Georgia – a small country on the border of Europe and Asia, which has been gaining popularity among travelers in recent years. And it’s no wonder. This pearl of the Caucasus offers an incredible mix of ancient traditions, breathtaking nature, excellent gastronomy, and, above all, the endless hospitality of its local people. Discover a country where history meets the present and where every visitor leaves a piece of their heart.
On my first visit to Georgia, I was amazed by the diversity of the landscape – in a relatively small area, you’ll find the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus, lush valleys full of vineyards, wild canyons, and the peaceful Black Sea coast. And it is this diversity that makes Georgia an ideal destination for all types of travelers – from active holiday enthusiasts to history buffs, gourmets, and those seeking relaxation.
Let’s take a look at the best this fascinating country has to offer. In this guide — Georgia: 20 Best Places for Your Holiday — I’ve prepared 20 tips that you definitely shouldn’t miss when visiting Georgia.
TL;DR
- Georgia, a country you can visit all year round – in summer it offers mountains and the sea, in autumn grape harvesting, in winter skiing, and in spring a blossoming landscape.
- The most beautiful natural sites include Kazbek, Svaneti with the village of Ushguli (UNESCO), Martvili Canyon, and the Black Sea coast in Batumi.
- Historical monuments not to miss are Mtskheta with Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Tbilisi with its sulfur baths, and the cave cities of Vardzia and Uplistsikhe.
- Georgian cuisine and wine are unique worldwide – try khachapuri, khinkali, and wines made by the traditional qvevri method (clay amphorae).
- The best way to experience local culture is to attend a traditional Georgian supra (feast) and watch a performance of folk dances and songs.
- Don’t forget travel insurance.
Roadtrip through Georgia: 10-Day Self-Guided Itinerary
I recommend booking a car through DiscoverCars, it was hassle-free.
| Day | Route | Main stops / what to see | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Tbilisi | Old Town, Narikala Fortress, Bridge of Peace, Abanotubani sulfur baths | Hotel in Tbilisi |
| 2 | Tbilisi → Mtskheta → Kazbegi | Mtskheta (Svetitskhoveli, Jvari), Ananuri, Zhinvali Reservoir, Gudauri Viewpoint, Stepantsminda | Accommodation in Kazbegi |
| 3 | Kazbegi and surroundings | Trek to Gergeti Glacier, Sno Valley, Dariali Gorge | Accommodation in Kazbegi |
| 4 | Kazbegi → Gori → Uplistsikhe → Kutaisi | Gori (museum), Uplistsikhe (cave city), Rikoti Pass | Accommodation in Kutaisi |
| 5 | Kutaisi → Martvili Canyon → Mestia | Martvili (boat trip), possibly Okatse, Enguri Dam | Accommodation in Mestia |
| 6 | Mestia → Ushguli → Mestia | Ushguli (towers, view of Shkhara, easy trek) | Accommodation in Mestia |
| 7 | Mestia → Kutaisi | Shdugra Waterfall, Svan villages | Accommodation in Kutaisi |
| 8 | Kutaisi → Akhaltsikhe → Vardzia | Rabati fortress, Mtkvari valley | Accommodation in Vardzia |
| 9 | Vardzia → Borjomi → Tbilisi | Vardzia (cave city), Borjomi spa | Hotel in Tbilisi |
| 10 | Tbilisi | Markets, cafes, last walk | Hotel in Tbilisi |
Practical Notes:
- Allow enough time for the trip to Svaneti and Ushguli – the roads are really bad and the journey takes a long time.
- For the trip to Ushguli, it’s best to hire a local driver with an off-road vehicle in Mestia; we didn’t, and it was hardcore. The easiest way is to book it as a tour through GetYourGuide.
- The best time to visit Ushguli is from June to September; outside of the season, the roads can be even more hardcore than usual.
- In mountainous areas, expect cooler weather even in summer.
- Travel between major cities (Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi) is possible by marshrutka or rented car.
When to Go to Georgia?
