10 Wonderful Days in Georgia: The Complete Guide

From breathtaking landscapes and ancient history to its natural wine scene and welcoming locals, Georgia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

It’s a perfect destination for a road trip, offering a mix of historic cities, incredible food, and gorgeous mountainous regions.

With an efficient highway system and easy access to rental cars, a 10-day trip gives you time to explore highlights like Tbilisi, Kakheti’s wine country, the Svaneti region in the Caucasus Mountains, and Vardzia’s cave monasteries.

This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to see Georgia’s best sights but can also be extended to two weeks for a more relaxed pace.

Day 1: Arrive in Tbilisi

Begin your adventure by flying into Tbilisi, where a quick taxi ride will bring you to the heart of the city. Fabrika Hostel is a popular option, known for its artsy private rooms and lively social scene, allowing you to leave your bags before check-in.

Start your day at Dry Bridge Market, an open-air market where you can browse through Soviet-era memorabilia, vintage jewelry, and unique local crafts.

Afterward, head to Shavi Lomi for lunch and try the famous “Gobi,” a shared platter with jonjoli (a Georgian delicacy of pickled plants), mchadi (cornbread), and phkali (vegetable and walnut paste).

In the afternoon, explore Fabrika’s creative spaces. Once a sewing factory, Fabrika now features a mix of cafes, shops, and art spaces, perfect for unwinding or meeting locals.

For dinner, dine at Barbarestan, a unique restaurant inspired by recipes from feminist writer Barbare Jorjadze.

Afterward, catch a performance at the Movement Theater or, if you’re up for some nightlife, head to Bassiani, Georgia’s famous techno club, or enjoy a drink at one of Fabrika’s bars.

Day 2: Discover Tbilisi’s Old Town

Start with coffee at Milk Coffee Shop before walking to Old Tbilisi, the city’s historic center. Visit the Gabriadze Theater to see its unique clock tower, where an angel rings a bell every hour.

From there, cross the Bridge of Peace to Rike Park. Next, wander through Abanotubani, the city’s famous sulfur bath district, where you can book a spa treatment if you like.

Continue exploring, stopping by the Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia statue for panoramic views. For lunch, head to Café Littera, a lovely garden eatery tucked behind a historic literary house.

In the afternoon, stroll down Rustaveli Avenue for shopping and museums. For art lovers, MOMA offers a glimpse of Georgia’s contemporary art scene.

Finish the day with dinner at Poliphonia, where the menu is filled with seasonal dishes and local natural wines.

Day 3: Tbilisi to Telavi (Wine Region)

Pick up your rental car and head east to Kakheti, Georgia’s renowned wine region. Settle into a guesthouse in Telavi, like the charming Neli & Zaal Guest House.

Arrange with your host or a local driver to visit nearby wineries since Georgia has a strict zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving.

Spend the day sampling Georgian wines, often made in qvevris (clay pots buried underground). Start at Makashvili Wine Cellar for its award-winning Khikhvi white wine. Then, try Lagazi Winery, a newcomer known for its creative food pairings and amber wines.

End your wine tour at Teliani Valley and enjoy the sunset from their tasting room. Many guesthouses offer cooking classes where you can learn to make khinkali (dumplings) for an immersive culinary experience.

Day 4: Explore Sighnaghi

After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Sighnaghi, a hilltop town famous for its views of the Caucasus Mountains. Wander its cobblestone streets, stopping by local bakeries, artisan shops, and small wineries.

For lunch, visit Pheasant’s Tears, known for its creative take on traditional Georgian cuisine and unique wines like Saperavi.

In the afternoon, visit the Sighnaghi Museum to learn more about Georgian art and history. For dinner, enjoy Okro’s Natural Wine Restaurant with its picturesque balcony views of the countryside.

Day 5: Journey to Zugdidi via Gori

Today’s road trip heads west towards Zugdidi. Stop by the Ananuri Fortress, a well-preserved 17th-century castle overlooking the Aragvi River, and enjoy a scenic break.

Continue to Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, where you can explore the Stalin Museum and have a quick lunch at Café 22.

From Gori, drive through Georgia’s recently improved highways to Zugdidi. Overnight here, as you’ll start early the next day towards Mestia in the Svaneti region.

Day 6: Begin Your Svaneti Adventure – Mestia to Adishi

Head to Mestia, the gateway to the stunning Svaneti region. Known for its medieval towers and breathtaking scenery, Svaneti is a highlight of any Georgia trip. Spend the day exploring the region, which can be done on foot, by horse, or a combination.

Opt for a guided horse ride to reach Adishi, a remote village where you’ll stay the night. Feast on chvistari (cheese-filled cornbread) at your homestay and enjoy the authentic mountain atmosphere.

Day 7: Trek from Adishi to Ushguli

After breakfast, head through the Adishi Valley and cross Ckhutnieri Pass at over 2,400 meters. This scenic trek includes rivers, lush valleys, and stunning mountain views.

At Kala village, you can take a jeep to Ushguli, one of Europe’s highest continuously inhabited villages and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Stay at Guesthouse Angelina for a home-cooked meal and enjoy the evening with traditional Svan music.

Day 8: Ushguli to Mestia

Visit the Shkhara Glacier for a scenic morning hike. Afterward, return to Mestia by car in the afternoon. For dinner, try the kubdari (meat-filled pastry) at a local restaurant, a specialty of the Svaneti region.

Day 9: Mestia to Kutaisi

Set out for Kutaisi, about a four-hour drive. If time permits, stop at Martvili Canyon, where you can explore beautiful blue-green waters and waterfalls.

Once in Kutaisi, visit the Green Bazaar for a final taste of Georgian street food like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread). Explore the old town and enjoy a relaxed evening in one of Kutaisi’s charming cafes.

Day 10: Return to Tbilisi via Vardzia

On your final day, head to Vardzia, a cave monastery carved into the cliffs of Mount Erusheti. Built by Queen Tamar in the 12th century, Vardzia is an impressive complex with historical significance.

Take an audio tour to learn about its fascinating origins and unique architecture.

On the way back, stop at Borjomi for a refreshing drink of natural mineral water, or visit Phoka St. Nino Monastery, where you can sample fresh cheeses and honey made by the resident nuns.

Arrive back in Tbilisi for your final night and relax at Marina’s Guesthouse or enjoy a last Georgian meal at Ezo or the hip Black Dog Bar.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day itinerary offers a balanced mix of cultural immersion, nature, and history. With destinations like Tbilisi’s vibrant city life, Kakheti’s wine culture, and the awe-inspiring Svaneti region, you’ll experience Georgia’s unique spirit and incredible diversity.

Adjust the pace to suit your style, but no matter how you travel, Georgia promises an unforgettable adventure.