Last updated: June 2024
Ready to explore Georgia in 2024? This amazing country has famous places and secret spots you won't want to miss! Here are the top 15 destinations from cities to mountains for an unforgettable trip!
1. Tbilisi: Georgia's Vibrant Heart, Where Old Meets New
If one will say that to walk through the capital of Georgia is to walk through a time machine, then Tbilisi is precisely that. Get up for the scenic views of the city while wandering around Ancient Narikala Fortress. After that, immerse yourself in famous relaxing sulfur baths—practices hundreds of years old. Walk and roam colorfully along narrow streets in Old Town, with history at every turn; however, Tbilisi does not get totally stuck in the past. Take a look at the ultra-modern, modern Peace Bridge; and not to forget, get your picture taken with the very unique Clock Tower. Be it a history junkie or any modern-day explorer—Tbilisi is going to surprise even you.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) for mild weather and fewer tourists.
2. Kutaisi: Unveiling Georgia's Cultural Soul
Though often overlooked, Kutaisi is Georgia's fourth-biggest city and certainly one of the country's most charming destinations. First inhabited as far back as the 6th century BC, it served as the political center for the Kingdom of Colchis during the Middle Ages and later became the cultural capital of Georgia. Industrialization carried out in Soviet times has given way in present-day Kutaisi to cute restaurants, vintage tea houses, and mosaics alongside Brutalist buildings.
Other things it comprises are the Green Bazaar, a ropeway ride over the Rioni River, and the magnificent synagogue of Kutaisi. Not far from it, there is the Gelati Monastery, listed by UNESCO, the very scenic Motsameta Monastery, and the Bagrati Cathedral, which gives fine views at sunset. Being itself an entrance to the green Imereti region, its surroundings include Kutaisi with canyons, waterfalls, caves, and wineries, all within a day's trip.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) for pleasant weather.
3. Mtskheta: Georgia's Cradle of Christianity, Steeped in History and Charm
One of Georgia's oldest cities, and for nearly a millennium the kingdom's capital, Mtskheta is just 20 km from Tbilisi – making it perfect day-trip material. It's easily reached by marshrutka or taxi in under an hour, and can also be conveniently visited en route from east to west. Mtskheta is really crucial in Georgia's Christian history and full of important churches, including the UNESCO-listed Historical Monuments of Mtskheta. The second-biggest religious building in Georgia is 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, located in the city center and the grave site for at least 10 monarchs. It is also another 6th-century church, Jvari Monastery, sitting on the hill top overlooking Mtskheta, with great and beautiful views of the conjunction of the Mtkvari and Aragvi Rivers, making it worth a visit.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) for comfortable sightseeing weather.
4. Batumi: Georgia's Playground by the Black Sea
One of the best-known Black Sea resort cities is famous for its modern architecture, its wonderful botanical garden, and the animated seafront promenade, Batumi Boulevard. The historic district of the town, imprinted with an atmosphere from the age of the old world, corresponded to the futuristic feel of the more modern buildings.
While Batumi is all about its pebbly beaches, there's so much more to it. A city of trendy cafes, creative spaces, and vibrant street art, it hosts some absolutely striking modern architecture contrasting with its quite charming Old Town full of surprises. Throw in the mix a lively produce market, scenic aerial cableways, urban hikes, and some great national parks nearby.
It provides a taste of Adjarian culture and cuisines—think Adjaruli Khachapuri and Borano. Take a stroll or bike ride along Batumi Boulevard, a beautiful seafront path that extends all the way to the Turkish border. Batumi itself is always changing and has so much more to offer than just lying on the beach.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) for beach activities, but Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
5. Borjomi: Georgia's Spa Town Nestled in Mountain Majesty
Located in the very center of Georgia, Borjomi is a favorable summer resort with fresh mountain air and natural spring waters. The most famous is the mineral water of Borjomi—a very popular Georgian beverage and major export. People used to visit Borjomi for its curative waters back in the medieval period, though it only became really popular in the 1840s when the Russian Viceroy brought his daughter here for treatment.
By the 1860s, it developed into a resort town, particularly for summer residences of the Imperial aristocracy. Communist days saw these mansions as elite sanatoria. In contemporary times, local tourism still flocks to Borjomi in droves for summer retreat. The town is centered around the Borjomi Central Park and Ekaterina's Spring, where one will still have the chance to drink Borjomi water right at the source. Other attractions are open-air thermal baths and a beautiful panoramic view available during a cable car ride.
Not far from here, located at a higher elevation, lies the resort town of Bakuriani, reached by the Kukushka scenic railroad. Bakuriani is a ski destination with many tourist lodges, one bearing the name Rooms Kokhta. Next in line is Tabatskuri Lake and the Likani Romanov Summer Palace, although the palace itself is currently closed for renovation. At the same time, hiking trails behind the palace dive into the Borjomi National Park for those in search of a little more adventure.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) for mild weather and vibrant foliage.
6. Kazbegi: Where Breathtaking Views Meet Adventure
Wedged right into the mighty Caucasus Mountains is Kazbegi, a nature and adrenaline junkie paradise. This town dons an evening gown of dramatic landscapes that leaves anyone speechless, topped by the towering peak of Mount Kazbek. Andthe iconic crown jewel of Kazbegi would be the Gergeti Trinity Church, which is precariously perched on top of the hilltop. Here, hike up this 14th-century church and get breathtaking panoramic views out toward the surrounding mountainscapes.
