Things to do in Mtskheta-Mtianeti

Explore Kazbegi, the mountainous region of Georgia. Feel the Caucasian Georgian spirit in the Caucasus Mountains. Take many beautiful pictures, hear exciting parts of the history, try the traditional Georgian dish Khinkali (Dumpling), discover the most beautiful part of Georgia, and get unforgettable memories. Your first stop is Zhinvali Water Reservoir on the Georgian Military Highway. The Soviets constructed the dam in the 1980s—a wonderful place to take amazing pictures. Visit Ananuri Fortress, the seat of the Eristavis (Dukes) of Aragvi, a feudal dynasty that ruled the area around the 13th century. See stunning views of the fortress and Zhinvali Reservoir. Have lunch in Pasanauri, the homeland of one of Georgia’s traditional foods: Khinkali. Admire the Friendship Monument of Georgian and Russian people in Gudauri, on the Georgian Military Highway. Contemplate the history of this fascinating monument overlooking Devil's Valley in the Caucasus Mountains. Explore one of the most beautiful places in Georgia, Gergeti Trinity Church in Kazbegi. Get a panoramic view of the whole valley from the church, which is one of Georgia’s most iconic attractions. Be impressed with the view of Mount Kazbegi, standing 5047 meters tall.Go to a local luxury hotel and have a cup of coffee in the stylish restaurant while you relax with stunning mountain views.

Explore one of the most mysterious regions of Georgia – Kartli and hear a lot about the country's history. First, visit memorable Uplistsikhe cave-town and dive into the antique life of Georgia. Then, find out more interesting facts in Gori, the hometown of the most famous Georgian, Stalin, and see the unique old capital of Georgia – Mtskheta, where you visit two UNESCO heritage sites Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Your first stop is Uplistsikhe, an antique rock-hewn town in eastern Georgia. It contains multiple structures dating from the Early Iron Age to the Late Middle Ages. It is notable for the unique mixture of various rock-cut cultures from Anatolia and Iran's pagan and Christian architecture coexistence. After exploring Uplistsikhe, you have a chance to have lunch in the region and try delicious local food. After lunch, you have two options, have free time and explore Gori, the hometown of Stalin, or visit Stalin Museum, which is a museum dedicated to the life of Joseph Stalin, the leader of the Soviet Union, who was born in Gori. The Museum retains its Soviet-era characteristics, Stalin's Original house, and Stalin's railway carriage. The next stop is Jvari Monastery. The name of this monastery is translated as the "Monastery of the Cross." Jvari Monastery is the 6th-century Georgian Orthodox monastery near Mtskheta. Along with other historic structures of Mtskheta, it is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO. Jvari Monastery stands on the rocky mountain top at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, overlooking the town of Mtskheta, which was formerly the capital of the kingdom of Iberia. The last site on tour is Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta. UNESCO recognizes Mtskheta as a World Heritage site due to its historical significance and several cultural monuments. It was the capital of the early Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. Svetitskhoveli is known as the burial site of Christ's robe and has been one of the principal Georgian Orthodox churches and is among the region's most venerated places of worship.

Start your tour at Jvari Monastery, a 6th-century orthodox monastery near Mtskheta. Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the monastery stands on a rocky mountain above the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, overlooking Mtskheta, the old capital of Georgia. Continue to Zhinvali Water Reservoir, located on the Georgian Military Highway. Learn the history of this Soviet dam, constructed in the 1980s. Then, arrive at the Ananuri Fortress, the seat of the Eristavis (Dukes) of Aragvi. Discover the intriguing plots of this feudal dynasty that ruled the area from the 13th century. Explore the site of numerous historic battles and take in the magnificent scenery — ideal for landscape photography. After Ananuri Fortress, have lunch in Pasanauri, the homeland of the most famous traditional Georgian food, Khinkali. Admire the Friendship Monument of Georgian and Russian people in Gudauri. Located on the Georgian Military Highway between Gudauri ski resort and the Jvari Pass, the memorial consists of a large round stone arch and concrete structure overlooking the Devil's Valley in the Caucasus Mountains. Then, arrive at Kazbegi, and explore one of the most beautiful places in Georgia: Gergeti Trinity Church. The church is located under Kazbegi Mountain, 2170 meters above sea level, and offers spectacular panoramic views of the entire valley. Enjoy the serene natural beauty of this isolated marvel. Finish your tour at the Rooms Hotel Kazbegi. Relax with a cup of coffee in their stylish restaurant and soak up the stunning views of Kazbegi.

