Georgia Itinerary: The Best 3 Week Adventure Itinerary

Make the most of your time in the jaw-dropping Caucasus country of Georgia with this 3 week adventure itinerary! Discover this incredibly diverse country and visit these exciting destinations. Explore the bustling capital city of Tbilisi. Did you know that Georgia is one of the oldest producers of wine? Head over to the Kakheti Wine Region to indulge in unique wines straight from the qvervi. These clay vessels have been used in the the wine making process for over 8,000 years. Next, head north to the mountain village of Kazbegi. Here, gawk at the iconic Gergeti Church. Adventure hikers will love exploring the surrounding valleys and villages nearby.

Come back to Tbilisi and head west to Mestia, the gateway to the Upper Svaneti Region. From here, tackle a multi-day trek to Ushguli. If not interested in a multi-day trek, soak in the mountain views and enjoy the festive traditional folk music of the region. What’s the best way to unwind after this adventurous Georgia itinerary? Relax in the Black Sea beach city of Batumi. In the end, finish this Georgia itinerary exactly where you started, in the energetic city of Tbilisi.

Adventure awaits! Here’s how to make the most of a 3 week adventure itinerary in Georgia.

Table of Contents

• Welcome to Georgia!
• Tbilisi, Georgia Itinerary
• The Charming Kakheti Wine Region
• Kazbegi: Iconic Mountain Village
• Mestia & The Upper Svaneti Region
• Georgia’s Beach City of Batumi
• Wrap-Up This 3 Week Georgia Itinerary in Tbilisi
• The Best of Georgia: 3 Week Adventure Itinerary

Welcome to Georgia!

Ahhh, Georgia. This underrated country has a way of pulling on your heartstrings and making it hard to forget. Connect with the local people and feel their warm hospitality. Appreciate the traditional markets. Sip on amazing wine from the Kakheti wine region. Indulge in the tasty traditional food scene. Gawk at the stunning Caucasus mountains that pass through the entire country. Listen and dance along with unique folk music that claims to be thousands of years old. Georgia will leave your heart overflowing with fondness and your mind dreaming to go back. Trust me, my mind drifts often to the incredible month I spent in this magical country.

Here are some basic tips to help plan for a visit.

➯ Hey… don’t forget your Travel Insurance! I love SafetyWing

Currency

• The Georgian currency is the GEL or the Lari.
• The currency symbol is this: ლ.
• Georgia is affordable and can be done either on an economical or lavish budget.

Current Exchange Rate: $1 USD = 3 GEL

Language

Ok, wow. The Georgian language is one of the oldest languages in the world and it’s roots come from the Kartvelian language. There are 38 letters, with 5 letters that are specific only to their alphabet. The language consists of symbols known as Georgian script. To make it more confusing, specific regions have their own version and dialect. With less than 4 million speakers, the Georgian language is quite exclusive. Don’t let the language deter a visit! Lots of young people speak English and many people speak Russian and a little English.

Public Transportation

It’s quite easy to get around Georgia. Small mini buses referred to as Marshrutkas run frequently from Tbilisi to many major tour destinations. There’s a plethora of taxi drivers that offer private tours. In Tbilisi, ride the slick underground Metro. The train is slick and reliable to reach Batumi. Public Transportation is cheap and convenient. It’s possible to rent a car, but keep in mind that many of the roads can be bumpy, so a 4-wheel drive is most oftentimes essential.

Russian Occupancy

Georgia has an unwelcome occupancy from Russia in two northern sections of the country. This occupancy actually comprises 20% of the country, and seems to be growing… These two sections are referred to as South Ossestia and Abkhazia. South Ossestia is closed from the Georgian side to foreigners, and border guards patrol this area heavily. However, foreigners can visit Abkhazia with a special application and visa.

The occupancy makes it impossible to do a full circuit of Georgia. Due to this fact, tourists will use Tbilisi as a main transportation hub to reach the far corners of the country.