Kazbegi is a feast for one's eyes and a playground for outdoor sports persons. Lace up your hiking boots and hit the diverse trails that offer breathtaking scenery from every viewpoint. Saddle up to horseback ride through its stunning countryside if you like riding in the traditional mode of transport. If one wishes to experience a shot of adrenaline, then make a visit to the Dariali Gorge, which is among the dramatic natural wonders formed along the Terek River. Its steep cliffs and falling water created an extraordinary experience at the Dariali Gorge.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to September) for the best hiking conditions and clear views of the mountains
7. Uplistsikhe: A Journey Through Georgia's Ancient Caves
Unearth ancient secrets in Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave town near Gori. This fascinating site, which literally means "The Lord’s Fortress," has a history dating back to the Bronze Age, making it one of Georgia's oldest cities Apparently carved out of the rock in Uplist Sikhe is not just a residence , but it has also been a center of religious culture for centuries. There are also barns and wonderful private passageways. Imagine whispers of history taking over these ancient buildings as you explore the daily lives of the Uplistsikhe people.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) for mild weather and fewer tourists.
8. Akhaltsikhe: Where History Meets Adventure in Georgia
A small city of under 50,000 people, Akhaltsikhe is found in southwestern Georgia near the Turkish border. The city is a good place from which to cross the border at Bavra, and it hosts a wonderful point from where one can visit the cave city of Vardzia. Akhaltsikhe is an important regional city in Samtskhe-Javakheti with a very multicultural history, showing a lot of Ottoman, Mongol, and Iranian rule. The name "Akhaltsikhe" is best translated as "New Fortress," signifying the city historically and spiritually. However, the main attraction here is Akhaltsikhe Castle or Rabati Castle—a gigantic hilltop fortress dating back to the 9th century.
This was initially constructed as Lomisa Castle but later expanded during the Ottoman period whereby a mosque and a madrasa were added. Through the years, it evolved into a complex structure with watchtowers, fountains, domed buildings, and gardens. In 2011, extensive renovation works gave the castle a sort of Game of Thrones theatricality. Other sites of interest are the Sapara Monastery and the Khertvisi Fortress—the latter is impressive when viewed across the gorge.
9. Vashlovani National Park: A Unique Desert Oasis in Georgia
Venture beyond the usual Georgian landscapes and discover the hidden gem of Vashlovani National Park. Located in the southeastern corner of the country, Vashlovani is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a unique taste of a semi-desert ecosystem.
Unlike the lush greenery often associated with Georgia, Vashlovani boasts a captivating arid beauty. Imagine huge plains dotted with pistachio trees, canyons carved by time, and dramatic badlands stretching towards the horizon. This unique landscape provides a haven for a variety of flora and fauna that have adapted to the dry conditions.
10. Kakheti: Where Wine Flows Like History
Located in eastern Georgia, Kakheti is renowned for its exquisite wines and rich history. As the heart of Georgian wine making for centuries, Kakheti boasts a tradition that dates back over 8,000 years. The region's unique method of fermenting wine in clay vessels called Qvevri, buried underground, gives its wines a distinctive earthy character.
Kakheti is a paradise for wine lovers, offering a variety of wineries from family-run cellars to grand estates. Visitors can embark on wine tastings, savoring flavors from indigenous grape varietals like Rkatsiteli and Saperavi, and learn about the traditional Qvevri method.
Beyond wine, Kakheti offers a rich history with ancient monasteries like Alaverdi and Gremi. The region's warm hospitality, traditional meals, charming towns, and breathtaking countryside provide a well-rounded experience for all visitors.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn (September to October) during the grape harvest season for wine festivals and tours.
11. Svaneti: Where Time Stands Still Amidst Breathtaking Beauty
Journey to Svaneti, a remote region in Georgia known for its medieval towers, dramatic vistas, and unique Svan culture. The landscape is dotted with ancient stone towers, offering a glimpse into a bygone era, and features some of Georgia's most stunning scenery with rugged mountains, lush valleys, and shimmering glaciers. Immerse yourself in the rich Svan culture, distinct with its own language and customs.
Key villages to visit include Mestia, the heart of Svaneti, and Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest permanently inhabited settlement in Europe. Svaneti is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering challenging treks, horseback rides, and scenic hikes amidst breathtaking views.
12. Rustavi: Georgia's Industrial Hub with a Hidden Past
Only an hour away from Tbilisi, Rustavi offers the country's third-biggest city and a rather unusual day-tripper. The development of this city was undertaken parallel to that of the Rustavi Metallurgy Plant, which started operations in 1948 as one of the major steel producers. It is filled with Soviet-era buildings and new concrete apartment blocks on the newer side, while the opposite bank of the Mtkvari River is lined with Empire-style buildings in the Stalinist style; among its sites of interest are the Mayor's Office, Drama Theatre Musical School, and the Railway Station.
The Rustavi Metallurgy Plant still operates today, although visitor access may be somewhat restricted, but its monumental facade and bas-reliefs are worth seeing. The local museum develops the themes of Rustavi's ancient and Soviet history. Take an evening walk through the Park of Culture and Rest, heading toward the ruins of Rustavi Fortress, which are ideal for contemplating sunset views over the lake. Do not miss Cafune for dining.
13. Gori: Where History and Nature Collide
Gori is a city with great heritage and wonderful landscapes situated in the region of Shida Kartli, Georgia. Visitors will get acquainted with the place of birth of the Soviet leader Joseph Stalin and will further on be driven to his home museum, now called the Stalin Museum, which has been preserved since then. A bit further away is the ancient cave town of Uplistsikhe, dating back to the Bronze Age, and the Gori Fortress from the 7th century—ancient walls that have hosted so many visions of daily life and battles.
In addition to such historical landmarks, Gori is surrounded with much natural beauty: rounded tops of hills and green valleys only work to make this a perfect place to explore or just relax. The cultural life of the city is full of its Gori State Teaching University Art Gallery, exhibiting local artwork. For food lovers, traditional Georgian dishes—ubiquitous Khinkali dumplings—won't disappoint.
