Exploring Georgia🇬🇪: A Wholesome Journey Through Mountains, Cafes, and Ancient Culture
- Somil Singh
- Dec 20, 2024
- 14 min read
Updated: Jan 3
A Brief History of Georgia
Imagine a land where ancient legends, towering mountains, and warm hospitality come together 🌱⛰️❤️ — that’s Georgia! Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia is a place where history whispers from every corner. It’s said that Georgia was the birthplace of wine 🍷, with evidence of winemaking going back over 8,000 years.
From the ancient Kingdom of Iberia to medieval fortresses and even the days of the Silk Road, Georgia has seen it all. The country survived invasions, thrived under the Soviet era, and finally gained its independence in 1991.
Today, Georgia’s rich past blends seamlessly with modern art, bustling cities, and vibrant cafes ☕🌸, making it a magical destination to explore.
Pre-Travel Checklist 🛍️
Before you embark on your Georgian adventure, here's a handy checklist to make sure you're prepared:
Visa 🛂: Check if you need a visa. Many nationalities get visa-free entry for up to one year.
Currency 💶: Georgian Lari (GEL). Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful in smaller towns and rural areas.
Language 🔦: Georgian is the official language. Basic English is spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few Georgian phrases can go a long way.
SIM Card 📱: Grab a local SIM card (Magti or Geocell) for seamless connectivity.
Clothing 🌊🌧️: Pack for varied weather. Bring warm clothes for the mountains, lighter clothing for city strolls, and sturdy shoes for hiking.
Driving License 🚗: If you plan to rent a car, carry an International Driving Permit.
Travel Insurance 📃: Always a good idea for peace of mind!
Getting Around Georgia
Self-Drive 🛣️: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Roads are generally good, but mountain routes can be challenging.
We booked a Jeep Compass 4x4 Automatic, which made navigating the diverse terrain a breeze. Pro Tip:🚗
When renting a self-drive car in Georgia, keep in mind that parking works differently compared to India. Unlike the informal parking culture we're used to, Georgia (like most foreign countries) has strict parking regulations, especially in cities like Tbilisi. 🚦
Here's how to navigate parking like a pro: - Use Dedicated Parking Spots: Random roadside parking is a big no-no. Always look for designated parking spaces. - Download the "Parking Tbilisi" App: The entire process is digital!
Fill in your car details.
Start the parking timer once you park.
Stop the timer when you drive out.
- Charges: Parking fees are super affordable—just 1 Lari for 1-3 hours! 💸
This simple app ensures you're complying with local rules and avoiding fines. Happy driving! 🛣️
Taxis and Ride-Sharing 🚕: Bolt and Yandex are widely used in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi.
Public Transport 🚌: Buses and marshrutkas (minibuses) are affordable and connect major cities and towns. For shorter distances, they’re a great way to experience local life.
Day-Wise Itinerary 🗓
Day 0: Arrival in Tbilisi 🌄
We landed late at night and settled into our Airbnb — clean, cozy, and perfectly located. Exhausted from the journey, we fell into a deep sleep, excited for the adventures ahead.
Day 1: Exploring Tbilisi: The Heart of Georgia 🇬🇪🏙️
What Makes Tbilisi Famous? 🌟
Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia, is a city where history, culture, and modernity seamlessly blend.
Tbilisi gave us a perfect blend of history, art, cuisine, and fun. From ancient landmarks to quirky cafés, every moment was a treasure.
Highlights of the Day
🚙 Jeep Compass 4x4 Rental🚗
We booked a reliable Jeep Compass 4x4 Automatic for our road trip.
🏡 Stay in an Airbnb
Accommodation: A clean, accessible Airbnb close to the city’s main attractions — perfect for exploring on foot. 🏙️. DM us for details!
🌟 Places we loved!
⛪ Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi: The largest church in Georgia, with stunning golden domes and intricate frescoes. A serene start to the journey. ✨
🎨 Fabrica Tbilisi: A converted Soviet sewing factory turned into a creative hub with street art, quirky cafés, and boutique shops. A must-visit for the city’s modern vibe!
🕰️ Old Tbilisi & The Clock Tower: Wander through the historic streets and marvel at the whimsical Clock Tower of the Rezo Gabriadze Theatre. Every hour, a little puppet show delights visitors!