Georgia is safe to visit and travel around. The people are warm and they do in fact love the Russian people; however, they disagree with the current government administration in Russia. There is petty crime, but in general, Georgia usually scores top marks for being safe. As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe here. As always, keep your wits about you, use common sense, and trust your gut.

Tbilisi Georgia Itinerary (2 Days)

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The capitol city of Tbilisi is where almost all visitors will start their Georgian adventure. The airport is quite small and there are many places to exchange currency and a few ATM’S.

Budget Tip: Bus #37 departs frequently from the airport and drops off near Old Town and a few main streets in Tbilisi. Cost: 50₾ (15¢ USD)

Tbilisi: Georgia’s Bustling Capitol City

Get acquainted to Georgia and discover all that Tbilisi has to offer!

This 2 day itinerary highlights the best of Tbilisi!

As part of the Ancient Silk Road Route, Tbilisi is an eccentric metropolis city where East meets West. Tbilisi is not technically considered a part of Europe (although there’s interest), but it has a European feel. With it’s cobblestone streets, cafe culture, and political street art Tbilisi can give the impression of being in a trendy European metropolis. The famous sulfur bath’s, may have actually given Tbilisi its name, yet they scream Turkish design. Georgia also spent many bleak years under communism, so there are glimpses of Soviet Russia influence. Take the time to explore this diverse city and look for all three major influences in the city of Tbilisi.

Travel Deeper: 22 Things You Must-Do in Tbilisi

Foodie Guide: The Absolute Best Places to Eat in Tbilisi

Sleeping Suggestions in Tbilisi

• Budget Hostel
  • Tbilisi Art Gate Hostel
  • Bonus: Luggage Storage, Free Laundry, Nice Balcony
• Hip Left-Bank Hostel with Private & Shared Rooms
  • Fabrika Hostel

Georgia Itinerary Suggestion: Kakheti Wine Region

Next, why not visit the incredible Kakheti Wine Region. It’s easy to reach Kakheti from Tbilisi via a marshrutka or a private or shared taxi. The road to Kakheti is in fairly good condition. Those who want to explore more wineries along the “Wine Route” may wish to rent a car. Always drive responsibly.

Marshrutka Departure Location in Tbilisi

• Marshrutkas Depart from the Samgori Station
  • Exit the Samgori metro station, turn right, and walk 5 minutes to the make-shift bus terminal.
• One-Way Ticket Cost: 6 GEL ($2 USD)
• Time: 2 Hours
  • Marshrutkas were departing just about every 2 hours from 9:00 – 18:00

Travel Tip: Taxis are nearby the station and offer up private and shared rides. Prices are more expensive, but the drive time is faster

The Charming Kakheti Wine Region (2 Days)

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Discover Georgia’s leading wine producing region, Kakheti. For those traveling without a car, the little hilltop village of Sighnaghi makes an excellent option to base from. Within the city limits, find at least three established cellars which offer three diverse tasting experiences. On top of the wineries, visit the Bodbe St. Nino Monastery. Don’t miss a chance to climb around the old city walls and stroll through the picturesque streets.

Wine Sampling Itinerary: Spend two perfect days sipping wine in Sighnaghi.

Sleeping Suggestions in Sighnaghi

• Budget Family Guest House
  • Nando Guest House
  • Bonus: The son is a taxi driver and offers wine tours all the way to Tel Aviv
• Mid-Range
  • Guest House Maria

Georgia Itinerary Suggestion: Kazbegi

After relaxing and enjoying Sighnaghi, head to Kazbegi. Unfortunately, for those without a car, the easiest option is to return to Kazbegi.

Travel Tip: Look for other travelers who may possibly want to head to Kazbegi and negotiate a price so that you don’t have to backtrack to Tbilisi.

