7 Things to Do in Georgia That Should Be On Your Bucket List

At the intersection of Europe and Asia, the travel spotlight is gradually turning onto Georgia. As one of the most ecologically diverse places on earth, the former Soviet republic offers snow-covered peaks, scenic hikes, crowdless attractions, picturesque natural landscapes and more. Already know these interesting facts about Georgia? Now let’s find out more about things to do in Georgia!

1. Explore the capital city of Tbilisi

Your first stop in Georgia will most likely be Tbilisi, the capital city. The highlight in Tbilisi is strolling through the Old Town. Some streets look like they would fit right into a Disney film. Ancient buildings, churches and monuments are set against a dramatic hillside. You can climb to the top or take the easy way via a cable car. Aching from all that walking or looking for some respite from jetlag? Take a dip in the city’s thermal springs right in the middle of the Old Town.

2. Attend a traditional supra

A supra is a traditional Georgian feast. Think plates of delicious Georgian cuisine and copious amounts of homemade wine in a Georgian home. The traditional feast is usually only extended to friends, which can be hard especially if you don’t know anyone local or speak any Georgian. The easier way to experience this unique cultural activity is to make a booking for the Georgian Traditional Feast with Folk Show. Due to the pandemic, only a maximum of 10 people are allowed for each session.

3. Go on a wine tour

As the birthplace of winemaking, no trip to Georgia is complete without a wine tour and learning more about the ancient Georgian tradition of Qvevri winemaking. Kakheti is Georgia’s foremost wine region with seemingly endless miles of vineyards. This is the best place to get to know the ancient tradition and try all kinds of excellent wines. Not to mention, it also has standout local cuisine, well-priced hotels, 1,500-year-old monasteries and manmade cave complex!

3. Visit the City of Love

While you’re in Kakheti, Sighnaghi should also be on your bucket list. Known as the City of Love, many people come here to tie the knot. High up a steep hill with views over the Alazani Valley, it is perhaps Georgia’s most attractive town. Take a few days with your loved one to enjoy the city’s charms, and stroll hand in hand down the cobblestone streets and past pastel-coloured houses.

4. Check out Europe’s highest settlement

Sitting in the mountainous region of Svaneti at 2,100 metres above sea level, the ancient villages of Ushguli are the highest altitude settlements of Europe. The remote region is set against the snowy backdrop of Mount Shkhara, and medieval stone towers stand like an immovable brigade. The nearest town, almost 50 kilometres away, is cut off by snow from October to April, which puts the local community of 200 in virtual isolation for half of the year. If you’re travelling in the summer, want to get away from it all and experience a culture on the edge of time, come spend some time in this charming place.

5. Embark on a wild adventure

If you love getting off the beaten track, the Black Rock Lake is a natural beauty well off the tourist trail. Sitting within an alpine region, getting there will take some planning. The journey also involves at least three days of hiking through Lagodekhi National Park. But the hard work will pay off as you traverse through different ecosystems. You’ll go from a dense beech forest overflowing with wild blackberries to high alpine meadows with wildflowers, and finally to a crystal clear alpine lake.

6. Visit Georgia’s Black Sea capital

Even though the beaches of Batumi are lined with pebbles and not sand, that doesn’t stop the sun-seeking locals and Russians. As the Las Vegas of the Black Sea, Batumi is where to get your party on with its bustling summer nightlife, festivals, neon lights and modern architecture. You can easily spend a few enjoyable, fun-filled days here.

7. Cycle and kayak at Colchis National Park

From Batumi, set off by car for a six-hour tour of Colchis National Park. Keep your eyes peeled as the city’s striking architecture gives way to woodland and wetlands. Go explore the wilderness on two wheels and watch migratory birds who flock to nearby Lake Paliastomi. Then, climb into a kayak and paddle around on the enchanting Golden Lake. If you’ve worked up an appetite, there’s also the option to swing by a local restaurant for traditional Georgian dishes and wine to end your day!