Is Georgia Worth Visiting? Three Months of Lessons and Adventures

Imagine a small country where snow-capped mountains meet lush vineyards, ancient monasteries sit beside modern cafés, and the scent of fresh-baked bread fills the air. That’s Georgia—this fascinating crossroads of history, hospitality, and incredible flavors. Over three unforgettable months, we learned more about this place than we ever expected. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or just someone curious about exploring somewhere new, Georgia has something for you.

So let's find out if Georgia is worth visiting. Here’s what stood out most during our time in this beautiful, complex, and sometimes surprising country.

A Land of Contrasts: From Mountains to the Sea

Georgia may be tiny, but it packs in more diversity than some countries ten times its size. Its landscapes shift from rugged mountain trails to Black Sea boardwalks, with ancient cities and sleepy villages in between. Here are just a few highlights worth adding to your travel bucket list.

Tusheti: A Hiker’s Paradise

Tusheti feels like a scene ripped straight from a fairytale. This remote region is tough to get to (think a single, narrow, bumpy mountain road that was ranked by BBC as one of the World's Most Dangerous), but the rewards are worth it. Picture rolling green mountains, untouched vistas, and tiny villages where time seems to stand still. It’s a haven for hikers and anyone who craves solitude in nature. Alternatively, for those who prefer slightly less terrifying road experience, there is Svaneti and Kazbegi.

Wooden houses on a hillside under a blue sky with scattered clouds mark one of Georgia travel's must-see spots. As you explore the rocky path that leads upwards, surrounded by grass and shrubs, you might find yourself pondering, 'Is Georgia worth visiting?' The captivating local highlights you'll encounter offer a resounding yes in response.

The eerie and beautiful village of Dartlo deep in Tusheti

Telavi & Sighnaghi: The Heart of Georgian Wine

When people talk about Georgian wines, they’re almost always pointing to Telavi, Sighnaghi, and the surrounding Kakheti region. Sitting among vineyards and ancient monasteries, these towns ooze charm. It’s also the perfect jumping-off point for wine tours where you can sip your way through 8,000 years of history.

If you want to hop over to Sighnaghi for a day (from Tbilisi) for an epic wine tasting tour, look no further than this tour.

A scenic view of this must-see spot showcases a charming town with red-roofed buildings and a church tower against the backdrop of distant mountains under a cloudy sky, capturing the essence of Georgia travel. This picturesque setting naturally raises the question: is Georgia worth visiting? The blend of stunning landscapes and rich culture surely suggests it is.

Sighnaghi is picture-perfect

Kutaisi: Ancient Legends Alive Today

Kutaisi doesn’t get as much attention as Tbilisi or Batumi, but it should. Known in ancient times as Colchis (remember Jason and the Argonauts?), this city boasts bustling markets and landmarks tied to Georgian lore. There's something magical about walking streets once said to harbor golden treasure. Nearby in Tskaltubo, there is also plenty of abandoned Soviet-era sanatoriums to explore:

An abandoned room with ornate arched windows, a decorated ceiling, and a stage area is one of Georgia's must-see spots for those who appreciate history. Dust and debris cover the floor, adding an air of mysterious elegance to this hidden travel gem. For those wondering 'is Georgia worth visiting,' this captivating site offers a compelling reason to explore its rich history.

The magical Shakhtiori Sanatorium auditorium

Tbilisi: Where Old Meets New

Tbilisi is Georgia’s beating heart, a mix of old-school history and youthful energy. On one street, medieval churches and cobblestones. On another, avant-garde art galleries and modern eateries. A prime example? Fabrika, a trendy cultural hub housed in an old sewing factory. It's packed with cafés, bars, and creatives—it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or a long night.

The best way to see Tbilisi when you first arrive is by a guided tour. We did this one and it helped us deeply understand the history and culture of Tbilisi.

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A blue three-story building in Georgia boasts curved balconies and a weathered white railing, with multiple windows offering unique travel experiences. A charming chimney completes its inviting look, making one wonder: is Georgia worth visiting?

This building is on the edge of Old Tbilisi

Batumi: Georgia’s Black Sea Star

Batumi is like a city from the future, yet somehow still anchored in the laid-back ease of seaside living. Its skyline boasts Georgia’s tallest buildings, and its boardwalk buzzes with life. Whether you're lounging on its beaches, playing at the casinos, or exploring its vibrant, modern architecture, the city has a unique energy you won’t find elsewhere.

Cityscape featuring eclectic architecture with a historic building, modern skyscraper, and a column topped by a statue under a clear blue sky—a true must-see spot that makes you wonder, is Georgia worth visiting on your travel itinerary?

The Art-Deco buildings contrasting with the modern architecture of Batumi

Vardzia: A Monastery in the Rocks

Then there's Vardzia, a 12th-century monastery built into a cliffside, complete with 19 tiers of caves. Walking through it feels like stepping into a historic labyrinth. It’s both stunning and humbling to explore, especially when you consider how long it’s been standing. You can also try the source of Borjomi water in the nearby town of Borjomi (okay, we didn't love this part 🤣).

If you’re pressed for time but still want to experience the best of the region, we recommend this customizable private tour from GetYourGuide.

Two people marvel at ancient rock formations with visible shallow caves—one of the must-see spots during a trip to this captivating region.

The incredible cave monastery of Vardzia - seriously the tunnels can get pretty intense!

The Food That Stole Our Hearts (and Maybe a Little Room in Our Jeans)

If food was the only reason to visit Georgia, it’d still be worth it. This country’s culinary landscape is rich, hearty, and utterly delicious—and their wine might just ruin you for wines back home.

