Georgia is the perfect mix of everything you love on a vacation. Wonderful scenery, glorious heritage, intriguing history, warm people and the most incredible sights you’ll ever see anywhere. It’s a magical country. Georgia is located in Eurasia, known locally as the very ‘balcony of Europe’. From this ‘balcony’, you can look out at rugged mountains, rivers, valleys and meadows.
The country is defined by vertigo-defying mountain cave monasteries; endowed with unspoiled natural beauty that complements its unique culture. Whether you’re into hiking, exploring, culture study, or food discovery, Georgia has something unexpected for you. Apart from the modern cities such as Tbilisi, Batumi, and Borjomi, there are many quaint villages and towns that dot the countryside, which give you true value for money in terms of tourist experience.
- Batumi and the Black Sea Coast
Batumi is charming – it’s the combination of the mountains and the sea set close to each other that charm people. Here’s the juxtaposition; you can go skiing in the mountains for half the day, and then while away the afternoon on the beach – within the same city! Architecturally speaking, the upside down White House, the lighthouse of Alexandria, and the lovely sculptures that line Sea’s Stoney beaches are must-see. Indulge in a Black Sea sand scrub and enjoy the colorfully lit city at night.
- Telavi
Telavi has been inhabited since the early Bronze Age years. Today this charming city is the capital of Eastern Kakheti. Explore the incredibly well- preserved historical monuments from different ages, such as old churches, old monasteries, old dwellings and more. King Erekle, one of Georgia’s most politically and culturally successful monarchs set up his residence in Telavi. Check out this king’s old palace when you get the chance, one of the best places to visit in Georgia.
- Tbilisi
Tbilisi is a little cultural gem; the people are warm, the architecture is incredible, with old churches and palaces dotting the landscape. Everywhere you go, there are colorful vegetable and fruit markets, and individual markets that sell everything you won’t find at any department store. Georgia’s multiple cultural influences can be clearly seen in Tbilisi. After all, with Russia in the north, Turkey in the West, Armenia and Iran in the South and Azerbaijan in the East, the entire country is like a cultural melting pot. Experience the country like a local with Rayna tours and visit famous landmarks like The Gergeti Trinity Church. Located next to the majestic Mount Kazbegi at 2170 meters above sea level, this church is famous for its architecture, its height and its incredible views. Another must-see is the Narikala Fortress, a 4th century fortress made of mud and stone, built by the ancient Persians, who invaded and occupied Georgia in the 4th and 5th centuries.
- Sighnaghi
Sighnaghi is one of Georgia’s oldest cities, in use for thousands of years. The architecturally notable city center is worth many photographs. This city is known for Georgia’s fine wines, located as it is in the middle of the best wine country in all of Georgia. Signing up for a wine-tasting tour of the best vineyards in Sighnaghi is an excellent way to explore this lovely city.
- Zugdidi
Located in the north-west of Georgia is the capital of the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region. It is famous for its architecture such as the Niko’s Palace, Queen’s Palace, the Mantskhvar-kari and Blachernae St. Virgin churches, and the Dadiani family’s palace. History has it that Napoleon entrusted one of this three gold death masks to a Dadiani prince to whom he also gave his sister. The death mask is still on view at the old Dadiani palace at Zugdidi.
- Mtskheta
Located at the meeting point between two rivers, Mtskheta has been inhabited without break since 1000 BC. Georgia embraced Catholicism much before the rest of the world did, in the early years of Christianity. Mtskheta became the center of Georgia’s Georgian Orthodox Church. Explore Svetitskoveli Church, the Jvari Monastery, the magnificent Armazi Fortress and St Nino Monastery, dedicated to St. Nino, Georgia’s beloved Orthodox saint.
- Ushguli
Ushguli is a collection of culturally significant villages with a total population of about 200 people. The highlight of this place is it has some of the best-preserved Svan towers in the whole of Georgia. The towers are tall and square, topped by a battery all around. They were built by the Svan people who guarded the high passes in the Caucasus Mountain Ranges from invaders. The surrounding mountains offer the most stunning views, the best of Georgia sightseeing.
- Borjomi
Borjomi is your best spa-vacation bet, famous for its mineral water and its healing powers. There’s a hot mineral water spring here, around which a small resort has come up. Stay here and drink some of the water from the source. The surrounding area is lush with green forests, rushing creeks and lovely hills. The mineral water tastes sulfuric, salty and sour but is excellent for your overall health.
- Cave City Of Uplistsikhe
Uplistsikhe is a mountain city, riddled with caves. In fact the entire city is known as Cave City. If you’re into caving, then you must visit Uplistsikhe to explore the many complexes of natural cave system, which were inhabited during the early ages of man. Explore natural rock-hewn cellars and tunnels where the ancient cava men lived, covering the walls with vibrant paintings to mark their passing.
- Mount Kazbek
Mount Kazbek is one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus Mountains. A dormant stratovolcano, Kazbek lies on the borders of the Kazbeki district in Georgia and Russia’s Republic of North Ossetia-Alania. The 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church is perched dramatically on a hilltop just below Mount Kazbek, at a height of 2160 meters above sea level. Mount Kazbek is also an excellent draw for any hiking or mountain climbing enthusiast. The mountain’s incredible scenery, lush forests, waterfalls and rocky landscape are worth many visits.
There’s so much more to see and love in Georgia, such as the amazing Vardzia Cave Monastery, built in the 12th century, tucked away deep into the Erusheli Mountain of the Caucasus Mountain Ranges. We could go on and on. Book your ticket soon and check out some of these marvels for yourself.