Begin your journey at Jvari. Enjoy a beautiful view of the ancient city and its natural beauty. Continue to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, located in the Holy City.  Visit the urban area of Mtskheta, a renewed, stunning town. Explore the little shops and picturesque architecture. Take the opportunity to relax with a glass of wine.  Then visit the Chronicle of Georgia monument, stunning modern creation of Georgian architects. Enjoy a fantstic sight of Tbilisi from this viewpoint, before heading back to the starting point.

Visit Mtskheta, one of oldest cities of Georgia near Tbilisi. Mtskheta was the capital of the early Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. Here Georgians accepted Christianity in 317 and, today, Mtskheta remains the headquarters of the Georgian Orthodox and Apostolic Church. Experience Jvari Monastery, a Georgian Orthodox monastery of the 6th century near Mtskheta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name is translated as the "Monastery of Cross." The great church represents the peak of architectural typology. It is a true architectural masterpiece overlooking the confluence of Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers from the top of the hill. Next, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Built in the 11th century, the site itself is even older and dates back to the early 4th century. It differs in its artistic value, magnificence, harmony and the special role it has played in the history. The monument has an elongated cross which appears to touch the sky. It was the main pilgrimage place on the Silk Road, the burial place of Christ's robe and the tomb place of Georgian Kings. The cathedral is the second largest church building in Georgia and is listed as a UNSECO World Heritage Site along with other historical monuments of Mtskheta. Discover Samtavro Monastery complex, built in the 11th century. It contains the grave of Queen Nana and Mirian III and the King of Iberia, who established Christianity as an official religion in Georgia. The famous Georgian monk Gabrieli is buried inside the Samtavro church as well. Don't forget to stop by Wine Degustation, where you can taste and buy Georgian wine!

Discover the magic of the mountains on a full-day guided trip from Tbilisi. Visit Zhinvali Reservoir, Ananuri Fort, Gudauri, the Cross Pass, Kazbegi National Park, and the famous Gergeti Trinity Church. Admire panoramic views and old forts, and have the chance to sample the local cuisine. Start your tour at your hotel or holiday apartment if you choose the private tour option, or at a central meeting point in Tbilisi if you opt for the shared tour. Then, head northward and enjoy stunning views. Stop at the Zhinvali Reservoir, a calm lake surrounded by green hills. From there, discover the impressive Ananuri Fort. Explore the remains, the yard, and the old tower while your guide tells you the story of this place. Continue along the Georgian Military Highway to see more scenic and interesting spots, including a mineral spring that is believed to have healing powers, before reaching Gudauri and the Cross Pass. Take in the views at the Soviet Monument of Friendship, and marvel at the panoramic views of mountains and gorges from one of the best panoramic platforms in Georgia. Stop at Kazbegi, the center of the region and home to the famous Gergeti Trinity Church. In the summer, you can choose to hike to the church or go there by car. On the way back, your guide will show you the locals' favorite restaurant, where you can try authentic mountain-style khinkali dumplings (included in the shared tour; at your own expense on the private tour) before you return to Tbilisi.

Depart from Tbilisi on a full-day tour where you will hike through the Caucasus Mountain Range and into the picturesque Jutra Village, stopping at the Dariali Gorge and Gveleti Waterfall along the way. Start your journey at The Rooms Hotel in Kazbegi. During this stop, get an opportunity to eat, have coffee, and relax for an hour. The Rooms Kazbegi’s stylish restaurant is decorated with wooden furnishings and serves international cuisine.  Have a drink in the lobby bar, while meals can be enjoyed on the terrace with a spectacular view over Mount Kazbegi and the Gergeti Trinity Church as well as the surrounding forests and woodlands. Continue along the Georgian Military Highway and see the road’s unique sights before a visit to Dariali Gorge. Discover the two hidden waterfalls here and admire the rivers below them. Next, head over to the Gveleti village, located in Kazbegi, and begin a 1 km hike so you can see the scenic views of the Caucasus. Arrive at the Gveleti Waterfall, which can be translated as "the Snake’s Waterfall”, and be amazed by the breathtaking views of one of the most splendid waterfalls in Georgia.  Afterward, visit the village of Juta, located 2,200 m high above sea level. With only 18 locals surrounded by alpine area, it's a great place to escape civilization. The village is situated on the main hill of the Caucasus mountain range at the source of the river Bakurkhevi.  Lastly, enjoy unforgettable views from Fifth Season Hostel. It's a peaceful place where you can grab a drink and take in the stunning landscape of the multiple mountain Chaukhi peaks. Become entranced with the dreamy location, where clouds and mountains appear to ‘dance’ around each in an impressive performance every second.

