Georgia is a country with stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. One of the best ways to explore all that Georgia has to offer is by taking a road trip.
Day 1: Tbilisi to Sighnaghi
Start your road trip by renting a car in Tbilisi and driving to Sighnaghi, a charming town in the Kakheti wine region. On the way, stop by the David Gareja Monastery Complex, located on the border between Georgia and Azerbaijan. This historic complex features cave monasteries and churches, as well as stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
After exploring the monastery complex, continue on to Sighnaghi and visit the Bodbe Monastery, the final resting place of Saint Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century. Afterward, enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries, such as Pheasant's Tears or Orgo.
For dinner, head to Pheasant's Tears restaurant, which serves delicious Georgian cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients. For affordable accommodation, stay at the Hotel Pirosmani, which offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the Alazani Valley.
Day 2: Sighnaghi to Borjomi
Start your day by driving to Borjomi, a resort town known for its mineral water and beautiful nature. On the way, stop by the Ujarma Fortress, a historic site dating back to the 3rd century.
Once in Borjomi, take a stroll through the Borjomi Central Park and visit the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, which offers hiking trails and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. For lunch, head to the local restaurant Akhaltsikhe, which serves delicious Georgian dishes, including khinkali and khachapuri.
You can stay at the Hotel Borjomi Likani, which features comfortable rooms and a spa. For dinner, head to the restaurant Gogia Puri, which serves delicious Georgian cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Day 3: Borjomi to Tbilisi
On your final day, drive back to Tbilisi, stopping at the historic town of Mtskheta on the way. Visit the Jvari Monastery, which dates back to the 6th century, and the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, which is one of the most important religious sites in Georgia.
For lunch, head to the restaurant Salobie Bia, which serves delicious Georgian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. After lunch, continue on to Tbilisi and spend the rest of the day exploring the city's many attractions, such as the Narikala Fortress, the sulfur baths, and the Georgian National Museum.
For dinner, head to the restaurant Cafe Leila, which serves delicious Georgian and Middle Eastern cuisine.You can stay at the Fabrika Hostel, which offers comfortable rooms and a lively atmosphere.
Tips for travellers
When renting a car, make sure to check for any scratches or damages before driving off, and take pictures as proof.
- Always have cash on hand, as many small restaurants and shops may not accept credit cards.
- Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and walking.
- Try to learn a few Georgian phrases, such as "gamajoba" (hello) and "madloba" (thank you), as locals will appreciate the effort.
In conclusion, a weekend road trip from Tbilisi is a great way to explore some of Georgia's hidden gems. From the historic David Gareja Monastery Complex to the charming town of Sighnaghi, and the beautiful nature of Borjomi, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature.
