In Martvili, vans terminate in the centre of town. If you’re staying at Karma Hostel, you’ll want to jump off early at or near this gas station .

Days 9, 10 & 11: Mestia & Ushguli

Day 12: zugdidi.

Refer to day 11 of the three-week itinerary above.

Days 13 & 14: Guria

Western Georgia’s Guria Region is well and truly off the beaten track . I didn’t know anything about this part of Georgia before I visited this summer, but it quickly became one of my favourite places. I’ve been back several times since. The train station in Ozurgeti has passenger connections to Batumi and Tbilisi, making it relatively easy to get in and out.

As soon as you arrive in Guria, you will immediately notice the change in climate. This part of the country is very warm and humid, perfect conditions for growing hazelnuts and tea , the two crops this area is famous for.

Georgia’s little-documented tea heritage is absolutely fascinating and it all begins in Guria, where massive plantations and factories were built to furnish the entire Soviet Union with provisions for their daily cuppa.

There isn’t a whole lot of infrastructure in Guria, so I recommend staying centrally in or near Ozurgeti, the region’s small capital. It’s worth coming this way just to spend a few nights at Komli , a family run guesthouse and tea farm 10 minutes from Ozurgeti.

To explore further afield – such as the tea fields in Anaseuli , the Soviet mosaics around Meria and the incredible Soviet architecture in the village of Shroma – you will need to organise a car and driver.

Don’t miss visiting either Gomismta or Bakhmaro , Guria’s twin mountain-top summer resorts that both offer stunning views (roads open in the warmer months only, unless you want to travel by snowmobile!).

• Things to do in Ozurgeti & Guria
• Attending Lelo Burti, Georgia’s coolest cultural festival

Where to stay in Guria

Guesthouse: Komli is one of the coolest accommodations in all of Georgia. Hosts Mariam, Lika and Mari – three generations of women – are personal friends of ours. There are just two guest rooms set inside their wooden home outside Ozurgeti, or you can sleep inside a giant wine barrel in the yard that’s been fitted out with a double bed.

The family has an intimate relationship with the tea industry and they keep a small field on the property where they harvest leaves. The only thing better than the tea is the home-cooked Gurian fare, served up in plentiful quantities on the outdoor deck.

Boutique guesthouse: Another solid option outside Ozurgeti in Shemokmedi, Menabde Winery is a historic wooden house that has been retrofitted into a comfortable guesthouse (all rooms have ensuite bathrooms) and a wine restaurant. This place is pure magic. Eating a home-cooked Gurian feast in the garden, accompanied by a bottle of house wine, is an unforgettable experience.

How to get to Guria from Zugdidi

Ozurgeti, Guria’s biggest city and main transport hub, is 100 km south of Zugdidi via Poti and the Black Sea Coast. Travel time by marshrutka is around 2.5 hours . Depending on the bus schedule, you might need to transit through Poti. Check times and fares at the bus station in Zugdidi.

Days 15, 16 & 17: Batumi & the Black Sea Coast

For things to do in Batumi , refer to days 9 & 10 of the two-week itinerary above.

This itinerary allows for an extra day on Black Sea Coast, which you can use to explore another of Adjara’s national parks. My personal favourite is the Machakhela Protected Areas , a magical landscape of primary forest along the Turkish border.

Or you could spend a day in Poti and visit the Colchic Wetlands, as described in the previous itinerary, or go mosaic hunting in Kobuleti , a small resort town near Batumi.

• 10 day trips around Adjara (with transport instructions)
• How to visit the Machakhela Protected Areas

How to get to Batumi from Ozurgeti

To get from Ozurgeti to Batumi, I recommend taking a direct marshrutka van ( 2.5 hours ) or a marshrutka via Ureki. Check times and fares locally.

Days 18 & 19: Khulo & Upper Adjara

Refer to days 14 & 15 of the three-week itinerary above.

Day 20: Akhaltsikhe & Vardzia

Refer to day 16 of the three-week itinerary above.

Day 21: Borjomi

Refer to day 17 of the three-week itinerary above.

Day 22: Tsalka & Javakheti

Another of Georgia’s lesser-visited areas, the Javakheti Protected Areas is a high-altitude plateau of volcanic lakes and endless plains . This is one of Georgia’s most majestic landscapes – a complete contrast to the lush west and mountainous north – and absolutely worth the detour if you have time.

You can see a lot in the space of a day if you hire a car and driver to take you through Javakheti on your way from Borjomi back to Tbilisi.

