My first experience with Georgia travel dates back to October 1990, right after the fall of the Iron Curtain. At that time, the country was emerging from Soviet rule. So, I tagged along with my dad on the perfectly named “Georgia to Georgia exchange” arranged by Jimmy Carter’s organization, the Friendship Force. More than 30 years later, I wanted to return to see what had changed.
My recent trip to the Republic of Georgia felt like stepping into a different world. Today, Tbilisi, the capital, has transformed into a stylish and vibrant city, has transformed into a stylish and vibrant city, and the wine regions have become a haven for enthusiasts. Yet, what hasn’t changed is the warmth and hospitality of the Georgian people. A personal highlight of this trip was reconnecting with our host from 1990, sharing a meal, and learning about the dramatic changes the country has experienced since then.
Why Visit Georgia Now?
Before my trip, I often heard this question. While Georgia still flies under the radar for most travelers, this was a significant selling point for me. In recent years, places that used to seem far-flung, like Croatia and Bali, are almost unbearably jam-packed with tourists. Right now, Georgia feels like a country on the brink of being on every Instagrammer’s bucket list, and I wanted to get there while it’s still a hidden gem.
Read on for the scoop on this remarkable country.
In This Georgia Travel Guide:
- Georgia Country Overview
- Top Destinations for Georgia Travel
- Seasonal Tips for Georgia Travel
- Common Foods to Try in Georgia
- Georgia's Wine Culture: A Central Part of Georgia Travel
- Practical Tips for Georgia Travel
- Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia Travel
- Helpful Words to Know in Georgian
- Looking for More Far-Flung Adventures?
Georgia Country Overview
Georgia, located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, is a country that offers an extraordinary mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural depth.
Time Zone: Georgia operates in the Georgian Time Zone, GMT+4.
Location: Georgia sits between the Black Sea to the west and the Caspian Sea to the east. It shares borders with Russia to the north, Turkey and Armenia to the south, and Azerbaijan to the southeast.
Capital: Tbilisi is the capital and largest city, known for its charming Old Town, sulfur baths, and vibrant modern culture.
Language: Georgian (Kartuli) is the official language, a unique language with a unique alphabet. Minority languages, including Russian and Armenian, are also spoken in some regions.
Government: Georgia is a unitary parliamentary republic. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Georgia declared independence in 1991. and has seen significant political changes since then. The president is the head of state, while the prime minister is the head of government. The latest news on Georgia’s election isn’t great, so do your due diligence before planning a trip.
Religion: The dominant religion in Georgia is Eastern Orthodox Christianity, with the Georgian Orthodox Church being a central part of national identity. Over 80% of the population identifies as Orthodox Christian, though there are small Muslim, Armenian Christian, and Jewish communities as well.
Population: Georgia is home to around 3.7 million people, with a diverse cultural and ethnic makeup.
Currency: The Georgian currency is the Lari (GEL), and most transactions, especially in rural areas, are done in cash. However, credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities like Tbilisi and Batumi.
A Brief History of Georgia and Its Complex Relationship with Russia
To fully appreciate Georgia travel, it’s essential to understand its rich and often tumultuous history. Because Georgia sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, it has long been a target for empires, especially Russia. The Russian Empire annexed Georgia in the 19th century, and after a brief period of independence, it became part of the Soviet Union. Although Georgia declared independence in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union, tensions with Russia have persisted, especially around the regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. This backdrop adds a layer of complexity to travel in the Republic of Georgia, where the spirit of resilience is deeply embedded in the culture.
Top Destinations for Georgia Travel
Georgia is packed with incredible destinations, from vibrant cities to stunning mountain landscapes and hidden historical gems. Here are the top destinations to include in your Georgia travel plans.
1. Tbilisi
Georgia’s capital city, Tbilisi, is the heart of the country’s cultural and social life. Its charming mix of old and new—where ancient churches stand alongside modern cafes and art galleries—makes it a must-visit for any traveler. The Old Town’s narrow streets, the historic Narikala Fortress, and the vibrant Sulphur Baths district offer an authentic look at Georgia’s past. In contrast, neighborhoods like Fabrika show the city’s modern, creative side. Tbilisi is also known for its thriving food and wine scene, making it a top destination for foodies.
