Your 7-Day Tbilisi & Kazbegi Trip: Svetitskhoveli Cathedral & Beyond
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral · Abanotubani · Ananuri Fortress · Gergeti Holy Trinity Church · Truso Valley · Sighnaghi
7-day Georgia trip — Tbilisi to Kazbegi. Day-by-day route, attractions & food.
Part one
Is this trip for you?
Tbilisi and Kazbegi over a Tbilisi-only or Tbilisi + Sighnaghi trip: Tbilisi offers a unique blend of ancient spiritual sites like Metekhi Church, historic sulfur baths, and a dynamic, evolving food scene reflecting its Silk Road heritage. Kazbegi, by contrast, provides dramatic high-Caucasus mountain landscapes, alpine hiking opportunities, and the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church perched above Stepantsminda, which a city-only trip would entirely miss. While Sighnaghi offers quieter wine country and ancient walled towns, it lacks the raw mountain adventure and grandeur of Kazbegi’s alpine terrain.
Your itinerary covers 8 must-have experiences
Ancient Georgian Churches & Monasteries
✓ Day 1: Metekhi Church of the Nativity of the Mother of God
Authentic Georgian Cuisine & Wine Tasting
✓ Day 2: Fabrika Tbilisi
Georgian Feasts & Wine Traditions
✓ Day 2: Dezerter Bazaar
Tbilisi Old Town & Sulfur Baths
✓ Day 3: Chreli Abano Sulfur Baths Experience
Greater Caucasus Mountain Scenery
✓ Day 4: Ananuri Fortress Complex
Iconic Mountain Churches & Fortresses
✓ Day 4: Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church
High Mountain Views & Cave Towns
✓ Day 4: Drive to Ananuri Fortress Complex
Trekking & Mountain Vistas of the Caucasus
✓ Day 5: Juta Valley & Chaukhi Mountains Hike
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under Creative Commons licenses. Individual credits shown on each photo.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-August) is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking in areas such as David Gareja and Vashlovani, though lowlands can be hot. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer milder temperatures, perfect for city exploration in Tbilisi and mountain regions like Kazbegi before winter snows. Winters (November-March) bring cold weather and significant snow, especially in mountainous areas.
Part two
The plan, day by day
7-day trip
This itinerary prioritizes the core cultural pulse of Tbilisi and the raw, spiritual high-mountain adventure of Kazbegi. It necessarily skips the Kakheti wine region entirely, so you miss the ancient Alaverdi Monastery, cellar door tastings of Saperavi wines, and the charming fortified town of Sighnaghi with its sweeping views of the Alazani Valley. You also miss the Black Sea coastal city of Batumi, with its modern architecture, botanical gardens, and seaside promenades that offer a completely different Georgian experience.
Add 2-3 days to explore the Kakheti wine region, using Sighnaghi as a base. This allows you to visit ancient monasteries like Bodbe, sample unique Georgian wines directly from traditional qvevri clay pots at local wineries, and wander Sighnaghi's cobblestone streets and defensive walls while taking in panoramic views of the Alazani Valley and Caucasus Mountains. The extra days provide a completely different Georgian character focused on viticulture and history.
This itinerary follows a packed pace (5-6 activities per day). Day 1 and the last day are lighter to account for arrival and departure. Want a different pace?
Create a custom version with your preferences.
- Morning
08:00 AM - Arrive at Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) & Transfer to Hotel· 1 hr 30 min
USD 25
Arrive at Tbilisi International Airport (TBS). Take a taxi directly to your hotel in the Old Town area, allowing time for immigration and baggage claim. This will take approximately 1.5 hours.
09:30 AM - Hotel Check-in & Refresh· 1 hr
FREECheck into your hotel in the heart of Tbilisi's Old Town, drop off luggage, and take some time to refresh after your international flight.
- 🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:30 AM - Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi· 2 hrs
FREE - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Khachapuri Adjaruli in Avlabari· 1 hr
USD 18Khachapuri AdjaruliSavor a traditional Khachapuri Adjaruli, the iconic boat-shaped bread filled with molten cheese, butter, and a raw egg yolk, at a local eatery in the Avlabari district.