This area is known as the ‘Georgian Arctic’ because of the unforgiving climate. The landscape is covered with deep snow for much of the year, so make sure you have the right gear if you’re travelling in the colder months. In late summer and fall it becomes one of the region’s most important nesting grounds for endemic and migratory birds .

Each of the lakes has a bird watching tower and short hiking routes nearby. If you only have time for a couple of lakes , I suggest visiting Bughdasheni Managed Reserve and the nearby Doukhobor village of Gorelovka , plus Paravani Lake and Poka St. Nino Monastery (don’t miss the convent shop that sells delicious preserves and skincare products made from local beeswax and botanicals).

If there’s time, stop off in the city of Tsalka for lunch at Restaurant Pontia before visiting Dashbashi Canyon and the petroglyphs in Trialeti.

If you have time, drop by the historic German villages of Asureti and Trialeti in Kvemo Kartli region , and make a stop at Manglisi Cathedral the spectacular Didgori Battle Memorial before arriving back in Tbilisi.

If the lakes district doesn’t interest you, you can always head straight back to Tbilisi from Borjomi by marshrutka or train and spend an extra day in the capital instead.

• Things to do in Tsalka and Javakheti
• How to visit the Didgori Battle Memorial
• More things to do in Kvemo Kartli region

How to get to Tsalka & Javakheti from Borjomi

To travel between Borjomi and Tbilisi via Tsalka and Kvemo Kartli, you’ll need a car and driver. I recommend hiring a driver for the day through GoTrip for this route so that you can make as many stops along the way as you please.

Prices for Borjomi-Tsalka-Asureti-Didgori-Tbilisi start from 80 USD per car. Customise your itinerary and book a driver here .

Days 23 & 24: Sighnaghi & Kakheti wine region

Day 25: telavi.

This extended Georgia itinerary allows for an extra day in the wine region. I recommend you spend it in Telavi, Kakheti’s biggest city.

You can find dozens more wineries in and around town for tours and tastings (Akido and Togonidze’s Wine Cellar are two of my favourites). If you skipped it on your first days, the historic Tsinandali Estate outside Telavi is a must-visit.

Telavi city itself is a very pleasant place to spend an afternoon. Wander beneath the balconies of the old town , visit the Giant Plane Tree – Telavi’s pride and joy – and explore the mammoth undercover market .

Where to stay in Telavi

Budget-friendly guesthouse: Guesthouse Lilia is a simple, warm and spotlessly clean family guesthouse in the centre of the city. The back garden and onsite wine cellar are a treat. Owner Lilia is very hospitable and can help with organising a car and driver to take you around for the day.

Mid-range hotel: Hestia Hotel, Wine and View offers the best of all three. Rooms are neat and stylish, and the panorama from the rooftop restaurant/bar is stunning.

Boutique hotel: Seventeen Rooms offers stylish modern rooms, an outdoor pool and delightful common areas, including a comfortable lounge with an open fireplace in winter. Some rooms have balconies overlooking the city. A generous breakfast is available, while lunch, dinner and local wines are served at the onsite restaurant.

Luxury hotel: The Radisson Tsinandali on the grounds of the Tsinandali Estate is a little bit pricey, but it’s worth every penny. Rooms are amazing, as is the buffet breakfast, and guests get unfettered access to the estate gardens. If you’re going to splurge on one hotel in Georgia, this is a great choice.

How to get to Telavi from Sighnaghi

There are only a handful of marshrutka services from Sighnaghi to Telavi – and the journey is quite slow as they stop frequently to pick up passengers from the villages along the highway.

It’s much more convenient to take a taxi between the two towns. This should take around 1.5 hours and cost somewhere in the neighbourhood of 60 GEL for a car. In Sighnaghi, taxis wait at the top of the park and down the road in front of the large building near the donkey statue.

If you’re already travelling the Wine Route , it might make more sense to throw your bags in the back of the car and ask your driver to drop you off in Telavi at the end of the day.

Days 26 & 27: Pankisi Valley

Visiting Pankisi Valley is one of the most memorable and enriching experiences you can have in Georgia.

Located in the north-eastern corner of Kakheti, the valley is defined by a series of small villages inhabited by families from the Kist community , whose ancestors migrated to Georgia from Chechnya 200 years ago. The area only opened to tourism relatively recently – it’s a real privilege and an honour to be able to observe the Kists’ rich and beautiful culture as a guest of the community.

