Best Things to do in Georgia

Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus region, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia has remarkable diversity and captivating contrasts. It offers a memorable adventure for every traveller, from its rich history to its magnificent landscapes and welcoming hospitality. Warm hospitality, embodied in "gamarjoba," ensures travellers feel at home. Wine traditions, legends, and epic adventures like trekking and skiing await. As Georgia strides forward, its cities blend modernity with history. Discover the charm and allure that make Georgia unforgettable. According to the National Statistics Office of Georgia, 5.4 million tourists visited the country in 2022 alone.

Exploring a foreign country with a different culture and language can be intimidating and exciting. Here is a checklist of all the things you can add to your itinerary when planning a trip to Georgia:

Best Places to Visit in Georgia	Budget-Friendly Places to Visit in Georgia
Tbilisi Vardzia  Svetitskhoveli Cathedral Kazbegi National Park Uplistsikhe	Signagi Kutaisi Gori Mestia Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)

Must-visit places in Georgia

Georgia is a beautiful and culturally rich country that offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors:

1. Tbilisi

The capital city, Tbilisi, blends old and new with its charming old town, historic churches, and modern architecture. The city is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modernity. Nestled in the embrace of the Caucasus Mountains, this charming city offers many experiences that captivate the senses and ignite the imagination. Begin your journey exploring Tbilisi's charms. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the old town, where colorful balconies and ancient churches create a unique atmosphere. Here are some of the things to do in Tbilisi that will help you experience the city to its fullest:

• Stroll through the Old Town: Begin your Tbilisi adventure by wandering through the enchanting streets of the old town. Marvel at the ornate balconies, colorful facades, and ancient churches that evoke a sense of timeless beauty. The charming labyrinthine streets offer surprises at every turn, making it a paradise for explorers.
• Narikala Fortress: The Narikala Fortress, situated on a hill above Tbilisi, provides breathtaking views of the city and its varied surroundings. This ancient fortress, dating back to the 4th century, is a testament to the city's history and resilience. Ascend via a cable car or a scenic hike to witness the merging of the past and present.
• Sulphur Baths: Amongst the things to do in Tbilisi, the famous sulphur baths are a haven of relaxation amidst the bustling city. Indulge in the therapeutic waters, where the historic bath houses offer an authentic experience. Allow the soothing warmth to rejuvenate your body and spirit, much like the locals have done for centuries.
• Rustaveli Avenue: Rustaveli Avenue is Tbilisi's cultural epicenter, with theaters, galleries, and museums. Immerse yourself in Georgia's artistic heritage by visiting the Georgian National Museum, the Rustaveli Theatre, and the Museum of Fine Arts. The avenue's energy reflects the city's dynamic spirit.
• Rike Park and the Peace Bridge: Rike Park is a modern oasis nestled along the banks of the Kura River. Explore its tranquil paths, contemporary sculptures, and the iconic Peace Bridge—a stunning glass and steel structure that lights up the night sky, symbolizing Tbilisi's journey toward harmony.
• Meidan Square: Meidan Square is Tbilisi's bustling heart, where locals and visitors converge to savor traditional Georgian cuisine at charming cafes and restaurants. Taste khachapuri, a delectable cheese-filled bread, and indulge in the art of people-watching while absorbing the lively atmosphere.
• Anchiskhati Basilica: Delve into Tbilisi's spiritual fabric by visiting the Anchiskhati Basilica, the city's oldest church dating back to the 6th century. Admire its ancient frescoes and architectural grace, which speak of Georgia's enduring religious devotion.
• Dry Bridge Flea Market: One of the best things to do in Tbilisi for an authentic shopping experience is exploring the Dry Bridge Flea Market. Antique enthusiasts and curious visitors alike can unearth hidden gems from Soviet memorabilia to handmade crafts, creating a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary artistry.
• Georgian Wine Tasting: No visit to Tbilisi is complete without savoring the country's celebrated wine. Engage in a wine-tasting experience through Georgia's centuries-old winemaking traditions. Raise a glass of amber wine and toast to the deep-rooted culture that flows through every vineyard.

Tbilisi is a city that invites you to immerse yourself in its stories, flavors, and contrasts. Its historical treasures and modern delights coexist, offering travellers a captivating journey into the heart and soul of Georgia.

2. Vardzia

Another cave city, Vardzia, was carved into the rock face in the 12th century and served as a monastery complex. The astonishing cave city of Vardzia holds significant cultural importance. It is a breathtaking natural wonder deeply cherished by the people of Georgia. In the 12th century, King Giorgi III constructed a fortress. Later, Queen Tamar, his daughter, founded a cave monastery that evolved into a sacred city, providing a home for possibly 2000 monks. This site gained fame as a spiritual stronghold on the eastern boundary of Christendom. More than 400 chambers, 13 churches, and 25 wine cellars exist, with ongoing discoveries continuing to unveil even more. It's an incredible example of Georgia's historical architecture.

3. Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

Located in Mtskheta, this UNESCO-listed cathedral is a significant religious site. Dating back to the 11th century, during the flourishing era of Georgian church architecture, stands a remarkable and notably vast structure. Serving as the principal Orthodox Christian cathedral in Georgia, it occupies a paramount position along the Silk Road, not only as a place of pilgrimage but also as the interment site of Christ's Robe and the final resting place of Georgian monarchs. Built between 1010 and 1029 AD, this architectural marvel has garnered recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its name, Svetitskhoveli, translates to a "live-giving pillar," symbolizing its profound spiritual importance.

