2026 Mtskheta-Mtianeti Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just 30 minutes from Tbilisi and perfect for a half-day or full-day trip. Top Things to Do: ✔️ Jvari Monastery (6th century) – Hilltop monastery with stunning panoramic views over the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. 💡 Tip: Best at sunrise/sunset for photos. Free entry. ✔️ Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century) – Georgia’s most sacred church, said to house Christ’s robe. 💡 Tip: Dress modestly (women may need a headscarf). Entry: Free. ✔️ Samtavro Monastery – Peaceful monastery with ancient frescoes, gardens, and the tombs of King Mirian & Queen Nana. ✔️ Bebristsikhe Fortress – Ruins of a medieval castle with great views. 💡 Tip: Short uphill walk; usually empty. Free entry. ✔️ Explore the Old Town – Stroll cobbled streets, visit markets, and try local food. 🍴 Must-Try Foods: ✅ Khinkali (dumplings) ✅ Lobiani (bean-filled bread) ✅ Churchkhela (walnut & grape snack) How to Get There from Tbilisi: 🚗 Taxi: 30 mins (~25-40 GEL). 🚌 Marshrutka: From Didube Bus Station (1-2 GEL). 🚆 Train: Slow but scenic (2 GEL). Best Time to Visit: 📅 Spring & Autumn – Mild weather, fewer crowds. 📅 Summer – Hot but lively. 📅 Winter – Quiet, but Jvari Monastery can be windy. Mtskheta is small, walkable, and full of history—a must-visit for culture lovers, photographers, and foodies! #travel #georgiatravel #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #europetrip #mtskheta

#hiking #momentsmission #georgia #unforgettableexperiences #travelinspiration Seems like Georgia is full of #naturalwonders . One of them is Narzan mineral spring which you can distinctively see if you take Georgian Military Highway. The most peculiar thing about this spring is that its waters run over a cliff that has a bright yellow-brownish color. Apparently that is because the water is high in iron. Apart from taking photos on the yellow cliff, you may also drink that water. The taste is interesting, “iron-flavored”, but it is believed to be very beneficial for your health. Though you better don’t drink too much of it. Just a few sips will do. And I definitely don’t recommend taking the water with you. It doesn’t keep its qualities in a closed container, so in about 15-30 minutes it will smell like rotten eggs. 😬 On the other side of the cliff there are local people who sell all the delicacies of Georgia. I was lucky to try a fresh fig. Was incredibly delicious. 😋

