Pack your bags, these places to visit in Georgia are calling
If you’re looking for great places to visit in Georgia and fun things to do in Georgia, you’re in for a treat. There are cool cities with lots of history and friendly people. You can also enjoy beautiful mountains, peaceful parks, and yummy food.
Questions About the Best Places to Visit in Georgia And My Trusted Answer
First time international visitors to Tbilisi, what do you consider to be the most breathtaking attractions and activities?
Relax the old region of Tbilisi by taking a stroll, enjoy a bucket bath, or visit Narikala fortress. You can enjoy several cafes along Rustaveli Avenue. Taking a ride in the cable car should be on your list since it gives you a breathtaking view of the capital.
Which sites of historical Georgian hills would you be interested in checking out?
The UNESCO area that covers Gelati Monastery, Mtskheta, shaftside churches, and even some cave towns like Vardzia is awe-inspiring, as well as the aged people still living in those remote areas, bringing out the spirit of ancient customs.
What Georgian delicacy would you be looking forward to savor during your trip to Georgia?
The world’s most aged wine-producing country, “Georgia,” is famously recognized for its mouth-watering khinkali, cheesy khachapuri, and many more stews. So do not forget to grab a bottle of local wine to enjoy the delightful dishes.
Is there any sulfur bath in Tbilisi where I can unwind in peace and relax?
There are numerous bathhouses, but Abandotubani’s sulfur bath houses are historic and one of a kind; you will not find such breathtaking wellness and spa services elsewhere. These sulfur baths have got bathing chambers, a scrub, as well as heated swimming pools.
What are best souvenirs to buy in Georgia?
Authentic treasures can be found in the local markets of Tbilisi and Kakheti. Don’t miss out on vibrant churchkhela, steeped in the history of nut sweets, wine, hand-painted enamel jewelry, or woven carpets.
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Top places to visit in Georgia for modern city lovers
Georgia’s urban life in 2025 is a bold mix of tradition and youthful energy. In Tbilisi, the gentle glide of cable cars crosses the skyline while the deep bass of underground electronic music spills from bars hidden near ancient sulfur bathhouses. Over in Batumi, the Black Sea glows under fiery sunsets, with colorful street art breathing life into its bustling avenues. Meanwhile, Kutaisi offers a slower rhythm, with tucked-away wine bars, charming courtyards, and a creative, artistic pulse.
These cities may not have the glossy finish of global metropolises, but their soulful beauty makes them unforgettable. From sipping natural wine in a backstreet cellar to watching the city lights from Narikala Fortress, you’ll discover that the best places to visit in Georgia are the ones where tradition and modern spirit live side by side.
Urban Highlights and Hidden Corners
Tbilisi: Layers of the Past and Present
Hop aboard the Rike-Narikala cable car for sweeping views where ancient architecture meets modern design. Stroll through the Abanotubani district, alive with cozy cafes and steaming sulfur bathhouses tucked along its colorful lanes.
Make sure to check out Fabrika, a former Soviet-era sewing factory that’s been reinvented as one of Tbilisi’s trendiest cultural hubs, featuring art galleries, co-working areas, a stylish hostel, and some of the most vibrant nightlife in the city.
Batumi: Seaside Rhythms and Art
Take a leisurely walk through Beta Park, where you’ll come across the famous Alphabet Tower and the vibrant glow of Boulevard Park illuminated in neon lights.
Relax in beachfront cafes camouflaged behind vibrant murals, hidden gems just steps from the sea.
Don’t miss Batumi Art Space, a lively creative center that highlights the bold and boundary-pushing works of modern Georgian artists.
Kutaisi: Underrated and Unforgettable
Start at the Colchis Fountain, then dive into Kutaisi’s underground wine scene where local artists produce unique vintages.
Take a day trip to Prometheus Cave or Okatse Canyon, natural escapes rich with history and stunning views.
Unique Urban Activities
Tbilisi Street Art Walks: Discover powerful graffiti reflecting Georgia’s cultural and political narrative.
Live Jazz Nights: Sink into the warm, intimate vibe of a softly lit bar tucked near Rustaveli Avenue, where the soothing rhythms of live jazz fill the air.