Nazy’s Guest House in the village of Jokolo is the leading accommodation provider here. As well as offering comfortable rooms, Nazy can organise activities around the valley including guided cultural walks .

If you’re visiting on a Friday, you can attend the women’s zikr , a fascinating Sufi ritual that takes place every week. Eat copious amounts of delicious Kist food , and visit some of the many watchtowers, mosques and other historical monuments that dot the landscape.

Pankisi lies in the shadow of the Tusheti Protected Areas and is right on the doorstep of some immaculate nature. Marked hiking trails , guided mountain biking and horse trekking are all available.

• 20 things to do in Pankisi Valley
• What to expect when visiting Nazy’s Guest House

Where to stay in Pankisi

Nazy’s Guest House in Jokolo is the place to stay in Pankisi. Nazy has spearheaded tourism in the region and her family guesthouse is one of the longest-operating. Rooms are comfortably furnished, home-cooked meals are available, and Nazy can help organise everything from culinary classes to walking tours and guided horseback riding.

How to get to Pankisi from Telavi

Pankisi Valley is located less than an hour’s drive from Telavi. Marshrutka vans to Jokolo and Akhmeta, the nearest city to Pankisi, depart frequently from Telavi’s new bus station (see location here ). The fare should cost around 7 GEL .

Alternatively, there are plenty of taxi drivers that know this route and will take you to Jokolo for around 30 GEL . They tend to wait near the bus station – ask around and no doubt you will find someone who knows Nazy.

Days 28, 29 & 30: Georgian Military Highway & Kazbegi

For things to do in Kazbegi, refer to days 6 & 7 of the one-week itinerary above.

This one month itinerary allows for an extra day in Kazbegi which you can either use for an additional day hike or for relaxing in town at Rooms.

For alternative hiking routes , Juta and Truso are both popular choices and easy to reach from Stepantsminda (see more in the next section below).

How to travel the Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi from Pankisi

It’s possible to get onto the Georgian Military Highway from Pankisi without having to double-back through Tbilisi. Since I recommend using GoTrip for this route even if you are travelling from Tbilisi, you can simply organise for a driver to pick you up from Jokolo instead.

Organise for them to travel through Tianeti , a scenic (and newly sealed) backroad with a few places to stop along the way (including the delightful Kvetera Fortress’s Church ).

From Tianeti, the road continues to the base of Zhinvali Reservoir and the start of the Georgian Military Highway, which you can then follow all the way up to Kazbegi with all the stops mentioned previously.

Total travel time from Jokolo to Kazbegi is just under 4 hours without stops. A car and driver for the day starts from 90 USD when booked through GoTrip .

More places to visit in Georgia

These itineraries hit on all the major highlights – but that’s really just the tip of the iceberg. If you have more time in Georgia (or you’re already planning your return trip), there are lots more places that are worthy of your time.

Here is a small handful. I’ve also included suggestions for where to slot these into your Georgia itinerary so as to avoid backtracking.

Tusheti – add 4-5 days

The Tusheti Protected Areas is located in far north-east Georgia along the border with Russia. It’s extremely remote – and extremely beautiful – but you need a good amount of time and an experienced driver to get there.

Tusheti is all about dramatic peaks and valleys, clusters of stone tower houses and massive herds of sheep, all shrouded in mist because of the high altitude. Remote villages such as Dartlo are only inhabited during summer and offer basic guesthouses, but infrastructure is overall pretty limited. This of course is part of the appeal. The main things to do in Tusheti are hike, horseback ride and enjoy the mountain hospitality.

The road up to Tusheti is only open in the warmer months, meaning you only have a small window to visit. The season changes year to year depending on the weather but it’s usually from early June until October.

You must go with an experienced local driver who knows the roads and has a good car. Shared and private cars can be arranged from Telavi, thus it makes the most sense to visit Tusheti after Kakheti wine region. See here for transport instructions . Adventurers can travel up by horseback from Pankisi Valley.

Khevsureti – add 3 days

Similar to Tusheti, Khevsureti is a remote region of the Greater Caucasus in Georgia’s north-east. It’s sandwiched between Kazbegi and Tusheti.

The main attractions here are the village of Shatili , home to yet more stone tower dwellings , and the incredible Mutso Fortress . The Abudelauri Lakes Hike is also fantastic, and the entire drive up via the Datvisjvari ‘Bear Cross’ Pass is absolutely spectacular.

