Georgia boasts wonderful natural and cultural attractions. It’s no wonder that it’s becoming an increasingly popular country among tourists.
It is bordered by Russia to the north, Turkey and Armenia to the south, and Azerbaijan to the east. Georgian culture is rich and its ancient roots stretch back three thousand years in time. Wine production in Georgia began in prehistoric times and remains an important part of the country’s economy to this day.
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Best places in Georgia
Tbilisi
Georgia’s capital and largest city. The name of the city comes from the Georgian word „tbili,” which means warm water, referring to the thermal springs found in the area.
Its history spans more than 1500 years, and the city developed as an important trade and cultural center of the Caucasus region. The city has been under the rule of various cultures and empires, including the Persians, Arabs, Mongols, and Russians, all of which contributed to Tbilisi’s cultural diversity.
The cityscape is dominated by the Narikala Fortress. The 4th-century fortification towers over the Kura River and offers a stunning panorama of the city. It has massive stone walls and towers that served a defensive function.
The Sameba Cathedral is a defining building in the city center. It’s one of the largest buildings in the Caucasus region: its height, including the dome cross, is 87.1 meters. The church combines the traditional architectural style of the Orthodox Church with modern elements.
Ushguli
A small group of villages in northwestern Georgia, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. It’s a popular destination for tourists due to its special historical, cultural, and natural values.
Ushguli is one of the highest permanently inhabited settlements in Europe, located about 2200 meters above sea level. Because of this, it’s best to visit in summer when it’s more easily accessible.
It’s famous for its medieval defensive towers, dating from the 9th-12th centuries. These towers once served both defensive and residential purposes and still reflect the character of a fortified village today.
The highest peak of the Caucasus, Shkhara, is located near Ushguli. It’s a popular destination for mountaineers and hikers.
Batumi
Georgia’s 2nd largest city is located on the Black Sea coast.
It’s one of the country’s tourist centers. At the beginning of the 21st century, it underwent a major transformation, with many modern buildings and hotels being built. It’s famous for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and casinos.
A characteristic building of modern architecture is the Alphabetic Tower, which is decorated with the letters of the Georgian alphabet. The observation deck of the tower offers a breathtaking view of the city and the sea.
The seaside promenade is one of the most popular parts of the city, with restaurants, cafes, fountains, and statues. In addition, the botanical garden, which showcases thousands of plant species and is one of the largest and most beautiful gardens in the world, is a must-see.
Kazbegi National Park
Officially named Stepantsminda, it’s located in the Caucasus Mountains and is famous for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
One of its most significant attractions is Mount Kazbek (Mkinvartsveri), which is 5,047 meters high and is Georgia’s third-highest peak. The peak is permanently covered with snow and is a popular destination for mountaineers and hikers.
The park’s most important cultural attraction is the 14th-century Gergeti Trinity Church, which stands at 2,170 meters, at the foot of Mount Kazbek. The church is one of the most important religious sites of the Georgian Orthodox Church.
Kutaisi
Georgia’s 3rd largest city is one of the country’s oldest cities, which played a significant role even in ancient times.
Its history dates back more than 3500 years. It’s known as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Colchis, which is the setting of the Greek mythological legend of the Golden Fleece. From the end of the 10th century, it was also the capital of the country for nearly 150 years.
Its most beautiful sights are two religious buildings, both part of the World Heritage. The Bagrati Cathedral is a partly ruined church but still offers a wonderful sight. The Gelati Monastery was one of the most important centers of medieval Georgian culture. Within its walls are Georgia’s most significant religious and cultural monuments.
Vardzia
An impressive cave monastery and fortress in the southwestern part, along the Kura River.
Its construction was begun by King George III in the second half of the 12th century and completed by his daughter, Queen Tamar. The purpose of the construction was to create a well-defensible fortress. In the 13th century, it became a thriving religious center, home to thousands of monks. A significant part of the monastery was destroyed in the earthquake of 1283.
Vardzia covers an area of more than 6000 square meters and consists of more than 300 caves, forming a 13-story complex. The caves served as dwellings, churches, storage, and stables.
The most important building of the monastery is the Church of the Assumption, built in the 12th century. The frescoes of the church, which also depict Queen Tamar, are among Georgia’s most significant medieval artistic creations.
Lake Rica
The picturesque environment of the lake in the northwestern part, its clear blue water, and the stunning view of the surrounding mountains make it a popular tourist destination.
It’s located at an altitude of about 950 meters above sea level, with a maximum depth of 116 meters. You can boat on the lake and there are numerous hiking trails around it.
Near the lake is a dacha that was allegedly used by Joseph Stalin as a summer residence. This historic building can still be visited today.
Mtskheta
One of Georgia’s oldest cities, located 20 km northwest of Tbilisi.
It was the capital of the Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. In 317, the Georgians adopted Christianity here, and the city remains one of the country’s main ecclesiastical centers, a city of coronation and burial.
Its most famous building is the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. This is the center of the Georgian Orthodox Church and the country’s second-largest ecclesiastical building after the recently completed Sameba in Tbilisi.
Another significant monument is the Jvari Monastery. Legend has it that Saint Nino erected a cross on the highest mountain of Mtskheta. This is considered the country’s first cross. The monastery was built in the 6th century and is one of the most beautiful examples of early medieval Georgian architecture.
Kakheti
This region is the center of Georgian winemaking and has numerous historical and cultural attractions that make it appealing to tourists.
Most of the country’s oldest and most famous wineries are located here. There are over 500 grape varieties in the region. Many wineries welcome visitors where we can taste local wines.
Another outstanding part of the region is Vashlovani National Park. Its most famous area is the so-called „Savannah of the Humble,” which features unique rocky formations and savannah-like vegetation.
Borjomi
One of Georgia’s most popular resort towns thanks to its mineral water. There are numerous spas and wellness centers.
Borjomi mineral water is very famous, its healing properties were known even in ancient times. It’s a natural, carbonated medicinal water that springs from over a thousand meters deep underground. There’s a spring in the town’s park where we can taste the mineral water.
Near the town is Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. It covers more than 85 thousand hectares and is one of Georgia’s largest and most important nature reserves. There are excellent hiking and trekking opportunities here.
Martvili Canyon
This beautiful canyon is located 50 km north of Kutaisi.
It consists of several sections, each offering different natural attractions such as limestone rocks, emerald-colored rivers, and waterfalls. The canyon is about 2.4 kilometers long and reaches depths of up to 40 meters in places.
One of the most popular recreational activities is boating on the crystal-clear Abasha River. During this, we can admire the rocky walls and waterfalls up close. Its most beautiful part is the Gachedili waterfall, which is one of the most photogenic spots in the canyon.
Prometheus Cave
Also known as Kumistavi Cave, it’s one of Georgia’s largest and most spectacular cave systems. It’s located 20 km from Kutaisi, so it’s definitely worth visiting if we’re there.
The cave is several kilometers long, with huge underground chambers, stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. Among its spectacular formations are various shaped dripstone sculptures, which are illuminated with colorful lights.
Not only are there guided walking tours, but boat trips are also organized in some sections where underground rivers allow.
Ananuri Fortress
Located on the banks of the Aragvi River, near the Zhinvali Reservoir, about 70 km north of Tbilisi. It’s situated in a strategic location that previously played an important defensive role.
Its construction began in the 13th century and was expanded in the 17th century. The fortress was the seat of the Dukes of Aragvi, who ruled the area. It has massive stone walls and several towers. Its walls and bastions have been preserved in good condition.
Within the fortress is a three-story bell tower that rises above the surrounding landscape. The tower offers a breathtaking view of the entire fortification and the landscape.