Best around Local Restaurant - 🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
01:30 PM - Metekhi Church of the Nativity of the Mother of God· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
03:00 PM - Bridge of Peace & Rike Park· 1 hr
FREE - Closes 8 PM · 4h here🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
04:00 PM - Narikala Fortress· 2 hrs
FREE - Evening🕐 Monday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM; Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM; Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
06:00 PM - Mtatsminda Park via Cable Car· 2 hrs 30 min
08:30 PM - Dinner: Local Georgian Cuisine in Old Town· 1 hr
USD 18Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring a variety of local Georgian dishes at a restaurant in the atmospheric Old Town. Try 'khinkali' (dumplings) or 'satsivi' (chicken in walnut sauce).
Old Town
The Old Town is the vibrant heart of Tbilisi, offering walkability to major attractions like Narikala Fortress, Bridge of Peace, and various churches. It boasts abundant dining options, charming streets, and easy access to public transport for areas further afield.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Dezerter Bazaar· 2 hrs
FREE - 🕐 Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
11:30 AM - Dry Bridge Market· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - Afternoon
01:00 PM - Lunch: Georgian Street Food in Old Tbilisi· 1 hr
USD 10Enjoy a quick and authentic Georgian lunch. Try local favorites like Lobiani (bean-filled bread) or a classic Adjarian Khachapuri from a small, bustling bakery or street food vendor.
- 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Fabrika Tbilisi· 2 hrs
FREE - 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
04:00 PM - Vake Park· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - Evening
07:00 PM - Dinner: Traditional Georgian Supper in Marjanishvili· 1 hr
USD 18Savor a delicious Georgian dinner in the Marjanishvili district. Try local specialties like Satsivi (chicken in walnut sauce) or Megrelian Khachapuri, known for its rich cheese filling and topping.
Old Town
Continues to offer excellent walkability to many historic sites, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse dining options. Good access to public transport for areas further afield.
- Morning
08:30 AM - Taxi to Chronicles of Georgia· 30 min
Begin your day with a taxi ride to the impressive Chronicles of Georgia, located outside the city center, to make the most of the morning light.
- 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Visit the Chronicles of Georgia· 2 hrs
FREE 11:00 AM - Taxi from Chronicles of Georgia· 30 min
Take a taxi back towards the city center, positioning yourself for the next set of activities.
- 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
11:30 AM - Stroll along Shota Rustaveli Avenue· 1 hr
FREE - Afternoon🕐 Monday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM; Tuesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM
12:30 PM - Georgian Cooking Class: Khinkali & Khachapuri· 3 hrs
Dive into Georgian culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare iconic dishes like khinkali (dumplings) and khachapuri (cheese bread). This immersive experience serves as your lunch for the day.
- 🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
03:30 PM - Chreli Abano Sulfur Baths Experience· 1 hr 30 min
- Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Adjaruli Khachapuri in Sololaki· 1 hr
USD 18Khachapuri AdjaruliEnjoy a delicious dinner featuring Adjaruli Khachapuri, a boat-shaped cheese bread topped with an egg and butter, in the charming historic Sololaki district, adjacent to the Old Town.
Best around Sololaki
Old Town
The Old Town remains the best base for its central location, walkable access to many attractions, diverse dining options, and vibrant atmosphere. It offers excellent transit connections for further exploration.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:00 AM - Sioni Cathedral of Dormition· 1 hr
FREE 11:00 AM - Depart Tbilisi to Stepantsminda via Shared Taxi· 1 hr 30 min
Begin the scenic journey along the Georgian Military Highway from a central pickup point in Tbilisi towards Stepantsminda (Kazbegi).
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Khinkali in Pasanauri· 1 hr
USD 18Stop for a traditional Georgian lunch in Pasanauri, a town renowned for its delicious Khinkali dumplings, a perfect hearty meal amidst the mountain journey.