Cafes for Digital Nomads: Neighborhoods like Vera and Mtatsminda are ideal for remote workers seeking strong coffee and fast Wi-Fi.
Georgia Travel FAQs for Modern City Lovers
Is Tbilisi safe and friendly for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s lively, welcoming, and has a low crime rate even late at night.
Do people in Tbilisi speak English?
In tourist hotspots and among the younger crowd, yes. Most staff in cafes, hotels, and shops speak decent English.
How many days should tourists spend in Tbilisi?
At least 3 days. Sometimes, all you need is a stroll through the city’s old soul, a peek into fresh art scenes, a relaxing coffee break at a cozy café, or a quick escape on a nearby day trip.
Is Georgia LGBTQ+ friendly for travelers?
Tbilisi and a few urban zones are increasingly open-minded, but visitors should still be cautious and discreet in public.
Pro Tip
Grab a Metromoney Card in Tbilisi it works for buses, metro lines, and even the funicular railway, making city travel effortless.
Did you know?
Every afternoon at 12, a whimsical puppet show comes to life at the clock tower beside Gabriadze Theater, an offbeat spectacle in the heart of Tbilisi.
History and Heritage in Georgia
Georgia’s soul doesn’t just live in books; it dwells in mountaintop monasteries and echoes through stone walls in haunting polyphonic chants. Here, history isn’t something you read; it’s something you feel. From the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, standing since the 4th century, to the hidden cave cities that once sheltered kings and monks, Georgia’s heritage is alive, untouched, and timeless.
Travelers searching for the most historic places in Georgia will find that every site tells a story that transcends centuries. Wandering through these sacred spaces means stepping into silence where stone, faith, and tradition blend seamlessly.
This guide takes you beyond sightseeing; it shows you how to merge with Georgia’s yesteryears, where centuries stand still and every corner whispers the country’s soulful past.
Heritage Sites You Must Visit in Georgia
Mtskheta – The Spiritual Heartbeat
Why Go: One of the oldest capitals of Georgia and the cradle of Christianity in the country.
Highlight: The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where, according to a legend, the robe of Jesus Christ is preserved.
Bonus: The golden hour view of the two rivers and Jvari Monastery is breathtaking.
Uplistsikhe – The Cave City of Georgia
What’s Unique: It is a fusion of Pagan and Christian architecture.
Feel: Walking through a lost civilization; timeless, ethereal, spellbinding.
Travel Tip: This destination is just a short, hassle-free drive from Tbilisi, perfect for a quick day escape.
Gelati Monastery – The Scholars’ Haven
One of the oldest academies in Georgia, a UNESCO site.
Don’t miss: the ancient mosaics and the tomb of King David the Builder.
Vibe: Deep calm mixed with the weight of history.
Vardzia – A Secret Cliff Monastery
The Adventure: A once-monastic city of 13 levels of cave rooms.
Legend: A secret refuge from invaders built by Queen Tamar.
Travel Tip: To catch beautiful early light, arrive before the crowds.
Georgia History & Heritage – FAQs
Do travelers need a guide to explore Georgia’s historic sites?
Not always, but having one can add depth, context, and local stories you might otherwise miss. Guides are highly recommended for places like Vardzia or Uplistsikhe, where local storytelling brings history to life.
Are non-Christians allowed to enter religious sites in Georgia?
Yes, visitors of all faiths may enter, provided they wear modest clothing and behave respectfully.
What is the best time of year to visit Georgia’s historical landmarks?
Spring (April–May) and Fall (September–October) are ideal, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Is Georgia conservative because of its Orthodox Christian roots?
Yes, particularly in rural areas. Visitors should cover their shoulders inside churches and always ask before photographing local people.
Pro Tip
To feel the mystical side of faith, it is advised to attend early morning liturgy at village churches; understanding the words isn’t necessary.
Did You Know?
The “Three-Fingered Cross” is a Georgian Orthodox church custom that is unique to their tradition, as it symbolizes the Trinity in a Caucasian style.