Georgia is a country that has something to offer in every season, but when to visit depends on what you expect from your trip.
Spring (March–May) awakens the Georgian landscape to fresh greenery. Temperatures are pleasant, mostly between 15–20 °C in the lowlands, which is ideal for exploring cities and historical monuments. Spring nature provides a beautiful backdrop – imagine the view from Jvari Monastery above Mtskheta overlooking the confluence of rivers surrounded by a blossoming landscape. It’s also a good time for lighter hiking in lower altitudes, while snow still lies in the mountains.
Summer (June–August) brings hot days in the lowlands (often 30–35 °C), which is why many locals and tourists head either to the mountains or to the sea. In the mountainous regions of Svaneti, Tusheti, or Upper Adjara, the climate is pleasant, around 15–25 °C, making them ideal places for trekking and mountain hiking. Black Sea resorts like Batumi or Kobuleti are in full swing – you can enjoy swimming, beach activities, and vibrant nightlife.
Autumn (September–November) is considered the most beautiful time to visit Georgia. In early autumn, days are still warm, the sea is heated, and tourist crowds thin out. Mountains and forests turn shades of red and gold, creating a breathtaking scenery. Autumn is also harvest time – in Kakheti and other wine regions, the traditional grape harvest (rtveli) takes place, during which you can help pick grapes and taste fresh young wine.
Winter (December–February) in Georgia has two faces – a mild climate in the lowlands and true winter in the mountains. In cities like Tbilisi, temperatures hover around 0 to 5 °C, and snow is not very common, allowing for comfortable sightseeing without crowds of tourists. In contrast, mountain resorts like Gudauri, Bakuriani, or Mestia offer excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding from December to March, at a fraction of the prices of European resorts.
Georgia: 20 Best Places for Your Holiday
Let’s take a look at what to see and do in Georgia.
1. Tbilisi – a Metropolis Full of Contrasts
The capital city of Tbilisi is a vibrant metropolis where history intertwines with the present. Founded in the 5th century, the city lies on the Kura River and is surrounded by hills offering impressive views.
In the historic center, wander through the winding streets of the Old Town with its wooden balconies and traditional architecture. The dominant feature is Narikala Fortress , which you can reach on foot or by cable car. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the entire city.
In the heart of Old Tbilisi, visit the Abanotubani district with its famous sulfur baths. You’ll easily recognize them by their characteristic brick domes, from which steam rises. The water, at a temperature of around 40 °C, has healing effects on the skin and joints, so don’t miss out on a traditional spa experience – a bath in a private bath followed by a traditional massage. However, be prepared for the typical sulfur smell, which is an integral part of the authentic experience.
A symbol of modern Tbilisi is the glass Bridge of Peace over the Kura River, which glows with thousands of LED lights at night. Another modern landmark is the monumental Sameba Cathedral (Holy Trinity) from 2004, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
Tbilisi is also a culinary hub – in traditional restaurants, taste the best Georgian specialties like khachapuri, khinkali, or kupati, accompanied by quality local wine or cognac.
2. Kazbek and Kazbegi
The extinct volcano Kazbek (5,047 m above sea level) is one of the highest and most impressive peaks in the Caucasus. The area around Kazbek, also known as Kazbegi (now officially Stepantsminda), offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in Georgia.
The most photographed spot is the church of Cminda Sameba (Holy Trinity Church), perched on a hill above the town of Stepantsminda at an altitude of 2,170 meters. The trek to the church takes approximately 2 hours and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can even see the majestic peak of Kazbek in the background.
The Kazbegi area is accessible via the Georgian Military Road, which is an experience in itself. This historic road connects Tbilisi with the Russian border and passes through the Jvari Pass (2,379 m above sea level). Along the way, you’ll pass the Gudauri ski resort and the impressive Ananuri Fortress towering above the turquoise Zhinvali Reservoir.
