Welcome to Georgia! Start your trip in the capital city of Tbilisi. In the morning, explore the historic Old Town, with its narrow streets and charming architecture. Visit the iconic Narikala Fortress, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along the lively Rustaveli Avenue, known for its shops and cafes. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Georgian dinner at a local restaurant.
Old Town: Free, 2-3 hours
Narikala Fortress: Free, 1-2 hours
Rustaveli Avenue: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A great breakfast spot is Cafe Littera, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 10 GEL per person.
For lunch, head to Puris Sakhli for traditional Georgian cuisine, including mouthwatering khachapuri and juicy kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 20 GEL per person.
For dinner, try Shavi Lomi, a trendy restaurant offering a modern twist on Georgian classics. The average cost for a meal is about 40 GEL per person.
Monday, August 7: Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery
Take a day trip to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia. In the morning, visit the UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Afterward, head to Jvari Monastery, perched on a hill overlooking Mtskheta and the confluence of two rivers. Enjoy a picnic lunch with stunning views. In the afternoon, explore Mtskheta's charming streets and browse local crafts.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: Free, 1-2 hours
Jvari Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours
Mtskheta: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Mtsvadi for a traditional Georgian meal with a modern twist. Enjoy their flavorful khachapuri and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 10 GEL per person.
For lunch, visit Kala Cafe and Art Studio, a cozy restaurant serving homemade Georgian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Try their delicious khinkali and refreshing salads. Average cost for a meal is about 15 GEL per person.
For dinner, dine at Parnas Gallery Restaurant, where you can enjoy Georgian cuisine while surrounded by beautiful artwork. Sample their mouthwatering kharcho soup and savory satsivi chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 25 GEL per person.
Tuesday, August 8: Uplistsikhe and Gori
Embark on a journey to the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe. In the morning, explore the fascinating rock-cut structures, including dwellings, wine cellars, and temples. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the ancient ruins. In the afternoon, visit the Stalin Museum in Gori and learn about the life of the Soviet leader. Return to Tbilisi in the evening.
Uplistsikhe: 10 GEL (entrance fee), 2-3 hours
Stalin Museum: 5 GEL (entrance fee), 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Uplistsikhe is Café Corner, offering a variety of pastries and traditional Georgian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 10 GEL per person.
For lunch, head to Khinkali House in Gori for delicious dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or mushrooms. Average cost for a meal is about 15 GEL per person.
For dinner, indulge in Georgian cuisine at Shavi Lomi in Tbilisi. This cozy restaurant offers a creative menu with dishes like khachapuri and roasted meats. Average cost for a meal is about 30 GEL per person.
Wednesday, August 9: Ananuri and Kazbegi
Head towards the picturesque Kazbegi region. In the morning, stop at the Ananuri Fortress complex, situated by the scenic Zhinvali Reservoir. Explore the medieval churches and enjoy the stunning views. Continue your journey to Kazbegi and have lunch with a view of the towering Mount Kazbek. In the afternoon, hike up to the Gergeti Trinity Church for breathtaking mountain panoramas.
Ananuri Fortress: Free, 1-2 hours
Kazbegi: 20 GEL (taxi from Ananuri to Kazbegi), 4-5 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, stop by Cafe 103 in Ananuri for a cozy and relaxing start to your day. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options and the average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
When it's time for lunch, make your way to the Rooms Hotel Kazbegi, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal while taking in the breathtaking views of Mount Kazbek. The average cost for a meal here is about $25 per person.
For dinner, indulge in Georgian cuisine at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi's restaurant, Kazbegi Kazbegi. With a menu inspired by local flavors and ingredients, you can expect a delightful culinary experience. The average cost for a meal at Kazbegi Kazbegi is about $30 per person.
Thursday, August 10: Batumi
Travel to the vibrant coastal city of Batumi. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the Batumi Boulevard, enjoying the views of the Black Sea. Explore the Batumi Botanical Garden, filled with diverse plant species. In the afternoon, visit the fascinating Batumi Dolphinarium for an entertaining dolphin show. End the day by exploring the charming Old Town and sampling local cuisine.
Batumi Boulevard: Free, 2-3 hours
Batumi Botanical Garden: 15 GEL (entrance fee), 2-3 hours
Batumi Dolphinarium: 15 GEL (entrance fee), 1-2 hours
Old Town: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Adjara, known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Restaurant Guria, where you can enjoy traditional Georgian cuisine like khachapuri and khinkali. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Restaurant Batumi, offering a variety of seafood dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Friday, August 11: Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyon
Embark on an adventure to explore the natural wonders of Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyon. In the morning, visit Prometheus Cave and marvel at its majestic underground halls filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Enjoy a boat ride along the underground river. Afterward, head to Martvili Canyon and take a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear waters. Return to Batumi in the evening.
Prometheus Cave: 20 GEL (entrance fee), 2-3 hours
Martvili Canyon: 15 GEL (entrance fee), 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Café Adjara, a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Georgian breakfast dishes such as khachapuri and pkhali. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, visit Black Sea Fish House, a seafood restaurant located near Martvili Canyon. Enjoy fresh catch of the day dishes like grilled fish and seafood pasta. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a delicious Georgian feast at Chacha Corner. This restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Georgian dishes, including khinkali and khachapuri. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Saturday, August 12: Vardzia and Borjomi
Visit the remarkable cave monastery of Vardzia. In the morning, explore the complex carved into the rock face, featuring numerous rooms, chapels, and tunnels. Enjoy a picnic lunch with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, head to the charming town of Borjomi and relax in the famous mineral baths. Return to Tbilisi in the evening.
Vardzia: 15 GEL (entrance fee), 3-4 hours
Borjomi: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Luwian is a popular breakfast spot in Tbilisi, offering a variety of delicious pastries and a cozy atmosphere. The average cost for a meal is about 10 GEL per person.
Machakhela Pizza is a great lunch option in Borjomi, known for their authentic Georgian pizza with a twist. The average cost for a meal is about 15 GEL per person.
Restaurant Sakhli is a must-visit for dinner in Tbilisi, serving traditional Georgian cuisine in a warm and welcoming setting. The average cost for a meal is about 25 GEL per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, venture off the beaten path and explore the picturesque village of Sighnaghi in the Kakheti region. Known as the "City of Love," Sighnaghi offers stunning views of the Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains. Take a leisurely walk along the town's fortified walls and visit local wineries to taste exquisite Georgian wines. This charming destination is perfect for families looking to immerse themselves in Georgian culture.