Georgia Travel Guide

Last Updated on 27 January 2026 by Johan

Georgia lies at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It borders Russia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Armenia and Turkey to the south, and the Black Sea to the west. Its capital Tbilisi sits on the banks of the Kura River and is the cultural and political centre of the nation. The country is known for its dramatic mountains, fertile valleys, and subtropical coastline.

Explanation of the name: Georgia

The name Georgia is thought to have originated from the Persian word Gurj, later adopted by Western European languages. Locally the country is called Sakartvelo, derived from the ancient Georgian kingdom of Kartli. Over time Georgia became the international name, while Sakartvelo remains the national designation used by Georgians themselves.

History: Georgia

Georgia has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. It became a unified kingdom in the 4th century BC. In the early 4th century AD Christianity was adopted as the state religion, making Georgia one of the oldest Christian nations in the world. Through the centuries the country was influenced by Persian, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Russian empires.

Following independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Georgia introduced political and economic reforms. Today Georgia is a parliamentary republic divided into nine regions, two autonomous republics (Adjara and Abkhazia), and the capital city Tbilisi with special status. These are further divided into municipalities that manage local services.

Tourist information: Georgia

Georgia is known for its hospitality, heritage, and natural beauty. Tbilisi offers a mix of old and new, with narrow alleys, wooden balconies, and sulphur baths. The old town is a highlight for visitors. Mtskheta, located 20 km from Tbilisi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery.

The ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe near Gori is carved into rock cliffs and shows early urban life. The David Gareja Monastery complex on the border with Azerbaijan is famous for its frescoes and desert landscape. Kutaisi, one of the oldest cities in Europe, has the Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO site, and the Bagrati Cathedral, which is no longer listed by UNESCO due to reconstruction changes.

Natural landscapes are diverse. Kazbegi National Park is known for alpine scenery and the Gergeti Trinity Church, which stands against the backdrop of Mount Kazbek. The Black Sea coast near Batumi offers beaches and botanical gardens. The Svaneti region is famous for medieval stone towers and hiking trails. Koruldi Lakes above Mestia provide panoramic views without crowds.

Georgia is also one of the oldest wine‑producing regions in the world, with traditions dating back over 8,000 years. Amber wines made in clay vessels called qvevri are unique to the country. Culinary highlights include khinkali (meat dumplings), khachapuri (cheese‑filled bread), and shashlik (grilled meat skewers). The Kakheti region is known for family‑run wineries offering authentic tastings.

Attractions

  • Tbilisi Old Town, Abanotubani District, Tbilisi. A maze of alleys with historic churches, sulphur baths, and colourful balconies. It is the best place to experience Georgian hospitality and architecture.
  • Mtskheta, Arsukidze Street, Mtskheta. The spiritual heart of Georgia with Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery. Both are UNESCO sites and central to Georgian Christianity.
  • Uplistsikhe Cave City, Uplistsikhe Village, Gori Municipality. Carved into cliffs with ancient streets and temples. It shows early urban planning and trade routes.
  • David Gareja Monastery, Udabno Village, Kakheti Region. Famous for desert landscapes and frescoes. It is a unique mix of nature and culture.
  • Kazbegi National Park, Stepantsminda, Mtskheta‑Mtianeti Region. Home to Gergeti Trinity Church and Mount Kazbek. Visitors enjoy hiking, alpine scenery, and traditional mountain villages.
  • Kutaisi, Gelati Monastery Road, Kutaisi. One of the oldest cities in Europe with Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO site, and Bagrati Cathedral.
  • Batumi Boulevard, Rustaveli Street, Batumi. A seaside promenade with gardens, sculptures, and modern architecture. It reflects Batumi’s role as a Black Sea resort.
  • Svaneti Towers, Mestia and Ushguli, Samegrelo‑Zemo Svaneti Region. Medieval stone towers symbolising defence and family heritage in the Caucasus.

Museums

  • Georgian National Museum, Shota Rustaveli Avenue 3, Tbilisi. It houses archaeology, ethnography, and art collections. Visitors learn about Georgia’s long history and cultural heritage.
  • State Museum of Folk and Applied Arts, 6 Shota Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi. It presents traditional crafts and folk art, including textiles, ceramics, and woodwork.
  • Kutaisi State Historical Museum, Pushkin Street 1, Kutaisi. Displays artefacts from ancient Colchis to modern times. Visitors see coins, manuscripts, and archaeological finds.
  • Batumi Archaeological Museum, Chavchavadze Street 77, Batumi. Focuses on the history of the Black Sea coast with tools, jewellery, and pottery.
  • Tbilisi Puppet Museum, 16 Shavteli Street, Tbilisi. Offers performances and displays rooted in folklore. Children and adults enjoy its creative atmosphere.

Fun things for children

Families can enjoy Mtatsminda Park in Tbilisi, which has rides and panoramic views. The Tbilisi Zoo offers animals from different regions. Batumi Dolphinarium presents shows with dolphins and sea lions. Children also enjoy the Tbilisi Puppet Theatre with performances based on Georgian folklore.

Local events in 2026

  • Tbilisi International Film Festival, Amirani Cinema, Kostava Street 36, Tbilisi. Held in December 2026, it presents Georgian and international cinema. Visitors enjoy screenings and discussions with filmmakers.
  • Tbilisi Jazz Festival, Tbilisi Concert Hall, Melikishvili Street 1, Tbilisi. Scheduled for October 2026, it features local and global artists. The festival is a highlight for jazz lovers.
  • Batumi International Art House Film Festival, Batumi Drama Theatre, Rustaveli Street 1, Batumi. Taking place in September 2026, it celebrates independent cinema. Visitors enjoy screenings in a seaside setting.
  • Kutaisi Polyphonic Singing Festival, Kutaisi Opera House, Rustaveli Avenue, Kutaisi. Planned for August 2026, it highlights UNESCO‑listed traditions. Audiences experience the unique sound of Georgian polyphony.

Culinary destinations

Georgian cuisine is rich and varied. Khachapuri is a cheese‑filled bread enjoyed across the country. Khinkali are dumplings filled with meat and spices. Shashlik is grilled meat served with herbs. Pkhali is a vegetable paste made with walnuts. Churchkhela is a sweet made from grape juice and nuts. Kakheti is the main wine region, where visitors can taste amber wines made in qvevri. Local markets in Tbilisi and Batumi offer fresh produce and spices.

Cycling and walking routes

Georgia has many cycling and walking trails. The Caucasus Mountains provide routes for experienced hikers. The Svaneti region offers trails past medieval towers. The Borjomi‑Kharagauli National Park has marked paths through forests and valleys. The Black Sea coast near Batumi is suitable for cycling. Seasonal activities include skiing in Gudauri during winter and hiking in Tusheti during summer.

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