Day 1 Tbilisi: Sulfur Mist and the Heartbeat of the Old Town 🛬 At 3 PM, finally landed at Tbilisi International Airport! The first impression of this city is so striking—the glass skyscrapers and Soviet-era buildings blend in a fascinating way, stepping into the old town feels like traveling through time~ ♨️ Headed straight to the Abanotubani Sulfur Baths (Address: Abanotubani District, Tbilisi), where white steam rises gently from the domes, and the air is filled with a unique mineral scent. Booked a 1-hour private bath, and the moment the hot spring water slid over my skin, all the fatigue from the flight vanished! Promise me, you must experience this when you come to Georgia! 🌇 In the evening, climbed up to Narikala Fortress (Open all day), the entire old town looked unbelievably beautiful under the sunset: colorful old houses with wooden balconies, the golden dome of the Holy Trinity Cathedral beginning to glow, and the Kura River flowing slowly like a blue-gray silk ribbon... 🍽 Dinner was at Shavi Lomi (Address: 14 Lermontov St), recommended by a local friend. It was my first time tasting authentic Khinkali dumplings! The owner was super enthusiastic, teaching us how to eat them: "Bite a small hole first, suck out the broth, or it will splash all over you~" The beef and black pepper filling was piping hot and delicious, paired with local dry red wine, while the old town lights outside gradually lit up... At that moment, I fell in love with Tbilisi💕 Day 3 Kazbegi: The Military Highway to Heaven 🚗 Today we traveled the legendary Georgian Military Highway! We rode in a vintage Soviet Lada (so atmospheric!), and on the winding mountain road, the twin-towered church of Ananuri Castle (Address: Georgia Military Highway) reflected in the reservoir, looking just like a postcard~ 🏔 Suddenly! Near the Russian border checkpoint, the sharp peak of Mount Kazbek appeared in sight! This is the legendary place where Prometheus was imprisoned! 🥾 In the afternoon, we hiked to Gergeti Holy Trinity Church (altitude 2170m), every step left me breathless... but when the 14th-century ancient church appeared beneath the snowy mountain, with prayer flags fluttering fiercely in the wind, all the hardship was worth it! A shepherd we met offered us chacha, a strong spirit that burns like fire going down, but he smiled and said, "This drink warms the body and the heart." 🌌 Stayed overnight at the trendy Rooms Hotel (Address: Stepantsminda), watching the snow-capped mountains change from orange to dark purple and finally blend into the starry sky from the terrace... In the distance, Gergeti Church lit up faintly, like a candle lit by the mountain god✨ Day 5 Sighnaghi: Time in a Clay Pot 🏡 Today we arrived at the "City of Love," Sighnaghi! This hilltop town surrounded by walls has red roofs that look like LEGO blocks under the sun~ (Address: Sighnaghi, Kakheti) 🍷 At Kindzmarauli Winery (Open 10:00-18:00), I finally saw the legendary Qvevri clay pots! The winemaker opened a 2018 Saperavi: "Our family has been making wine in the same clay pot for 200 years..." The deep red wine has aromas of wild berries and earth, with a rougher vitality than oak barrel aging~ 🌅 Strolling along the ancient city walls at dusk was super romantic! Couples kissed at corners, elders sat quietly watching the clouds... Suddenly I understood why this place is called the "City of Love"—time moves slow enough here for love to grow💑 Day 7 Return: Farewell to the Caucasus 🛍 Before leaving, I went to the Dry Bridge Market in Tbilisi again. The pair of silver wine vessels engraved with grapevine patterns I didn’t buy last time were still there, and the old lady vendor recognized me: "Here, chacha!" This time I could drink it calmly, feeling a familiar warmth rise in my stomach~ ✈️ As the plane took off, I opened my notebook, which held: sulfur bath tickets, a Kazbegi maple leaf, winery corks... Outside the window, the deep blue of the Black Sea and the snowy white of the Caucasus intertwined, and I suddenly remembered the shepherd’s words—some places, you leave more whole than when you arrived. 💫 Travel Notes: The most touching moments in Georgia are the "non-touristy" ones—the accordion music in Tbilisi’s alleys, the shepherd’s bells, the winery owner’s eyes when talking about his grandfather... The beauty here lies in becoming part of the scenery, feeling small before the snowy mountains, finding peace in the churches, and tasting millennia in a glass of wine✨ 🌟 Recommended Highlights Route (7 days): Tbilisi (2 days) → Kazbegi (2 days) → Sighnaghi (1 day) → Batumi or return Every corner is a new world, just like the locals say: "Gaumarjos!" (To victory!)—Here, every day lived earnestly is a victory🎉

Let's start today's Lonely Planet cover spot check-in journey! 🚗💨 💫 Today's Highlights 🌟 Check in at two Lonely Planet cover spots 🌟 Relaxed itinerary with no rush throughout the trip 🌟 Stunning scenery perfect for photos anytime! === Day 2 Itinerary === 1️⃣🏰 Ananuri Fortress 📍 Address: Mtskheta-Mtianeti, Georgia, on the banks of the Aragvi River ⏱️ Opening Hours: Open all day 💰 Admission: Free (Tower view 5 GEL/person) ✨ Experience Highlights: - The same beautiful layered tower as on the LP cover✨ - Picturesque scenery on both riverbanks🏞️ - One of Georgia’s 14 UNESCO World Heritage tentative sites 📸 Insider photo tip: Bridge views are free to shoot anytime, but paying 5 GEL for the tower view with a guide is totally worth it! They’ll show you stunning angles😉 2️⃣⛪ Gergeti Trinity Church 📍 Address: On Mount Kazbek ⏱️ Opening Hours: 8am-8pm ✨ Experience Highlights: - A sacred church at 2170 meters altitude🕊️ - Known as "the church closest to heaven" - Panoramic view overlooking the town of Stepantsminda 👀 Fun fact: No matter where you are in town, just look up and you’ll see it—like the most natural billboard ever!💡 3️⃣⛰️ Mount Kazbek 🏔️ Geographic Info: - Altitude: 5033 meters - The seventh highest peak in the Greater Caucasus Mountains ✨ Must-see moment: - The "Golden Mountain" at sunrise/sunset🌅 🔥 Legendary story: This is where Prometheus was imprisoned in Greek mythology! The final resting place of the fire-stealing hero~ 💡 Tips: - Bring a jacket as temperatures vary greatly on the mountain🧥 - Check the weather in advance; clear days offer the best views☀️