🌉 Bridge of Peace: A sleek, modern pedestrian bridge with a glass canopy offering stunning views of the city. Especially beautiful when illuminated at night.
👩🎤 Mother of Georgia: The iconic statue overlooking the city, symbolizing Georgian hospitality and strength. A short hike or cable car ride offers panoramic views.
Image courtesy of google
🛍️ Meidan Bazaar: An underground market where you can shop for local souvenirs, spices, and wine. A sensory delight!
❤️ Bridge of Love:A romantic spot adorned with love locks — perfect for a photo-op.
💦 Chreli Abano Thermal Bath
Soak in the famous sulfur baths of Tbilisi. The warm, mineral-rich waters are known for their therapeutic properties.
📝 Pro-Tips
Evening Lights 🌃: Visit the Bridge of Peace and Mother of Georgia at night for dazzling city views.
Thermal Bath Essentials 💦: Book a private room at Chreli Abano for a more intimate experience.
Day 2: Exploring Tbilisi: Cafés, Museums, and Mountaintop Thrills ☕🏞️
🌟 Highlights of the Day
☕ Breakfast at Kvarts Coffee: A cozy café serving excellent coffee and light bites. The ambiance was relaxed, and the aroma of fresh brews set the tone for the day. 📍 Location
That's me on the coffee cup! The cafe is famous for drawing your portraits on the coffees! What a fun experience!
☕ Cafe Lolita
A stylish café offering a mix of Georgian and international cuisine — perfect for brunch or a quick coffee break. 🥐
🏛️ Georgian National Museum
Dive into Georgia’s rich history with exhibits on ancient artifacts, Soviet history, and more. A must for history buffs! 📜
🍷 Wine Ice Cream
A unique Georgian treat! Combining the rich flavors of wine with creamy ice cream, it was a delightful surprise. 🍦🍷
🍩 Lumiere’s Chimney Cake
Indulge in this sweet, spiral-shaped pastry, freshly baked and coated in sugar. A perfect street snack!
🎢 Mtatsminda Park
A fun-filled amusement park perched on a hill overlooking the city. Enjoy rides, snacks, and stunning views of Tbilisi below. The Ferris wheel is a must for panoramic vistas! 🎡
📝 Pro-Tips
Start Early ⏰: Visiting Kvarts Coffee early gives you a relaxed start to the day.
Sweet Treats 🍦: Don’t miss out on wine ice cream and a chimney cake — unique, local flavors!
Mtatsminda Views 🌆: Visit Mtatsminda Park in the late afternoon for beautiful sunset views over Tbilisi.
Day 3: Kakheti (Full Day) — The Wine Capital 🍷
What makes it famous?
Kakheti is Georgia’s premier wine region, a land of sprawling vineyards, rolling hills, and a deep love for winemaking. Known as the "birthplace of wine," Kakheti offers a rich blend of history, nature, and culinary delights. The drive from Tbilisi to Kakheti is a sensory delight, with golden sunlight filtering through endless rows of vineyards and the wind carrying the scent of ripening grapes.
Stop 1 - Kvareli Wine Cave 🏰
Nestled in the heart of Kakheti, the Kvareli Wine Cave is an underground tunnel lined with thousands of wine barrels. This 7.7 km cave maintains a constant cool temperature, making it the perfect place for wine aging and tastings.
Pro-Tip: Book a guided tour for an in-depth understanding of Georgian winemaking traditions and enjoy a wine-tasting session to savor different varieties of Georgian wines.
Stop 2 - Private Winery and Local Food Experience 🍴
Imagine walking through lush vineyards, the sun casting a golden glow over rows of plump, juicy grapes ready for harvest. Now picture yourself learning the secrets behind transforming these grapes into rich, flavorful wines while sipping on a glass of freshly poured red or white. Welcome to the enchanting world of wine tours in this region!
With a little planning—thanks to Google, Instagram, or a quick phone call—you can easily book yourself into one of these tours for an experience that’s as fun as it is educational. Here’s what a typical wine tour offers:
Vineyard Strolls: Take a guided walk through their pristine, privately managed vineyards.
Wine-Making 101: Learn the step-by-step process of winemaking, from plucking and squishing grapes to the delicate art of aging and storing wine.
