At the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East, Georgia has forged a unique identity over the years, woven from the influences of its neighbors. Between its high plateaus and mountain ranges, the"Pearl of the Caucasus" unfurls attractive towns, troglodyte villages and historic monasteries. Preserved, the beauty of Caucasian nature is matched only by the hospitality of the Georgian people. To help you prepare for your visit to Georgia, here are some of the most beautiful places to see and visit in the country.
1- Visit the capital, Tbilisi
The country's capital, Tbilisi is a veritable jewel of architecture and history. Built into the side of a hill, the Bethleeem district winds its colorful streets along the river, between Soviet buildings, imposing churches and Oriental-inspired apartment blocks. Don't miss a visit to the capital's mythical baths before soaking up its distinctive atmosphere. Its rich history is marked by the many peoples who have passed through it, as it is built at one of the region's most strategic crossroads.
Activities to book 1- Discover Tbilisi: this guided walking tour will take you through the highlights of the city, ideal for discovering most of what Tbilisi has to offer.
2- Discover Svanetia
A high-mountain region in the north of the country, Svanetia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hiking enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the region's superb panoramas. If there were only one trek to do in Georgia, it would be the one that crosses the region, from Mestia to Ushguli. This route takes inimpressive mountain scenery, with charming villages, rivers and forests.
3- Stroll through the narrow streets of Sighnaghi
Clinging to the hills, the town of Sighnaghi offers a sublime panorama of the Caucasus. Considered one of the most beautiful towns in Georgia, this fortified medieval city has retained its charm despite its strong tourist appeal. Take a stroll through its pretty cobbled streets, before visiting the Basilica of St. George. Climb to the top of the basilica's campanile for a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.
4- What to do in Georgia Visit Kakhetia
Between plateaus and mountains, Georgia is also a country rich in vineyards. Well-known for its beverages, Kakhetia is the region to visit if you're a wine lover. In the southern Caucasus, this region with its hot, dry climate is home to some of the most prestigious appellations and renowned grape varieties. In fact, Kakhetia accounts for nearly 75% of the country's wine production.
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5- Bathe in the Black Sea at Batoumi
A glance at the horizon soon reveals Batoumi. Right on the edge of the Black Sea, its distinctive skyline of skyscrapers and improbably shaped buildings is almost reminiscent of a mini New York. Beyond its ultra-modern allure, Batoumi boasts imperial architecture from the late 19th century, giving the city an ambivalence and a very seductive atmosphere. Not far from here, you'll find Prometheus Cave, one of Georgia's major tourist attractions.
Activities to book 5- Take a trip to Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave on this tour from Batumi, bookable here.
6- Go to Koutaïssi
The country's second-largest city, Koutaïssi is calmer and more soothing than the capital. Its elegant city center boasts a wealth of architecture and heritage. Be sure to visit Bagrati Cathedral, its famous green-roofed cathedral. Nearby, you can visit the Motsameta and Gelati monasteries . The latter features three churches, a bell tower and the ruins of the academy where a school of philosophy once sat.
7- Enjoy the Caucasus in Stepantsminda/Kazbegi
Kazbegi by its former name, Stepantsminda is the most important town in the eastern Greater Caucasus. Perched at an altitude of 1700m, it is dominated by Mount Kazbek at 5047m. Dominated by its beautiful Tminda Sameda church, Stepantsminda is a good "base camp" for hikers and mountaineers wishing to tackle the surrounding peaks.
8- The pretty town of Mtskheta
Close to Tbilisi, the small town of Mtskheta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the 3rd to the 5th century, the town was the first capital of western Georgia. In addition to the monuments it has preserved, Mtskheta is the cradle of Georgian Christianity. Its rich and important history in the cultural construction of the country makes it the most important spiritual and cultural center in Georgia.
Activities to book if you're in Tbilisi, this half-day excursion visit Mtskheta and its main points of interest.
9- What to visit in Georgia Vardzia
The troglodyte town of Vardzia is an impressive site. The best way to visit is with a guide who will show you all the secrets of the town's labyrinths and galleries. Between the 12th and 13th centuries, Vardzia was one of the country's largest urban centers. The town's main monument is theChurch of the Assumption, half-built and half-cut into the rock. Just to the left of the church, you'll find"Tamar's Tears", a source of drinking water where Orthodox Christians usually make vows.
10- Ouchgouli and its mountain villages
Perched in the Caucasian mountains at an altitude of 2200m, Ushguli is an exceptional site. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the village is made up of four hamlets, each with its own watchtower. This authentic village of Svanétie has been home to Svan populations since the 9th century. Don't miss theChurch of the Virgin Lamaria, a 12th-century church located at the foot of Chkhara, the country's highest peak.