01:30 PM - Drive to Ananuri Fortress Complex· 30 min
FREEContinue the picturesque drive from Pasanauri to the Ananuri Fortress Complex, enjoying the views of the Zhinvali Reservoir.
- 🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Ananuri Fortress Complex· 1 hr 30 min
FREE 03:30 PM - Drive to Stepantsminda· 1 hr 30 min
FREEComplete the scenic drive from Ananuri to Stepantsminda, the main village in the Kazbegi region, surrounded by towering peaks.
- Evening
05:00 PM - Guesthouse Check-in in Stepantsminda· 30 min
FREEArrive in Stepantsminda and check into your guesthouse, taking some time to settle in and refresh after the journey.
08:15 PM - Dinner: Mtsvadi in Stepantsminda· 1 hr
USD 18Enjoy a well-deserved dinner featuring Mtsvadi, Georgian grilled meat skewers, at a local restaurant in Stepantsminda, a perfect way to end a day of hiking.
Stepantsminda
Ideal base for exploring the Kazbegi region, offering easy access to the Gergeti Trinity Church trailhead and authentic local guesthouse experiences.
- Morning
08:00 AM - Shared Taxi to Juta Village· 45 min
Take a shared taxi from Stepantsminda to the alpine village of Juta, the starting point for high-mountain treks into the Chaukhi Mountains.
- Afternoon
02:45 PM - Shared Taxi from Juta Village· 45 min
Return from Juta Village to Stepantsminda by shared taxi after your invigorating hike.
03:30 PM - Lunch: Khachapuri Imeruli in Stepantsminda· 1 hr
USD 10Savor a simple yet delicious Khachapuri Imeruli, a traditional cheese-filled bread, at a local eatery in Stepantsminda after your strenuous hike.
- Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Lobio in Stepantsminda· 1 hr
USD 10Enjoy a hearty dinner of Lobio, a traditional Georgian kidney bean stew slow-cooked in a clay pot, at a guesthouse or local restaurant in Stepantsminda.
Stepantsminda
Stepantsminda serves as the primary hub for exploring the Kazbegi region, offering numerous guesthouses, local eateries, and easy access to hiking trails and attractions like Gergeti Trinity Church and the Juta Valley.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM; Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:30 AM - Dariali Gorge & Archangel Michael Monastery· 2 hrs 30 min
- Afternoon
01:00 PM - Lunch: Khachapuri Imeruli in Stepantsminda· 1 hr
USD 6Savor a freshly baked Khachapuri Imeruli, a delicious round cheese-filled bread, at a local bakery or guesthouse in Stepantsminda after your morning adventures.
- 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Hike to Gveleti Waterfalls· 2 hrs
04:00 PM - Cultural Insight: Local Honey Tasting Experience· 1 hr 30 min
Engage with local traditions by visiting a small, family-run beekeeping operation in Stepantsminda. Learn about traditional Georgian honey production and enjoy a tasting of various local honey types.
- Evening🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
05:30 PM - Panoramic Views from Stepantsminda Viewpoint· 1 hr 30 min
FREE 07:00 PM - Dinner: Hearty Lobio in Stepantsminda· 1 hr
USD 7Enjoy a comforting and authentic Georgian dinner with a hearty bowl of Lobio, a traditional bean stew, served in a local eatery in Stepantsminda.
Stepantsminda
Continue enjoying the stunning mountain environment of Stepantsminda, with convenient access to hiking trails, local eateries, and the scenic beauty of the Kazbegi region.
- Morning
09:00 AM - Early Morning Views of Mount Kazbek· 45 min
FREEStart the day with breathtaking views of Mount Kazbek, perhaps from your accommodation or a scenic viewpoint in Stepantsminda, capturing the tranquil beauty before departure.
09:45 AM - Depart Stepantsminda & Scenic Drive to Gudauri· 1 hr
FREEBegin the picturesque drive back towards Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Highway, enjoying the dramatic mountain landscapes as you descend from the Greater Caucasus.