Wine Tasting: Savor generous pours of their home-grown wines—both red and white—crafted with care.
If you’re visiting between September and early October, you’re in for a treat! This is the grape-harvesting season, and you can roll up your sleeves to get involved in the fun of plucking and squishing grapes. Trust us, it’s a must-try!
For food lovers, most tours offer the option of pairing this experience with a traditional Georgian lunch. Let them know your dietary preferences (yes, vegetarians are welcome!), and they’ll prepare a feast that showcases the region’s authentic flavors. Many tours also add a creative twist, inviting you to participate in cooking or baking activities. You might find yourself making churchkhela (those delicious Georgian sweet snacks) or kneading dough for traditional Georgian bread.
The entire experience usually lasts 2–3 hours and costs around [insert approximate cost based on research].
Pro-Tip: If you’re a wine lover, a foodie, or simply someone looking for an unforgettable cultural experience, this is one adventure you don’t want to miss. Plan your visit during harvest season, bring your curiosity (and appetite), and get ready for a day that’s equal parts educational, indulgent, and fun!
Last Stop: Stay in Lakeview Glamp - A Night to Remember in the Mountains 🌄
Instead of staying in Kakheti, we decided to drive towards the Gergeti region. The journey was long, with winding off-track routes, but what awaited us was beyond our dreams. We stayed in a glamping (Glamourous Camp) dome, surrounded by the most stunning, star-studded sky 🌌.
Our Experience 💟
Waking up to the sight of clouds blanketing a serene lake and snow-capped peaks in the distance felt like a scene from a fairytale. The sunrise slowly unveiled the glory of the mountains 🌅⛰️, painting the landscape in hues of gold and orange. It was one of those rare moments where nature’s beauty left us speechless. Truly, taking the unknown path led us to something phenomenal — a feeling we’ll cherish forever. 🌟
Pro-Tip: If you’re open to adventure, take the less-trodden routes. They often lead to the most unforgettable experiences! 😍
Day 4: Journey to Gergeti and the Caucasus Peaks
Stop 1 - Panorama of Zhinvali Reservoir 🌊
What makes it famous?
The Zhinvali Reservoir is a stunning turquoise-blue lake surrounded by forested hills. It’s a perfect stop for a quick photo session or simply to enjoy the serene beauty.
Pro-Tip: Stop by early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds. The reflections of the hills on the water are mesmerizing! 🌇
Stop 2 - Ananuri Fortress Complex 🏰
What makes it famous?
This 17th-century fortress is perched above the Aragvi River and offers a mix of history and beautiful views. The complex includes a castle, churches, and defensive towers.
Pro-Tip: Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the reservoir and surrounding hills. Don’t forget your camera! 📸
Stop 3 - Gudauri 🛣️⛷️
What makes it famous?
Gudauri is a famous ski resort town surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Known for its thrilling adventure activities like paragliding 🧐✈️ and horse riding 🐴, it’s a popular stop on the way to Gergeti.
Pro-Tip: The ice-covered paths can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear. Warm up with a hot drink at one of the cozy cafes. ☕❄️
Our Experience
The chilly air, whooshing wind, and upbeat music made the atmosphere electric! Surrounded by snow-draped peaks, Gudauri felt like a scene straight out of a winter wonderland. The views were spectacular, and the vibe was lively and infectious. We took in the scenery, enjoyed some quick refreshments, and soaked in the alpine magic. 🏔️✨
Stop 4 - Gergeti Trinity Church ⛪️
What makes it famous?
Perched at 2,170 meters, the Gergeti Trinity Church is an iconic 14th-century landmark set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Kazbek.
Pro-Tip: Arrive at golden hour (just before sunset) for stunning views and softer light for photos. 🌅
Our Experience
We reached Gergeti at golden hour 🌟, and it felt like stepping into a dream. The setting sun bathed the church and mountains in a warm glow. Though parts of the church were under maintenance, its beauty was undeniable. The air was crisp, and every photo we took was postcard-perfect. 📸 We lingered, soaking in the moment, as the day turned to dusk.
Stop 5 - The Town of Sno 🌍
What makes it famous?
Sno is known for its quirky rock sculptures scattered throughout the town. Each sculpture has a unique character and adds a whimsical touch to this quiet mountain village.