Food & Drink in Georgia
Georgian cuisine is anything but ordinary; it’s bold, soulful, and deeply tied to local traditions. In Tbilisi, you’ll find farm-fresh bistros serving seasonal plates, while in quiet mountain villages, bread is still baked in traditional clay ovens (tone) the same way it has been for centuries.
Every dish in Georgia’s food culture tells a story. From the warm pull of khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) to the complex layers of khinkali (dumplings) shared around a family table, food here is about more than taste, it’s about connection.
This guide goes beyond listing the best Georgian dishes; it dives into the cultural significance behind each flavor. Because in Georgia, every bite isn’t just a meal, it’s an invitation to experience centuries of tradition, hospitality, and heartfelt living.
Iconic Dishes & Must-Try Meals
Khachapuri (Cheese-Filled Bread Boats)
What to Try: Adjarian egg yolk crowned, boat-shaped variant.
Pro Tip: Use the crusty edges of the bread like a spoon to stir and scoop up the molten mix of cheese and egg while it’s still hot.
Where: Every city has it, but the best is overseen by Batumi.
Khinkali (Dumplings Ronin With Broth)
Pro Move: Order in bulk, hands only, bite, suck, and sip the soup without any fall.
Filling: Blend of Meat, mushroom, or potato, depending on the territory.
Pair with: Local brew, taverns from Tbilisi.
Lobio & Mchadi (Bean Stew with Cornbread)
- Should mild vegetarian options, spicy when Imeretian.
- In rustic countryside inns, dishes are served in steaming clay pots, still bubbling with heat and rich with flavor.
Churchkhela – The Snickers Of Georgia
- Candied nuts on strings, dipped in grape must then dried like candle sticks.
- Wonderful non-perishable gift one could buy in every market.
Wine Regions:
Kakheti, the heart of it all
Racha-Lechkhumi rare semi-sweet reds
- Wine Tasting Tip: Don’t spit. In Georgia, that’s almost offensive.
- Where To Eat: From The City to The Countryside
- Tbilisi Visit Barbarestan, specializing in 19th-century cuisine, or Shavi Lomi, which is artsy with farm-fresh ingredients.
- Kutaisi. Several rustic diners are serving Imeretian cheese pies.
Village Supras are to be responsive to each toast. One would say “Gaumarjos!” which means to victory.
Georgia Food & Drink – FAQs
Is Georgian food spicy?
Not usually. Most Georgian cuisine is flavorful but mild. However, traditional condiments like ajika (a hot chili paste) can add heat if you prefer spicier flavors.
Can vegetarians survive in Georgia?
Absolutely! Georgian cuisine has a strong vegetarian side, think lobio (bean stew), khachapuri (cheese bread), fresh wild greens, and seasonal vegetable dishes.
What’s a Supra, and can tourists join one?
A Supra is a traditional Georgian feast filled with food, wine, singing, toasting, and storytelling. Many guesthouses or local hosts arrange cultural Supras so tourists can experience this iconic tradition.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Georgia?
Yes. In most places, especially in the mountains, tap water is clean, spring-fed, and safe to drink.
Pro Tip
Go to the family-owned winery in Telavi. Their stories are far more intoxicating than the wine itself.
Did You Know?
For Georgians, wine isn’t merely a drink—it’s a soulful tradition, seen as a pathway to honesty and heartfelt connection. It is said that after three glasses, it’s impossible to lie.
Wellness & Relaxation in Georgia
In Georgia, wellness isn’t a new-age trend; it’s a way of life passed down through centuries. In Tbilisi, the iconic sulfur baths promise both relaxation and renewal, while the crisp mountain air of Borjomi and Kazbegi feels like nature’s own therapy.
Here, healing takes many forms: mineral-rich springs, soothing herbal infusions, natural healing mud, and hammocks strung in forest hideaways. By 2025, Georgia will have become an unplugged sanctuary, a place where you can reset your body and mind, whether soaking in an ancient bathhouse or meditating in the Caucasus mountains.
This isn’t about five-star luxury; it’s about something deeper. In Georgia, wellness means slowing down, breathing with the land, and letting the soul be cradled by timeless traditions.