2. Kakheti
Known as the wine capital of Georgia, Kakheti is a must for wine enthusiasts. This picturesque region is home to centuries-old vineyards and wineries that produce some of the world’s oldest wines using traditional methods. Visit the charming hilltop town of Sighnaghi for its stunning views over the Alazani Valley, or explore the Tsinandali Estate to learn about Georgia’s wine history. If you’re lucky, you might even experience Rtveli, the annual grape harvest, a major cultural event in the region.
3. Kazbegi
For nature lovers, Kazbegi is one of the top destinations in the Republic of Georgia. Located in the Caucasus Mountains, this stunning region is home to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, which offers breathtaking views of Mount Kazbek. The area is perfect for hiking, with trails through Juta Valley and Gveleti Waterfalls. Kazbegi is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in Georgia’s rugged, mountainous beauty while experiencing the warm hospitality of the local highland communities.
4. Batumi
Located on the Black Sea coast, Batumi is Georgia’s premier beach destination. Known for its mix of modern architecture and relaxing seaside vibes, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. The Batumi Botanical Garden is a must-see, offering stunning views over the sea and diverse plant life. Batumi also boasts lively nightlife, making it an excellent spot for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and entertainment.
5. Vardzia
The ancient cave city of Vardzia is one of Georgia’s most fascinating historical sites. Built into the cliffs during the reign of Queen Tamara in the 12th century, Vardzia was a fortified complex of dwellings, churches, and tunnels. Visitors can explore its winding corridors, cave chapels, and hidden rooms, making it a unique addition to any Georgia travel itinerary.
6. Svaneti Region
Svaneti is one of Georgia’s most remote and picturesque regions, known for its dramatic mountains and medieval watchtowers. The town of Mestia serves as a base for exploring the region, where you can trek to Ushguli, one of Europe’s highest continually inhabited settlements and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Svaneti is perfect for travelers seeking adventure and a glimpse into Georgia’s ancient traditions.
7. Kutaisi
As Georgia’s third-largest city, Kutaisi offers a quieter but equally fascinating experience. The city is home to the UNESCO-listed Gelati Monastery and the Bagrati Cathedral, both important historical landmarks. Just outside the city, you can visit the Prometheus Cave, an impressive underground world filled with stalactites and underground rivers.
8. Tusheti National Park
If you’re looking for a true off-the-beaten-path adventure, Tusheti National Park in northeastern Georgia is the place to go. With its untouched wilderness, medieval villages, and rich cultural heritage, Tusheti offers some of the best hiking in the country. The remote location means it’s only accessible during the summer, but the views and the solitude make it well worth the effort.
9. Borjomi
Famous for its mineral water, Borjomi is a spa town nestled in a lush valley surrounded by forests. Visitors can enjoy the soothing mineral springs or explore the nearby Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, one of Georgia’s largest national parks, which offers beautiful hiking trails through unspoiled nature.
Whether you’re following our 7-day Georgia itinerary or extending your stay to visit more of the country, Georgia offers a wide array of destinations that blend history, nature, and culture for an unforgettable experience.
Seasonal Tips for Georgia Travel
Georgia is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. The country’s diverse geography means you can enjoy beaches, mountains, and vineyards in different seasons. Here’s a guide to help you plan your Georgia travel around the best times of year for each region.
Spring (April to June)
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Georgia, especially for city exploration and lowland adventures. The weather is mild, making it ideal for visiting Tbilisi, Mtskheta, and Kakheti. Vineyards start to bloom, offering scenic drives and picturesque landscapes in the wine regions. Spring is also perfect for hiking in the lower altitude areas, with flowers in full bloom and the countryside at its greenest.
- Best For: Sightseeing, wine tours, lower-altitude hikes
Summer (July to August)
Summer in Georgia brings warm weather, making it the perfect time for mountain adventures. If you’re planning to hike in Kazbegi, Tusheti, or the Svaneti Region, summer is the best season for exploring these high-altitude regions. While the cities can get quite hot, mountain towns like Kazbegi offer cooler temperatures and stunning natural beauty. Batumi on the Black Sea coast is also a top summer destination for beach lovers.