- 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
10:45 AM - Gudauri View Point (Friendship Monument)· 45 min
FREE 11:30 AM - Continue Drive to Tbilisi· 1 hr
FREEResume the scenic journey to Tbilisi, passing through the historic Ananuri Fortress area and Zhinvali Reservoir. Expect to arrive in Tbilisi by approximately 2:00 PM.
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Georgian Khinkali in Avlabari· 1 hr
USD 12Enjoy a delicious plate of Khinkali, the savory Georgian soup dumplings, at a local eatery in the Avlabari district upon your arrival in Tbilisi. This substantial meal will serve as a late lunch before heading to the airport.
01:30 PM - Hotel Checkout & Luggage Collection (Old Town)· 30 min
FREEReturn to your previous hotel in Old Town Tbilisi to check out and collect your stored luggage. This allows sufficient time before your flight.
Part three
Food, shopping & festivals
Georgia promises an unparalleled feast, from Tbilisi's Supra traditions in Old Town duqani and the aroma of khachapuri and khinkali from local bakeries, to Kazbegi's hearty, communal guesthouse dining. Expect abundant home-cooked Georgian fare like Lobio and Pkhali Assorti, with amber wine flowing freely. Seek out authentic local food by bypassing tourist spots for family kitchens in both cities.
Top 10 dishes to try
USD 5-10Khachapuri Acharuli
Adjara (region), popular Nationwide
Boat-shaped bread baked with sulguni cheese, topped with a raw egg yolk and a pat of butter, meant to be mixed and eaten immediately.
USD 1-3Churchkhela (ჩურჩხელა)
Walnuts threaded on a string and dipped repeatedly in thickened grape juice, then dried into a chewy, sweet candy.
Khachapuri Imeruli (იმერული ხაჭაპური)
Simple, round flatbread baked with a generous layer of sulguni cheese melted inside, a staple on every Georgian table.
📍 Any local bakery or guesthouse
USD 4-7Lobio (ლობიო)
Hearty, slow-cooked kidney bean stew seasoned with herbs and spices, traditionally served in a clay pot with mchadi (cornbread).
USD 6-10Pkhali Assorti
A vibrant platter of finely chopped and spiced vegetable pastes (spinach, beetroot, eggplant) bound with walnut paste and garlic, served with cornbread.
USD 8-12Adjapsandali
A cold or warm vegetable stew featuring eggplant, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, often served as a side or light main.
USD 8-12Khinkali
Hand-twisted dough pockets filled with spiced meat (often beef and pork) and broth; you hold the 'kudi' (knot) and slurp the hot juice first.
USD 12-20Mtsvadi
Marinated chunks of pork or veal grilled over an open flame on skewers, often served with tart plum sauce (tkemali) and raw onions.
USD 3-6Lobiani
Racha (region), popular Nationwide
A round bread filled with a savory mixture of mashed kidney beans, often spiced with herbs and onions, a filling and affordable staple.
USD 4-8Pkhali (ფხალი)
Kazbegi
Assortment of chopped and ground vegetables (spinach, beetroot, eggplant) mixed with walnuts, garlic, and herbs, served as cold appetizers.
Markets & neighborhoods
A bustling flea market also offering local snacks, fresh produce, and traditional sweets like Churchkhela from street vendors.
Home to the famous Gergeti Trinity Church, many guesthouses like Rhezo offer authentic homemade meals to travelers and climbers.
A more local vibe with numerous bakeries, cafes, and slightly less tourist-centric restaurants serving everyday Georgian staples.
Traditional Georgian restaurants, cozy 'duqani' taverns, and wine bars perfect for experiencing a Supra.
Basic eateries catering to tourists; best to venture off the main drag for local guesthouse food.
Good to Know
In Tbilisi, explore the blend of ancient and modern, from Dezerter Bazaar and Meidan Bazaar for culinary delights like Churchkhela and Chacha, to artisan workshops near Shardeni Street for Minankari jewelry and Rustaveli Avenue for contemporary Georgian designs. Kazbegi offers a different pace, with small local stalls and guesthouses providing practical items like hand-knitted woolens and local honey perfect for the mountain climate. Focus on specific markets and artisan districts in Tbilisi, while in Kazbegi, prioritize local food and weather-appropriate gear.
