Settle in at your central Tbilisi hotel (recommend Old Town or Rustaveli area) and rest after travel; winter check-in times typically from 14:00 but many hotels will store luggage earlier.
Cozy, colorful cafe in Old Tbilisi serving Georgian mezze and vegetarian-friendly dishes — a gentle introduction to local flavors. Open daily; lunch 12:00–16:00.
Ride the Tbilisi cable car up to Narikala for panoramic city and river views, walk the fortress ramparts and descend to the sulfur-bath quarter; great first-day orientation. Cable car runs roughly 11:00–23:00 but hours can vary in winter.
Walk the historic bath district's alleys and view domed bathhouses — reserve a private sulfur bath if you want to relax (private rooms recommended in winter). Baths operate daily; private rooms 2–3 hours.
Modern Georgian cuisine in a popular spot for couples — inventive takes on traditional dishes in a warm atmosphere; open for dinner (usually from 18:00–23:00).
Visit Georgian National Museum (large exhibitions of art and archaeology) and stroll Rustaveli Avenue to see theaters and shops; the museum is typically open 10:00–18:00 (check closures Mondays).
Visit Sameba, one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals, then cross the modern Peace Bridge and enjoy riverside views — cathedral open most mornings until early evening.
Historic estate of the Chavchavadze family with a museum and vineyard; informative for Georgian wine and aristocratic history. Open typically 10:00–17:00.
Taste qvevri and barrel wines at a boutique producer and learn Georgian winemaking traditions; tastings usually 10:00–17:00, reserve ahead for private tastings.
Visit UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the Jvari Monastery for panoramic views; sites usually open 10:00–17:00, Jvari may open earlier in good weather.
Scenic drive along the Georgian Military Highway (≈3 hours), with possible stops at Ananuri fortress en route. Roads are generally maintained but expect winter conditions — 4x4 recommended.
If weather allows, short viewpoint walk for first views of Mount Kazbek and Gergeti Trinity Church; full ascent reserved for next day. Views are best in clear weather; mountain access can be limited in heavy snow.
Visit the iconic church above Stepantsminda; in winter the trail can be icy — opt for a 4x4 vehicle if snowy. There is no entrance fee; the experience is about the mountain scenery and photo opportunities.
Stroll in the valley or visit a small local history museum if open; a relaxed afternoon to enjoy the alpine atmosphere. Museum hours often 10:00–17:00 but can vary.
Set out for a long winter transfer to Mestia (Svaneti). Expect 6–8 hours by private car/driver; roads in December may be slow or require snow chains and a 4x4 vehicle — consider a domestic flight from Kutaisi/Tbilisi if roads are closed.
Early breakfast and pack warm layers for a full-day 4x4 excursion to Ushguli (if passable) — winter road conditions may limit access; confirm with local driver/guide.
Ushguli is one of Europe's highest inhabited villages, famed for medieval stone towers and stunning vistas; travel time ~3–4 hours one-way by 4x4 on rough mountain roads — only recommended if local conditions permit. Multi-hour full-day excursion.
Explore Kutaisi’s UNESCO sites: Bagrati Cathedral (views over the city) and Gelati Monastery with its medieval frescoes; Gelati typically open 10:00–17:00.
Guided visit through illuminated stalactites and an underground river; cave hours commonly 10:00–18:00 but check seasonal schedules — plan at least 1.5 hours for the tour.
One of the largest botanical gardens on the Black Sea with subtropical plants and cliffside views; open typically 09:00–17:00 but check winter entry hours — allocate 2 hours to explore.
Short transfer to Mtirala for rainforest hikes and waterfalls; winter conditions can be wet and muddy—good waterproof boots required. Park access hours generally daylight only.
Book a private sulfur bath and scrub for full relaxation and cultural experience; many bathhouses open midday to late evening — reserve a private room in advance.