- Best For: Mountain hiking, beach trips, nature excursions
Fall (September to November)
Autumn is one of the most popular times for Georgia travel, especially for wine lovers. The fall grape harvest, known as Rtveli, takes place in Kakheti, making it the best time to visit for wine tastings and vineyard tours. The cooler weather is also perfect for city exploration and enjoying the colorful fall foliage in the countryside.
- Best For: Wine harvest festivals, vineyard tours, sightseeing
Winter (December to March)
Winter in Georgia transforms the mountainous regions into a haven for skiers and snowboarders. Gudauri and Bakuriani are the top ski resorts, offering slopes for all levels of expertise. If winter sports aren’t your thing, Tbilisi still offers plenty of cultural experiences, and the city’s cozy cafes are perfect for warming up after a day of sightseeing.
- Best For: Skiing, snowboarding, winter city escapes
No matter the season, Georgia offers diverse activities and destinations, from the sunny beaches of Batumi to the snowy peaks of Kazbegi. Plan your Georgia travel around what interests you most, whether it’s mountain trekking in summer or sipping wine during the fall harvest.
Common Foods to Try in Georgia
One of the most exciting parts of Georgia travel is experiencing its rich and flavorful cuisine. Georgian food is hearty, aromatic, and packed with flavors that reflect the country’s history and diverse cultural influences. Whether you’re dining at a cozy family guesthouse or a bustling Tbilisi café, these must-try dishes showcase the essence of Georgian culinary traditions.
1. Khachapuri (Cheese Bread)
Khachapuri is Georgia’s most famous dish and an absolute must-try. This cheesy bread comes in many regional variations, but the most iconic is Adjarian Khachapuri, shaped like a boat and filled with melted cheese, butter, and a runny egg yolk on top. It’s kid-friendly, indulgent, delicious, and perfect for sharing.
2. Khinkali (Dumplings)
Often called the “soul of Georgian food,” khinkali are juicy dumplings filled with spiced meat, herbs, or cheese. The traditional way to eat them is to hold the doughy top, take a small bite, sip the flavorful broth inside, and then devour the rest. These dumplings originated in the mountain regions and remain a staple across Georgia.
3. Lobio (Bean Stew)
Lobio is a simple yet flavorful dish made from slow-cooked red beans seasoned with garlic, coriander, and Georgian spices. It’s often served with mchadi (cornbread) or pickled vegetables. This hearty stew is a great option for vegetarians and is widely loved for its comforting flavors.
4. Badrijani Nigvzit (Eggplant with Walnut Paste)
Eggplant was on nearly every table during our visit. This appetizer features thin slices of fried eggplant rolled and stuffed with a creamy walnut paste seasoned with garlic and spices. It’s typically garnished with pomegranate seeds, adding a pop of sweetness and color. This dish is a staple of traditional Georgian feasts, known as supras.
5. Chashushuli (Spicy Beef Stew)
Chashushuli is a tender beef stew cooked with tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Its rich, slightly spicy flavors are perfect for colder weather and pair well with shoti, the traditional Georgian bread baked in a clay oven.
6. Churchkhela (Walnut and Grape Snack)
Often referred to as “Georgian candy,” churchkhela is a sweet treat made by threading walnuts onto a string and dipping them into a thickened grape juice mixture. Once dried, it becomes chewy and slightly sweet. You’ll find churchkhela sold at markets and roadside stands across the country. In my opinion, it looks better than it tastes.
7. Pkhali (Vegetable and Walnut Pate)
Pkhali is a vibrant, versatile dish made from minced vegetables like spinach, beets, or cabbage mixed with walnut paste and herbs. These colorful, round patties are often served as appetizers or side dishes and are topped with pomegranate seeds for extra flavor.
8. Shkmeruli (Garlic Chicken)
A rich and comforting dish from the Racha region, shkmeruli features roasted chicken served in a creamy garlic and milk sauce. The tender chicken and the garlicky flavor make this dish a crowd favorite. Don’t miss it if you see it on a menu!
9. Satsivi (Chicken in Walnut Sauce)
Satsivi is a decadent dish of chicken (or sometimes fish) served in a rich walnut sauce flavored with garlic, onions, and herbs. It’s often prepared for festive occasions and showcases Georgia’s love of walnuts in cooking.