Top 10 souvenirs
Churchkhela
TbilisiUSD 5-15Often called 'Georgian Snickers,' this unique energy snack is made from walnuts or hazelnuts threaded onto a string and dipped in thickened grape juice, then dried.
📍 Dezerter Bazaar; Badagi shops; most local markets.
Hand-Knitted Woolen Socks & Hats
Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)USD 5-30Essential for the cold mountain climate, these thick, warm woolen items are often handmade by local women, offering genuine warmth and traditional patterns.
📍 Small stalls near the Main Square, local guesthouses, or small shops along the Georgian Military Highway.
Chacha (Grape Pomace Brandy)
TbilisiUSD 15-50This powerful, clear grape brandy, often homemade by families, is a potent expression of Georgian hospitality and a distinct local spirit.
📍 Meidan Bazaar, specialty alcohol shops in Old Tbilisi.
Felted Wool Papakhi Hat
Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)USD 20-60These conical or cylindrical felted wool hats are a distinctive traditional headwear of Caucasian mountain peoples, offering excellent warmth and a bold cultural statement.
📍 Select craft stalls near the Main Square or larger souvenir shops if available, sometimes found at roadside markets along the highway.
Georgian Wine (especially Saperavi)
TbilisiUSD 15-200Georgia is the cradle of wine, and its qvevri-made Saperavi offers a distinctive, ancient taste unlike anything found elsewhere.
📍 8000 Vintages (8000 Vintages Wine Shop), Ghvino Underground, Vinotheca
Qvevri Wine
TbilisiUSD 20-100Georgia is the birthplace of wine, and Qvevri wine, fermented and aged in traditional clay amphorae buried underground, offers a distinct, natural taste unique to the region.
📍 Vinotheca, 8 Sioni St; G.Vino, 6 Erekle II St; Badagoni Wine Shop, various locations.
Lurji Supra (Blue Tablecloths)
TbilisiUSD 30-150These hand-printed indigo blue fabrics feature traditional Georgian feast or hunting scenes, offering a unique and culturally rich home decor item.
📍 Georgian National Museum Shop, 3 Rustaveli Ave; various artisan shops in Old Tbilisi.
Minankari Enamel Jewelry
TbilisiUSD 30-300Handcrafted cloisonné enamel pieces are a unique Georgian art form, combining silver with vibrant glass enamel in intricate designs.
📍 Ornament Gallery, Old Town artisan workshops near Shardeni Street
Minankari (Cloisonné Enamel Jewelry)
TbilisiUSD 40-250These intricately handcrafted jewelry pieces use a centuries-old Georgian enamel technique, resulting in vibrant, detailed designs that are true wearable art.
📍 Ornament Gallery, 28 Leselidze St; various artisan stalls on Shardeni Street and Old Tbilisi.
Local Mountain Honey
KazbegiUSD 7-20Collected from wildflowers in the pristine Kazbegi mountains, this honey offers unique floral notes and is a pure, natural taste of the region.
📍 Small roadside stalls, local guesthouses, or mini-markets in Stepantsminda.
Markets & districts
Fresh produce, meat, cheese, spices, nuts, churchkhela, and local sweets.
An authentic and vibrant local food market with a strong sensory experience, where prices for food items are generally fixed.
Fresh produce, Churchkhela, Svanetian salt, spices, local cheeses, nuts, dried fruits.
Authentic, chaotic local food market; great for edible souvenirs but be prepared for crowds and a raw atmosphere.
Antiques, vintage goods, art, old books, traditional crafts, and unique souvenirs.
A bustling open-air flea market, especially lively on weekends, where haggling is expected and part of the experience.
Churchkhela, spices, local art, small craft items, Minankari jewelry, traditional souvenirs.
Tourist-focused but charming, with many small shops and cafes; some areas can be pricier, but smaller craft stalls offer good finds.