Pro-Tip: Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy spotting the various sculptures. They make for fun photo opportunities! 🎬
Final Stop - Night stay in Gergeti 🌄
Our hotel in Gergeti was a gem. The warm hospitality and delicious food made us feel right at home. 🍴 The highlight was waking up to the first rays of sunlight kissing the snowy peaks 🌅🏔️. The mountains glowed in shades of gold and rusty red, a mesmerizing sight that made us want to stay in bed and just watch the world wake up. 😴❤️
Pro-Tip: Gergeti is perfect for slow travelers and nature lovers. Take your time to enjoy the simple pleasures — fresh mountain air, furry animals, and the serene pace of life. 🐾⛰️
Day 5: From Gergeti to Gori 🗼🌿
Stop 1 - Jvari Monastery ⛪️
What makes it famous?
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, Jvari Monastery is a 6th-century marvel of early Georgian architecture. Its name, meaning "Monastery of the Cross," holds historical significance as it is believed to have been built on the site where St. Nino erected a wooden cross.
Pro-Tip: The view from the monastery is breathtaking, especially in the early morning light. Don’t forget your camera to capture the sweeping landscapes! 📸
Stop 2 - Town of Gori 🍴
What makes it famous?
Gori, located in central Georgia, is a town steeped in history and charm. Known primarily as the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, Gori offers a mix of Soviet history, ancient architecture, and warm local hospitality. Beyond the infamous Stalin Museum, Gori is home to charming streets, quirky cafes, and historical landmarks. The town’s laid-back vibe is perfect for a leisurely exploration of Georgian culture and everyday life.
Pro-Tip: Gori is a great place to take a break from fast-paced travel. Explore the local markets, try authentic Georgian food, and enjoy the simplicity of this historic town.
Lunch Stop in Gori 🍴
Hidden in a residential area, we found a quaint backyard cafe that felt like a scene from a Halloween movie 💀🎃
Our Experience
Initially hesitant, the spooky decor made us wonder if we’d made a mistake 😨. But the owner, who was also the chef, welcomed us warmly. He suggested his favorite vegetarian dishes, and we’re so glad we said yes! 🥬✨ The hot, fresh Georgian bread paired with a delicious mix of tomatoes, mushrooms, and eggplant was pure comfort food. Sharing stories, learning a few Georgian phrases, and seeing our words recorded in his diary made it an unforgettable experience. 📚❤️
Stop 3 - Uplistsikhe Cave City: Georgia's Ancient Rock Marvel ⛰️✨⛺️
What makes it famous?
Ever explored a city carved out of rock? That’s Uplistsikhe! Dating back to the Iron Age, this cave city is a maze of stone pathways, ancient chambers, and secret tunnels — all carved into cliffs above the Mtkvari River. 🤯
You’ll find old churches, theaters, and even homes, all with epic views of the plains below. Climb to the top for a photo-worthy panorama! 📸🌄
Pro-Tip: Wear sturdy shoes (it gets slippery!) and consider a guide to unlock the stories hidden in these rocks. This isn’t just a site; it’s a journey through Georgia’s incredible past! 🕰️✨
Our Experience
Walking through the ancient caves of Uplistsikhe felt like traveling back in time. The echoes of the past lingered in the carved chambers, and the view of the open plains was stunning. As the sun started to dip below the horizon 🌅, the caves took on an ethereal glow, making it feel magical and timeless.
Final Stop - Dinner and Night Stay in Gori 🏡
Our Experience
After a day of exploration, we had dinner at a cozy restaurant in Gori. The chill of the night made the warm meal even more satisfying 🍽️. We stayed in an Airbnb that was surprisingly spacious, clean, and oh-so-comforting.
Tired but content, we settled into our Airbnb and reflected on the day’s adventures. The quiet of Gori at night 🌃, the warmth of the hosts, and the snugness of our temporary home made for a perfect ending.
Pro-Tip: Gori is a great base to explore nearby historical sites. Don’t rush through it — take time to appreciate the simple, authentic Georgian hospitality. 💟
Day 6-7 - Exploring Batumi: A Coastal Gem of Georgia 🌊🏝️
What Makes it Famous? 🌟
Batumi, often called the "Pearl of the Black Sea," is a city where nature, modern architecture, and culture blend seamlessly.
