13 Must-Visit Attractions in Georgia

In its long, 2,000-year history, the city of Telavi has been moulded by the preferences of Kakheti kings, Roman leaders, Eastern invaders, Russian Tsars and Georgian monarchs, resulting in a breadth of cultures and architectural styles throughout the city. Start your visit by admiring the defences of the Dzveli Galavani, the fortress of the first Kakhetian kings, then head for the Batonis Tsikhe, one of the few well-preserved medieval royal palaces in Georgia. Also you should visit the city’s 900-year-old sycamore tree, where you can make a wish: it’s said that any wish made near it will come true. If you have more time, head out of the city to the Alaverdi monastery, home to one of the largest cathedrals in Georgia.

Sighnaghi, also known as the City of Love, is a popular wedding destination. High up a steep hill, it offers views over the Alazani valley, making it one of the most charming places in the country. Take your time to enjoy the city’s beauty and stroll hand in hand with your loved one down cobblestone streets and past pastel-coloured houses. Look up and you can admire the view of neatly ordered red rooftops against the impressive Great Caucasus mountains.

Tucked away in the hills of the Shida Kartli region, the ancient town of Uplistsikhe has been identified by archaeologists as one of the oldest urban settlements in Georgia. The town is believed to have been strategically located in the heart of the kingdom of Kartli, a late medieval monarchy that ruled eastern Georgia, and to have been a major political and religious centre. Visitors today can explore the town’s unique cave residence complex and discover its architectural significance.

In recent years, Gudauri has become Georgia’s prime winter destination. Situated 2,196m (7,204ft) above sea level and just two hours’ drive from the capital, this ski resort offers views of the Greater Caucasus range and, of course, a variety of ski runs to suit all levels. The area has also become well-known for heliskiing, and comes with all the facilities you’d expect at a European ski destination.

Vardzia is a notable ancient cave city and monastery complex in southern Georgia dating back to the 12th century. Though it was abandoned after the Ottoman takeover of the country in the 16th century, it is a rich cultural site and awaiting future inscription on the Unesco World Heritage List. According to legend, the name of the cave city derives from Tamar the Great, Georgia’s first queen, who reigned over the region from 1184 to 1213. When a young Tamar became lost while exploring the caves, she called out to her uncle “Aq var dzia” (I’m here, uncle). When she was found, the affectionate name Vardzia stuck.

The Rabati Fortress is a prominent landmark in southern Georgia built in the ninth century and renovated in 2011. Originally known as Lomisa Castle, its modern name, Rabati, is of Jewish and Arabic origin, meaning a fortified place. The fortress is unique due to the myriad cultures – Georgian, Ottoman, Jewish – that influenced its development over centuries.

Zugdidi, in Samegrelo province in the west, is a quaint, charming city with impressive architecture. For your daily dose of culture, head to Dadiani Palace, where you can get lost exploring the 19th-century structure and the grounds. Make your way to the capital, Tbilisi, where you can see the rare death mask of Napoleon Bonaparte on display at the Zugdidi Historical Museum. If you’ve had enough of the city sights, head out of town, take to the water and find your sense of adventure in Martvili Canyon.

The coastal city of Batumi, one of Georgia’s largest cities, has in recent years gained popularity as the Las Vegas of the Black Sea. Its bustling summer nightlife, neon lights, modern architecture and cultural festivals make it a popular spot and you can easily spend a few enjoyable, action-packed days here.