Traveling to Georgia for 3 weeks allowed me to explore several of its most emblematic regions and discover a country full of contrasts: from charming ancient cities to mountains that seem straight out of a dream. On my route I passed through Signagi, the so-called “city of love” surrounded by vineyards; the capital Tbilisi, with its mix of modernity and tradition; the mountainous region of Svanetia, with its medieval towers in Mestia; the imposing landscapes of Kazbegi; and finally, the Black Sea coast in Batumi, which gives the trip a completely different feel.
In this itinerary, I'll tell you how I organized my trip, which places are worth visiting, and what my impressions of each destination were. While three weeks is enough to get a fairly comprehensive overview of the country, each area has so much to offer that you always want to return. Georgia is a country that combines history, incredible natural landscapes, and a very distinct identity. I hope this story helps you plan your own adventure.
Table of Contents
What to visit in Georgia
Tbilisi
The Georgian capital is the cultural and political heart of the country, a place where history blends with the modern at every turn. Strolling through its old town, with its cobblestone streets, houses with wooden balconies, and ancient Orthodox churches, is like stepping back in time. At the same time, Tbilisi surprises with street murals, designer cafes, and a vibrant nightlife.
Among its must-sees are the Narikala Fortress, the sulfur baths, and the Sameba Cathedral. But perhaps the best thing about the city is its atmosphere: a melting pot of cultures that reflects Georgia's strategic location between Europe and Asia. Tbilisi is also the perfect starting point for exploring other regions of the country.
Sighnaghi
Located in the Kakheti region, Sighnaghi is known as the “City of Love” and offers a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. Its cobblestone streets, medieval walls, and panoramic views of the Alazani Valley make it a popular getaway from Tbilisi.
This region is also famous for its winemaking tradition: wines are produced here using the ancient method in qvevri (buried clay jars). Tasting these unique wines is one of the best ways to connect with the local culture.
Mestia (Svanetia)
Mestia is the epicenter of Svaneti, a mountainous region where the landscapes look like something out of a postcard. Surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped peaks, it's the starting point for some of Georgia's most famous treks, such as the trail to Ushguli, considered one of the highest inhabited villages in Europe.
Beyond nature, Mestia impresses with its medieval Svan towers, defensive structures that lend a unique character to the landscape. The blend of history, culture, and mountains makes Svaneti a must-see for trekking and adventure enthusiasts.
Kazbegi
In the north of the country, Kazbegi, now officially known as Stepantsminda, is famous for the Gergeti Church, one of Georgia's most photographed symbols. Situated on a hilltop with Mount Kazbek in the background, the image is simply spectacular.
In addition to its historical and spiritual significance, Kazbegi is a paradise for hiking and nature. Trails lead from here to waterfalls, valleys, and high-altitude viewpoints. It's a perfect destination for those looking to combine mountain scenery with tranquility and fresh air.
Batumi
The jewel of the Black Sea combines a relaxed coastal atmosphere with a modern and vibrant side. Its promenade stretches for miles and is ideal for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the sunset over the sea.
Batumi is home to futuristic skyscrapers, modern sculptures, and neighborhoods with a still-present Soviet feel. It's also a great place to try local seafood-influenced cuisine and experience a different side of Georgia, very different from the mountains of the interior.
Kutaisi
Kutaisi is one of the oldest cities in the world and for centuries was an important cultural center. Today, its main attraction is the Gelati and Motsameta monasteries, both declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These temples are not only architectural gems but also witnesses to the country's religious history.
Beyond the monasteries, Kutaisi serves as a base for exploring nearby natural sites such as Okatse Canyon or Prometheus Cave. This makes it a versatile destination that combines history, religion, and nature.
Vardzia
In southern Georgia lies Vardzia, an impressive complex of caves carved into the rock during the 12th century. This site functioned as a city and monastery, and at one time housed thousands of people, with tunnels, churches, and rooms that can still be explored.
