Even though Georgia is a small country, it does offer gorgeous places for you to explore. However, as most of us have a limited time when visiting a new country, it’s great to know where you can do on a one-day trip from the capital. Tbilisi has a relatively good geographical location that enables you to travel to various cities and towns on a short trip. And here they are.
Mtskheta – Uplistsikhe – Gori
Photo Source: Advantour
Former capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site Mtskheta is the most popular destination for every visitor coming to Tbilisi. Located only 30-minute drive from Tbilisi, this small town offers beautiful architecture, rich historical sights, and the masterpiece of Georgia’s Early Middle Ages – Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Due to its few sights, you’ll only need an hour or two to wander through its streets.
Then head towards the Jvari Monastery, located on the hill overlooking Mtskheta to have panoramic views of the town and the confluence of two major rivers of the country. Once you are done here, drive to Uplistsikhe – one of the cave towns Georgia is famous for. Stroll down the curved city in rocks and admire the unique mixture of different rock-cut culture styles.
To finish your day trip, go to Gori, another small town known as the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, his museum, and stunning fortress.
Stepantsminda and Ananuri
Photo Source: Advantour
If you want to travel to remote mountainous areas but you don’t have much time to visit Svaneti, Tusheti, or Khevsureti, Stepantsminda is a great option for a day trip. Also often referred to as Kazbegi, Stepantsminda offers breathtaking views of Mount Kazbegi. Besides, the road to the town goes along the Georgian Military Road passing through the Dariali Gorge with splendid views of nature.
Stepantsminda is limited with the sightseeing places, but the reason why its so popular is the Holy Trinity Church of the village Gergeti. The church sits on the hill at the base of the mountain and offers breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountain Range.
On your way to Stepantsminda, don’t forget to stop at Ananuri Castle overlooking the emerald-green Zhinvali reservoir. Ananuri is a medieval fortress whose some parts date back to the 13th century.
Kutaisi
Photo Source: Gallop Around The Globe
Similar to Mtskheta, Kutaisi is another former capital of the country and a home to other UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The road to Kutaisi is a bit long, taking around 3:30 hours one way. And as the city has so much to offer, try to start your trip as early as possible.
Wander through the streets of the city, admire Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery, walk-in Sataplia Nature Reserve, and visit Prometheus Cave.
Borjomi – Akhaltsikhe – Vardzia
Photo Source: Georgia Travel
Borjomi is one of the many resort towns of Georgia known for its spring water of the same name. The water is believed to be beneficial to health, therefore, the city was a very popular recreational destination during the Soviet times. Today, much of the city has been renovated offering beautiful architecture and lush green park where you can try the spring water in its original form.
The town of Akhaltsikhe is home to newly renovated Rabati Fortress. This unique complex is home to different religious buildings at one spot; here you can find Mosque, Orthodox Church, and a Synagogue. Besides this, you can relax in its small parks, shop local crafts at the souvenir shops, learn more about the castle and the area at the history museum, and sip your favorite beverage at one of the cafes or restaurants.
Vardzia is the biggest cave towns of Georgia dating back to the 13th century. Built during the reign of King Tamar, the town is curved in the side of the Erusheti Mountain. This underground sanctuary has 13 layers of different rooms including a throne room, wine cellars, 6,000 residential spaces, a church, and a bell tower. It is believed that back in the day, the only entrance to the complex was via a secret tunnel from the shores of the Mtkvari River.
David Gareji Monastery Complex
Bordering with Azerbaijan, this monastery complex was built by one of the 1t3 Assyrian Fathers who spread Christianity in Georgia. David Gareji is another rock-hewn small complex on the hill offering beautiful frescos on its walls and panoramic views of surrounding colorful mountains.
Sighnaghi and Tsinandali
Photo Source: Gallop Around The Globe
One of the staples of Kakheti region is Sighnaghi and Tsinandali residence of royal family Chavchavadze. With its cobblestone streets, wooden balconies, red rooftops, and the remains of the defense wall, Sighnaghi is one of the most charming towns of the region.
After visiting the town made a small detour to go to Tsinandali village, located only an hour drive from Sighnaghi. Home of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, the complex features gorgeous garden, one of the oldest and largest wineries, and his house museum full of different memorabilia.
Dashbashi Canyon
Photo Source: Transfers Georgia
For those of you who would like to add few natural sights to their trips, consider Dashbashi Canyon located in Tsalka, just 2 hours drive from the capital. This breathtaking natural marvel is distinguished by biodiversity and rarity. Have a relaxing walk along the canyon and enjoy breathtaking views of dozens of waterfalls.