#NewZealandFlightEvent Ananuri is a famous fortress site in Georgia, relatively close to Tbilisi, making it a great day trip. A popular route for Korean travelers is to drive along the Georgian Military Highway from Tbilisi, stopping at various viewpoints along the way. The Ananuri fortress sits along the Jinri River, and the view from the fortress walls, with its silvery waters of Jinri Lake and the mountain ridges, is particularly striking. The best time to visit is in the morning or at sunset, when the sunlight gently reflects on the fortress and lake, creating beautiful photos. While the dress code for the church within the fortress is relaxed, Korean travelers often bring a dark coat or scarf as a courtesy. Getting around is convenient via rental car, taxi tour, or group day tour. Small stalls selling snacks and souvenirs are located around the fortress, and the observation deck is a great place to take a break. The entire tour takes about 30 to 40 minutes, and you can continue enjoying the natural scenery by moving towards Kazbegi (Stepantsminda).

#hellohalloween Dariali Monastery in Mtskheta-Mtianeti is a peaceful and historic site set amidst the dramatic landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains. Nestled in a remote valley, the monastery offers visitors a chance to experience Georgia’s spiritual heritage in a tranquil setting. Its ancient stone structures and modest architecture reflect centuries of monastic life, while the surrounding cliffs and river create a serene backdrop for reflection and photography. The journey to Dariali is an adventure in itself, with winding mountain roads and breathtaking scenery revealing the rugged beauty of the region. Visitors often enjoy quiet walks around the grounds, soaking in the sense of history and solitude. For those seeking both cultural enrichment and natural splendor, Dariali Monastery in Mtskheta-Mtianeti is a hidden gem that embodies the timeless beauty and spiritual depth of Georgia.

✨ Review – Ananuri Fortified Castle, Georgia ✨ 📍 Location: Ananuri Fortress is located about 70 km north of Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Highway, overlooking the Aragvi River and Zhinvali Reservoir. Its picturesque setting makes it a popular stop for travelers heading to Kazbegi. 🏰 About the Site: Built between the 16th and 17th centuries, Ananuri served as the residence of the dukes of Aragvi. The complex includes defensive towers, thick stone walls, and two beautifully decorated churches. The Church of the Assumption, with its detailed stone carvings and frescoes, is especially impressive. The fortress has witnessed numerous battles and remains one of the most important medieval monuments in Georgia. 🎟️ Tickets & Entry: Entrance is free, though local guides may offer tours for a small fee. 🛣️ How to Get There: • By Car/Taxi: About a 1.5-hour drive from Tbilisi. Many private drivers and taxis offer day trips. • By Bus/Marshrutka: Minibuses from Tbilisi to Kazbegi stop near Ananuri. • By Tour: Frequently included in guided tours to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) along the Georgian Military Highway. 📷 Photo Spots: • Panoramic views of the Zhinvali Reservoir from the fortress walls. • The church façade with its stone reliefs and carvings. • The watchtowers, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light is golden. 🍴 Nearby Food & Drink: Along the Military Highway you’ll find roadside stalls selling fresh bread, churchkhela (traditional Georgian sweet), and local cheeses. Some small restaurants near the reservoir also serve traditional Georgian dishes. 👉 Conclusion: Ananuri Fortress is a perfect blend of history and scenery. The combination of medieval stone walls with the turquoise waters of Zhinvali Reservoir creates one of the most iconic views in Georgia. A must-stop for anyone traveling from Tbilisi to Kazbegi.