10. Georgian Cheese
Georgia is home to many unique cheeses, with Sulguni being the most famous. This semi-soft cheese is often served fresh, smoked, or melted in dishes like khachapuri. Pairing Georgian cheese with local wines is a must-do culinary experience.
Whether you’re enjoying street food in Tbilisi or a traditional meal in the countryside, Georgian cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds. Don’t forget to pair your meals with Georgian wine or Chacha, a strong grape-based spirit, for the full experience!
Georgia’s Wine Culture: A Central Part of Georgia Travel
Georgia is known as the birthplace of wine, and no trip to the Republic of Georgia would be complete without experiencing its unique wine-making traditions. In Kakheti, Georgia’s main wine-producing region, the traditional Qvevri method is still widely used. Wine is fermented in large clay vessels called Qvevris, which are buried underground. This ancient method produces wines with deep, complex flavors that you won’t find anywhere else.
I highly recommend visiting small, family-owned wineries like Andro Barnovi’s Wine Artisans or Pheasant’s Tears. These intimate tasting experiences offer a deeper connection to Georgia’s rich winemaking tradition. At Wine Artisans we enjoyed a barrel tasting with the winemaker and then a lovely lunch with him and his visiting friends. It was a magical combination of great food and wine and tipsy folk music revelry.
Practical Tips for Georgia Travel
Weather: Georgia has varied climates depending on the region. The mountains can be snowy and cold, even in summer, while the lowland and coastal areas have a warmer, Mediterranean climate. Be sure to pack accordingly, especially if you’re venturing into the higher elevations.
Dress Modestly in Churches: Georgia is a religious country, and when visiting churches, there are specific dress codes to follow. Men and women should cover their shoulders and knees, and women are required to cover their hair. Most churches provide scarves and wrap skirts at the entrance, but it’s a good idea to bring your own scarf to avoid sharing one.
Be Cautious as an LGBTQ Traveler: Georgia is a conservative country, and while it has made strides in some areas, recent laws have been passed that are regressive regarding gay rights. LGBTQ travelers should exercise caution and be mindful, especially in more rural or conservative areas.
Money Matters: Always carry some cash, especially when traveling outside Tbilisi. While credit cards are widely accepted in cities, rural areas often operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs are common in urban areas, and you can easily withdraw Lari.
Stray Dogs: Don’t be alarmed by the number of stray dogs in Georgia — they are a common sight, especially in cities like Tbilisi. These dogs are generally friendly and used to human interaction. In fact, many locals unofficially adopt them and leave out food and water.
Public Transportation: Georgia has a reliable network of buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) that connect major towns and cities. However, renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended if you plan to explore the mountainous regions or travel off the beaten path.
Use a Local Tour Guide: While English is spoken in major tourist areas, many rural parts of Georgia have few English speakers. I highly recommend using local tour guides. Having a guide and translator will enrich your experience, allowing you to learn more about the country’s history, culture, and hidden gems. Check out these tours: Kazbegi day tour or Khaketi day tour.
Recommended Georgia Tours
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia Travel
Helpful Words to Know in Georgian
Georgian can be a challenging language for non-native speakers, but learning a few basic words and phrases will go a long way in helping you connect with locals. Here are some helpful words and phrases along with their phonetic pronunciations:
- Hello – გამარჯობა (gamarjoba) – [gah-mar-joh-bah]
- Thank You – მადლობა (madloba) – [mahd-loh-bah]
- Yes – კი (ki) – [kee]
- No – არა (ara) – [ah-rah]
- Please – თუ შეიძლება (tu sheidzleba) – [too sheh-id-zleh-bah]
- Goodbye – ნახვამდის (nakhvamdis) – [nahkh-vahm-dees]
- Excuse Me / Sorry – ბოდიში (bodishi) – [boh-dee-shee]
- Water – წყალი (tsqali) – [ts-khah-lee]
- Wine – ღვინო (ghvino) – [gh-vee-noh]
- Cheers! – გაუმარჯოს (gaumarjos!) – [gow-mar-jos]
We adored our time in Georgia and found the Georgian people to be warm, welcoming, and eager to share their country’s rich culture with visitors. From the stylish streets of Tbilisi to the rolling vineyards of Kakheti and the soaring peaks of the Caucasus, Georgia appeals to a wide variety of travelers.
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