Home to ancient churches, spectacular castles and dramatic mountain scenery, Georgia is a country of great natural beauty.
Spend time in the friendly capital of Tbilisi with its dainty wooden balconied houses and striking modern architecture then explore the wine-producing region of Kakheti with visits to charming Sighnaghi and the Chavchavadze Estate. From here the journey continues via monastic complexes and mountain fortresses to Gudauri then returns to Tbilisi with diversions to Uplistsikhe, Gori and historic Mtskheta. Georgian people are hospitable and outgoing and your journey will be accompanied by some of region’s finest food and drink.
Tbilisi – Telavi – Gudauri – Tbilisi
Trip Highlights
- Explore Gremi’s monumental royal citadel, enclosed by imposing defensive walls
- Set in the heart of the Caucasus mountains, Gudauri offers excellent walking
- Discover Kakheti which is the epicentre of Georgia’s main wine-making region
- In Mtskheta visit Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral – both UNESCO listed
Itinerary
Day 1
UK to Tbilisi
This evening depart London Heathrow for your flight to Tbilisi.
Rooms Hotel
Tbilisi Marriott Hotel
Stamba Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi
Day 2
Tbilisi
Arrive into Tbilisi in the morning. After being met and transferred to your hotel take a private sightseeing tour of the city including a visit to the 12th century Metechi Church and the 7th century Sioni Cathedral. Walk through the old town and along Rustaveli Avenue to see Holy Trinity Cathedral which is one of the largest Orthodox Cathedrals in the world. You will also visit Narikhala Fortress - the main citadel of the city, enjoying the wonderful views of Tbilisi and the capital's Sulphur Baths, renowned for their natural therapeutic qualities. Other highlights of the city tour include Sameba Cathedral, with its golden dome, is the highest church in Georgia and the National Museum where you can enjoy the permanent exhibition ‘The Archaeological Treasury’.
- Breakfast
Rooms Hotel
Tbilisi Marriott Hotel
Stamba Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi
Day 3
Tbilisi to Tsinandali via Kakheti, Sighnaghi – 175kms
This morning leave Tbilisi and drive to Kakheti which lies in the heart of Georgia's main wine-making region then continue to the 4th century Bodbe Nunnery and the small fortified town of Sighnaghi known for its wine production and carpet making. Here wander the charming narrow streets, lined by ornate wooden balconied buildings and enjoy a lunch and tasting at a local winery. Continue on towards Tsinandali and stop outside the town to visit the Tsinandali Family Estate, with its marvellous gardens, museum and vineyard. The estate was originally the home of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, one of the most prominent characters in Georgian history, and eventually passed into the ownership of Tsar Alexander III.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch
Tsinandali Estate - Radisson Collection Hotel
Day 4
Tsinandali – visit Gremi and Nekresi
After breakfast drive to Gremi which is home to an impressive architectural complex. Founded in the 16th century by the King of Kakheti Levan, the monument was once a royal citadel consisting of a tower, king's chambers, defensive walls and an Archangel's church. Spend some time exploring Gremi with your guide before visiting the Nekresi monastery which boasts several Georgian Orthodox churches including the small basilica from the 4th century – one of Georgia’s oldest remaining churches – as well as the Bishops Palace. Return to Tbilisi in the afternoon.
- Breakfast
Tsinandali Estate - Radisson Collection Hotel
Day 5
Tsinandali to Gudauri – 150kms
After breakfast leave Telavi and continue by road to Gudauri. A number of different stops will be made during this journey including a visit to 12th century Alaverdi Cathedral, a major religious centre which was, for many years, the tallest church in Georgia. You will also stop at the Ananuri fortress, a vast fortified complex that houses two churches and a number of other structures. In the late afternoon arrive in Gudauri where you will stay for the next two nights.