Marshrutka Departure Location in Tbilisi

• Marshrutkas Depart from the Didube Bus Station (Didube has a Metro Station)
• One-Way Ticket Cost: 10 GEL ($3.25 USD)
• Time: 2.5 – 3 Hours (my driver was cruising!)
• Marshrutkas were departing almost on the hour from 8:00 – 19:00
  • Reminder: these mini buses depart when full

Itinerary Add-On: Road Trip From Sighnaghi to Kazbegi (1 Day)

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Those who have a car, or are lucky enough to join in with fellow travelers may wish to add on this epic road trip from Sighnaghi all the way up to Kazbegi. This dramatic route is spectacular and links together two of the most beautiful regions in Georgia! Along the way, pass by a plethora of wine cellars, the beautiful Ikalto Monastery, the Ananuri Fortress Complex, and the controversial friendship monument.

Lets go on a road trip… Stop at these 4 “Must-See” pit stops along the way!

Road Trip Tip: Rent a decent car (4 wheel drive vehicles work best). Download a new play list, and be ready to be awed by this gorgeous road trip route.

Kazbegi: Iconic Mountain Village (4 Days)

Kazbegi (also known as Stepantsminda) is an incredible mountain hamlet that offers up adventures for any type of traveler. If looking to truly explore this region, and undertake a few worthwhile hikes, it’s best to spend at least a few days here. However, if not looking to tackle some of the nearby hikes, at least take a long day trip to gaze upon the iconic Gergeti Church.

Those travelers who are seeking out adventure can hike to the base of the Gergeti Glacier. Don’t miss the worthwhile day trip to the stunning Truso Valley. This mostly flat hike ends at the Zakagori Fortress where border guards patrol the occupied South Ossetia border. Another excellent day trip option is to head to the tiny village of Juta to savor the spectacular views of the “Georgian Dolomites.”

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Adventure Itinerary Add-On: From Juta, take the challenging, but beautiful two day trek to Roshaka. Intrepid hikers will pass over the Chaukhi Pass, hike past the Abudelauri Lakes, spend the night in Roshka, and come back via the Sadzele Pass back to Juta.

Sleeping Suggestions in Kazbegi

• Family Guest House with Shared & Private Rooms
  • Guesthouse Ketino Sujashvili
  • Bonus: Incredible breakfast options, a warm house mama, 2 balconies, luggage storage

Georgia Itinerary Suggestion: Upper Svaneti & Mestia

After all the adventure, you may be wanting some more mountains! You’re in luck! Don’t miss the Upper Svaneti region near Mestia. However, due to the Russian occupancy, you’ll need to head back to Tbilisi to reach it.

Leave Kazbegi for Tbilisi

• Marshrutkas Depart from the Stepantsminda Bus Station
  • In front of the Tourist Information Center, Across from Shorena’s Bar Cafe
• One-Way Ticket Cost: 10 GEL ($3.25 USD)
• Time: 2.5 – 3 Hours
• Marshrutkas were departing almost on the hour from 7:00 – 18:00
  • “Actual Schedule”: 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, 14:00, 15:30, 17:00, 18:00
  • These are “outlines,” as the mini buses depart when full.

How to Reach Mestia from Tbilisi

After the 3 hour ride back to Tbilisi, you may wish to take a day or two to explore more of Tbilisi. A great way to relax is to spend a few hours at the the Tbilisi sulfur baths.

Otherwise, the most comfortable way to reach Mestia, and the cheapest, is to take a night train to Zugdidi. Upon a morning arrival into Zugdidi, take a marshrutka up to Mestia.

All the Details: The Best Way to Reach Mestia from Tbilisi

Mestia & The Upper Svaneti Region (5-7 Days)

Mestia is the gateway to the breathtaking Upper Svaneti Region. Adventure hikers come here to undertake the 4 day multi-day from Mestia to Ushguli. This breathtaking hike can be done independently and passes by untouched villages, the distinct Svan towers, stunning glaciers, and snow capped mountains. Stay in guest houses along the route where you can indulge in authentic dishes of the region and sip on wine with fellow hikers. Budget travelers can skip the guest houses and camp along the route.