It takes at least 4 hours to reach Shatili from Tbilisi by road , so it’s recommended to spend at least 2 nights in a local guesthouse to make the most of it. It’s a smart idea to add it to your itinerary before or after Kazbegi. See my recommended 3-day Khevsureti itinerary for full details .

Racha-Lechkhumi – add 2-3 days

Racha is a mountainous region in Western Georgia between Svaneti and South Ossetia. It’s very popular with locals but doesn’t attract many foreign visitors, mainly because it was always a bit trickier to get to without a car. That changed in 2021 when a new road opened from Sachkhere in Upper Imereti, making it possible to reach Oni in under 4 hours from Tbilisi .

Oni is a magical town with a stunning old synagogue. Shovi , an old Soviet summer retreat, is home to ‘Stalin’s Dacha’, and the more remote villages such as Ghebi offer hiking and homestays where you can eat ‘real’ Rachan cuisine and sip famous Khvanchkara wine pressed from grapes that only grow in Lower Racha.

It’s possible to get to Racha by marshrutka van from Kutaisi to Ambrolauri or Oni, as described in the ‘detour’ above. Adjacent Lechkhumi Region has magnificent rock karst formations and high-altitude villages. This is where you’ll find the Instagram-famous Lailashi Secret Pool and the mythological Khvamli Mountain , which is great for an easy day hike .

Vashlovani Protected Areas – add 3-4 days

The far south-eastern corner of Kakheti region, approaching the border with Azerbaijan, is a wicked landscape of savannah plains and mud volcanoes. Vashlovani Nature Reserve is definitely an off-the-beaten track destination and only for the adventurous. You need your own 4WD to make the most of it.

While you’re in the area, be sure to spend a day around the town of Dedoplistskaro , visiting Eagle Gorge, Elia Monastery, and Big Shiraki , an abandoned Soviet airfield.

Lagodekhi National Park – add 2-3 days

Also in the eastern corner of Kakheti, Lagodekhi Nature Reserve is a lush forested landscape with plenty of hiking trails. One of the most popular routes is Black Rock Lake, a 2-day hike to the border with Azerbaijan and Russia. Duende Hotels offers delightful A-frame cabins on the edge of the park and is a great place to base your stay.

If you’re travelling to Azerbaijan next, you’ll pass right through Lagodekhi on your way to the border (keep in mind that overland travel into Azerbaijan is currently not possible as the country’s land border remains closed to inbound travellers until at least October 1, 2024.)

Otherwise you can easily get to the villages around the park from Tbilisi or Telavi by marshrutka.

Juta or Truso Valleys – add 1-2 days

If you’re looking for more hiking opportunities in the Greater Caucasus, Juta is an easy addition to your Georgia itinerary after Kazbegi. Fifth Season is a popular cabin accommodation in Juta and a good place to pair up with hiking buddies to tackle the trails around the valley. The Juta Valley Hike is totally doable in a day from Kazbegi and well worth it!

Mountain Freaks organises transfers to Juta and Truso from Kazbegi throughout the trekking season.

Georgia essentials

Here are the websites and services I personally use and recommend for Georgia. Check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Search for affordable flights to Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance (get 5% off when you book with my link).

SIM CARD: Magti is my preferred provider, with prices starting from 9 GEL/week for unlimited data. See this guide for all the details about buying a Georgian SIM card .

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Most flights into Georgia arrive in the early hours. For ease, pre-book a private transfer from Tbilisi Airport to your hotel (from $17) or from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi (from $90) with my partners at GoTrip.ge.

ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is the most widely used platform in Georgia. Use it to find family guesthouses, private apartments, hostels and hotels around the country.

CAR HIRE: Find a great deal on a rental car in Georgia – use the Local Rent website to book through a local agent (prices start from $20/day).

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Use Viator or Get Your Guide to browse a range of day trips and city tours. For off-beat programs, I recommend Friendly.ge (use the promocode wanderlush for 10% off). For in-depth day trips to Georgia’s wine regions, I recommend Eat This! Tours (use the promo code wanderlush for 5% off).

PRIVATE TRANSFERS: GoTrip.ge is a terrific service for booking a private professional driver and car for the day. Use it for A-to-B transfers, a customised round-trip itinerary, or a multi-day trip. You can stop wherever you like for as long as you like without the fixed price going up.

NEED SOME HELP?: Need feedback on your itinerary or personalised travel tips? I offer a one-on-one consultation call service for Tbilisi and Georgia. More information and bookings here .