- Breakfast
Gudauri Loft Hotel
Day 6
Gudauri – visit Kazbegi
Today enjoy Gudauri’s spectacular mountain setting and explore the wider region. Highlights include Mount Kazbek, a dormant volcano that rises over 5000 metres, and Gergeti Trinity Church which lies in its shadow and can be reached by 4WD vehicle drive. Continue your journey to explore the Khevi province located in the heart of Georgia, which is known for its beautiful scenery and numerous architectural monuments and archaeological sites. Visit Kazbegi, an enchanting town that offers spectacular views of Mt. Kazbek - the seventh highest peak in the Caucasus Mountains. Mt. Kazbek is associated with myth of Prometheus, according to the legend he was chained on the mountain in punishment for having stolen fire from the gods and having given it to mortals.
- Breakfast
Gudauri Loft Hotel
Day 7
Gudauri to Tbilisi via Uplistsikhe, Gori and Mtskheta – 245kms
This morning return to Tbilisi. Stop enroute to visit the ancient rock-cut village of Uplistsikhe and Gori which is associated with Soviet leader Joseph Stalin who was born in the town. A visit to a museum that traces the life of Stalin can also be made. Before reaching Tbilisi, a final stop will be made in Mtskheta which is one of Georgia’s most historic towns. Highlights here include the 6th century Jvari Monastery and equally ancient Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Both buildings are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and considered Georgian cultural landmarks. From here continue the short distance to Tbilisi for a two-night stay.
- Breakfast
Rooms Hotel
Tbilisi Marriott Hotel
Stamba Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi
Day 8
Tbilisi
Today you are at leisure to further explore Tbilisi under your own arrangements. You may wish to visit the Museum of Georgian Fine Arts which houses works by eminent Georgian painters and sculptors as well as a fine collection of icons, cloisonné and jewellery from the medieval period.
- Breakfast
Rooms Hotel
Tbilisi Marriott Hotel
Stamba Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi
Day 9
Tbilisi to the UK
This morning you will be met and transferred to Tbilisi Airport in good time to catch your flight to London Heathrow.
- Breakfast
Extending your stay...
Combine Georgia with neighbouring Armenia which are easy to link together. Yerevan, capital of Armenia is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities with highlights including Echmiadzin, centre of the Armenian Church, and the Matenadaran manuscript collection.
Include a stay in Dilijan, a traditional Armenian town in the north of the country close to Lake Sevan. Explore the lush forests of nearby Dilijan National Park and enjoy the town’s traditional Armenian wooden houses which has inspired writers, artists and poets for centuries.
Lake Sevan is one of the highest altitude freshwater lakes in the world and a popular destination to discover Armenia’s great outdoors. Here visit Sevanavank Monastery, founded in 874 AD, which occupies a wonderful setting on a small peninsula that juts into the lake.
Discover one of the region’s finest religious complexes – the Khor Virap Monastery which is located an hour to the south of Yerevan. With an awe-inspiring setting at the foot of Mount Ararat, Khor Virap has been a significant site of pilgrimage for over 1700 years.
Guide to Price
9 days from £2800 - £3220 per person
What's Included
- International flights
- Private car and driver
- Accompanying English speaking guide
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's Not Included
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Meals unless specified
from £2800 - £3220
Travel Information
Getting There
There are no direct flights to Georgia from the UK with all journeys requiring a stop en-route. Lufthansa via Munich, Turkish Airlines via Istanbul and Qatar Airways connecting in Doha are the best options.
Flying Times From UK
An indirect flight to Georgia will take between 6 to 8 hours.
Time Zone
Georgia is +4 hours ahead of GMT.
Visa Requirements
No visa is required for British Citizens visiting Georgia. On arrival you may be asked to show proof of your return journey and first night’s accommodation.
Do’s & Don’ts
Georgia is known for its hospitality and the local people are very friendly.
Try to learn a few phrases in Georgian as this will be well received.
Always ask permission before taking photographs of people. Also note that photography is prohibited at airports and military installations.
It is respectful to cover arms, shoulders and legs if visiting religious sites.
