Your 7-Day Tbilisi & Kazbegi Trip: Svetitskhoveli Cathedral & Beyond

Visit Georgia's largest cathedral, a grand symbol of the Georgian Orthodox Church. Explore its impressive architecture and serene courtyard offering views of the city.

"I would say this is one of the top three places to visit in Tbilisi. The exterior architecture of the cathedral and its courtyard are truly impressive. It is located in a very large and open area. The interior clearly reflects that it is a relatively modern church — it is very big, spacious, and bright. Visiting this place was a wonderful experience, and I highly recommend it to everyone."— Ruslan Musayev

Explore the historic Metekhi Church, perched on a cliff overlooking the Mtkvari River. Enjoy panoramic views of the Old Town and Narikala Fortress from its courtyard.

"Situated above the Kura River, this church has an amazing location. From its courtyard, you can enjoy some of the best views of Tbilisi and take great photos. While the church is very historic, its interior is also beautiful, with walls featuring historic images and sculptures. The highlight is definitely the view — you could easily spend hours just enjoying it. One of the top three must-see spots in Tbilisi, and I highly recommend visiting."— Ruslan Musayev

Walk across the modern, bow-shaped Bridge of Peace, an architectural marvel spanning the Mtkvari River, connecting Old Tbilisi with Rike Park. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Rike Park.

"A very peaceful place right in the center of the old town. A nice walk, chill out, take the balloon, take the cable car, grab a coffee. Dancing fountain is not operational during winter ❄️..."— George Trantas

Ascend to the ancient Narikala Fortress, the 'soul of Tbilisi,' dating back to the 4th century. Explore its walls, enjoy breathtaking views of the city, and visit the St. Nicholas Church within its complex.

"1. 🏰 Old soul of Tbilisi - Narikala is one of the oldest landmarks in the city, watching over Tbilisi since the 4th century. You feel history in every stone. 2. 🌄 Best views in town - From the top, you get a full panorama of the city, the river, and the rooftops. Sunset here is unforgettable. 3. 🚶‍♂️ Short hike, big reward - You can walk up from the Old town . The path is steep but worth it. 4. 📸 Photo heaven - Every angle offers a great shot: fortress walls, city views, and the giant Mother of Georgia statue nearby. 5. 🧘‍♀️ Peaceful vibe - Even with tourists around, it feels calm. Great spot to sit, breathe, and take in the view. 6. 🕍 Church inside - There’s a small church inside the fortress with beautiful frescoes. Respectful dress recommended. 7. 🧗‍♀️ Watch your step - Some parts are uneven or slippery. Wear good shoes and be careful, especially with kids. 8. 🕰️ No tickets, always open - It’s free to visit and open all day. Early morning or late afternoon is best. 9. 🍃 Nature meets history - Wildflowers, birds, and old stones mix together. A perfect blend of nature and culture. 10. 💡 Local tip - Bring water, wear sunscreen, and take your time. It’s not just a fortress - it’s a feeling. Нарикала - сердце старого Тбилиси. Отличный вид, бесплатный вход, можно пешком или на канатке. Будьте осторожны - тропа крутая. Внутри - церковь и тишина. Идеально для фото и отдыха. ნარიყალა - ძველი თბილისის სიმბოლო. ულამაზესი ხედები, უფასო შესვლა, ფეხით ან საბაგიროთი. შიგნით ეკლესიაა. მშვიდი, ფოტოგენური ადგილი."— Taste The Best

Take the scenic cable car (accessed from Rike Park) up to Mtatsminda Park, located on top of Mount Mtatsminda. Enjoy amusement rides (optional, extra cost) and unparalleled panoramic views of Tbilisi as the sun begins to set.

"It's probably the most scenic way to get to the top. There's some good views to be had and never much of a wait for the cable car. It's always nice to get the cable car in one direction and funicular or walk the other direction."— Steve

Immerse yourself in this vibrant, traditional Georgian market. Explore stalls overflowing with fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, spices, and local delicacies, experiencing an authentic slice of Tbilisi life.

