Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Tbilisi. In the morning, visit the iconic Narikala Fortress, offering breathtaking views of the city. Explore the narrow streets of the Old Town, where you can find traditional Georgian houses, charming cafes, and souvenir shops. In the afternoon, visit the Georgian National Museum to learn about the country's fascinating past. For the evening, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Kura River, taking in the illuminated bridges and buildings.
Narikala Fortress: Cost: Free, Time: 2 hours
Old Town: Cost: Free, Time: 3 hours
Georgian National Museum: Cost: 10 GEL (approximately $3), Time: 2 hours
Kura River Boat Ride: Cost: 15 GEL (approximately $5), Time: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your morning at Cafe Leila, a cozy breakfast spot located in the heart of Old Tbilisi. Enjoy their traditional Georgian dishes like khachapuri and khashlama. Average cost for a meal is about 10 GEL per person.
For lunch, head to Purpur, a trendy restaurant known for its delicious international cuisine. Try their mouthwatering burgers and salads. Average cost for a meal is about 20 GEL per person.
In the evening, dine at Shavi Lomi, a hidden gem known for its unique menu inspired by traditional Georgian food with a modern twist. Don't miss their famous cheese-filled bread and homemade wine. Average cost for a meal is about 30 GEL per person.
Thursday October 5: Family Fun at Mtatsminda Park
Spend the morning at Mtatsminda Park, an amusement park located on the top of Mount Mtatsminda. Enjoy thrilling rides, panoramic views of Tbilisi, and delicious snacks. In the afternoon, visit the Open Air Museum of Ethnography, where you can explore traditional Georgian houses and learn about the country's rural heritage. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along Rustaveli Avenue, the main street of Tbilisi, lined with shops and restaurants.
Mtatsminda Park: Cost: 15 GEL (approximately $5), Time: 4 hours
Open Air Museum of Ethnography: Cost: 5 GEL (approximately $2), Time: 2 hours
Rustaveli Avenue: Cost: Free, Time: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Leila which offers a cozy atmosphere and a variety of Georgian and international breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 20 GEL per person.
For lunch, try Purpur which serves delicious and affordable Georgian cuisine. Their menu includes traditional dishes like khachapuri and khinkali. Average cost for a meal is about 25 GEL per person.
For dinner, visit Shavi Lomi, a popular restaurant known for its creative fusion of Georgian and international flavors. The cozy ambiance and unique dishes make it a great choice for a memorable dinner. Average cost for a meal is about 40 GEL per person.
Friday October 6: Cultural Immersion in Mtskheta
Embark on a day trip to Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest cities in Georgia. Start your morning with a visit to Jvari Monastery, situated on a hilltop overlooking the city. Explore Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a magnificent Georgian Orthodox Church, and learn about its religious significance. In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional Georgian lunch at a halal-certified restaurant. End the day with a visit to Samtavro Monastery and its beautiful gardens.
Halal Restaurant: Cost: 30 GEL (approximately $10), Time: 1 hour
Samtavro Monastery: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Café Leila located near Jvari Monastery. They offer a variety of fresh pastries and traditional Georgian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 10 GEL per person.
If you're looking for a tasty lunch spot, check out Puri Guliani, a traditional Georgian bakery and restaurant. They serve freshly baked bread and a selection of savory and sweet pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 15 GEL per person.
For a satisfying dinner, visit Shemoikhede Genatsvale, a cozy Georgian restaurant known for its mouthwatering khachapuri and grilled meat dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 30 GEL per person.
Saturday October 7: Nature Exploration at Kazbegi
Embark on a day trip to Kazbegi, a picturesque town located in the Greater Caucasus Mountains. In the morning, visit the Gergeti Trinity Church, perched on a hilltop with stunning mountain views. Enjoy a hike or a horse ride to explore the surrounding nature. In the afternoon, savor a traditional Georgian meal at a local restaurant. On the way back to Tbilisi, stop by Ananuri Fortress, overlooking the Aragvi River.
Gergeti Trinity Church: Cost: Free, Time: 3 hours
Hike/Horse Ride: Cost: 50 GEL (approximately $17), Time: 3 hours
Local Restaurant: Cost: 40 GEL (approximately $13), Time: 1 hour
Ananuri Fortress: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
Sunday October 8: Relaxation at Tbilisi Botanical Garden
Enjoy a leisurely morning at Tbilisi Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the diverse plant collections, relax by the waterfall, and have a picnic. In the afternoon, visit the Georgian National Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Dry Bridge Market, a famous flea market offering unique souvenirs and antiques.
Georgian National Botanical Garden: Cost: 10 GEL (approximately $3), Time: 2 hours
Dry Bridge Market: Cost: Free, Time: 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For an off the beaten path experience, head to the Turtle Lake, located on the outskirts of Tbilisi. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, rent paddleboats, or have a picnic with your family. Another local favorite is the Mtatsminda Pantheon, a cemetery where prominent Georgian figures are buried. Explore the beautifully sculpted tombstones and take in the serene atmosphere.
For more information on hotels and flight prices, you can check here.