For more experienced hikers, it is also possible to climb Kazbek itself, but this requires mountaineering equipment and an experienced guide. Less demanding alternatives include day treks in the surrounding area, for example, to glaciers or into the wild nature of Kazbegi National Park.
3. Svaneti – a Land of Towers and Untouched Nature
Svaneti is a mountainous region in northwestern Georgia that has preserved its unique culture and traditions due to its remoteness. The area is famous for its medieval defensive towers, which are a characteristic feature of the local landscape.
The heart of Svaneti is the town of Mestia, which serves as a base for excursions into the surrounding area. From here, you can embark on the popular four-day trek to the village of Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ushguli is considered the highest continuously inhabited settlement in Europe (around 2,200 m above sea level) and offers a glimpse into a life that has changed little over centuries. Dozens of 12th-century stone towers stand here against the backdrop of majestic mountains, including Georgia’s second-highest peak – Shkhara (5,193 m above sea level).
In summer, Svaneti is an ideal destination for hiking, mountain climbing, or horseback riding. In winter, the area transforms into a ski resort – around Mestia, the Hatsvali and Tetnuldi resorts attract visitors with powder snow and empty slopes.
Don’t forget to taste traditional Svan cuisine – especially kubdari (bread filled with spiced meat) and Svan salt, a spice blend with an inimitable flavor.
4. Mtskheta – the Spiritual Center of Georgia
Mtskheta, located just 20 km north of Tbilisi, is one of Georgia’s oldest cities and its spiritual center. Until the 6th century, it served as the capital of the Iberian kingdom, and today it still houses some of the country’s most sacred sites.
The city’s dominant feature is the 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. According to tradition, Christ’s robe is buried here, making it one of the holiest places in Georgian Orthodoxy. Explore the detailed stone reliefs on the facade and inside the church and soak in the atmosphere of a place where Georgian kings were crowned and buried for centuries.
Perched on a hill above the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura rivers is the 6th-century Jvari Monastery, which offers panoramic views of Mtskheta and the surrounding landscape. This monastery is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest examples of Georgian Christian architecture.
Mtskheta is often visited as a half-day trip from Tbilisi, but it deserves more time. Stroll through the historic center, visit local markets with traditional products, and taste specialties in one of the family restaurants.
5. Batumi – the Pearl of the Black Sea
Batumi, the capital of the autonomous republic of Adjara, is Georgia’s most popular seaside resort. Located on the Black Sea coast, it combines elements of a spa town, a port, and a modern metropolis.
Along the coast stretches the several-kilometer-long Batumi Boulevard with palm trees, fountains, and sculptures – an ideal place for evening strolls. In summer, you can swim in the sea, sunbathe, or enjoy water sports on the pebble beaches. Those who prefer sandy beaches can visit nearby Ureki, known for its unique magnetic sand with alleged healing properties.
Batumi is known for its extravagant architecture – from elegant 19th-century buildings to futuristic 21st-century skyscrapers. City icons include the moving statue of Ali and Nino, symbolizing the tragic love story between a Muslim boy and a Georgian girl, and the 130-meter-high Alphabet Tower adorned with letters of the Georgian alphabet.
In Batumi’s historic center, you’ll find Piazza Square with a European atmosphere and Europe Square with a bronze statue of Medea commemorating the legend of the Golden Fleece. The extensive Batumi Botanical Garden, a few kilometers outside the city, is also worth a visit, hosting thousands of exotic plants thanks to its subtropical climate.
Evenings in Batumi are full of life – from the bustling port to restaurants and bars, dancing fountains, and casinos on the coast. Don’t forget to try the local specialty – khachapuri Adjaruli, a boat-shaped flatbread filled with egg.
6. Kakheti
Kakheti, in eastern Georgia, is the country’s most important wine region and the cradle of winemaking with an 8,000-year-old tradition. It is here that the oldest evidence of wine production in the world was found.
In Kakheti, the traditional method of wine fermentation in clay amphorae called qvevri, buried in the ground, is still used today. This method has even been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list and gives rise to characteristic amber wines.