Experiences Offering Wellness Benefits in Georgia
Sulfur Baths in Tbilisi – The Heritage of Lavatorial Culture
Location: Abanotubani District has bathhouses with vaults and steam since the 5th century
ctivities: Book a private room, partake in traditional scrubs (kisa), and sip mint tea.
Local Favorite: Orbeliani Baths, outstanding mosaics, and strong massage practice.
Borjomi – Healing Waters in The Pines
Famous for: Mineral springs have been known since the Tsarist period.
Also explore: Spa tucked away in the forest hiking trails, and mountain air.
Recommendation: A wellness walk in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park.
Kazbegi – Mountains for The Mind
Perks: A peaceful atmosphere, breathtaking mountain scenery, and the refreshing elevation near Mount Kazbek.
Accommodation: Lodges with yoga decks and sauna pods.
Highlight: Above the clouds sunrise meditation.
Other Wellness Options
Georgia Wellness & Relaxation – FAQs
Is there a requirement for pre-booking sulfur baths?
Yes. If you want a private room/partition in Tbilisi’s famous sulfur baths, pre-booking is highly recommended. Public baths, on the other hand, usually allow walk-ins with shorter waiting times.
Is gratuity mandatory at spas?
No, gratuity is not compulsory in Georgia. However, a 10–15% tip is appreciated for outstanding service and care.
Are wellness retreats available in the countryside?
Definitely! Popular countryside spots like Kazbegi, Borjomi, and remote eco-lodges offer retreats focusing on yoga, digital detox, spa therapy, and hiking.
Is it safe to drink Borjomi water from the source?
Yes it is safe. Locals believe the natural spring water is “stronger” and more mineral-rich than bottled Borjomi, so it might taste unusual to first-timers.
Pro Tip
A wellness activity combined with culture includes starting your day in sulfur baths, followed by visiting an art café where they serve tea with books and people watching.
Did You Know?
Joseph Stalin frequently spent holidays in Tskaltubo, which is known for being a Soviet spa capital with more than 20 sanatoria.
Adventure & Outdoors in Georgia
If you’re searching for velvet ropes and polished sidewalks, Georgia may not be for you. But if your soul craves adventure, roaring rivers, glacier treks, and roads that test both your vehicle and your spirit, then 2025 is the year to go off the beaten path.
From the towering Svaneti peaks that call hikers and climbers, to the hidden gorges of Lagodekhi National Park where trekking trails weave through raw wilderness, Georgia is a playground for thrill-seekers.
Whether you’re a first-time hiker or a seasoned mountaineer, outdoor activities in Georgia go beyond adrenaline; they’re a cultural expectation. Adventure here isn’t something extra; it’s how the land is meant to be experienced.
Top Adventure Zones
Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)
Must-Do: Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church with Mount Kazbek towering above.
Try: Paragliding, glacier trekking, and horseback rides to Truso Valley.
Svaneti
Famous For: Snow-capped peaks, medieval towers, and epic multi-day hikes.
Route Highlight: Mestia to Ushguli 4-day trek through alpine villages.
Tusheti
Known For: Wild horseback trekking, deep valleys, remote soul-stirring beauty.
Access Tip: Open only from June to early October via one of the world’s most dangerous roads.
Try these Outdoor Activities
- White Water Rafting Thrilling on the Rioni River near Kutaisi during spring.
- Canyoning in Martvili or Okatse for cliff diving and hidden waterfalls.
- Mountain Biking Off the beaten path in Javakheti or Adjara.
- Ski Touring & Heli-Skiing Gudauri & Tetnuldi for high-altitude winter thrills.
Eco-Adventures & Other Gentle Options
- Lagodekhi National Park is Excellent for novices; it features trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
- Borjomi-Kharagauli Park Forest hikes with marked trails complemented by rangers.
- Vashlovani Reserve Semi-desert treks and wild camping in Georgia’s “savannah.”
Georgia Adventure & Outdoors – FAQs
Is solo hiking safe in Georgia?
Yes, solo hiking in Georgia is possible, but it’s safer in pairs or with guides in remote mountain trails since cell coverage in the Caucasus mountains is often limited.
Do I need permits for trekking in Georgia?
Permits are only required for protected regions like Tusheti or Vashlovani National Park. Most trekking routes in Georgia are open-access but may require basic registration at checkpoints.
