The ultimate travel guide to Georgia: exploring the country where every guest is a gift from God.
Georgia is a fascinating country between Europe and Asia, that is still somewhat of an insider travel destination. Surprisingly so because the region has so much to offer, from the Black Sea in the west, to the mighty Caucasus mountains in the north, to urban Tbilisi and beach resorts by the sea. Everyone – active and beach holidaymakers, lovers of nature, culture, wine and local delicacies – will get their money’s worth here.
Georgia is truly captivating, with mighty mountain scenery, green valleys, century old landmarks and dreamy little towns, witnesses of past cultures and social change.
The unparalleled hospitality and cordiality of the people are striking. After all, a local saying goes: “Every guest is a gift from God”.
In Georgia, East meets West, bordering the Black Sea in the west, Russia in the north, Azerbaijan in the south east, and Armenia and Turkey in the south.
The history of the country starts in the early 11th century when the nation was first unified by King Bagrat III. However, Georgia struggled throughout history against foreign invasions by Mongols, Turks, Persians and the Russian Empire, and has been home to many ancient civilisations, with 26 different ethnic groups still living in the region today. The Georgian language is one of the oldest and most difficult in the world, not related or comparable to any other.
In 1991, with the collapse of the Soviet Union, the modern Republic of Georgia became independent. Today, Georgia is showing strong aspirations and support for EU-membership.
The tradition of winemaking dates back 8000 years, Georgia considered the cradle of wine. About 525 indigenous grape varieties are still cultivated on picturesque vineyards throughout nine wine regions in the country.
Traditionally, Georgian winemakers fermented their wine in large clay pots that were sunk into the ground, known as Quevri. Some vineyards have kept this tradition and are definitely worth a visit.
Georgia cuisine is diverse, hearty and filling. Traditional foods to try are:
Visitors should not miss out on the traditional Georgian feast: Supra. Supra is led by a 'tamada', an entertainer, historian, and toastmaster in one. Joy, lots of wine, traditional songs and hearty food accompany every festive dinner – and hospitality seems to be part of their DNA. The people of Georgia will meet you with open arms and boundless willingness to ensure the very best travel experience possible.
To the north and south – towering Caucasus Mountains. To the west – the shimmering Black Sea. And in the east, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of valleys and fields, rivers, waterfalls, springs, lakes, forests, caves, poppy fields, and meadows filled with daisies, larkspur, and alpine flowers.
With 12 different climate zones, Georgia is one of the most diverse habitats worldwide, and many animal species have been added to the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The warm, humid, subtropical climate of the Black Sea in western Georgia is ideal for everyone enjoying vacations by the beach – a stark contrast to the permafrost and glacial zone of the Caucasus Mountains, perfect for winter sports. With more than 2,000 mineral and hot water springs, along with therapeutic mud sources, spas and health resorts are among the most popular tourist destinations.
1. The capital: Tbilisi
Tbilisi (Tiflis) is the capital of Georgia and a charming mix of the past and modernity. It becomes evident that various cultures lived here side by side over the past centuries: old wooden houses next to impressive architectural buildings, numerous churches, a mosque, two synagogues and a fire temple. The old town in the centre of Tbilisi has been listed a UNESCO World Heritage Site: colourful houses with crooked towers and elaborately decorated balconies line up; small, narrow alleyways taking visitors on a journey as if time stood still.
In English, Tbilisi means “warm spring”, an ode to the underground sulphur springs which are a famous tourist attraction in the Abanotubanu district.
When visiting the capital, make sure to take a break at Cafe Grilisi for great food and a breathtaking view over the city.
2. The countryside: vineyards and tasting tours
Georgia, being the cradle of wine, is a must-see destination for wine lovers. Our two recommended vineyards are:
Rostomaant Marani is a beautiful family vineyard run in the sixth generation, offering tastings, traditional cooking classes, dining and more. Irakli and the family produce a very limited quantity of Qvevri wines, production based on 8000-year-old traditions. Visitors will have an unforgettable experience of authentic Georgian hospitality, exceptional local food, wine and truly welcoming hosts. The homemade cheese with jam combo is amazing!