When visiting the region, don’t miss a tour of traditional wineries, where you can observe the entire winemaking process and, of course, taste local varieties like Saperavi, Kindzmarauli, or Khvanchkara.
The center of Kakheti is the city of Telavi, from where you can take trips to wineries and historical sites. Nearby are the 11th-century Alaverdi Cathedral with an impressive 55-meter-high dome, the Nekresi monastery complex with views of the Alazani Valley, and Gremi Fortress, the former capital of the Kakhetian Kingdom.
Signagi, often called “the city of love”, is a romantic town. It lies on a hill above the Alazani Valley and is surrounded by preserved walls. It has a peaceful atmosphere with cobbled streets, cafes, and magnificent views of the surrounding vineyards and the distant Caucasus.
The best time to visit Kakheti is autumn, when the traditional grape harvest (rtveli) takes place. You can participate in grape picking, observe wine production, and join in the celebrations associated with this important event.
7. Vardzia – a Monumental Cave City
Hidden in the rocks of southern Georgia is the fascinating cave city of Vardzia, built in the 12th century during the reign of the legendary Queen Tamar. This monumental complex was originally designed as a fortress but gradually grew into an entire underground city with temples, dwellings, and storage rooms.
Vardzia stretches for half a kilometer along the Mtkvari River and once had up to 13 levels and around 3,000 rooms connected by tunnels. Today, about 500 spaces are accessible, including the main Church of the Dormition with valuable 12th-century frescoes depicting Queen Tamar.
Although part of the complex was damaged by an earthquake in 1283, Vardzia still impresses with its size and sophistication.. Some parts are still inhabited by monks who continue the spiritual tradition of the place.
Vardzia is located about 60 km from Akhaltsikhe, and two hours are enough for a visit.
8. Uplistsikhe – the Oldest Rock-Hewn Town
Near the city of Gori lies one of the oldest settlements in Georgia – the rock-hewn town of Uplistsikhe, founded in the 1st millennium BC. This ancient city, carved into a sandstone massif, provides a fascinating insight into the lives of ancient civilizations.
Uplistsikhe was an important political and religious center of pagan Georgia before the arrival of Christianity. At its peak, it had around 20,000 inhabitants and was a crucial stop on the Silk Road. The city survived Mongol invasions and Arab incursions but began to decline after the establishment of new centers like Tbilisi and Mtskheta.
During your visit, you can wander through a labyrinth of carved streets, residential areas, storerooms, and temples. Among the most impressive parts are the pagan sanctuary, later converted into a Christian basilica, a wine cellar (marani) with large qvevri vessels, and a grand hall with a vaulted ceiling supported by rock pillars. The old pharmacy and theater are also interesting.
Uplistsikhe is located about 10 km east of Gori and can be easily visited as a day trip from Tbilisi.
9. Tusheti – a Remote Mountain Paradise
Tusheti, in northeastern Georgia, is one of the country’s most remote and beautiful regions. This mountainous area is accessible only a few months a year (usually from June to September), when the dirt road over the Abano Pass (2,926 m above sea level) is passable.
The journey to Tusheti is an adventure in itself – the 72 km long dirt road with steep drops and no guardrails is considered one of the most dangerous roads in the world. However, the reward for your courage is pristine mountain scenery, traditional stone villages, and an authentic way of life that has changed little over centuries.
The main village of Tusheti is Omalo, with its characteristic Keselo fortress, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Other notable villages include Dartlo, with its typical Tushetian architecture, and Diklo, offering views of the border with Russian Dagestan.
Tusheti is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. You can embark on day trips or multi-day treks through the Pirikiti and Gomecari river valleys, discover remote villages, and observe wild animals, including chamois, ibex, and rare birds.
The region is known for its traditions – local shepherds still live a semi-nomadic lifestyle, driving their flocks to the mountains in summer and descending to the lowlands in winter. Tushetian sheep cheeses, woolen products, and strong chacha brandy are sought-after souvenirs.