Can I rent outdoor gear in Georgia?
Yes. You can rent hiking and camping equipment in Tbilisi, Kazbegi, and Mestia. For remote treks, bringing your own gear is more reliable.
What is the best season for adventure travel in Georgia?
The best months for trekking in Georgia are from July to early October, when conditions are dry, warm, and most mountain passes are free of snow.
Pro Tip
If you do not consider yourself an avid hiker, you can still explore, as you can hire a 4×4 driver through the backroads of Svaneti, so you can skip the blisters.
Did You Know?
The Dartlo and Omalo villages of Tusheti are reachable only via death-defying jeep rides and are UNESCO-listed for medieval architecture alongside untouched landscapes.
Hidden Towns & Villages in Georgia
Forget the standard souvenirs, the true heart of Georgia beats in its quiet villages and small mountain towns. In 2025, more and more travelers are stepping away from crowded tourist hubs and discovering a different rhythm of life.
Here, time lingers beneath the ancient Svan towers, the soft mountain breezes of Omalo carry stories untold, and the winding vineyard paths of Signagi invite you to slow down with a glass of wine in hand.
These places are more than just beautiful stops; they are living museums of rural Georgia, where history, culture, and hospitality flow as naturally as the landscapes. For those seeking nurturing kindness, soul-soothing scenery, and experiences untouched by mass tourism, this is your guide.
Underrated But Not To Be Missed
Ushguli (Svaneti)
- One of Europe’s highest-altitude villages that’s still home to a living, thriving community.
- It is a blend of stone towers, legendary rocks, and stunning glacier views.
- From Mestia, one can reach via 4×4 or on foot.
Omalo (Tusheti)
- It is a timeless village within the Greater Caucasus.
- Ideal for sacred shrine treks by horseback.
- Access is limited to approximately 4 months a year.
Signagi (Kakheti)
- A charming hillside town painted in pastel hues, known for its hilltop churches, flowing wine, and a romantic reputation as the “City of Love.”
- Ideal for romantic excursions and vineyard tours on walking.
Lentekhi (Lower Svaneti)
- Less frequented than Mestia, featuring alpine trails and waterfalls.
- Svaneti helps sans tourists.
Local Experiences To Try
Stay in a local guesthouse. Enjoy delicious home-cooked khachapuri, tales by the fire, and homemade wine.
Shepherd Life Tours Spend a day with locals in the high pastures in Tusheti or Kazbegi.
Village Festivals Participate in mountain ritual dances in Khevsureti and wine harvest celebrations in Kakheti.
Georgia’s Hidden Towns & Villages – FAQs
Do remote villages in Georgia have Wi-Fi access?
Most guesthouses in rural Georgia provide basic Wi-Fi, but in the remote villages of the Caucasus mountains, connections are limited. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy a digital detox.
Are the roads to Georgian countryside villages safe?
Roads to remote Georgian villages can be narrow and bumpy. It’s best to travel with an experienced driver or local guide for safety.
Is English spoken in small Georgian towns?
In rural Georgia, English is rarely spoken. Knowing a little Georgian or Russian—or using Google Translate offline—makes communication much easier.
What is the best time to visit remote villages in Georgia?
The ideal months to explore the Georgian countryside are from May to October. During winter, heavy snow cuts off access to many villages.
Pro Tip
Remote areas have poor internet access, but the scenery keeps getting better; be sure to download offline maps.
Did You Know?
In Ushguli, children still traverse snowy paths to school and often are multilingual by age ten.
Festivals & Events in Georgia
For Georgians, a festival isn’t just an event, it’s an experience that touches every sense. Imagine torch-lit harvest dances under the stars, polyphonic songs echoing off mountain cliffs, and cobblestone streets filled with churchkhela, laughter, and endless toasts of wine.
Whether you find yourself in a vineyard during the grape harvest in October or wandering through Tbilisi’s Old Town in autumn, 2025 offers countless chances to witness a nation that truly lives through its celebrations.
From solemn religious rituals to vibrant street festivals, Georgian festivities are steeped in rhythm, faith, and abundance. And of course, no celebration is complete without the warm embrace of Georgian wine flowing generously, binding friends, family, and strangers alike.