"This is Tbilisi's main market where you go if you want produce from the farms. Lots of herbs, meat, fish, spices and dried fruit products that are basic to Georgian cuisine. They also sell non-local products, but those would be cheaper to buy at the supermarket. Interesting place to visit if you're a tourist buying stuff to bring home. The only thing more authentic than this is going to the farms yourself (which I've also done)."— Jeneen G

Browse for unique treasures at Tbilisi's famous flea market. You'll find an eclectic mix of Soviet-era memorabilia, local artworks, antique jewelry, books, and quirky souvenirs.

"I visited DRG Bridge Market and overall it’s a nice place to walk around and explore. The atmosphere is pleasant and it’s fun to browse the different stalls. Some items seem like they might be from AliExpress, but there are also a few genuinely nice pieces, especially some scarves that clearly look handmade."— איליה מיכנו

Explore Fabrika, a former Soviet sewing factory transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. Wander through designer shops, art studios, cafes, bars, and a bustling courtyard with a lively, bohemian atmosphere.

"Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5) I stayed at Fabrika Tbilisi (ფაბრიკა Hostel) for 4 days during the New Year period. The hostel is a bit far from the main city center, but connectivity is not a big issue. You can easily catch a bus or metro, so getting around Tbilisi is manageable. However, the restrooms were extremely disappointing. Honestly, they are the worst restrooms I have experienced in my entire life. Poor cleanliness and maintenance completely ruined the comfort of the stay. For a hostel that is so popular and well-known, this was very shocking and unacceptable. On the positive side, the staff deserve appreciation. They are very kind, friendly, and helpful, and their behavior was the only reason this place gets 2 stars instead of 1. The common areas and overall vibe of Fabrika are nice in theory, but basic hygiene — especially restrooms — is non-negotiable. If the management seriously improves restroom cleanliness and maintenance, this place could be much better. Until then, I would not recommend it for travelers who value basic comfort and hygiene."— M J

Relax and enjoy nature at Vake Park, one of Tbilisi's largest and most beautiful urban green spaces. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the fountains, and unwind from the city bustle.

"Vake park, is situated, near the Axis Towers. Beautiful park to take memorable walk,clear your mind. With the cable car going up to turtle lake, you have breathtaking views."— Global Connect Solutions

Wander through the charming Marjanishvili district, known for its beautiful European-style architecture, tree-lined streets, and vibrant cultural scene. Discover local shops and cafes.

"I would think this metro is one of the most visited in Tbilisi for the reason that it’s located in a decently touristy area. There are quite a few nice restaurants, a 23 minute walk to the Dezerter Bazaar, a 21 minute walk to the Queen Tamar Bridge, and it’s also just near a nice walkable area while being a very clean metro. There’s also I think, magazines and flowers for sale right outside the metro."— Xoom Too

Explore the massive and awe-inspiring monument depicting Georgian history, religion, and key figures, offering panoramic views of the Tbilisi Sea. This site offers a unique blend of cultural and spiritual insight.

"Majestic monument, I’d advise visiting with a guide or a local to understand the writing and history better. You’d have to take a taxi as it’s approximately 20 min car ride from the city. Wonderful views of the entire Tbilisi, clean and well kept. Parking is available, not an official one, more like on the side of the road and whenever you manage to park. I visited in winter therefore there was barely anyone there."— Georgi Opnakov

Take a leisurely walk along Tbilisi's main thoroughfare, Shota Rustaveli Avenue, admiring its elegant architecture, various shops, and significant cultural institutions. This is a great way to experience the city's urban pulse.

"A must-see if you’re walking down Rustaveli Avenue! The Shota Rustaveli Monument pays tribute to one of Georgia’s greatest poets and national figures. The statue itself is beautifully crafted, capturing the spirit of the man behind The Knight in the Panther’s Skin. Set in a peaceful plaza with benches and greenery, it’s a great spot to pause, take a photo, and soak in the cultural vibe of central Tbilisi. Surrounded by theaters, museums, and historical buildings, it’s a perfect starting point for exploring the city’s artistic side. Pro tip: Visit in the late afternoon for great lighting and fewer crowds. A true symbol of Georgian pride and history."— Panagiotis Meliadis

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.