A visit to Tusheti requires thorough preparation – the region has no permanent electricity, mobile signal is limited, and accommodation options are modest (mostly family guesthouses or camping).
10. Martvili Canyon
In the western part of Georgia, in the Samegrelo region, lies a breathtaking natural formation – Martvili Canyon. This 2.4 km long gorge created by the Abasha River is extremely popular and quite expensive by local standards (and almost by ours too). While the canyon itself is beautiful, it’s quite small for the price, and the boat ride lasts about 10 minutes.
Near Martvili Canyon, Okatse Canyon is also worth a visit – another canyon with a 780-meter-long suspended walkway and a waterfall. Both canyons are located about 50 km from Kutaisi and are ideal for a day trip.
11. Prometheus Cave
In the karst region of Imereti, near the town of Tskaltubo, lies a fascinating cave complex known as Prometheus Cave. This underground labyrinth, discovered in 1984, is one of the largest caves in Georgia and offers visitors a glimpse into a magical world of stalactite formations.
The tour route leads through six main halls, which are effectively illuminated with colorful lights. The cave was named after the legend of Prometheus, who, according to Greek mythology, was chained to the Caucasus as punishment for stealing fire from the gods and giving it to humans. Georgians believe it was here that he suffered.
The cave tour takes approximately an hour, and at the end of the route, you can choose to return on foot or take a boat ride on the underground river (in my opinion, it’s not worth the money). The temperature in the cave remains around 14 °C year-round, so it’s advisable to bring a light jacket even on hot summer days.
Opinions on Prometheus Cave vary. Many consider it the most beautiful cave in Georgia, while others call it a tourist trap.
When planning your visit, keep a few important facts in mind:
- The cave is a very popular tourist attraction
- Tours are organized every half hour
- Up to 60 visitors can be in a group at once
- You won’t get much privacy here
If you don’t mind the presence of other tourists and can detach yourself from it, it’s definitely worth a visit. The cave is extensive and truly impressive.
12. Adjara – a Subtropical Paradise
Adjara is an autonomous republic in southwestern Georgia, known for its subtropical climate, long Black Sea coastline, and lush vegetation. Its capital is the aforementioned Batumi, but the region offers much more than just beach pleasures.
The interior of Adjara is mountainous and covered with dense forests – it is one of the rainiest areas of the Caucasus. Mtirala and Machakhela National Parks protect unique subtropical ecosystems and provide refuge for many endangered plant and animal species.
The region’s natural treasures include the Mahuntseti Waterfall, which plunges 20 meters into a narrow canyon, and Queen Tamar’s stone bridge, which spans the wild Adjaristskali River.
Adjara is also known for its mountain villages, where traditional crafts and ways of life are still preserved. In villages like Khulo or Shuakhevi, you can see the production of Adjarian cheese, mead, or traditional shaggy hats.
Adjarian gastronomy is influenced by its proximity to Turkey and the abundance of subtropical crops. In addition to Khachapuri Adjaruli, other specialties worth tasting include borano (melted cheese with butter), sinori (dough rolls filled with cheese), or achma (layered dough similar to lasagna).
13. Georgian Spa Culture
Georgia is a land of thermal springs, and spa traditions have deep roots here. Even in ancient times, Georgian mineral waters were valued for their healing properties and later became a popular destination for Russian nobility and famous personalities like Alexander Pushkin or Alexandre Dumas.
The most famous spa destination is the sulfur baths in Tbilisi’s Abanotubani district. These baths, with their characteristic brick domes, offer a traditional experience – bathing in hot sulfur water followed by a massage with an exfoliating kese mitt. You can rent a private bathroom of various categories, from basic to luxurious with marble pools.
Another important spa center is Borjomi in central Georgia, famous for its mineral water, which is exported worldwide. In the city park, you can taste warm mineral water directly from the spring – it has a specific taste, saltier and warmer than the bottled version.