Money
The currency in Georgia is the Lari and is sub-divided into 100 tetri. Towns and cities have plenty of reliable ATMs so it is recommended to wait until arriving in Georgia to withdraw local currency. In the majority of Georgia all major credit cards are accepted, however, outside of Tbilisi card facilities are less common. Make sure you carry cash if you plan to take a taxi or will be visiting markets.
Tipping
Tipping is not commonly expected in Georgia and the idea is relatively new. However for good service in a hotel a tip of 10% will be gratefully accepted. A guideline for tipping your drivers and guides will be advised prior to travel.
Food & Drink
Georgian food is known for its strong flavours, use of herbs such as coriander, and, in some cases, salted dishes. Georgian cuisine also has a lot of different influences with Asian, European and Middle Eastern dishes combined to make a rich and diverse menu. Food is a big part of daily life in Georgia and evening meals are a lavish affair with plenty of drink and many shared dishes. Meat, spices and bread products are the base of most dishes with favourites being basturma, cured meats with pickled vegetables, lobio, a bean and walnut salad, and khachapuri an edible bread bowl occasionally filled with a meat-like stew and topped with melted cheese. Georgia is an underrated wine destination and there are many fine vineyards here. As a result, wine is one of the most popular drinks in the country with fruity reds the best.
Accommodation
Since the fall of the Soviet Union, the quality of hotel accommodation throughout Georgia has greatly improved. In Tbilisi there are a selection of good internationally owned hotels – the architecture of which can be quite futuristic, as much of the modern buildings are in Georgia. Facilities at these hotels are largely good, with restaurants, swimming pools, bars and spas. There are also some boutique-style hotels here too. Outside of the capital, accommodation is generally clean and comfortable but tends to be of a traditional style. In the town of Dilijan the hotel here is particularly memorable with guesthouse accommodation in charmingly renovated heritage buildings.
Shopping
The Bridge Market in Tbilisi is a great place to find local produce, ceramics, embroidery, rugs, clothing and jewellery. Alternatively take home a few bottles of Georgian wine or brandy from neighbouring Armenia. In markets remember to haggle.
Suggested Reading
Lonely Planet, Rough Guides and Bradt all have very good general guidebooks for Georgia with plenty of information and good maps. Further titles on the history and culture of Georgia include:
‘The Caucasus: An Introduction’, by Thomas de Waal
‘Edges of Empires: A History of Georgia’, by Donald Rayfield
‘Lives and Legends of the Georgian Saints’, by David Marshall Lang
‘A Time of Miracles’, by Anne-Laure Bondoux
‘Georgia, a Sovereign Country of the Caucasus’, by Roger Rosen
‘Georgia: A Rebel in the Caucasus’, by Peter Nasmyth
‘Georgia: In the Mountains of Poetry’, by Peter Nasmyth
‘Bread and Ashes: A Walk through the Mountains of Georgia’, by Tony Anderson
‘Stories I Stole: From Georgia’, by Wendell Steavenson
Health
Your doctor is the best person to advise you on staying healthy whilst abroad and whilst there are no current recommended vaccinations you may wish to consider Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Yellow Fever is compulsory, but only if you have visited an affected Yellow Fever area within 5 days prior to your arrival. In some instances anti-malarial tablets may also be needed. For current information on health advice you may wish to visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website Travel Health Pro on https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/. The Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) website (www.masta.org) is also a useful resource.
Travel Advice
For current information on Georgia the best resource is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) which is a comprehensive resource and updated regularly. We would also recommend visiting the Safer Tourism Foundation website (safertourism.org.uk) before you travel and will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
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Our Reviews
What our clients say
A perfect tour of this wonderful country
HR & PR - Georgia - September 2024
We just wanted to thank Pettitts for a wonderful trip to Georgia. Over our 14 days there we enjoyed the marvelous scenery, interesting churches and monasteries, fascinating history, wonderful fresh food and of course the company of our fabulous guide Maya and intrepid driver Beso. Thank you for the perfect tour of this wonderful country.
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