Wine Yard N1 is the perfect place to spend all day. Tastings of family wines are held in the beautiful garden under pear trees or on the terrace. Apart from delicious wines, traditional Kakhetian cuisine is served, and in autumn, visitors get a chance to experience 'Rtveli', the rural harvest celebration with live music, grape picking and pressing, and a huge supra feast.
3. Seaside vacation: Batumi
Relax on the beach and spend the evenings strolling along the 7km-long boulevard. Batumi is a large port city on the south eastern shore of the Black Sea, and the perfect place for a seaside vacation in Georgia. The architecture of the city is impressive as well, with many historic monuments along the promenade.
One of the most popular sights in Batumi is the Botanical Garden, located 200 metres above sea level. With an area greater than 1,000 hectares, visitors can discover more than 5,000 plant species they have probably never seen before, and enjoy a fantastic view of the coast and the surrounding mountains.
For breakfast or brunch, one of the best places in Batumi is Freeduchio, offering a creative mix of European, Ukrainian, Georgian, and Asian cuisine with many vegetarian and vegan dishes on the menu.
4. Stunning natural wonders: national parks and lakes
Georgia is blessed with a vibrant array of flora and fauna: majestic mountains tower above verdant forests, creating a tapestry of beauty that’s unique to this region. From rare and exotic flowers to a diverse range of wildlife, the biodiversity of Georgia is truly a sight to behold. Two places are especially beautiful: Tusheti National Park and the Green Lake.
Tusheti National Park is located amidst the Caucasus Mountains in the north-eastern part of the country. Due to its vast biodiversity, it is the perfect destination for bird-watching and hiking.
The Green Lake is at an altitude of 2058 metres above sea level: a beautiful bright green lake shimmering in a dense forest. It is fed by mountain springs and not many dare to take a dip in the ice-cold water.
5. Mountain areas: the perfect winter sports destination
Georgia is a popular destination for winter sports, but it is still somewhat of a secret and not too crowded. Kazbegi mountain (5,054m) is perfect for skiing and wintersports and its peak, surrounded by subalpine meadows and glaciers, is truly unforgettable.
Several major European and Asian cities offer direct and regular flights to Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi:
For more details on visa regulations and tourist information, visit https://georgia.travel/
Set in the historical heart of Tbilisi, the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace is conveniently close to the old town, the ancient Narikala fortress overlooking the city, the Presidential Palace, Tbilisi Botanical Garden, and other cultural attractions.
The luxury hotel offers 220 newly renovated rooms and suites, a spa, a pool and the amazing 10th floor restaurant Ati, celebrating the Georgian culinary heritage.
A new boutique hotel in the heart of the historical town of Telavi, featuring panoramic views of Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountain range of Georgia, or the beautiful garden. The design hotel includes an outdoor swimming pool, two exquisite restaurants offering Georgian fusion cuisine and national dishes, and its very own wine cellar.
The five-star hotel is located in the small resort town of Kobuleti with a magnificent view of the Black Sea or the mountains of Ajaria. All suites and rooms are very elegant, and the Presidential Suite is extraordinary! The wide sandy beach is lined with native pines, eucalyptus trees, bamboo, and lots of greenery.
The Roof Garden Restaurant provides excellent upscale French cuisine on an open terrace with a beautiful sea view and is definitely worth a visit.
Very chic design hotel, only 200 metres from the beach and offering magnificent views of the Black Sea. The luxurious hotel offers an indoor pool, a fitness and wellness centre, a spa, a beautiful garden, a sun terrace, as well as a casino.
The Brasserie Restaurant offers a culinary mix of French and local Batumi flavours.
Charming and modern boutique hotel in the old Tbilisi district with an amazing roof top bar overlooking the city. Most rooms offer a fantastic panoramic view over the old town.
