Georgia 5 Day Itinerary
Georgia Travel Itinerary (5 days)
Day 1: Tbilisi Exploration
Places to Go:
- Old Town: Explore the narrow streets of the old city, visit the Narikala Fortress, and see the stunning views of the city.
- Sulfur Baths: Soak in the natural hot springs at one of Tbilisi’s many bathhouses for a relaxing experience.
- Peace Bridge: A beautiful pedestrian bridge over the Mtkvari River with great views.
Activities:
- Visit the Old Town and get lost in its narrow streets to discover hidden gems.
- Enjoy traditional Georgian cuisine like Khinkali (dumplings), Khachapuri (cheese bread), or Shashlik (skewers).
- Explore local markets for souvenirs, spices, or handicrafts.
Things to Know:
- Tbilisi is a very walkable city. Use taxis or ride-sharing services if needed.
- Georgian cuisine is heavily influenced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors.
- Don’t forget to try some of the best coffee in Europe at Café Littera.
Day 2: Tbilisi to Mtskheta
Places to Go:
- Mtskheta: Explore this ancient capital city of Georgia, featuring St. George Church (the oldest church in the country) and Jvari Monastery.
- Svaneti Region: Take a day trip to Svaneti for breathtaking mountain scenery.
Activities:
- Visit the 11th-century Jvari Monastery perched on a hilltop overlooking the Aragvi River.
- Explore the narrow streets of Mtskheta’s old town and visit the stunning St. George Church.
Things to Know:
- The Georgian Orthodox Church plays a significant role in Georgian history and culture, so visiting churches can be both culturally enriching and informative.
- Don’t miss trying some Svaneti-style meat or vegetable pies for lunch.
- Mtskheta has an excellent museum featuring artifacts from the ancient Kingdom of Iberia.
Day 3: Kazbegi
Places to Go:
- Gergeti Trinity Church: A stunning church located in a valley surrounded by towering mountains, especially beautiful on a clear day with Mount Kazbek visible.
- Mount Kazbek Hike: For the adventurous, consider hiking towards Mount Kazbek for breathtaking views.
Activities:
- Visit Gergeti Trinity Church and take in the serene surroundings.
- If weather permits, hike to higher altitudes for stunning views of Mount Kazbek and its glaciers.
Things to Know:
- The road from Tbilisi to Kazbegi is a scenic drive through mountains but can be challenging during winter months due to heavy snowfall.
- Traditional Georgian hospitality is known for its generosity. Be prepared for warm welcomes and invitations into homes.
- Don’t forget your camera, especially if you’re interested in photography.
Day 4: Signagu
Places to Go:
- Signagu Vineyards: Visit these lush vineyards set amidst beautiful scenery with wine tastings.
- Telavi Town: Explore this historic town known for its wineries and ancient architecture.
Activities:
- Wine tasting at the vineyards. Georgian wine is world-renowned and offers a variety of flavors from sweet to dry.
- Walk through Telavi’s old town, visit historical sites like the 16th-century Telavi Castle ruins, and enjoy local cuisine.
Things to Know:
- Georgia is famous for its qvevri (clay amphorae) wine production, which is an ancient tradition. Qvevri wines are often served in the vineyards.
- Don’t miss trying some of the delicious Georgian breads or pastries at a local bakery.
- If your visit coincides with harvest time, consider visiting during this season for more insights into wine production.
Day 5: Return to Tbilisi
Places to Go:
- Anchiskhati Church: Visit this beautiful church and one of the oldest in Tbilisi.
- Tbilisi Flea Market (Chisinau): Explore a bustling flea market filled with vintage items, souvenirs, and second-hand goods.
Activities:
- Spend your last day exploring any places you might have missed earlier or revisit some of your favorite spots.
- Visit the Anchiskhati Church for its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance.
Things to Know:
- Tbilisi has a great night market in summer months with food, drinks, and live music. Be sure to check out if it’s happening during your visit.
- Don’t forget to pack some Georgian sweets as souvenirs or snacks for the road.
Transportation
- Taxis: Very affordable and can be hailed on streets. Use ride-sharing apps like Uber in larger cities like Tbilisi and Batumi but might not always available in smaller towns.
- Public Transport: Includes buses that connect major towns, often very cheap and a good way to see local life.
- Tourist-Friendly Services: Many companies offer guided tours or rent cars with drivers for full-day excursions. Use these services if you prefer hassle-free travel.
Visa Requirements
- Most countries don’t require visas for tourism in Georgia. Check the official government website of your country’s foreign ministry for specific requirements.
- If your visit is for work, business, or other purposes, different visa rules might apply. Consult the Georgian Embassy or Consulate in your home country for details.
Other Things to Know
- Language: While English is widely spoken among tour guides and in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Georgian (ქართული) can be very appreciated.
- Safety: Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded places or petty theft from cars. Avoid traveling alone at night, especially if you don’t know the area well.
- Georgian Hospitality: Expect warm welcomes and invitations into homes for traditional meals or drinks.
Tips
- Learn about Georgian history and culture to make your travels more meaningful.
- Pack layers as weather can be unpredictable, especially in mountainous regions.
- Don’t miss trying a variety of foods and drinks during your visit. Georgia is known for its diverse cuisine influenced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors.
Enjoy your journey through Georgia!