#July Travel Grant Georgia - Ananuri Church & Jinvali Lake Armenia - Khor Virap Monastery & Mount Ararat View

#summervacay Mount Chrdili might not be the most famous peak in Georgia, but that’s honestly what makes it so cool. I went up there with zero expectations and ended up having one of the most peaceful, soul-cleansing hikes ever. The trail is quiet, with just the sound of birds, wind in the trees, and maybe a random goat or two. The views? Insane. Once you get higher up, it opens into this massive panorama of rolling hills, distant peaks, and tiny villages way down below. It doesn’t feel touristy at all, just you, nature, and the kind of silence that makes your brain finally chill out. There’s something raw and untouched about Mt. Chrdili that makes the experience feel super authentic. I packed a few snacks, found a flat rock with a killer view, and just sat there for a while, totally content. No flashy signs or crowded paths, just natural beauty and mountain magic. Definitely one of those “hidden gem” kind of spots.

A romantic winter trip, an 8-day tour of Georgia and other countries, exploring the warmth and charm of the snowy and exotic countries, is definitely not to be missed! / 🛤️Travel route: Day 1: Urumqi->Tbilisi Depart for Urumqi, then fly to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, and prepare to start your exotic trip! Day 2: Bodbe Convent->Sighnaghi Old Town->Tunnel Winery Kharebas->Tbilisi Sea Visit Bodbe Convent and feel the religious atmosphere; stroll through Sighnaghi Old Town and experience the historical charm; taste the fine wines of Tunnel Winery Kharebas, and then go to the Tbilisi seaside to enjoy the sea breeze. Day 3: Pillar of Life Cathedral -> Ananuri Lake -> Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument -> Stepantsminda Holy Trinity Church Visit the magnificent Pillar of Life Cathedral, then head to the picturesque Ananuri Lake; then visit the Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument to feel the deep friendship between the two countries; finally visit the Stepantsminda Holy Trinity Church to appreciate the charm of religious architecture. Day 4: Stalin Museum->Peace Bridge->Mother Georgia Statue Learn more about the history of the Stalin Museum, walk along the Peace Bridge to feel the tranquility, and then visit the revered Mother Georgia Statue. Day 5: Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi -> Haghpat Monastery -> Republic Square -> Yerevan Stairs Visit the sacred Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi, then go to the historic Haghpat Monastery; then the bustling Republic Square, and finally climb the Yerevan Stairs to overlook the beautiful city. Day 6: Garni Temple->Geghard Monastery->Lake Sevan->Sevan Monastery Visit the ancient Garni Temple, then go to Geghard Monastery to experience the tranquility; then go to Lake Sevan to enjoy the beautiful scenery, and finally visit the historical heritage of Sevan Monastery. Day 7: Echmiadzin Church and Zvartnots Archaeological Site Visit the Echmiadzin Church to experience its unique architectural style and explore the historical sites of the Zvartnots Archaeological Site. Day 8: Return Concluding this rich Georgia trip, we set off for home, with full of memories and gains! 🛫 / Attractions recommendations: 🏛️ Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi: The pure gold dome shines brightly in the sun, attracting attention. Climb up to the top of the dome and enjoy the panoramic view of the city. Don’t miss it! ⛪ Holy Trinity Church in Stepantsminda: This church stands majestically surrounded by mountains. Standing here, you can overlook the entire town and feel the magnificence and sacredness of nature. 🌊 Lake Sevan: Want to get close to nature? Lake Sevan is your best choice! This is a great place for camping, swimming and picnicking. The beautiful lakeside scenery will make you linger. / **Notes**: - Cuisine: Georgian cuisine is rich, be sure to try local specialties such as khachapuri and kebab! 🍖🥖 - Airport transportation: You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to the city. Taxis are more convenient but slightly more expensive. 🚖 - February climate: The temperature in Georgia is moderate in February, but there is a big temperature difference between morning and evening, so you need to prepare a thick coat. 🧣❄️ - Currency exchange: The local currency is Lari. It is recommended to exchange in advance or use ATM to withdraw money. 💵 - Safety tips: Although the public security is good, you still need to remain vigilant and pay attention to the safety of your personal belongings. 🔒👜 / 🎉We hope you will find your own travel story and have a great time during your multi-country tour in Georgia!