7-Day Budget Itinerary in Georgia

Tuesday, February 6: Arrival in Tbilisi

Start your trip in the capital city of Tbilisi. In the morning, explore the historic Old Town, visit the ancient Narikala Fortress for panoramic city views, and wander through the vibrant streets of Shardeni. In the afternoon, discover the treasures at the Georgian National Museum and enjoy a stroll in the scenic Rike Park. In the evening, indulge in some authentic Georgian cuisine at a local restaurant.

• Old Town: Entrance is free, approximately 3-4 hours
• Georgian National Museum: Admission fee of 5 GEL (Georgian Lari), approximately 2-3 hours
• Local Restaurant: Budget around 15-20 GEL for a meal

Wednesday, February 7: Mtskheta and Gori

Embark on a day trip to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia. Morning visit to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Enjoy a traditional Georgian lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, travel to Gori, birthplace of Joseph Stalin, and visit the Stalin Museum. Return to Tbilisi in the evening.

• Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: Entrance fee of 5 GEL, approximately 1-2 hours
• Jvari Monastery: Entrance fee of 3 GEL, approximately 1-2 hours
• Stalin Museum: Entrance fee of 10 GEL, approximately 2-3 hours
• Local Restaurant: Budget around 10-15 GEL for a meal

Thursday, February 8: Kazbegi Day Trip

Embark on an adventurous day trip to Kazbegi, a picturesque mountainous region. In the morning, take a scenic drive along the Georgian Military Highway and visit the Ananuri Fortress. Reach Kazbegi and hike to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch with stunning views. Return to Tbilisi in the late afternoon.

• Ananuri Fortress: Entrance fee of 3 GEL, approximately 1-2 hours
• Gergeti Trinity Church: Entrance is free, approximately 3-4 hours
• Picnic Lunch: Budget around 10-15 GEL

Friday, February 9: Batumi

Board a morning train to Batumi, a beautiful coastal city on the Black Sea. In the morning, explore Batumi Boulevard and soak in the stunning sea views. Visit the Alphabet Tower for a panoramic city view. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the Batumi Botanical Garden with its diverse plant collections. Spend the evening strolling along the beach and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.

• Batumi Boulevard: Entrance is free, approximately 2-3 hours
• Alphabet Tower: Entrance fee of 10 GEL, approximately 1-2 hours
• Batumi Botanical Garden: Entrance fee of 15 GEL, approximately 3-4 hours
• Local Restaurant: Budget around 20-25 GEL for a seafood meal

Saturday, February 10: Samegrelo Region

Embark on a day trip to the Samegrelo region renowned for its delicious cuisine. In the morning, visit the medieval Zugdidi Palace and its beautiful gardens. Enjoy a traditional Samegrelo lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the magical Martvili Canyon and take a boat ride through its emerald waters. Return to Batumi in the evening.

• Zugdidi Palace: Entrance fee of 5 GEL, approximately 2-3 hours
• Samegrelo Restaurant: Budget around 15-20 GEL for a traditional meal
• Martvili Canyon: Entrance fee of 15 GEL, approximately 2-3 hours

Sunday, February 11: Vardzia and Borjomi

Embark on a day trip to Vardzia, a unique cave monastery complex. In the morning, explore the fascinating caves and learn about the medieval history. Enjoy a picnic lunch with scenic views. In the afternoon, head to the town of Borjomi, famous for its mineral water. Visit the Borjomi Park and taste the healing waters from the mineral springs. Return to Tbilisi in the evening.

• Vardzia Monastery: Entrance fee of 7 GEL, approximately 4-5 hours
• Picnic Lunch: Budget around 10-15 GEL
• Borjomi Park: Entrance fee of 2 GEL, approximately 2-3 hours

Monday, February 12: Tbilisi Exploration

Spend your last day exploring more of Tbilisi's hidden gems. In the morning, visit the Open Air Museum of Ethnography to discover traditional Georgian architecture. Continue to the Bridge of Peace and take a walk along the modernized Aghmashenebeli Avenue. Indulge in a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the diverse flavors of Georgian cuisine.

• Open Air Museum of Ethnography: Entrance fee of 10 GEL, approximately 2-3 hours
• Farewell Dinner: Budget around 15-20 GEL for a meal

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a true local experience on a shoestring budget, make sure to visit the Dry Bridge Flea Market in Tbilisi, where you can find unique vintage items, traditional crafts, and artwork at bargain prices. Another gem is the Acharistskali River Promenade in Batumi, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city center. Don't miss out on trying khachapuri, a traditional Georgian cheese-filled bread, at local bakeries throughout your trip.