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51 comments.

Just wanted to share my appreciation for your beautifully detailed blog on Georgia. We are in Georgia for over 3 weeks and been following your guidance mostly. We are having a great time, big thank you !!

Thank you so much, Rashi! Happy travels!

Hi, Emily! Thank you for giving the world your comprehensive blog. It’s a treasure! My mom and I are in Georgia for 12 days. The first two days are in Tbilisi, and after that, I wanted to show her a few beautiful spots around the country (some but not all of the places could Kazbegi; Racha, Mestia, or both, Kakheti or Borjomi (?); I’m not interested in Batumi). We don’t have a lot of time, but we do have quite a few bags with us haha. Also, neither of us drives. Do you think it makes more sense to prolong our booking in one of Tbilisi’s hotels and take various tours from here (like tour guides and gotrip drivers recommend) or just pack up and move forward?

Hi Sunny, thank you for the kind words! I would recommend using a couple of different cities as bases – so doing day trips from Tbilisi, then taking the train to Kutaisi and doing some trips from there. For Racha and Mestia you will need to overnight in those places as the travel times are longer.

Hi Emily Your blog is super helpful. I have 8 days in Georgia in August and will be using a driver or public transport (may include GoTrip). From Sighnaghi does it make more sense to go directly to Kazbegi or to go back to Tbilisi and go from there to Kazbegi? If we were to go directly from Sighnaghi, what’s the best way to get there? thanks Miranda

Hi Miranda, thanks! Definitely go direct (not through Tbilisi). You should go via Telavi and Tianeti – and definitely stop at the beautiful Kvetera Fortress Church! From there you can link up with the Military Highway and make all the stops recommended in my guide.

Been in Georgia 2 weeks and planned everything based on Emily’s blog. A gold mine which will save you a bunch of time – and money- and will make sure you do the best from your holiday time. Please consider this and support his work on his donation page, there are several options, it’s fair and deserved!

Thank you, Benoit! I really appreciate your support!

Hi Emily, My sister and I are leaving for Georgia in three weeks and are very much looking forward to it. Many thanks in advance for your hands on information! We wander whether it is possible to hike the Puchguli – Toucheti trail in May or whether it is too early in the year? Kindest, Jasmien

Hi Jasmien, I am not sure which hike you mean – maybe Mestia-Ushguli? Usually hiking season in the high mountains starts from June, so May might be a little too early.

Dear Emily,

I cannot thank you enough for this awesome guide to Georgia.

We followed your 2 weeks itinerary and will be flying back home tomorrow.It has been the best vacay till date. The itinerary was perfect and the details impeccable.The recommendations were excellent.

And of course Georgia is such a beautiful country.

Thank you so much for everything!

Amazing – thank you so much, Harsha! I hope you will get a chance to return some time. Safe travels home and thank you again for your comment and feedback!

I have been researching about Georgia as I intend to travel with my family in Mid April this year and I’m so glad I came across your blog.

We have 2 options – 3 days in Baku + 6 days in Georgia or we can give all 9 days to Georgia. Do you suggest we take the latter option given the weather in Mid April (April 12th-20th).

Either way we would be exploring Tbilisi, Kakheti, Kazbegi and attractions on the route to them. If plan plan to skip Baku, I think I can fit in Kutaisi and/or Batumi. But would it be a wise decision to do so?

We’re short on planning time, so I thought I’d seek your expert opinion.

It’s really up to you! Baku is a wonderful city but you can easily fill 9 days in Georgia. Kutaisi is lovely in April, it’s still a little early for the coast but the Batumi Gardens and national parks around the Black Sea will be very nice.

Hi Emily, hope you’re having a great day. Our recent family Christmas vacation in Georgia was certainly more than great, all thanks to your very instructive blogs. I had been reading yours for many weeks prior to our trip, and literally based my planning from it – from the places to stay and visit, logistics, and of course food. Such information loaded articles have saved me a lot of time and made our travel so much easier as well. I’m not so much into reading blogs, and have never done in our previous travels. But this first time has inspired me to make it as a first resource in our next family adventure. I’ll try to write some points (or tips) in another comment next time, that might help other travellers/readers of your blogs. Thank you once again.

Thrilled to hear that, thank you May! I hope you had an incredible trip and will get a chance to revisit Georgia again soon. Thank you for the kind feedback, it means a lot to me!

Hi Emily – thanks a ton for this blog! We’re planning or trip for a few weeks from now and this has been the most helpful resource we’ve found.