Unmissable Festivals of Georgia
Tbilisoba (October – Tbilisi)
The capital’s festivities include wine sampling, folk music, and merchant stands.
Local Tip: Don’t forget to try pelamushi (grape pudding) and pick up some artisan crafts.
Rike Park during sunset concerts is the best place for photos.
Rtveli (September–October – Kakheti & wine regions)
The grape harvest festival of Georgia
Partake in grape picking, stomping, and toasting with locals.
Best experienced with a host family in Telavi or Sighnaghi.
New Wine Festival (May – Tbilisi)
Old traditions meet young wines during this festival celebrating small-vineyard discovery.
Don’t miss out on qvevri wines, aged in clay pots.
Art-Gene Festival (July – Ethnographic Museum, Tbilisi)
Dance and folk music, along with crafts performed outdoors.
This is great for families as well as culture enthusiasts, and those searching for handmade souvenirs.
Black Sea Jazz Festival (Summer – Batumi)
Jazzy tunes from local and international artists along the coast.
Soak up the sun in Batumi and enjoy the rhythm of live music by the shore.
Other Notable Celebrations
Alaverdoba (September – Kakheti): A festive blend of wine traditions and spiritual gatherings at the historic Alaverdi Monastery.
Easter & Orthodox Christmas: Marked by familial gatherings, midnight vigils, and deep spiritual meals.
February Lamproba: Ancient fire festival illuminating the snowy mountains.
Georgia Festivals & Events – FAQs
Are festivals in Georgia accessible to tourists?
Yes! Most Georgian festivals are open to visitors, and locals love sharing their traditions. Expect generous feasts, music, and community spirit.
Do I need tickets for Georgian festivals?
Tickets are usually required only for larger events like the Tbilisi Jazz Festival or Art-Gene Festival. Seasonal or village celebrations are often free or based on small donations.
When is the best time for cultural travel in Georgia?
Autumn (September–October) is ideal. It’s the season of Rtveli (grape harvest in Georgia) and also Tbilisoba, a vibrant city festival that blends modern energy with rustic traditions.
Can tourists participate in Rtveli, the grape harvest?
Absolutely! Many family-run wineries in Kakheti and other wine regions of Georgia offer immersive harvest tours and homestay lodgings. Booking is recommended for September travel.
Pro Tip
Should you receive an invitation for “supra” (traditional feast), do not refuse. However, ensure you pace yourself during the numerous toasts that can extend for hours, and missing a round is definitely not an option.
Pop Culture & Entertainment in the Georgia
Georgia’s culture in 2025 is a collision of past and future intertwined with modern trap beats, medieval legends retold on the big screen, and TikTok stars turning centuries-old theaters into viral stages.
In Tbilisi’s underground clubs, bass-heavy nights pulse with experimental sounds, while over in Batumi, beach raves spill out under the Black Sea sunsets. Together, they’re shaping a bold new Georgian creative movement where tradition dances side by side with innovation.
Sound, Screen & Stage Highlights
Sound, Screen & Stage Highlights
Bassiani Club (Tbilisi): Well-known worldwide, a latent techno bunker within a stadium
Georgia’s trap and hip-hop scene is on the rise, with emerging artists like Bera and Lex-Seni leading the charge.
Polyphonic Fusion: Folk modern acoustic music includes bands such as Trio Mandili
Cinema & TV
Contemporary Georgian films possess visceral emotion and surreal narrative structure, winning awards—And Then We Danced or Beginning are must-sees.
Television in Georgia: The most popular are local dramas and reality shows, but now these are available from streaming platforms with subtitles.
Art & Performance
Tbilisi Contemporary Art Gallery: A new perspective for Georgian artists
Rustaveli Theatre: Enjoy Georgian plays with English subtitles or just appreciate stunning theatre architecture.
Street Art Culture: Bold political murals in old parts like Fabrika.
Nightlife & Modern Fun
Bar-hopping in Tbilisi: Jazz cellars, cocktail rooftops, and dive bars.
Live gigs in Batumi: Folk-punk, funk fusion and more near the boulevard.