A lesser-known but fascinating spa destination is Tskaltubo, near Kutaisi. During the Soviet era, it was a luxurious spa, even visited by Stalin. . Today, some buildings are abandoned (and have become a destination for urban exploration enthusiasts), but others are renovated and again offer therapeutic baths in radioactive mineral water, which is said to help treat a range of ailments.
In the mountainous regions of Georgia, you’ll find other thermal springs; some are adapted as outdoor pools, while others remain in their natural state. Among the more famous ones are, for example, the hot springs in Tbatani in the Tusheti region or the thermal lakes in Nokalakevi in western Georgia.
14. Georgian Gastronomy – What to Taste in Georgia?
Georgian cuisine is one of the richest and most diverse in the world. Thanks to its location at the crossroads of cultures, it combines influences from the Caucasus, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, while maintaining its unique identity.
An indispensable part of Georgian gastronomy is khachapuri – a cheese-filled flatbread that takes different forms in various regions. The most famous variants are Adjaruli (boat-shaped with an egg), Imeruli (round flatbread), and Megruli (with a double layer of cheese). Another popular specialty is khinkali – meat dumplings shaped like knots, which are eaten by hand according to a specific procedure: first, you suck out the juice, then eat the dumpling, and leave the tip (knot) on the plate.
Georgians love meat – typical dishes include mtsvadi skewers (shashlik), chicken tabaka (pressure-cooked), or chakhokhbili (chicken stewed with tomatoes and herbs). Vegetarians can enjoy a diverse palette of vegetable dishes – for example, badrijani (eggplant rolls filled with walnut paste), pkhali (vegetable pâtés with walnuts and pomegranate), or lobio (spicy beans in a clay pot).
Bread (puri), baked in a tone oven, is traditionally served with meals in Georgia, and of course, wine. For dessert, try churchkhela – walnuts or hazelnuts dipped in thickened grape juice, resembling candles, sold in every market.
An indispensable part of Georgian culture is the supra – a traditional feast where an endless array of dishes are served and elaborate toasts are led by a tamada (toastmaster). Supra is not just a meal, but a social ritual celebrating hospitality, friendship, and the joy of life.
15. Georgian Wine
Georgia is considered the cradle of winemaking – archaeological findings prove that wine was produced here as early as 8,000 years ago, making it the oldest wine region in the world. To this day, over 500 indigenous grape varieties are cultivated here, which is a global unique.
The most original aspect of Georgian winemaking is the traditional method of production in clay vessels called qvevri, which are buried in the ground. The must ferments together with the skins, seeds, and stems, which gives the wine its characteristic color and taste. This method was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2013.
The main wine region is Kakheti in the east of the country, but grapevines are cultivated in almost all regions. Among the most famous Georgian varieties are the white Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane, and the red Saperavi. Orange (amber) wines produced by the traditional method are typical, offering a complex taste with a higher tannin content.
16. Georgian Folk Dances and Music
Georgian folk culture is known for its energetic dances and unique polyphonic singing, which are among the most impressive in the world.
Georgian dances are a blend of athletic performance and dramatic art. Male dances like Khorumi or Khdao depict war themes and require incredible physical prowess – dancers whirl across the stage in acrobatic movements, balancing on their toes and performing acrobatic feats. Female dances like Kartuli or Acharuli, on the other hand, are graceful and elegant; the dancers seem to float in traditional costumes with long skirts. The dances often tell stories from history or everyday life and reflect the soul and temperament of the Georgian nation.
No less fascinating is Georgian polyphonic singing, which has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. These multi-voiced choirs with surprising harmonic progressions are heard during church ceremonies and secular celebrations. Each region has its characteristic singing style – from the rugged mountain melodies of Svaneti to the complex harmonic structures of Western Georgia.
17. Skiing in Georgia at Gudauri and other Resorts
Georgia has become an increasingly popular destination for winter sports in recent years. Thanks to the snowy slopes of the Caucasus, modern infrastructure, and prices lower than in Alpine resorts, it attracts skiers from all over the world.