Local honey, Churchkhela, hand-knitted woolen goods, and basic groceries.
A small, functional center with a few mini-markets and occasional street vendors, primarily catering to locals and hikers.
Good to Know
Georgia Independence Day
დამოუკიდებლობის დღეMay 26 marks Georgia's 1918 restoration of independence. Main ceremonies at Freedom Square (Tbilisi) with military parade, free concerts, and fireworks over the Mtkvari River.
Note: Standard 1-2 weeks ahead
Tbilisoba
Tbilisi's birthday celebration with citywide street food festivals, Georgian polyphonic singing, folk dancing, and wine flowing freely in the Old Town.
Note: Book 1-2 weeks ahead
Georgian Orthodox Christmas and New Year
შობაJan 1-7 combined secular and Orthodox celebrations. New Year (Jan 1) features Tolia (Santa Claus) and Alilo procession. Orthodox Christmas (Jan 7) has dawn services at Sameba Cathedral.
Note: Book Tbilisi hotel 4-6 weeks ahead
New Wine Festival (Tbilisoba weekend)
Georgia is the birthplace of wine (8,000 years). Spring New Wine Festival showcases qvevri amphora-aged wines from 100+ producers at Tbilisi's Mtatsminda Park. Free tastings, grilled mtsvadi.
Note: Free entry; Tbilisi hotel 3-4 weeks ahead
Public Holidays(17)
Part four
Costs & booking
- Total for a couple — 7 days mid-range trip, excludes international flights
- Accommodation assumes 1 shared room
- Rough estimates — actual prices vary by season and availability
Local Transport
Accommodation
AI estimated based on typical hotel costs
Food
Activities
Moderate overall, with excellent value on food ($5-10 for a full meal at a local restaurant) but mid-range hotels can still run $80-120/night. The country is very safe, especially in Tbilisi, and tap water is generally potable.
Leverage Georgia's incredibly affordable local food scene; a substantial khachapuri or plate of khinkali can cost as little as 8-15 GEL ($3-5 USD), allowing you to stretch your $16/day food budget significantly.
For the trip to Kazbegi, opt for a marshrutka (minibus) from Didube Station in Tbilisi; it costs around 10-15 GEL ($3.50-5.00 USD) per person, saving significantly over a private taxi which can be $50-80.
With only $6 allocated for activities, focus on free cultural experiences like exploring Tbilisi's Old Town, visiting Sioni Cathedral, or enjoying scenic hikes around Kazbegi to Gergeti Trinity Church, which offer breathtaking views at no cost.
Purchase a Magti SIM card at their official store on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi upon arrival for the best coverage, especially vital for adventuring in areas like Kazbegi; a basic data plan is typically 15-25 GEL ($5-9 USD).
Georgian Cooking Class: Khinkali & KhachapuriDay 3
Book 1 week ahead — Popular cooking classes, especially hands-on experiences, fill up quickly. Secure your spot in advance.
Chreli Abano Sulfur Baths ExperienceDay 3
Book 1 week ahead — For specific private rooms or preferred time slots, particularly during peak hours, advance booking is highly recommended.
The practical bits — connectivity, getting around, and flights. These are partner links; we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Part five
Before you go
Tbilisi has metro; marshrutkas for intercity
MetroMoney card (Tbilisi)
Bolt is popular in Tbilisi. Marshrutkas are cheap for intercity travel.
- For the best mobile service and value, purchase a Magticom, Geocell, or Beeline SIM card at an official store on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi, rather than at the airport.
- If a Georgian host invites you for a meal or outing, do not insist on paying the bill yourself; accepting their hospitality is often expected and appreciated.
- When hiking in arid regions like David Gareja and Vashlovani, carry ample water and apply proper sunscreen, as shops and wells are scarce.
- Be prepared for potential language barriers at medical facilities in smaller towns like Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), where very little English may be spoken.
- When booking accommodations, check online prices (e.g., for hostels) and then consider negotiating directly with the owner on-site, as they might offer the online rate to avoid platform fees.
