Highlights of Georgia | Capitals, Caves & Caucasus
Trip Highlights
Discover Georgia, where Tbilisi’s cultural beauty, Telavi’s timeless traditions, and Stepantsminda’s mountain spirit come together to showcase the country’s rich heritage.
Taste Kakheti wines, part of an 8,000-year-old UNESCO-recognized tradition, and experience the unique qvevri method that makes Georgia the birthplace of winemaking.
Witness the Chronicle of Georgia, Tbilisi’s “Stonehenge”, where 30-metre pillars depict kings, saints, and biblical legends, set against sweeping views of the Tbilisi Sea.
Stand at the Gudauri Friendship Monument, a vibrant Soviet-era mosaic arch offering stunning views of snow-capped Caucasus peaks and the dramatic Devil’s Valley below.
Explore Uplistsikhe, one of the world’s oldest stone-sculpted cliff towns, where cave temples, hidden corridors, and rock-cut theatres reveal Georgia’s pre-Christian era.
Know Before You Go
- Travellers should verify visa and entry rules for their nationality in advance; requirements can change, and some travellers may qualify under special visa or permit categories—always confirm on the official MFA website before booking flights.
- Passports should have at least 6 months’ validity beyond the trip and a few blank pages; carry digital and paper copies of documents and travel insurance.
- The local currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL); cards are widely accepted in cities but cash is essential in rural areas, markets, and for on-the-spot 4×4/jeep hires.
- ATMs are common in Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi; decline dynamic currency conversion and choose billing in GEL to avoid poor exchange rates.
- Magti, Silknet (Geocell), and Beeline offer good coverage; an eSIM or airport SIM is the easiest way to stay connected. Wi-Fi is widespread in hotels and cafés.
- In winter, passes like Jvari (to Kazbegi) may close due to snow or landslides; travellers should check official road advisories the day before long transfers.
- 4×4/jeep access is required or strongly recommended for Gergeti Trinity, Truso Valley, Juta, and some canyon roads—especially in shoulder seasons and winter.
- Many monasteries and churches request modest dress (shoulders and knees covered); women may be asked to use a headscarf—some sites provide wraps at the entrance.
- Photography can be restricted inside churches and at border areas; always look for signs and ask the custodian or guide before shooting.
- Indoor smoking is banned nationwide (including e-cigs) in restaurants, cafés, and most public venues; fines are enforced.
- Tipping is appreciated: round up or add ~10% in restaurants when service isn’t included; guides and drivers value discretionary cash tips.
- Best weather windows for mixed city/mountain trips are May–June and September–October; summers can be hot in lowlands and cool at altitude even in July–August.
- Kazbegi/Gudauri involve stairs and slopes; Uplistsikhe/Vardzia feature uneven steps and tunnels—good grip shoes are important; these sites are not fully accessible.
- Public holidays and Orthodox feast days can affect opening hours; many museums close on Mondays—check schedules the day before.
Additional Information
About the Tour:
Embark on a 6-day journey through Georgia’s cultural and natural gems. Begin with Tbilisi, exploring its vibrant streets and a full-day trip to Mtskheta, Jvari, Gori, and Uplistsikhe. Continue to Telavi for a Kakheti wine experience and Sighnaghi’s romantic charm. Spend a day in Stepantsminda, where the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church awaits under Mount Kazbegi, along with Gudauri’s Friendship Monument. Afterwards, return to Tbilisi for the grand Chronicle of Georgia before concluding your unforgettable adventure.