The largest and most modern resort is Gudauri, located on the Georgian Military Road, about 120 km north of Tbilisi.
The slopes at an altitude of 2,000–3,000 meters offer ideal conditions from December to April. The resort boasts over 70 km of slopes of varying difficulty, seven cable cars, and modern equipment, including artificial snowmaking.
Gudauri is known for its wide slopes and abundance of freeride terrain, making it a paradise for off-piste enthusiasts. For the most adventurous, there’s the option of heliskiing – skiing in off-piste terrain with helicopter access.
Another popular resort is Bakuriani in the Lesser Caucasus, about 180 km west of Tbilisi. This traditional family resort has gentler slopes and is ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers. Bakuriani hosted the Freestyle Skiing and Snowboarding World Championships in 2023, which contributed to the modernization of its infrastructure.
In Svaneti, near the town of Mestia, you’ll find the Hatsvali and Tetnuldi resorts. These more remote resorts offer skiing with breathtaking views of the Caucasian peaks and an authentic atmosphere far from the tourist crowds. Tetnuldi is a newer resort with modern cable cars and wide slopes, while Hatsvali is smaller and cozier.
The newest addition is the Goderdzi resort in Adjara, located on the ridge of the Lesser Caucasus. Its unique feature is its proximity to the Black Sea – on clear days, you can ski with a view of the sea.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Georgian resorts also offer other winter activities such as ski touring, snowshoeing, snowkiting, or motoskijöring. After a day on the slopes, you can warm up in one of the traditional restaurants with a glass of local wine or cognac.
18. Georgian Hospitality and the Traditional Supra
Georgians are renowned for their hospitality – according to a local proverb, “a guest is a gift from God”, and they treat them accordingly. If a Georgian invites you to their home or even just for a glass of wine, be prepared for an unforgettable experience full of food, drink, and warmth.
The pinnacle of Georgian hospitality is the supra – a traditional feast held on various occasions, from family celebrations to religious holidays and welcoming guests. The word “supra” literally means “tablecloth” and refers to a table laden with an abundance of dishes.
The supra has its strict rules and etiquette. At the head of the table sits the tamada (toastmaster), who is carefully chosen for their wisdom, eloquence, and knowledge of traditions. The tamada delivers a series of elaborate toasts throughout the evening, to which others respond and gradually drink their glass.
The themes of the toasts usually begin with gratitude to God, continue through family, friends, homeland, the deceased, and various philosophical reflections. Each toast is a small work of art that can include stories, poems, quotes, or personal memories.
No less important part of the supra is, of course, the food. The table groans under the weight of numerous courses, which are served gradually but often remain on the table, so by the end of the evening, the tablecloth is no longer visible. Typically, you start with cold appetizers (cheeses, vegetables, cured meats), continue with warm appetizers (khachapuri, lobio) and main courses (khinkali, shashlik, various meat and vegetable dishes), and finish with sweets and fruits.
Wine or chacha (Georgian brandy) is an indispensable part of the supra, consumed exclusively during toasts, never on its own. Glasses are usually refilled as soon as you finish them, and refusing further toasts can be considered impolite.
Supra is not just about food and drink, but primarily about community, sharing, celebrating life, and preserving traditions. It is a social ritual that strengthens bonds between people and creates space for deep conversations and joyful stories. If you receive an invitation to an authentic supra, definitely don’t miss it – it’s one of the most authentic ways to experience Georgian culture.
19. Kutaisi
Kutaisi, Georgia’s third-largest city and former capital of the Kingdom of Colchis, is an ideal starting point for exploring the western part of the country. The city itself has a rich history dating back to antiquity – according to Greek mythology, Jason and his Argonauts came here in search of the Golden Fleece.
In the center of Kutaisi, the colorful local market is worth a visit, where you can taste Western Georgian specialties and buy fresh produce. Above the city stands the 11th-century Bagrati Cathedral, which was inscribed on the UNESCO list but removed after a controversial reconstruction in 2012. Nevertheless, it offers impressive views of the city and the Rioni River.