Day 6: Our Experience 💫
🍽️ Breakfast at Subway
A quick and satisfying meal of veggie patties and amazing coffee to fuel the day.
🛣️ Scenic Drive to Batumi
Smooth roads, light traffic, and jaw-dropping views of the Higher Caucasus Mountains on one side and Lower Caucasus on the other.
Lush green fields stretching endlessly under the sunlight made for a picturesque journey. 🌄
🏛️ Batumi Piazza Square
A charming square with European-inspired architecture, mosaics, and lively cafés. Perfect for photos and coffee breaks.
🎨 Graffiti Walk & Cobblestone Streets
Strolling through streets covered in vibrant graffiti while enjoying the old-world charm of cobblestone pathways.
🐬 Dolphin Show
A fun-filled performance at the Batumi Dolphinarium that brought out our inner child.
🍲 Lunch at Heart of Batumi
Delicious Lobio (bean stew) with cornbread and a mouthwatering mushroom veggie dish with Georgian bread. 🥖
🍰 Dinner at Ardagani Cafe
Sampled a variety of local desserts and dishes, including Georgian baklava. Some flavors were delightful, others made us giggle! 😂
🏙️ Stay at a 42nd-Floor Airbnb
Our room offered a side view of the breathtaking Black Sea. The night skyline was magical. 🌊✨
Pro-Tips 📝
Drive During Daylight 🌞: The views are too stunning to miss.
Stay High 🌆: Choose a high-rise Airbnb for spectacular sea views.
Try Local Cuisine 🍽️: Be adventurous with Georgian dishes — the surprises are worth it!
Day 7: Our Experience 💫
🍽️ Breakfast at Feeduchio
A delightful spot with creative and artistic dishes that made our morning extra special. Each plate was a burst of flavor and imagination. 🎨
🌴 Stroll Through Batumi Boulevard
A leisurely walk along the iconic Batumi Boulevard, lined with palm trees, gardens, and the refreshing sea breeze.
🌅 Sunset by the Black Sea
Watched the sun sink into the Black Sea, turning the sky into a masterpiece of gold, pink, and purple. Truly unforgettable.
🥟 Dinner with Lobiani
Warm, hearty Lobiani — a type of Khachapuri filled with flavorful bean stew — perfect comfort food. 🥰
🍰 Desserts at The Baklava House
To celebrate Diwali, we indulged in local desserts, including flaky, syrupy baklava. A sweet taste of home away from home. ✨
Day 8: A Bittersweet Farewell to Georgia 🇬🇪✈️
Even as we wrapped up our Georgian adventure, the journey back to Tbilisi held a pleasant surprise. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences come when you least expect them — and our discovery of a hidden gem of a restaurant proved just that!
🚗 The Drive Back to Tbilisi
We left Batumi early, ready for our road trip back to Tbilisi to catch our evening flight to Delhi. The drive was smooth, and the familiar landscapes of Georgia felt like old friends waving goodbye.
🍽️ Lunch at The Terrace
Just when we thought our adventure was winding down, we stumbled upon an absolute gem — The Terrace. This charming restaurant ticked every box:
🌿 Ambiance: A cozy, elegant setting with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views.
🤝 Friendly Staff: Warm, welcoming, and attentive — their smiles made the experience even more delightful.
🍲 Delicious Food: Every dish was prepared with love and creativity. Fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and a perfect balance of taste.
📍 Location: Find The Terrace on Google Maps
This unplanned stop turned out to be one of the most memorable meals of our trip. ✨
Pro-Tips 📝
Leave Early ⏰: Plan your drive back to Tbilisi with ample time for unexpected gems — you never know what delightful surprises you might find!
Trust Local Recommendations 🍽️: Sometimes, the best restaurants are the ones you stumble upon or hear about from locals.
Relax and Savor 🌿: Even on the last day, take time to relax and savor each moment — goodbyes are easier with a delicious meal.
Farewell Georgia 🇬🇪✈️
With full hearts and contented smiles, we continued our drive to Tbilisi Airport. Georgia had given us mountains, seas, sunsets, and stories — a trip we’ll cherish forever. As we boarded our flight to Delhi, we knew this was not goodbye but rather a “See you again.” 💙
That was so wholesome.