Creative Hubs: Open mics, markets, and pop-up events in Fabrika, Vake Park, and The Factory.
Georgia Pop Culture & Entertainment – FAQs
Is Georgian nightlife safe?
Yes! Nightlife in Georgia is lively yet safe, especially in Tbilisi and Batumi, where most clubs have strict entry policies and reliable security.
What are the trending music genres in Georgia?
The leading genres include techno, folk fusion, and hip-hop. Traditional Georgian ethnic music also thrives during festivals and cultural celebrations.
Can tourists attend concerts and live events in Georgia?
Absolutely. Many concerts and events in Georgia welcome tourists, with schedules often published in English. Tickets are easy to purchase at venues or through local apps.
What makes Georgian cinema distinctive?
Georgian cinema is visually poetic and emotionally powerful. It often carries deep political themes, symbolism, and haunting storytelling that set it apart on the world stage.
Pro Tip
Before your visit, follow local influencers on TikTok or Instagram. Georgia’s digital space is teeming with art exhibitions, last-minute concerts, and secret soirées that are not listed on Google.
Did You Know?
While the Tbilisi Film Festival is a draw for international film critics, the local audience adores their own movie heroes, many of whom are also theater or television celebrities.
Shopping & souvenirs in georgia
Shopping in Georgia isn’t about glossy malls; it’s about stories stitched, bottled, and carved into every item. Every scarf, spice pouch, and silver ring carries a piece of Georgian heritage.
Wander the cobbled streets of Tbilisi and you’ll find enamel jewelry crafted by local artists, grandmothers selling homemade churchkhela (the famous Georgian “candy”), and winemakers pouring centuries of tradition into qvevri-aged red wines.
In 2025, the best Georgian souvenirs are still the ones made by hand, filled with sentiment, and surprisingly affordable. Whether your taste leans toward rustic folk styles or fine artisanal craftsmanship, Georgia offers keepsakes that are as authentic as they are unforgettable.
Must have Georgian souvenirs
Snickers of Georgia (churchkhela)
A blend of nuts and dried fruits coated in grape juice; it’s nutritious, delicious, and easy to carry.
Perfect Purchase Location: Roadside stalls and Deserter Market in Tbilisi.
Handwoven Items & Carpets
Boldly designed woolen rugs from the regions of Tusheti and Svaneti.
Tip: A little friendly bargaining goes a long way, especially in the bustling markets of Telavi and Old Tbilisi.
Minankari Enamel Jewelry
Hand-painted cloisonné earrings, crosses, and pendants.
Purchase Locations: Shops on Sioni Street or Dry Bridge Market.
Georgian Wine & Chacha
A true Georgian gem: Qvevri wine — much more than just clay-aged, it’s a tradition steeped in history and soul.
Chacha: grappa from georgia, proudly homemade and strong
Travel Tip: Vacuum seals offer safe transport at many wineries.
Krama (traditional scarf)
Timeless and gender neutral headwear: checks in bold colors, worn as belts, and multifunctional.
Georgia Shopping & Souvenirs – FAQs
Can I bring back wine from Georgia?
Yes! Most countries allow 1–2 bottles of Georgian wine duty-free. You can also find ready-to-carry wine gift packages at Tbilisi and Batumi airports.
Is haggling acceptable in Georgia?
Yes, bargaining is common in local markets in Georgia. But in stores with fixed prices, haggling isn’t expected. A friendly smile always helps during negotiation.
Is card payment widely accepted in Georgia?
In major cities, card payments are normal. However, in villages, rural areas, or traditional markets, it’s best to carry cash in Georgian Lari (GEL).
What is the most distinctive Georgian souvenir?
Popular souvenirs include qvevri amber wine (traditional clay-aged wine) and hand-stitched Caucasus wool hats, both representing authentic Georgian culture.
Pro Tip
Make sure that you shop early in the day for better selection. Ask vendors for the item’s backstory, as many will be happy to share details about its origin and meaning.
Did you know?
The Dry Bridge Market in Tbilisi started during the post-Soviet economic turmoil, and now serves as a treasure trove of Georgian narratives in tangible form.