Georgia is a country that offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, and it can be challenging to decide which places to visit, especially if you have limited time. Here is a week-long itinerary that covers some of the must-visit destinations in Georgia.
The best way to make this trip is to rent a car in Tbilisi or directly at the Tbilisi Airport upon arrival. This will give you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and make the most of your time in Georgia.
Day 1: Tbilisi
Start your trip by arriving in Tbilisi, Georgia's vibrant capital city. Spend the day exploring the historic Old Town, including the Narikala Fortress, Metekhi Church, and sulfur baths. Take a stroll down Rustaveli Avenue, the city's main thoroughfare, and stop by the Georgian National Museum to learn more about the country's rich history and culture. End the day with dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city at night.
Day 2: Mtskheta and Kazbegi
On day two, drive to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia, and visit the Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Continue on to Kazbegi, a picturesque mountain town, and hike to the Gergeti Trinity Church for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3: Signagi and Kakheti wine region
On day three, drive to Signagi, a charming town in the Kakheti wine region. Visit the Bodbe Monastery and enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries. The region is known for its delicious wines and beautiful countryside, so take some time to relax and enjoy the scenic views.
Day 4: Vardzia and Akhaltsikhe
On day four, drive to Vardzia and explore the ancient cave city. Vardzia is a stunning complex of rock-cut caves that date back to the 12th century, and it's one of the must-visit destinations in Georgia. Continue on to Akhaltsikhe and visit the Rabati Castle, which has a fascinating history and is a great example of Georgia's multicultural heritage.
Day 5: Batumi
On day five, drive to Batumi, a seaside city on the Black Sea coast. Spend the day exploring the city's landmarks, including the Batumi Boulevard, the Alphabet Tower, and the Batumi Botanical Garden. Batumi is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere, so take some time to soak it all in.
Day 6: Uplistsikhe and Gori
On day six, drive to Uplistsikhe and explore the ancient cave city. Uplistsikhe is one of the oldest settlements in Georgia and is carved into the rock, providing a glimpse into the country's rich history. Continue on to Gori and visit the Stalin Museum, which is dedicated to the life and legacy of Joseph Stalin, who was born in the town.
Day 7: Martvili Canyon and Kutaisi
On the last day of your trip, visit the Martvili Canyon for a morning swim and kayaking session. The canyon is a natural wonder that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and it's a great way to relax and recharge before heading back home. Continue on to Kutaisi and explore the city, including the Gelati Monastery and the Bagrati Cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Georgia is a country that has a lot to offer, and this itinerary covers some of the must-visit destinations. Of course, there are many other places to explore, such as the Svaneti region, the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, and the Black Sea resorts, so feel free to customize the itinerary to your preferences and interests.