Khachapuri: Georgia’s Cheesy Addiction

Meet khachapuri, Georgia’s famous cheesy bread that feels more like comfort wrapped in calories. Each region has its own take. The Adjarian style adds an egg and butter, which you swirl together before taking a bite. It’s dangerously good—and let’s just say we sampled every variation we could find.

Khinkali: Soup Dumplings Like No Other

Next, there’s khinkali. These oversized dumplings are little pockets of joy. You bite into them carefully to sip the broth inside before devouring the rest. It’s a dish that’s messy, fun, and oh-so satisfying.

A plate of steamed dumplings on a wooden table, with a glass to the side in the background, captures one of the must-see spots for any food lover during Georgia travel. This culinary experience is just one reason why many wonder, is Georgia worth visiting? The local highlights certainly make it an enticing destination.

Hidden Gems of Georgian Cuisine

Georgia’s menu isn’t just about the big hits. There’s shkmeruli, a creamy garlic chicken dish that’s as rich as it sounds, and kharcho, a velvety tomato and walnut soup we couldn’t get enough of. And let’s not forget ojakhuri, a sizzling plate of pork and potatoes roasted into crispy perfection.

A person serves creamy chicken from a bowl on a table set with dishes and a cup, capturing the essence of Georgia travel. This local highlight transforms any meal into a must-see spot, where flavors tell stories and every bite is an adventure. You might wonder, is Georgia worth visiting? Absolutely, as it offers such rich culinary experiences that are not to be missed.

Oh, that gorgeous, creamy Chicken Shkmeruli

The Birthplace of Wine

Georgia isn’t just proud of its wine—it’s obsessed with it. And rightly so. As the birthplace of wine, Georgia uses unique techniques like fermenting in underground clay vessels called qvevris. Whether you’re sipping in Sighnaghi or Telavi, every glass feels like a connection to the past. For wine lovers, places like Kakheti are nothing short of heaven.

Four wine bottles with various labels, including two from the 'Khalani Wine House' and one with a handwritten tag, sit on a table set against a lively backdrop featuring people and a mural. These bottles capture the essence of Georgia travel, sparking the question: is Georgia worth visiting? They offer local highlights in every pour.

Khalani Wine House is a must-try in Sighnaghi

The People and Culture That Left Us Speechless

Food and scenery are great, but what truly sets Georgia apart is its people. Their warmth and pride are woven into every interaction.

Hospitality at Its Best

Georgians take hospitality to another level. It’s not unusual for strangers to invite you in for a drink or share homemade cha cha (a strong, grape-based liquor). We once stayed at a guesthouse where the owner offered us coffee, then broke out the cha cha—before we knew it, we were a little drunk, caffeinated, and laughing with the family.

Four people stand close together outdoors on a cobblestone street in Georgia, surrounded by trees and cars. This picturesque scene captures one of the must-see spots on their travel adventure, making you wonder, is Georgia worth visiting for its charming streets and scenic beauty?

Our driver to and from Tusheti always made us feel safe and welcome - a model of Georgian hospitality!

Religion and Resilience

Christianity plays a central role in Georgian life, being one of the first nations to adopt it back in the 4th century. You’ll see this everywhere, from the grand cathedrals in Tbilisi to smaller, humbler monasteries. Religion unites the country, but it also means some aspects of society can feel very traditional.

A man strolls near a large beige cathedral with a prominent dome and cross, basking in the clear sky. This stunning architectural gem is among the must-see spots for anyone exploring Georgia's travel highlights. If you're wondering, 'is Georgia worth visiting?' this breathtaking scene provides an emphatic yes, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and beauty.

The largest cathedral in Georgia in Tbilisi

A Unique Language to Match a Unique Country

The Georgian language is unlike anything else. Its script is beautiful, almost like something out of Middle Earth. You’ll want to learn a few key phrases—Gaumarjoba (hello) and Madloba (thank you) go a long way. While Russian and English are widely spoken in cities, making the effort to speak Georgian often earns a smile.

A green and white sign with text in two languages, including 'CASHBOX,' stands resilient against a backdrop of trees, marking one of the must-see spots for those exploring local highlights on their Georgia travel adventure, leaving many to ponder: is Georgia worth visiting for such unique experiences?

The Political Tensions You’ll Feel but Can’t Ignore

Georgia’s beauty and warmth are undeniable, but its politics add a layer of complexity.

The country is caught in a tug-of-war between its EU aspirations and Russia's looming influence. The Georgian Dream political party has been in power for over a decade, but recent elections have sparked protests over alleged fraud and anti-EU shifts. These tensions are particularly felt in Tbilisi, where demonstrations often spill into the streets.

For the LGBTQ+ community, the situation is equally delicate. While Georgia is conservative, underground spaces like Tbilisi’s Bassiani club offer safe havens for self-expression. It feels like a society balancing its desire for progress with deeply rooted traditions.

Why Georgia Is Worth Visiting

Three months gave us a glimpse into Georgia, but it barely scratched the surface. It’s a country of contrasts—ancient yet modern, welcoming yet stubborn, traditional yet evolving. The landscapes will leave you awestruck, the food will leave you stuffed, and the people will leave you inspired.

Despite its challenges, Georgia’s spirit shines through. If you've ever wondered, "Is Georgia worth visiting?" the answer is yes—ten times over. Just go with an open heart, an empty stomach, and a readiness to experience the unexpected.

Two men sit together at one of Tbilisi's lively LGBTQ+ hotspots, holding bottles of beer and making playful pouty faces at the camera. The man on the left sports a black tank top and necklace, while his friend wears a green shirt. They're seated against a dark wall with a light upper section.

Gaumarjos! Victory to Georgia!

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