Somehting that would help us firm up dates and get our accomodations booked whould be to know what to prioritized on weekends vs weekdays. Should we aim to be at wineries on the weekend for a better experience with the hosts? Are Sundays usually quiet? Should we avoid being in Stepantsminda on the weekends due to crowds?

In general, we’re going to be roughly following your one week itinerary in Tbilisi, Sighnaghi and Stepantsminda but over about 10 days. We’ll spend the first weekend in Tbilisi for sure, but your opinions on the timing of the others would be great!

Hi AJ, sounds like a great plan! As it’s school holidays now there is not a huge difference between weekdays vs weekends. Some very small wineries might prefer to not have guests on a Sunday, but they would open for you regardless. I think Stepantsminda will be quite crowded every day throughout August (it was already in May!) so my biggest tip there is to get up to the church nice and early ahead of the groups.

Thanks Emily – appreciate your insight!

Thank you so much for this post. Exactly what I was looking for. Question: I know I shouldn’t compare but since I’ll be in Armenia before arriving in Georgia, should I skip Dilijan? Svaneti and Kazbegi regions look more impressive than Dilijan.

Hi Lee – in my opinion, yes. Dilijan is a nice base for hiking but the town itself is not that great in my opinion. Svaneti and Kazbegi have the Greater Caucasus mountains of course, and that’s very hard to beat!

Hi Emily, we are planning our 16 day trip through Georgia and so we are following your two week itinerary. We will land in Kutaisi. You recommend to always start in Tibilisi first. We wonder what the reason for that is. We also noticed that you drive from the east to the west and back to the east. For us even more, because we are leaving from Kutaisi again. We wonder if this is necessary or why you don’t do all the destinations in the east at once and then go to the west afterwards.

Thank you for your reply

Hi Julia – most of my readers fly into Tbilisi. Of course you can simply reverse the route.

H! We are just finishing a two week tour of Georgia, and we heavily used your blog, so thank you!

Random question: most of the houses we see have an outside staircase that goes to the second floor. We couldn’t figure out why. Any thoughts? What is the layout of a “typical” Georgian house? Thanks!

Hi Jenna, so happy to hear that!

Yes you’re right, a lot of houses have an external staircase (including mine!). I think there are a couple of possible reasons depending on the vintage of the home… Maybe upstairs was living quarters while downstairs was set aside for guest rooms, so there were two separate entrances. Or perhaps the house was divided up during the Soviet period between several different families, each of whom wanted their own entrance (so the stairs were tacked on later – this is often the case in Tbilisi especially). I have also been told that during the Soviet period it was not permitted to build a 2-storey dwelling, so some houses had a bottom level with a low ceiling height set aside as ‘storage space’.

As for a typical Georgian house – there are variations between regions and of course it depends when it was built. But I would say that many houses have conjoined rooms with multiple doorways and no hallways, plus at least one balcony.

Hello Emily, I intend visiting Georgia next September and I found your site which is very informative. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience. I am sure I will have a great time. I intend travelling for one month, unfortunately it will be in July and it will be warm. I will also try to hire a small car. And off I go on an adventure! I am a bit worried about the political situation with Russia so this is why I want to do it soon. Thanks again! Michele

Hi Emily, I’ve been reading your blogs and taking notes for some days now Very useful information indeed so first I wanna thank you Secondly, I need your help. My itinerary includes Tbilisi, Telavi, Kazbegi, Mestia and Batumi. I'm planning to spend a few nights in each destination and have day trips to Sighnaghi, Ushguli, etc. Can you please help me put the main 5 destinations in a smooth order I'd really like to get around Georgia without wasting time and I'm helpless mostly because of Mestia and Batumi. They are quite far.

Hi Beatrice, great to hear that! How many days will you spend in Georgia? The most logical order is Tbilisi – Mestia – Batumi – Tbilisi – Telavi – Kazbegi – Tbilisi (or the reverse).

Hi Emily, today my boyfriend and I came back from our 2 week trip to Georgia. It was a postponed 2020 holiday, so we were very much looking forward to it. In 2020 already and again these past months I have binged your blog and I want to thank you a lot for your extensive and clear blogs!! So many highlights are coming from your tips, for example dinner at Iasamani in Tbilisi (we also had our very last dinner there yesterday as a goodbye), the “secret” trail up to Gergeti Trinity, or visiting Tskaltubo, to mention some. Our only negative experience was with our rental car from Local rent. The car was definitely not in good shape and after 3 days we were forced to return to Tbilisi and we decided to rent a car from a more expensive company. The experience with the guy we rented the car from was really unpleasant. That aside, Georgia is a beautiful country and we would not have been able to enjoy it to the fullest without your help and commitment to this blog. Thank you so much! It will be weird to close off all the tabs with your posts I have been reading the past time haha. Good luck and perhaps we’ll read another one of your blogs for one of our coming holidays. Cheers from the Netherlands.