You will depart from Tbilisi early in the morning, in the direction of Kazbegi. On the way, there will be some very interesting places to visit. Ananuri Fortified Castle Ensemble is a sixteenth-century castle complex on the Aragvi River. The fortress stands beside the famous Georgian Military Highway, overlooking the large Jinvali Lake. Its high, turreted stone walls protect two churches, a watchtower, and a reservoir. The main church facade is beautifully carved with animal, floral and Celtic-style patterns. The next stop is Gudauri, a remarkable ski resort in Georgia. The resort is 7,217 feet (2,200 meters) above sea level. The first lower lift station is at 6528 feet (1,990 meters ) above sea level and the last, or top, station is at a 3,306-meter called summit Sadzele. The resort offers high-quality skiing opportunities, with the ski season lasting from December through April. From Gudauri, you'll continue your trip to Gergeti Trinity Church. At an altitude of 7,119 feet (2,170 meters), the twelfth or thirteenth-century monument was erected on the southern slopes of Mkinvarcveri. Gergeti Trinity Church is an important temple, remarkable for its beautiful scenery. The Gergeti Trinity Church is set poignantly on a hill directly below the towering white massif of Mount Kazbek, which sits at 5,033 meters.

Head north from Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Highway, the only road connecting Georgia to Russia through the high Caucasus Mountains. First you'll visit Zhinvali Dam, a hydroelectric dam on the Aragvi River. Despite its artificial origins, the reservoir blends in with the surrounding environment perfectly and delights visitors with its turquoise waters. As you descend to the shores of the reservoir you will notice the ruins of a church from a settlement that was relocated out of the flooding area of the dam.   Next, visit Ananuri Fortress, known for its stunning panoramic views. It was built by the Dukes of Aragvi and its earliest parts date back to the 13th century. After this, you'll explore Gudauri, a ski resort located in the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range. The slopes of Gudauri are completely above the tree line. Discover the Treaty of Georgievsk Monument, built in 1983 to celebrate the bicentennial of the Treaty of Georgievsk and ongoing friendship between Georgia and Russia. Inside the monument is a large tile mural that spans the whole circumference of the structure and depicts scenes from Georgian history. Finally, you'll visit Gergeti Trinity Church. The church is located under Mount Kazbek, and served as a popular waypoint for travellers on the road connecting Russia and Georgia. At the end of the day, return to Tbilisi.

After departing from Tbilisi to Gudauri early in the morning, you will travel 160 kilometres along the Georgian Military Road. This famous road runs between Tbilisi, Georgia and Russia, and on the way, there are some exciting places to visit. You will begin by visiting Sabaduri Forest, an area which is breathtaking and reminiscent of scenery from a children's fairy tale. Afterwards, you will reach the Ananuri Fortress, a 16th-century castle complex on the Aragvi River. The fortress stands beside the famous Georgian Military Highway, overlooking a sizeable Jinvali lake. Its high, turreted stone walls protect two churches, a watchtower, and a reservoir. The main church facade is beautifully carved with animal, floral and Celtic-style patterns. Your next stop will be Gudauri, a remarkable ski resort in Georgia. The resort is at an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level and offers high-quality skiing opportunities between December and April. In Gudauri, you can enjoy stunning views, hit the slopes, or take a cable car ride up the mountain. For a bit of extra excitement, try your hand at snowmobiling or take a lesson at the ski school. After a full day of adventure, make a stop in Pasanauri village, the birthplace of Georgian khinkali. These delicious dumplings, filled with meat or vegetables, are a must-try for any visitor to Georgia. Pasanauri restaurants offer rich Georgian cuisine, as well as vegetarian and halal dishes. This tour is perfect for families and those who want to experience the magic of Georgian winter. With the help of our knowledgeable guide, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Georgian mountains and create lasting memories. The tour will end with a drop-off at your hotel in Tbilisi or Gudauri.