Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 51 travelers

Exploring the Caucasus: Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan

Saturday, December 16: Arrival in Tbilisi, Georgia

Begin your adventure in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. In the morning, visit the ancient Narikala Fortress, offering panoramic views of the city. Afterward, explore the charming Old Town, wandering through narrow streets lined with traditional houses and cozy cafes. In the afternoon, visit the Georgian National Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. As the evening approaches, head to Shardeni Street, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options.

  • Narikala Fortress: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Tbilisi Old Town: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Georgian National Museum: Cost estimate: $5, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Shardeni Street: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: Evening
Sunday, December 17: Baku, Azerbaijan

Take a morning flight to Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. Start the day by exploring the UNESCO-listed Old City, known as Icherisheher. Marvel at the medieval Maiden Tower and visit the intricate Palace of the Shirvanshahs. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Baku's modern side by visiting the Flame Towers, iconic skyscrapers offering breathtaking views. As the evening sets in, stroll along Baku Boulevard, a waterfront promenade filled with parks, cafes, and entertainment.

  • Old City (Icherisheher): Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Flame Towers: Cost estimate: Free (for exterior view), Time spent: 1 hour
  • Baku Boulevard: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: Evening
Monday, December 18: Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Take a morning flight to Samarkand, the historical gem of Uzbekistan. Start your day by visiting the iconic Registan Square, adorned with majestic madrasahs. Explore the stunning interior of the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the great conqueror Tamerlane. In the afternoon, wander through the Siyob Bazaar, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture. As the evening approaches, enjoy a traditional Uzbek dinner accompanied by live music.

  • Registan Square: Cost estimate: $10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum: Cost estimate: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Siyob Bazaar: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Traditional Uzbek Dinner: Cost estimate: $15-20, Time spent: Evening
Tuesday, December 19: Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Take a morning train to Bukhara, another historical city in Uzbekistan. Start the day by exploring the intricate Kalon Minaret and the nearby Mir-i-Arab Madrasah. Visit the Ark of Bukhara, an ancient fortress that offers insights into the city's turbulent past. In the afternoon, wander through the Lyabi-Hauz complex, a tranquil oasis surrounded by historical buildings. As the evening sets in, savor the flavors of Uzbek cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Kalon Minaret: Cost estimate: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Mir-i-Arab Madrasah: Cost estimate: Free (for exterior view), Time spent: 1 hour
  • Ark of Bukhara: Cost estimate: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Lyabi-Hauz complex: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Local Restaurant: Cost estimate: $10-15, Time spent: Evening
Wednesday, December 20: Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Take a morning flight to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Begin your day by visiting the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, where you can delve into the country's rich past. Explore the grand Independence Square and admire the modern architecture surrounding it. In the afternoon, wander through Chorsu Bazaar, a bustling traditional market offering a wide variety of goods. As the evening approaches, indulge in Uzbek delicacies at a local restaurant.

  • State Museum of History of Uzbekistan: Cost estimate: $5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Independence Square: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Chorsu Bazaar: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Local Restaurant: Cost estimate: $10-15, Time spent: Evening
Thursday, December 21: Mtskheta and Kazbegi, Georgia

Take a morning drive to Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage site located near Tbilisi. Visit the Jvari Monastery, offering stunning views of the confluence of two rivers. Explore the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, one of the holiest places in Georgia. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Kazbegi, a picturesque mountainous region. Hike up to the Gergeti Trinity Church for breathtaking views of Mount Kazbek. As the evening sets in, relax in a cozy guesthouse and savor traditional Georgian cuisine.

  • Jvari Monastery: Cost estimate: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: Cost estimate: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Gergeti Trinity Church: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Guesthouse: Cost estimate: $30-50, Time spent: Evening
Friday, December 22: Tbilisi Exploration, Georgia

Conclude your trip by further exploring the vibrant city of Tbilisi. In the morning, visit the Tbilisi Botanical Garden, a tranquil escape within the city. Discover the stunning Bridge of Peace, a modern architectural marvel. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the Narikala Fortress for a different perspective of the city. As the evening approaches, enjoy a traditional Georgian dinner accompanied by folk music.

  • Tbilisi Botanical Garden: Cost estimate: $2, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Bridge of Peace: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Narikala Fortress: Cost estimate: Free (cable car ride: $2), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Traditional Georgian Dinner: Cost estimate: $15-20, Time spent: Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Tbilisi, make sure to visit the sulfur baths in Abanotubani for a unique and relaxing experience. In Baku, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Museum of Miniature Books, housing an impressive collection of tiny literary wonders. In Uzbekistan, venture off the beaten path and visit the ancient city of Khiva, known for its well-preserved historical sites. Locals in Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan often enjoy spending time in traditional teahouses, called chaikhanas, where you can sip on tea and indulge in local sweets while immersing yourself in the local ambiance.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version