Hi Lily! Thanks so much for your comment, I’m so happy you finally made it to Georgia! It sounds like you had some wonderful experiences!

Sorry to hear about the car – I haven’t heard of anyone having such an experience before, but I know they are working on some enhanced quality control measures this year (ratings and so forth). Please write them and give them feedback on the agent if you haven’t already. I hope that didn’t disrupt your plans too much.

Thank you again for the comment and for reading, it means a lot! Hope to see you back in Georgia some time soon!

Thanks Emily. My partner booked us flights to georgia without consulting me and your site helped me to warm up a lot to the idea.

It is a great resource but I am left wondering about the following things – Are shops open on weekeneds? (I assume major attractions are, but maybe worth asking about that as well). Can totally live without shopping for two days, but if supermarkets are closed it is something that needs some planning. – Credit card acceptance and ATM availability, can we trust being able to pay with CC at resturants? We are going to land in kutaisi and spend few days there, and while I am sure CC usage is not a problem in tbilsi and batumi, not sure about kutaisi and even smaller towns. Guess another way to ask it is should we bring cash with us. – Personal safety. Stuff may happen in the safest places in the world, so this is about relative safety, are there places/activities in the cities which smart tourists should just try to avoid in the first place? – How bad is the humidity in the summer (june is what I care about realy) saw that you do not recommended comming to tbilsi at that time of the year, and I am sure people that are not used to heat+humidity will not enjoy the experiance, but can you compare it to some other generally humid places? And sub question, do places in general have AC, or do we need to be prepared to change cloths several times a day when walking around the city :)?

Hi Mark, glad to hear that!

I do go through a lot of these topics in depth in other guides…

Everything is open on weekends except banks and some Magti mobile phone shops, which are closed on Sundays. Shops, malls, restaurants all trade on weekends.

CC is widely accepted in all cities including Kutaisi, but you should carry cash for small towns/rural areas. Do not bring cash though, just use an ATM. See here for tips: https://wander-lush.org/georgia-travel-budget-costs/

Georgia is extremely safe by world standards. Specific safety advice here: https://wander-lush.org/is-georgia-safe-country-europe/

Humidity/heat – it depends where you’re going, the climate is vastly different from place to place. August is the warmest month, usually June is not too bad. AC is ubiquitous. See here: https://wander-lush.org/best-time-to-visit-georgia-country/

Hope this helps!

cool, thanks alot.

Thank you for all the incredible guides Emily, they are proving so useful in planning as I go.

I’m disappointed to read your note about the Kukushka train being suspended, as it was definitely on my list. I wondered if you are able to confirm whether this is still the case, or is there any way to check the status of it? Thank you

Hi John, thanks! Yes unfortunately the train is still not working. I hope it will start up again soon.

WOW Emily, I love all articles. I am planning for two weeks and most probably will follow your guidelines. Thanks alot Hugs from UAE

Thanks Ahmed! Very happy to hear that. Have a wonderful time in Georgia!

Hi Emily. I’m as Georgian very glad that such talented person choose to live here. You wrote very good travel guide, and the site itself is very good. I’m glad that came across it. You are doing great job to encourage people travel to Georgia.

Thank you Rusudan!

Hi Emily, Do you think staying in Shekhvetili and touring batumi is possible? or would be a long journey? As we liked the paragraph hotel but its showing 50 mins away from the batumi city? Below is our itinerary for Georgia trip; Tbilisi (2 nights – city & borjomi & bakuarini train journey) – Kazbegi (2 nights – trinity church & gudauri ski) – Shekhvetili (4 nights – Batumi, Kutaisi) – Tbilisi (2 nights – city tour) Please advice us your suggestion and if any changes needed on this itinerary. Appreciate your help.

Best to stay in Batumi and Kutaisi to explore those cities. I would do one night in Kutaisi, one in Shekvetili and two in Batumi. Also note that the train in Borjomi/Bakuriani isn’t running at the moment – hopefully it will start up again soon but it’s been closed for a long while now.