4. Kazbegi National Park

This breathtaking region offers stunning landscapes, including the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, which stands against the backdrop of Mount Kazbek. Situated on the boundary of Georgia and Russia, the national park boasts of a rugged landscape of cliffs and mountains that provide sanctuary to various exceptional and endangered animal and avian species. Kazbegi National Park is renowned for its mountainous terrain. Notable historical sites include the 14th-century Sameba temple, the 10th-century Garbanikerk, the Sioni basilica, the Akhaltsikhe basilica, and the 17th-century Sno Castle. Within the region, there's a fusion of Christian and pagan traditions. The park is a renowned destination for hikers with its Alpine meadows, moraines, and snow-capped peaks.

5. Uplistsikhe

An ancient rock-hewn town dating back to the early centuries, Uplistsikhe is a unique archaeological site with caves, tunnels, and carved chambers. The once-vast cave city is situated 10km east of Gori, overlooking the northern bank of the Mtkvari River. Its rise occurred between the 6th century BC and 1st century AD, transforming Uplistsikhe into a hub for both politics and religion in pre-Christian Kartli. The complex has temples primarily devoted to the sun goddess. When the Arabs took control of Tbilisi in AD 645, Uplistsikhe transitioned into the dwelling of Christian monarchs of Kartli and emerged as a significant trading nexus along a primary caravan route linking Asia to Europe.

Budget-Friendly Places to Visit in Georgia:

There are some equally fascinating and adventurous places to explore in Georgia that will satiate your wanderlust without burning a hole in your pocket:

• Signagi

A charming hilltop town in the Kakheti region, Signagi is often referred to as the "City of Love" due to its romantic atmosphere, cobblestone streets, and beautiful views of the Alazani Valley. Signagi exudes an old-world charm, characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, numerous Orthodox churches, and the captivating Museum of History and Ethnography. A leisurely day or two can be effortlessly spent wandering these charming streets, savoring local wines, and acquiring souvenirs from the welcoming local artisans. As you explore, don't miss the opportunity to circumnavigate the ancient city wall, which offers breathtaking panoramic vistas, visit the quaint churches, and discover numerous vantage points for admiring the majestic Caucasus mountain range. And, of course, no trip to Signagi is complete without visiting a local winery. While you can try homemade wine at your guesthouse or homestay, a winery visit provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Georgia's foremost exports.

• Kutaisi

Kutaisi, situated in the Imereti region along the banks of the Rioni River, serves as one of Georgia's oldest urban centers and holds the fifth position among Europe's ancient cities. Kutaisi and its surroundings are renowned for their breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage sites. When visiting Kutaisi, a must-see includes Sataplia and Prometheus Caves. Venture into the captivating depths of Prometheus Cave, an underground marvel adorned with awe-inspiring formations of stalactites and stalagmites painstakingly crafted by nature over time.

• Gori

The name 'Gori' originates in the Georgian word 'gora,' signifying 'heap' or 'hill.' Situated between Tbilisi and Kutaisi, this city has historically been a significant stopover on east-west trade paths, notably the Silk Road. Globally and domestically, Gori is most renowned as the birthplace of Ioseb Jugashvili, also known as Joseph Stalin, and is also home to the Stalin Museum. You can explore the ancient rock-hewn town of Uplistsikhe and the Gori Fortress during your visit.

• Mestia

Mestia is the primary hub of Upper (Zemo) Svaneti, a picturesque mountainous region providing affordable lodging options. Here, you can embark on journeys along its hiking trails, delve into the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography, and immerse yourself in its awe-inspiring natural scenery. Starting from the heart of Mestia, you can trek to the glacier foothills of Ushba, partake in horseback excursions to alpine meadows, gain insights into the rich Svan culture, and enjoy skiing during the winter season.

• Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)

Stepantsminda is a picturesque valley town renowned for its iconic Tsminda Sameba Church perched on a hill and the majestic snow-covered peak of Mt. Kazbek overlooking it from the west. Its fame stems from the breathtaking natural landscapes, notably the Gergeti Trinity Church set against the backdrop of Mount Kazbek. This region, officially named Stepantsminda but still commonly known as Kazbegi, serves as a fantastic hub for outdoor adventure sports enthusiasts as there are plenty of fun outdoor activities to enjoy here, such as hiking to the Gergeti Trinity Church, rafting in the Snotskali River, horseback riding in the mountains, and bathing in the closeby mineral water springs.

These are just a few incredible places to explore in Georgia. The country's rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality make it a fantastic destination for travellers seeking a unique and memorable experience.

With its fusion of ancient traditions and modern pursuits, Georgia beckons travellers to explore its diverse landscapes, indulge in its culinary wonders, and experience the warmth of its people. From historical treasures to natural marvels, a journey through Georgia is a tapestry of unforgettable moments.

Don't Forget the Travel Insurance

In general, travel safety in Georgia is at par with most European countries. It's important to note a few safety concerns you must be mindful of, beginning with the Russian occupation of Georgia. While the country is safe and stable for travellers, considering all factors is essential. Your international travel insurance policy covers various expenses, including travel assistance, lost baggage, accidents, illnesses, flight cancellations, and delays. In such instances, having a travel insurance for georgia can be incredibly beneficial. Policybazaar.aeoffers a practical solution for those heading to Georgia by presenting tailored travel insurance options.