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Those who wish not to hike can take a day trip by a marshrutka to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Ushguli. Ushguli is comprised of five small villages nestled in a valley surrounded by the mighty Caucasus Mountains. Day trippers can get a taste of adventure and take the mostly flat trail to the impressive Shkhara Glacier.

Mestia is a worthwhile pit stop in itself. During the day, visit a museum, ride the scenic cable car, or take a day hike. At night, the village transforms into a hub for traditional folk music. It’s possible to hop from cafe, to restaurant, even to an outdoor venue, and sing and dance with locals.

Travel Deeper: Things to Do in Mestia & What to Skip

Sleeping Suggestions in Mestia

• Family Guest House with Private Rooms
  • Golden Mountain House
  • Bonus: Amazing balcony, hot showers, lovely host family

Georgia Itinerary Suggestion: Batumi

Whew! After all that adventure, why not relax in Batumi, Georgia’s port city on the Black Sea.

Leave Mestia for Zugdidi

• Marshrutkas Depart from Mestia at the Main Bus Station
  • In between Lile Cafe and the Post Office Zugdidi Jvari Mestia Lasdili, Mestia
• Departure Times: 12:00 & 14:00
• One-Way Ticket Cost: 20 GEL ($6.50 USD)
• Time: 3.5 Hours
  • 14:00 bus arrives into Zugdidi at 17:30

Zugdidi to Batumi

• Marshrutkas depart from the Zugdidi Main Train Station
• One-Way Ticket: Around 12 GEL ($4 USD)
• Duration: 3 Hours
  • Verify the schedules with the drivers or at the Information Booth in the railway station

Georgia’s Beach City of Batumi (2-3 Days)

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Batumi can feel a little risque, with its big chain casinos and scandalous night clubs. However, there’s a lot more to this city than one giant party.

Explore the many unique squares and understand the Ottoman influence by walking through the Turkish Quarter. Visit Ali and Nino on the boardwalk and appreciate some interesting buildings, monuments, and artwork. Of course, spend at least one day to relax on the beach. Batumi also has an incredible foodie scene, so try to eat at as many authentic and modern restaurants as possible.

It’s easy to wander this pedestrian friendly city finding hidden gems along the way.

Sleeping Suggestions in Batumi

• Budget Family Run Hostel
  • Hostel in Batumi
  • Note: There are many large chain hotels in Batumi, try to support local families by staying in guest houses.

Georgia Itinerary Suggestion: Finish in Tbilisi

Finally, after relaxing in Batumi, wrap up this Georgia adventure itinerary exactly where you started. Finish in the magical city of Tbilisi.

How To Reach Tbilisi from Batumi

Grab a train back to Tbilisi. Trains usually take around 5 hours.

Check the current timetable here.

Wrap-Up This 3 Week Georgia Itinerary in Tbilisi

Ultimately, almost all tourists end their Georgia itinerary in Tbilisi. You may have a few extra days to explore the city and discover more off the beaten path places.

Don’t Miss: Tbilisi’s hip left bank by the Marjanishvili Metro Station

Travel Deeper: 6 Unique Wine Bars to Discover in Tbilisi

The Best of Georgia: 3 Week Adventure Itinerary

In short, this is an overview to discover the the beautiful and diverse country of Georgia. This 3 week adventure itinerary highlights the best destinations, things to do, and tips to explore incredible Georgia. From Tbilisi, Sighnaghi, Kazbegi, the Upper Svaneti Region, to the seaside city of Batumi, 3 weeks is just a taste of this culturally and naturally stunning country.

Have you visited Georgia? What did you think of this 3 week Georgia adventure itinerary? Is there a place I have not mentioned that you absolutely fell in love with?! Let me know in the comments below!

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