The arid, mountainous landscape around Vardzia creates a striking contrast with other regions of the country. It is a unique site for history and archaeology lovers.
My favorite places in Georgia
Of all the places I visited in Georgia, there are three that left a special mark on me and that I would always recommend to any traveler.
The first is Tbilisi, the capital, which captivated me with its energy and perfect blend of old and new. Getting lost in the streets of the historic center, discovering hidden Orthodox churches, enjoying trendy cafes and colorful murals, made the city a place where there's always something new to see and experience.
Another of my big favorites was Mestia and the entire Svanetia region. I arrived when it was covered in snow, which gave it an even more special charm. Doing the trekking from Mestia to Ushguli, advancing between snowy mountains and surrounded by the imposing medieval Svan towers, was like walking inside a fairy tale.
Each step offered a different postcard, unique landscapes that seemed unreal. I had that same feeling during the climb to the Koruldi Lakes from Mestia: I found them frozen, surrounded by snow, as if taken from a dream.
Finally, Kazbegi and its surroundings left me with an unforgettable memory. In addition to the famous Gergeti Trinity Church and the glacier further away, with epic views of the Caucasus, I was able to visit and explore the surrounding valleys, such as the Truso Valley, a place with wide landscapes, turquoise rivers and abandoned villages that seem frozen in time, and the Juta Valley covered in lots of snow.
And what made it even more special was the company: some friends I met during the Ushguli trek rented a car and together we were able to explore the entire area, which added a touch of adventure and friendship to the experience.
Map with the 3 week itinerary traveling through Georgia
My 3 week itinerary in Georgia
I arrived in Georgia from Azerbaijan, crossing the border by land, and my first stop was Signagi, in the Kakheti region. I spent three days in this picturesque town known as "the city of love." While it's a small town and you can easily see most of the main sights in a busy day, I decided to take it easy. I enjoyed walking around its walls, admiring the endless views of the Alazani Valley, and getting lost in its quiet streets.
Days 1-3: What to see in Sighnaghi, the medieval city of love and wine (coming soon)
From there I took a mashurtka to Tbilisi, the capital, where I stayed for five days. The city fascinated me with its blend of tradition and modernity, and the truth is, it's worth staying much longer. Between Orthodox churches, sulfur baths, alternative neighborhoods full of street art, and a vibrant nightlife, Tbilisi became one of my favorites of the trip.
Days 4-9: Things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia's vibrant capital (coming soon)
The next leg was by train to Zugdidi, and from there by mashurtka to Mestia, the heart of Svanetia. I spent another five days in this mountain village surrounded by the peaks of the Caucasus. In addition to touring the area, I trekked to the remote village of Ushguli, passing through villages with the famous medieval towers that look like they came from another era. On the way back, I also took the opportunity to hike to the Kuraldi Lakes, a mountain corner with breathtaking landscapes.
Afterwards, I returned to Tbilisi to continue on to Kazbegi. This time, I was lucky enough to be accompanied by some Chinese travelers who had rented a car, which allowed us to explore the Georgian Military Highway at a leisurely pace, stopping at all the viewpoints and villages.
Once in Kazbegi, I stayed for five more days, doing various excursions: hiking to the Gergeti Trinity Church, climbing the Gergeti Glacier, hiking the Juta Valley and the Truso Valley, and visiting the Arsha Waterfall. Each day I found a more incredible landscape than the last.
From there, I returned to Tbilisi, where I crossed into Armenia. After two weeks in that country, I returned to Georgia to head to the coast and explore Batumi, on the shores of the Black Sea. I spent my last few days there, enjoying its modern and vibrant atmosphere, its seaside promenade, and its contrast between contemporary architecture and Soviet heritage.
Days 20-23: Batumi, what to see in the modern skyscraper city by the Black Sea (coming soon)
It was the perfect ending before continuing my journey to Türkiye, crossing the border at Sarpi, near Batumi.