A Perfect Two-Week Itinerary in Georgia
Georgia is a captivating country in the Caucasus region, with a rich and diverse culture, stunning natural scenery, and ancient history. Whether you want to explore the vibrant and cosmopolitan capital of Tbilisi, the picturesque wine region of Kakheti, the majestic mountains of Svaneti, or the charming seaside town of Batumi, Georgia has something for everyone. In this blog post, we will show you how to spend two weeks in Georgia, covering the best places to visit, things to do, and tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Week 1: Tbilisi and Surroundings
Tbilisi is the heart and soul of Georgia, and a perfect base to start your adventure. You can easily spend a few days exploring the city’s attractions, such as:
- Old Town: The historic and cultural center of Tbilisi, where you can admire the colorful houses, churches, mosques, synagogues, and fortresses that reflect the city’s diverse heritage. You can also enjoy the lively atmosphere of the cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops that line the narrow streets.
- Narikala Fortress: A 4th-century fortress that overlooks the city from a hilltop. You can reach it by cable car or by hiking up from the Old Town. You can also visit the St. Nicholas Church inside the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of Tbilisi.
- Abanotubani: The famous sulfur baths district of Tbilisi, where you can relax in one of the many public or private baths that offer different temperatures and services. You can also see the natural hot springs that feed the baths and the waterfall that flows from them.
After exploring Tbilisi, you can take a day trip or an overnight stay to one of the nearby destinations, such as:
- David Gareja and Udabno: A complex of cave monasteries that dates back to the 6th century, located on the border with Azerbaijan. You can see the frescoes and carvings that adorn the caves and hike to the desert landscape of Udabno, where you can enjoy stunning views of both countries.
- Mtskheta: The former capital and spiritual center of Georgia, where you can visit some of the most important religious sites in the country, such as the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the Jvari Monastery, and the Samtavro Monastery. You can also stroll along the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers and sample some local delicacies.
- Gori and Uplistsikhe: A town that is famous for being the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, where you can visit his museum and house. You can also explore Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town that was once a major political and religious center.
Week 2: Kakheti and Svaneti
Kakheti is the wine region of Georgia, where you can taste some of the finest wines in the world, made with traditional methods and grape varieties. You can also visit some of the most beautiful towns and villages in Georgia, such as:
- Sighnaghi: A charming town that is known as the “City of Love” for its romantic atmosphere and stunning views of the Alazani Valley. You can walk along the 18th-century defensive wall that surrounds the town, visit some of the local wineries and museums, and enjoy some delicious Georgian cuisine.
- Telavi: The capital and largest town of Kakheti, where you can see some of the historical and cultural landmarks of the region, such as the Batonis Tsikhe Fortress, the King Erekle II Palace Museum, and the Alaverdi Cathedral. You can also explore some of the nearby villages and monasteries that produce some of the best wines in Georgia.
- Ikalto: A village that is famous for its academy and monastery, where some of the most prominent Georgian scholars and writers studied and worked. You can see the ruins of the academy, the churches, and the wine cellars that date back to the 12th century.
Svaneti is the mountainous region of Georgia, where you can experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of the Caucasus. You can visit some of the most remote and picturesque villages in Georgia, such as:
- Mestia: The main town and tourist hub of Svaneti, where you can see the iconic Svan towers, stone houses, and churches that dot the landscape. You can also visit some of the museums, such as the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography and the Mikheil Khergiani House Museum. You can also enjoy some outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, horse riding, and paragliding.
- Ushguli: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that claims to be the highest settlement in Europe, located at an altitude of 2,100 meters. You can admire the stunning views of the Shkhara Glacier, the highest peak in Georgia, and visit some of the ancient towers and churches that date back to the 9th century.
- Chalaadi Glacier: A glacier that is located near Mestia, where you can hike to see its impressive ice formations and turquoise waters. You can also cross a suspension bridge over the Mestiachala River and enjoy the scenic views of the valley.
Georgia is a country that will amaze and inspire you with its diversity, beauty, and charm. You can have a memorable two-week vacation by following this itinerary, or customize it according to your preferences and budget. Either way, you will discover a captivating country in the Caucasus that will make you want to come back for more.