- Be vigilant for venomous snakes while hiking in the steppes of David Gareja and Vashlovani.
- Familiarize yourself with the official name Stepantsminda for Kazbegi, as both names are used interchangeably in the region.
- 1Proper sunscreen (for hiking in arid regions like David Gareja)
- 2Ample water (for hiking in David Gareja/Vashlovani where shops/wells are scarce)
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
Visa & Entry Requirements
The provided sources do not contain specific visa requirements for Georgia. Travelers from major nationalities (US, EU, UK, Australia, India) and others should consult the official Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or their nearest Georgian embassy/conulate to determine their specific visa requirements, validity periods, and necessary documentation well in advance of their trip.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Official provider stores on Rustaveli Avenue (Tbilisi) for best service, also in Sagarejo or Rustavi; avoid airport for better value.
Free and decent Wi-Fi is available in many cafés, restaurants, and guesthouses throughout Georgia, including Mestia. In cities like Ozurgeti, public areas like Platanus garden, Culture and Resort Park, and Public Service Hall offer free internet.
For the most reliable mobile service and best value, purchase your SIM card from an official provider store, such as those found on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi, rather than opting for potentially more costly options at the airport. Magticom generally offers the best 4G reception, even in more remote areas like David Gareja.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (most of Europe, South America)
Two round pins + side earth clips (Germany, Europe)
220V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% or round up
Round up
GEL 5–10 per bag
Tipping is appreciated but not expected.
Emergency Numbers
112
112
112
112 for all emergencies
Payments
Georgia uses GEL (lari). Cash useful at local shops
Accepted in Tbilisi and tourist areas
Growing in Tbilisi
Carry lari. Cards work at most restaurants in Tbilisi.
The provided sources do not contain specific visa requirements for Georgia. Travelers from major nationalities (US, EU, UK, Australia, India) and others should consult the official Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or their nearest Georgian embassy/conulate to determine their specific visa requirements, validity periods, and necessary documentation well in advance of their trip.
Tbilisi and most of Georgia are very safe, with crime rates among the lowest in Europe, largely due to extensive police reforms. Georgians are known for their welcoming hospitality. However, be aware that drug possession, including marijuana, carries severe legal penalties.
You can purchase SIM cards from major providers like Magticom, Geocell, or Beeline. For the best service and value, head to an official store, such as those on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi, as airport options may be more expensive. Magticom typically offers the best reception, with 4G widely available.
The local currency in Georgia is the Georgian Lari (GEL).
Tipping is not explicitly detailed, but Georgian hospitality often involves hosts insisting on paying when they invite you. This suggests that a strong tipping culture, especially for social engagements, may not be prevalent, and attempting to pay in such situations might be awkward. Specific percentages for restaurants or taxis are not mentioned in the provided sources.
Summer (June-August) is excellent for outdoor activities like hiking in regions such as David Gareja. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer milder weather ideal for exploring cities like Tbilisi and mountain areas like Kazbegi. Winters bring snow, particularly to the mountains.
Georgians are exceptionally hospitable. If you are invited by a local for a meal or outing, it's customary for your host to cover the bill. Insisting on paying yourself can be considered an embarrassment to them, so it's best to accept their generosity gracefully.
When hiking in arid steppes like David Gareja and Vashlovani, always carry enough water and wear proper sunscreen, as shops and wells are few. Also, be attentive to your surroundings as some areas can have venomous snakes.
These 6 experiences didn't make it into this itinerary
🍇Exploring Georgia's Ancient Wine Region
e.g., Sighnaghi, Alaverdi Monastery
🏘️Remote High Mountain Villages & Stone Towers
e.g., Omalo, Dartlo
⛪Ancient Capitals & Sacred Sites
e.g., Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery
🏛️An Ancient Capital City Exploration
e.g., Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery
🍷A Kakheti Wine Region Immersion
e.g., Sighnaghi, Bodbe Monastery
⛰️A Remote Tusheti Mountain Adventure
e.g., Omalo, Dartlo
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