"Such a lovely khinkali cooking class 🥟💕 I had so much fun. A super sweet experience I’ll always remember 😊✨ The hosts made everything feel so easy and welcoming ✨💖 Highly recommend trying this in Tbilisi"— Anano Museridze

Indulge in a relaxing and traditional sulfur bath experience in Abanotubani, known for its unique domed bathhouses and therapeutic warm, mineral-rich waters. A quintessential Tbilisi cultural experience.

"the place is nice, clean, exact timing as we booked. if you arrive early you eait for the exact time, for me that is great because i respect the places that respect my time and other people's time. the place was clean. the water was very hot. the smell wasn't as bad as people described. there was a cold shower and toilets in the private room. the sponge is extra charge (10-20 gel_ depends on what you choose, the normal one is just fine and does the work even better than the fancy one). i had my own towe, shampoo and slippers with me, but if you don't bring, the place will provide all of it with extra charge. when i tried to book via the website, it didn't work.. so i messaged the place through email, and then they contacted me via WhatsApp. the 3 private rooms for 2 were fully booked for the day i wanted, but they offered me a room for 3 for extra charge of 30 gel.. so we payed 160gel intstead of 130 gel (thoughwe were only 2) i think they could just charge us the same price for room for 2, that would've be nice.. especially that the room wasn't much bigger. but it's ok.. we also ordered a kisa (scrubing), its recommended, that costs extra 30 gel, and you pay it directly to the person who does it.. recommended to have the exact amount, to easy the process."— Nariman Loulou

Visit one of Tbilisi's most significant Orthodox cathedrals, known for its ancient architecture and religious relics, located in the heart of Old Town.

"A truly stunning church with impressive architecture and a serene atmosphere. I was fortunate to witness a live choir performance, which added a magical touch to the experience. The harmonious singing resonated beautifully throughout the church, making the visit even more memorable."— Mohamed Aslam

Explore the historic Ananuri Fortress Complex, a 17th-century castle and church ensemble beautifully set on the Aragvi River, offering stunning views and insights into Georgian history.

"Incredible experience from start to finish! The Ananuri fortress camps offer the perfect blend of history, nature, and comfort with easy access to the stunning medieval fortress and breathtaking views of the Zhinvali Reservoir and surrounding mountains. The campsite itself is peaceful and scenic, with excellent facilities and plenty of space to relax by the fire at night. Walking through the fortress walls and climbing the old towers was an unforgettable adventure, and the sunsets over the turquoise water were absolutely magical. A must-visit for anyone exploring Georgia’s Military Highway. I’ll definitely be back again!"— Carlo Caros

Embark on an invigorating hike from Stepantsminda up to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, perched high on a mountain with breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Kazbek and the surrounding valleys. Allow time for photos and reflection at this spiritual and natural wonder.

"“The best way to start your hiking adventure in Kazbegi!”✨ We drove to the start of the hike, where we could easily park our car. From there, it was a nice climb up to the church. What we like about the hike is the that going to the church is very doable, and you can decide to hike much further to other spots as well. So it really offers something for everyone. There were many reviews online about the various paths of the hike, and especially to warn people not to take ‘the wrong/hard path’. We walked all of them and they honestly don’t vary that much. So don’t worry about it and enjoy the hike!"— Genuine Gems (By Paul & Merel)

Embark on a challenging 6-hour hike through the stunning Juta Valley towards the dramatic Chaukhi Mountains, often called the 'Georgian Dolomites'. Enjoy panoramic views and diverse alpine flora.

