Top 10 Must-Try Tours in Georgia for First-Time Visitors
Georgia is a country where mountains meet the sea, ancient traditions blend with modern life, and hospitality is a way of being. If you're planning your first trip to Georgia, these handpicked tours will help you truly experience the spirit of this colorful land. Discover the 10 best tours in Georgia for an unforgettable journey.
1. Tbilisi: Strolling Through the Old Town and Sulfur Baths
Your journey through Georgia should naturally begin with a city tour of Tbilisi — a place where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. The Old Town, with its narrow streets, ornate wooden balconies, and hidden courtyards, will enchant you from the very first moments. You’ll visit the famous sulfur baths, feel the ancient spirit at Narikala Fortress, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Tbilisi is where East meets West, and every corner tells a story.
2. Tour to Kakheti: The Land of Wine and Endless Vineyards
Kakheti is the heart and soul of Georgian winemaking and hospitality. Here, you’ll visit ancient wineries, taste both homemade and premium wines, and learn about the traditional winemaking methods using qvevri (clay vessels). With its picturesque vineyards, historic monasteries like Alaverdi and Ikalto, and warm-hearted locals, Kakheti promises an unforgettable experience.
3. Trip to Mtskheta – the Ancient Capital of Georgia
Mtskheta is where Georgia’s spiritual and historical roots run deep. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts the majestic Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a sacred place linked to early Christianity, and the hilltop Jvari Monastery, offering stunning views over the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Mtskheta exudes an atmosphere of sacredness and ancient grandeur.
4. Kazbegi (Stepantsminda): Mountains, Gergeti, and the Georgian Military Road
A journey along the famed Georgian Military Road takes you through breathtaking landscapes: deep gorges, alpine meadows, and rushing rivers. In Kazbegi, a hike up to the Gergeti Trinity Church rewards you with panoramic views of Mount Kazbek, one of the most iconic peaks of the Caucasus. It’s a place where the majesty of Georgian nature reveals itself fully.
5. Svaneti: Adventures in the Heart of the Caucasus
Svaneti is a land of towering snow-capped peaks, ancient defensive towers, and untouched nature. A tour to Svaneti will take you through colorful villages like Mestia and Ushguli, glacier trails, alpine meadows, and dense forests. This region is perfect for adventurers seeking inspiration, breathtaking scenery, and a glimpse into the ancient Svan culture.
6. Batumi Relaxation: Sea, Old Town, and Botanical Garden
Batumi, the jewel of the Black Sea coast, offers a delightful mix of beach relaxation, historic charm, and modern architecture. Stroll along the lively seaside boulevard adorned with sculptures and fountains, explore the atmospheric Old Town, and visit the impressive Batumi Botanical Garden — one of the largest in the region. Batumi perfectly blends leisure and discovery.
7. Tour to Uplistsikhe and Gori: Ancient Caves and Stalin’s History
Uplistsikhe is a fascinating ancient cave city carved into the rock more than 2,000 years ago. Walking its ancient streets and halls feels like stepping back into antiquity. In nearby Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, you can visit the Stalin Museum and even see the train carriage he traveled in. This tour is ideal for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
8. Kutaisi and the Canyons of Imereti
Kutaisi, one of Georgia’s oldest cities, is a cultural and historical treasure. In its surroundings, you’ll find stunning natural wonders like the Okatse and Martvili canyons, featuring turquoise waters and dramatic suspension bridges, as well as the Prometheus Cave, a magnificent underground realm of stalactites and rivers. This tour beautifully combines nature and heritage.
9. Tusheti Tour — An Adventure for True Explorers
Tusheti is one of Georgia’s most remote and untouched regions. The journey to Tusheti is an adventure itself, crossing the high-altitude Abano Pass at over 2,800 meters. In Tusheti, you’ll encounter pristine villages, ancient towers, shepherd trails, and breathtaking mountain vistas. This tour is perfect for those seeking authenticity, solitude, and raw natural beauty.
10. Culinary Tour: Taste Georgia
No trip to Georgia would be complete without diving into its culinary delights. Dishes like khinkali, khachapuri, phkali, lobio, and churchkhela are not just food — they tell the story of Georgian culture and traditions. During a culinary tour, you’ll not only savor a variety of flavors but also participate in cooking masterclasses, bringing a taste of Georgia back home with you.
Final Thoughts
These top Georgia tours will help you get to know different sides of the country in a short time - from bustling cities to secluded mountain villages. Choose the routes that are closest to you and set off to meet impressions!