Planning a road trip through Georgia, the jewel of the Caucasus, offers a rich blend of culture, mountain landscapes, ancient churches, vineyards, and warm hospitality. This 14-day itinerary takes you on a scenic and cultural loop through the best of Georgia—from vibrant cities to misty mountain villages.
1. Day 1: Arrival in Tbilisi – The Heart of Georgia
Begin your journey in Tbilisi, Georgia’s colorful and eclectic capital. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visit the Narikala Fortress, explore the Sulfur Baths, and ride the cable car over the Mtkvari River.
Highlights:
Metekhi Church
Peace Bridge
Georgian wine tasting
Accommodation Suggestion: Stay in a boutique hotel in Old Tbilisi to soak up the history.
2. Day 2: Tbilisi – Day Trip to Mtskheta
Drive 30 minutes to Mtskheta, Georgia’s spiritual center and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, both rich in medieval architecture.
Don’t Miss:
Scenic view of Aragvi and Kura rivers merging
Authentic khinkali dumplings at a local restaurant
Return to Tbilisi in the evening for dinner at a traditional Georgian eatery.
3. Day 3: Tbilisi to Sighnaghi – Wine Country Awaits
Head east to Sighnaghi, the romantic hilltop town in the Kakheti wine region (2-hour drive). Enjoy a wine tour and visit Bodbe Monastery, where Saint Nino is buried.
Top Winery Stops:
Pheasant’s Tears
Okro’s Wines
Tip: Sunset views from Sighnaghi’s fortress walls are unforgettable.
4. Day 4: Sighnaghi to Telavi – Kakheti Continued
Take the scenic drive to Telavi, stopping at Tsinandali Estate, the 19th-century home of Georgian noble Alexander Chavchavadze.
What to Do:
Wine tasting at Chateau Mere
Visit the Telavi Bazaar
Explore Alaverdi Monastery
Spend the night in a wine resort surrounded by vineyards.
5. Day 5: Telavi to Kazbegi – Into the Greater Caucasus
This will be a full driving day (approx. 5–6 hours) via the Georgian Military Highway to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi). Stop at Ananuri Fortress and the scenic Gudauri Viewpoint.
Must-See:
Gergeti Trinity Church under Mount Kazbek
Dariali Gorge and Russian border viewpoint
Stay in a cozy guesthouse with views of the mountains.
6. Day 6: Kazbegi Exploration – Hiking and Hot Springs
Spend the day hiking or taking a 4×4 tour to Gergeti Church, Gveleti Waterfalls, and Truso Valley.
Adventure Options:
Horse riding through the valleys
Visit the local mineral hot springs
Enjoy khinkali with mountain views
It’s a day to breathe in the crisp Caucasus air.
7. Day 7: Kazbegi to Gori – Stalin’s Hometown and Uplistsikhe
Drive south toward Gori (about 4.5 hours), the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Visit the Stalin Museum and then explore Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave city carved into the rock.
Other Attractions:
Gori Fortress
Ateni Sioni Church
Overnight in a local guesthouse or small hotel in Gori.
8. Day 8: Gori to Borjomi – Healing Waters and Forest Trails
Drive 2 hours to Borjomi, a resort town famous for its mineral springs. Take a walk in Borjomi Central Park, taste the spring water, and hike in the nearby Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park.
Must-Do:
Try Borjomi mineral water straight from the spring
Hike to the Green Monastery
Relax in natural hot pools
Stay at a spa hotel for relaxation and rejuvenation.
9. Day 9: Borjomi to Akhaltsikhe – Castles and Cultures
Continue your journey to Akhaltsikhe (1.5-hour drive) and explore Rabati Castle, a beautiful fortress complex blending Georgian, Turkish, and Armenian influences.
Nearby Option: Visit Vardzia, a 12th-century cave monastery complex (2 hours from Akhaltsikhe), best done as a half-day trip.
Return to Akhaltsikhe for a peaceful evening.
10. Day 10–11: Akhaltsikhe to Kutaisi – Western Georgia Charm
Drive 4.5 hours to Kutaisi, Georgia’s second-largest city. Spend the next two days visiting:
Bagrati Cathedral
Gelati Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Sataplia Nature Reserve (with dinosaur footprints)
Prometheus Cave with its underground river
Enjoy local Imeretian cuisine like chvishtari and lobiani.
11. Day 12: Kutaisi to Mestia – Into Svaneti’s Wild Beauty
Drive through breathtaking landscapes to Mestia (6–7 hours), the capital of the Svaneti region, nestled high in the Caucasus. Known for its unique Svan towers, this region is culturally rich and geographically stunning.
Pit Stop: Zugdidi for a break and local cuisine
Stay in a traditional Svan guesthouse for authenticity.
12. Day 13: Explore Mestia and Ushguli – Alpine Villages
Take a day trip (by 4×4) to Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe.
Things to Do:
Hike to Shkhara Glacier
Visit Lamaria Church
Learn about Svan traditions at the Mestia Ethnographic Museum
Enjoy the peaceful isolation of Georgia’s mountain soul.
13. Day 14: Return to Tbilisi – Final Stretch
It’s a long drive back to Tbilisi (approx. 8–9 hours), so start early. Alternatively, break the journey with a stopover in Kutaisi or take a domestic flight from Mestia if available.
Once in Tbilisi, treat yourself to a final Georgian feast and some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Conclusion: A Journey Through Diversity and Timeless Beauty
This 14-day road trip through Georgia takes you across centuries-old churches, snowy peaks, sun-drenched vineyards, and cities where tradition meets modernity. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history lover, or foodie, Georgia’s diverse landscapes and warm-hearted locals offer an unforgettable experience.
From Tbilisi’s charm to Svaneti’s wild beauty, every twist and turn in this Caucasian road trip tells a story worth discovering. Buckle up and let Georgia surprise you.
FAQs About the Georgia 14-Day Road Trip
1. Is it safe to drive around Georgia on your own?
Yes, Georgia is generally safe for self-driving. Roads are improving, but be cautious in mountainous areas. Always check the weather and road conditions before heading out.
2. What’s the best time of year for this road trip?
Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal for pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and clear mountain views.
3. Can I rent a car in Tbilisi with an international license?
Yes, most international driver’s licenses are accepted in Georgia. Renting a 4×4 vehicle is advisable for mountainous routes like Kazbegi or Svaneti.
4. Are English speakers common in rural Georgia?
While English is widely spoken in Tbilisi and tourist centers, it’s less common in remote areas. Basic Georgian phrases or a translation app can be helpful.
5. How much should I budget for this 14-day trip?
A mid-range budget (car rental, guesthouses, meals, entry fees) would be around \$1,200–\$1,800 per person. Luxury or budget options can increase or decrease this significantly.