"The Juta Valley, where the trail from Juta to Chaukhi Lake extends, is the place that impressed me the most in all of Georgia. Among all the nature spots we visited in the country, this one offered us the most beautiful views - and surprisingly, it doesn’t require much physical effort. Only the first 200 meters are a bit demanding. Once you get past that section, the remaining 3.5 km is just an easy and pleasant walk through the valley leading to the lake. The valley itself is simply stunning. On both sides you’re surrounded by green mountain slopes where cows and horses graze, and in each direction you get a beautiful perspective of distant mountain ranges. A charming stream flows through the valley, with several spots along the way where you can dip your feet (the water is very cold). In the upper part, right before the lake, the stream forms a series of lovely waterfalls. For less ambitious hikers, Chaukhi Lake is a perfect place to rest before heading back to Juta. Of course, the trail continues, but it becomes more challenging - another 4 km across slopes and ridges lead to a nearby peak (we turned back at the lake). The lake itself is beautiful, offering great views both further up the mountains and down the valley. PRO TIP 1: On the way up from Juta to the lake, I highly recommend staying on the trail on the left side of the stream. This way, near the end of the hike, you’ll have the waterfalls directly in front of you for a longer time (if you were going down that way instead, they would mostly be behind you). By doing so on the way back, you can switch to the trail on the other side of the stream - farther from the waterfalls, but offering the valley from a different perspective. PRO TIP 2: Before heading to Juta, make sure to check whether the access road is passable. Landslides and other problems occasionally occur and can block the road completely for some time."— Kris

Wander through the charming village of Stepantsminda, admiring traditional houses, visiting small local craft stalls, and soaking in the local atmosphere against the magnificent backdrop of Mount Kazbek.

"Wow this place is amazing! We had a wonderful stay, truly magical, and the host is so kind and helpful. Thank you so much for an unforgettable experience. Breathtaking views, cosy vibes, high quality finishes. Walkable to the town, can also get food delivered to the cottage. Cute neighbourhood cats are a bonus!"— Jackia Rehman

Drive into the dramatic Dariali Gorge, known for its steep cliffs and scenic beauty, and visit the serene Archangel Michael Monastery built into the mountainside, offering spiritual reflection and stunning views.

"A gorgeous monastery nestled in the grand mountains. The drive to the monastery is beautiful as well. It's very close to the Georgian and Russian border Entrance is free"— Bharathi Mani

Embark on a moderate hike to discover the beautiful Gveleti Waterfalls, nestled in a lush valley. Enjoy the refreshing spray and pristine natural surroundings after a scenic drive.

"Great simple hime from the village. You can leave your car in the village near the road outside from the parking. There’s usually no one around there. Views are scenic and the waterfall is amazing. I suggest to visit both waterfalls, small and big. As it’s just additional 30 min. Beware slippery rocks at the waterfalls."— Mikalai Vincheuski

Take a leisurely walk to a local viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of Mount Kazbek and the surrounding Greater Caucasus mountain range. A perfect photo opportunity.

"This is the wrong place! There is no view point from here and the pictures shown in google are not correct! You can only see the main road and a very small part of the mountain, not worth it!"— Lisa Ter

Stop at this iconic circular, mosaic-decorated monument on the Georgian Military Highway for breathtaking panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains and the surrounding Devil's Valley. A great spot for photos and a final appreciation of the mountain scenery.

"Absolutely stunning panoramic views! This viewpoint, with its sweeping vistas of the Greater Caucasus Mountains and deep valleys, is one of the most unforgettable stop perfect for photos, taking in the fresh mountain air, and just soaking up nature’s beauty. The iconic monument and scenic backdrop make it feel like you’re on top of the world. Whether you visit in snowy winter or lush summer, the scenery never disappoints. Highly recommended!"— Carlo Caros

Transfer to Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) for your international flight home to New York, NY. Please allow ample time (approximately 1-1.5 hours for transfer and 3 hours for check-in and security) for international travel procedures.

"⭐⭐⭐⭐ Small airport, big convenience — like a cozy living room with a runway attached. Tbilisi International won't blow you away with shiny terminals or fancy architecture, but honestly? That's part of its charm. It's compact, easy to navigate, and you won't need a GPS to find your gate 😄 Security and passport control were quick and painless — no marathon walks through endless corridors. The Primeclass Lounge (accessible with LoungeKey) is a solid spot to kill time before your flight, with decent food, drinks, and the best WiFi I tested in all of Georgia 📶 (11.8 Mbps down — which says more about Georgia's internet than the airport, but still). It's not the newest or most modern airport you'll ever see, but it does exactly what it needs to do: get you in and out without drama. For a capital city airport, that's honestly refreshing. 💡 Tip: The lounge is right after passport control on the right side — don't miss it if you have access. Worth every minute."— Tom Dobler