About 12 km from Kutaisi is the Gelati Monastery Complex, a true treasure of medieval Georgian architecture and art. This monastery, founded by King David IV the Builder around 1106, served as a center of learning and is known for its magnificent frescoes and mosaics.
The main church of the Virgin Mary houses impressive 12th-18th century frescoes and a monumental apse mosaic depicting the Virgin Mary with child. The Gelati Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most important monuments of Georgian Orthodoxy.
The surroundings of Kutaisi offer many other attractions. In addition to the already mentioned Prometheus Caves and Martvili Canyon, the nature reserve is also worth visiting Sataplia with dinosaur footprints and a viewing platform, Kinchkha Waterfall (one of the highest in Georgia), or the ancient city of Nokalakevi with remains of a 4th-century fortress.
20. Celebrations and Festivals
Georgia is a country rich in traditions and celebrations that reflect its unique history, religion, and culture.
Tbilisoba is an annual festival held in October, celebrating the founding of the capital city. The streets of Tbilisi transform into a huge celebration during this weekend with musical performances, dance ensembles, craft markets, and, of course, plenty of food and wine. You can watch traditional artisans at work, buy souvenirs, or taste specialties from various regions of Georgia. The festival culminates with fireworks and concerts in Freedom Square.
Rtveli (grape harvest) is not a one-time event, but rather a period from late August to October when grapes are harvested in various wine regions. It is a time of joy and abundance when families and friends gather to collectively pick and press grapes, prepare churchkhela, and celebrate the harvest. If you visit Kakheti or other wine regions during this time, you can join locals in the harvest, observe traditional wine production, and participate in lively celebrations with music and dance.
Mtskhetoba is celebrated in late October in the former capital city of Mtskheta. This holiday includes processions, church services in Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and folk festivities with music, dance, and markets featuring local products. It’s an opportunity to witness traditional religious ceremonies and secular celebrations in one of Georgia’s most sacred places.
Berikaoba is a traditional carnival holiday celebrated before the start of Lent. Its roots date back to pre-Christian times and it includes masked parades, theatrical performances, and carnival merriment. Participants wear masks of animals and mythical figures and walk through villages, bringing good luck and fertility, and collecting gifts. The most authentic Berikaoba celebrations can be experienced in rural areas, such as Kakheti or Kartli.
Lomisoba is a pagan-Christian holiday celebrated annually in June in the mountain village of Lomisi in eastern Georgia. People pilgrimage here to honor Saint George and sacrifice animals (usually sheep) at the ancient monastery. The holiday includes traditional rituals, feasts, and sports competitions, offering a fascinating insight into the syncretism of pre-Christian and Christian traditions in Georgian culture.
Orthodox Christmas and New Year are celebrated in Georgia according to the Julian calendar – Christmas on January 7th and Old New Year on January 14th. During Christmas, the Alilo procession is a tradition, where people in traditional costumes walk through the streets, singing carols and collecting donations for the poor. New Year’s Eve is celebrated twice in Georgia – on December 31st according to the Gregorian calendar and on January 13th according to the Julian calendar. Both celebrations include lavish feasts, toasts, and the Mekvle tradition – the first visitor in the new year who brings good luck and prosperity.
FAQ
Is Georgia safe?
Georgia is one of the safest countries in the region with a low crime rate against tourists. Normal caution, as in any other tourist destination, is of course advisable. You should avoid visiting the separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which are not under the control of the Georgian government.
Do I need a visa for Georgia?
No, citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, and most European countries can enter Georgia without a visa and stay for up to 365 days. A valid passport is sufficient, which should be valid for at least the duration of your planned stay.
What is the Georgian currency and how much money should I bring?
The Georgian currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). Exchange offices can be found at airports, in cities, and tourist areas. ATMs are widely available in larger cities and accept international payment cards. We recommend using a Revolut card to avoid exchange rate losses.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