Hi Emily, thank you very much for your detailed guide for Georgia. With reading it I just become more sure that I must visit this beautiful country. I need one advice from your side. We (me and my husband) would like to visit Georgia for 2 weeks in April/May next year. But we don’t want too often to change the base cities where we stay. So we would prefer for 2 weeks to have base in only 2 cities. Are Tbilisi and Kutaisi good enough as base. Or could you suggest some other. Thanks again. All the best, Zlata

Tbilisi and Kutaisi are both good bases – from Tbilisi you can do Kakheti and Kazbegi, and from Kutaisi the west and south of Georgia. If you want to explore the coast as well, I would recommend a few days in Batumi. Just know it’s quite rainy on the coast during spring!

First of all, thank you for your great effort on the extremely detail blog.

I have almost finish reading your blog and planning to visit Georgia on either 14~27 Oct OR 27 Sep~10 Oct (hire car). May I have your advise on which is the best time if I wish to see the better autumn foliage color? I’m a bit confuse on the timing as I saw Svaneti region have earlier foliage than lower region.

Any advise?

My flow will be basically (stay: means places with overnight stay): Tbilisi (stay)- Tsalka-Paravani Lake- Vardzia (stay)- Akhaltsikhe- Kutaisi(stay)- Martvili(stay)- Mestia+Ushguli (stay)- Zugdidi- Baghdadi (Baia’s Wine-stay)- Chiatura- Gori (stay)- Kazbegi (stay) – Sighnaghi (stay) – Tbilisi (flight) It seems Svaneti will have earlier foliage than other region?

Hello Aeneas, thank you for the kind words! Your itinerary sounds absolutely wonderful, great job putting it together.

I’m not super familiar with Svaneti, long overdue for another visit, but I would say the earlier time slot would be safer. You’re right that fall does get an early start up there and since it’s near the middle of your itinerary, it may already be too cold if you go in late October.

You might even catch some post-wine harvest activity in Kakheti on your way out!

I really hope this helps! Have a fantastic trip and don’t hesitate to ask if there’s anything else I can assist with.

Your Georgia section is phenomenal. I am planning a trip there for next year, and your articles gave me everything I needed in order to decide where to go.

I hope I’ll be able to spend those 20 says there soon, the country looks incredible for photography

Hi Luca – thank you so much for taking the time to comment. I’m really glad to hear you’re planning a trip to Georgia! And even happier that my posts have been helpful. 20 days is a nice amount of time. I can’t wait to see your photos of the country!

Don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything at all I might be able to help with. Enjoy your trip planning!

Kindest, Emily

20 days should be enough for a first visit, but I plan to visit many more times as the places to explore are a lot. Also, I much prefer to visit less cities, spending more time in each one, rather than rushing through the country.

I actually have something to ask you; In my itinerary draft I put Sighnaghi right after Akhaltsikhe, and I was wondering about the best way to get from point a to b. Should I take a van/taxi to Tbilisi and then follow your instructions to get to Sighnaghi from there? I can’t find any precise information about a direct Akhaltsikhe to Tbilisi van.

Hi Luca, that’s what I tell everyone – don’t try to fit too much into your first visit because there’s a 99% chance you’ll be back!

There is no direct transport from Akhaltsikhe to Kakheti, so yes you should take a van to Tbilisi first then continue by van/taxi to Sighnaghi. Marshrutka vans from Akhaltsikhe to Tb should be fairly frequent, I don’t have the update times on me but I’d guess there are at least 6/day. Best to check times when you arrive – Akhaltsikhe has a small bus station on the main highway with times posted.

I hope this helps!

Fantastic detailed guide. Wish I had that on my first visit. It would have saved us hours and days of research and planning. I have been to Tushsto twice now. It doesn’t take that much time, count on half day up and half day down. The road is spectacular, pot holed and hair raising but a good local driver with a decent car/van can make it safely. There are now a handful of nicer bed and breakfasts. You can ask the driver bringing you up to take you by car to one or two side valleys. A special experience is horse back riding in the area, though most of the time you will rode on dirt roads as it is hard to go bybjorse into the woods and mountains. Happy to provide some recommendations if interested.

Thanks so much for your comment Ksenija, I’m really glad you found the itinerary helpful!

Tusheti is at the top of my list for this summer. I’ve planned it so many times but always miss the window. This year it’s going to happen! Would love to hear you recommendations for driver and guesthouse.

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