11- Taste the country's culinary specialties
On a trip to Georgia, it would be unthinkable not to sample the local specialties! The country's flagship dish is khachapuria brioche bread topped with cheese and sometimes an egg, depending on the region. Another famous dish isajapsandali, a mixture of eggplants, tomatoes, onions and long candied peppers. On the sweet side, pelamushi is a kind of flan made with grape juice. Wherever you go, you won't want to miss the churchkhela. This candy, which resembles a long, colorful candle, is a garland of nuts coated with a grape-juice glaze.
12- Visit Touchétie
If you're looking for the great outdoors, head for the Touchétie region. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this region is very popular with trekking enthusiasts. Authentic and unspoilt, you'll even find some remote villages without access to running water or electricity.
13- What to do in Georgia? See the David Garedja monastery
In the middle of the semi-desert steppe, the troglodyte monasteries of David Garedja are like something out of another universe. On the border withAzerbaijan, they are steeped in Christian and Eastern influences. The troglodyte monastery of Saint-Jean-Baptiste dates back to the 6th century, and is still inhabited by a dozen monks. From here, you can enjoy an impressive panorama of the surrounding steppes.
The activity to book 13- Day trip from Tbilisi to Mount Rainbow and David Garedja monastery.
14- Discover Akhaltsikhé
A town in southern Georgia, Akhaltsikhe has a half-Georgian, half-Armenian atmosphere. A multicultural city, it is a fascinating symbol of tolerance in the region. Mosques, synagogues, Catholic, Armenian and Orthodox churches stand side by side. On the road to Vardzia, this former metropolis of the Ottoman Empire is well worth a visit.
15- Enjoy the thermal baths at Bordjomi
Located in one of the most beautiful regions of the Lesser Caucasus, Bordjomi was famous during the Soviet period for its thermal waters. Visit the Thermal Park to see the town's first discovered spring. On the heights of the city, Likani Park is a very elegant place, where you'll see sanatoriums and beautiful dachas, the country houses. The Romanov Palace is right next door.
16- What to visit in Georgia? Alaverdi Monastery
In the heart of the wine-growing plain, the Alaverdi Monastery takes its name from "Allah Verdi", meaning "the gift of God" in ancient Persian. In the Middle Ages, the monastery marked the border between the Christian world and the lands of Islam. Surrounded by hills and vineyards, it dominates the plain, protected by its high ramparts. Today, the monastic complex is one of the country's most beautiful religious monuments.
17- Visit Gori
Famous for being the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, the small town of Gori plays on this reputation to attract travellers. Although the town offers few points of interest, it is nonetheless pleasant to visit. The Joseph Stalin Museum has not been updated since 1959. It's well worth a visit if you want to immerse yourself in the history of Soviet propaganda. But there's hardly a word about the purges, deportations and millions of deaths for which the dictator was responsible.
18- What to do in Georgia? Skiing in the Caucasus
With its many mountains, Georgia is also a favorite spot for winter sports enthusiasts. In the Greater Caucasus, the resort of Goudaouri attracts sports enthusiasts with its off-piste offering and competitive prices. The resort has been in vogue for some years now, and you'll be able to admire some breathtaking scenery. In the Lesser Caucasus, Bakouriani is the country's historic ski resort, popular during the USSR.
19- The mining town of Chiatoura
An unusual visit to the country, the mining town of Chiatoura is now a timeless place. This gigantic, completely abandoned Soviet-era ironworks is lost in the cliffs near Koutaïssi. Most impressive of all are its cable cars suspended in the void. Nearby, the Katskhi pillar is well worth a visit. Here you'll find a monastery perched 50m high on a rocky outcrop, accessible only by ladder.
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When is the best time to visit Georgia?
The country's relief, altitude and latitude make Georgia a country with a varied topography and several microclimates. Here's a quick guide to help you decide when to go:
- Mid-May to mid-October: this is the sunniest and warmest season, ideal if you want to visit the coast.
- Spring: the climate is the most pleasant, avoiding the humidity of the plains and the heat of the cities. This is the best season for hiking in the Caucasian mountains.
Is it dangerous to go to Georgia?
For many years now, Georgia has been a safe country for travellers. However, the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs strongly advises against travel to Abkhazia (in the north-west of the country) and South Ossetia, two regions bordering Russia.
In addition, demonstrations taking place mainly in Tbilisi and some of the country's major cities may result in violence and arrests. Travelers are therefore advised to avoid large-scale gatherings.
