Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia, is a vibrant and modern city with a rich history and culture. But sometimes, you just need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the surrounding countryside. Luckily, there are plenty of day trips you can take from Tbilisi that will allow you to do just that. Here are the 10 best day trips from Tbilisi.
1. Mtskheta
Mtskheta is a small town located just 30 minutes outside of Tbilisi. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Iberia and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is home to several historic churches and monasteries, including the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, which is said to contain the robe of Christ. You can easily spend a day exploring the town and its surroundings.
One of the most iconic sites in Mtskheta is the Jvari Monastery, which sits atop a hill overlooking the town. The monastery dates back to the 6th century and is considered one of the most important religious sites in Georgia. The views from the top of the hill are breathtaking, and it's a great spot to watch the sunset.
2. Gori
Gori is a city located about 80 kilometers west of Tbilisi. It is the birthplace of Joseph Stalin and is home to the Stalin Museum, which is dedicated to the life and legacy of the former Soviet leader. In addition to the museum, there are several other historical sites in Gori, including the Uplistsikhe Cave Town, which dates back to the 6th century BC.
The Uplistsikhe Cave Town is a must-visit site for anyone interested in history and archaeology. The town is carved into the side of a cliff and is home to several caves and tunnels that were used for religious and cultural purposes. You can explore the site on foot and get a glimpse into what life was like in ancient Georgia.
3. Kazbegi
Kazbegi is a mountainous region located in the north of Georgia. It is home to the stunning Gergeti Trinity Church, which is perched on a hill overlooking the town of Stepantsminda. The region is also a popular destination for hiking and trekking, with several trails leading to stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The hike up to the Gergeti Trinity Church is a challenging but rewarding experience. The trail is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. You can see the entire town of Stepantsminda and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Kazbek, which is one of the highest peaks in Georgia.
4. Davit Gareja
Davit Gareja is a complex of rock-hewn monasteries located in the southeast of Georgia, near the border with Azerbaijan. The monasteries date back to the 6th century and are carved into the side of a cliff. The complex is a popular destination for hiking and exploring the surrounding desert landscape.
The hike up to the monasteries is a bit challenging, but the views from the top are worth it. You can see the entire complex and the surrounding landscape, which is dotted with small villages and farms. The monasteries themselves are fascinating, with intricate carvings and paintings that date back centuries.
5. Sighnaghi
Sighnaghi is a small town located in the eastern part of Georgia, near the border with Azerbaijan. It is known as the "City of Love" and is home to several historic sites, including the Sighnaghi Museum and the Bodbe Monastery. The town is also surrounded by vineyards and is a popular destination for wine tasting.
The Sighnaghi Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. The museum has several exhibits that showcase the art, music, and traditions of the people who live in and around Sighnaghi. The Bodbe Monastery is also worth a visit, as it is the final resting place of Saint Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century.
6. Borjomi
Borjomi is a resort town located in the south of Georgia. It is known for its mineral water, which is said to have healing properties. The town is home to several parks and hiking trails, as well as the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, which is the largest national park in Georgia.
The Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Georgia. The park has several hiking trails that take you through forests, meadows, and mountains. You can also visit the mineral water springs and taste the famous Borjomi water.
7. Vardzia
Vardzia is a cave monastery located in the south of Georgia, near the border with Turkey. It was built in the 12th century and is carved into the side of a cliff. The monastery is home to several churches and living quarters, as well as a complex system of tunnels and caves.
The cave complex is one of the most impressive sights in Georgia. The caves are carved into the side of a cliff and are connected by a series of tunnels and staircases. You can explore the caves and see the living quarters, churches, and other structures that were built into the rock.
8. Ananuri
Ananuri is a fortress located on the Aragvi River, about 70 kilometers north of Tbilisi. It was built in the 16th and 17th centuries and is now a popular tourist destination. The fortress is home to several churches and towers, as well as a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.
The Ananuri Fortress is a great place to learn about the history of Georgia. The fortress has several exhibits that showcase the culture and traditions of the people who lived in the region. You can also climb to the top of the towers and get a panoramic view of the Aragvi River and the surrounding mountains.
9. Telavi
Telavi is a city located in the east of Georgia, in the heart of the wine-growing region of Kakheti. The city is home to several historic sites, including the 17th-century Batonis Tsikhe fortress and the Alaverdi Monastery. The region is also known for its wine, and there are several wineries in and around Telavi that offer tastings and tours.
The Batonis Tsikhe fortress is a great place to learn about the history of the region. The fortress was built in the 17th century and is now a museum that showcases the culture and traditions of the people who lived in the area. The Alaverdi Monastery is also worth a visit, as it is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Georgia.
10. Uplistsikhe
Uplistsikhe is an ancient rock-hewn town located about 10 kilometers east of Gori. It dates back to the 6th century BC and was an important center of trade and culture in the region. The town is carved into the side of a cliff and is home to several temples, living quarters, and a theater.
The town is a great place to learn about the ancient history of Georgia. You can explore the caves and see the structures that were built into the rock. The theater is particularly impressive, as it is one of the oldest theaters in the world.
Conclusion
Whether you're interested in history, culture, or nature, there's a day trip from Tbilisi that's perfect for you. From the ancient monasteries of Davit Gareja and Vardzia to the stunning mountain views of Kazbegi, there's something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful countryside of Georgia.