Extra: Georgia

Do you have an extra week?

If you're already making the trip to Armenia and have about an extra week, neighbouring Georgia is absolutely worth it. Think Batumi (the “little Dubai” on the Black Sea), the Kakheti vineyards, dramatic Caucasus peaks and ancient cities. The two countries are connected by direct flight (1h15), night train or marshrutka (6h).

Tbilisi

Tbilisi

The charming capital with colourful balconies, sulphur baths and the Narikala fortress.

Batumi

Batumi

The "little Dubai" on the Black Sea — skyscrapers, palm boulevard and beach.

Kakheti wine region

Kakheti wine region

The birthplace of wine (8,000 years old). Taste qvevri wines among rolling vineyards.

Kazbegi & Gergeti

Kazbegi & Gergeti

Iconic mountain church at 2,170m with the snowy Kazbek peak as a backdrop.

Mtskheta

Mtskheta

The ancient capital (UNESCO), where two rivers meet beneath the Jvari monastery.

Svaneti

Svaneti

Medieval stone tower villages (Mestia, Ushguli) deep in the High Caucasus.

Vardzia

Vardzia

12th-century cave city carved into a cliff, with hundreds of rooms and churches.

Martvili Canyon

Martvili Canyon

Turquoise river between green cliffs — boat trip through a fairytale landscape.

Kutaisi

Kutaisi

Former royal capital with the Bagrati cathedral and Gelati monastery (UNESCO).

Prometheus Cave

Prometheus Cave

Huge cave with stalactites, an underground river and colourful lighting.

Uplistsikhe

Uplistsikhe

Ancient rock-cut town along the Silk Road, more than 3,000 years old.

Georgian supra

Georgian supra

Traditional feast with khachapuri, khinkali and endless toasts — a must.

Suggested one-week itinerary

  • Day 1-2: Tbilisi, old town, sulphur baths, wine bars
  • Day 3: Mtskheta + Uplistsikhe (day trip)
  • Day 4: Kazbegi & Gergeti Trinity
  • Day 5: Kakheti wine region (Signagi, Telavi)
  • Day 6: Kutaisi + Prometheus Cave or Martvili Canyon
  • Day 7: Batumi, beach & boulevard on the Black Sea

Svaneti or Vardzia need more time, perfect if you're staying longer.