Things to Do in Georgia Country For First-Timers
Things to Do in Georgia Country For First-Timers
For the offbeat traveller, Georgia offers a smorgasbord of quirky experiences.
Ever wanted to ride a Soviet-era cable car? Or perhaps visit the Stalin Museum for a peek into the dictator's life? Or visit a church perched atop a 40-meter limestone monolith, home to a monk who's been living the high life (literally) for years?
You can do all that (and more) in this gem of a country. You could find yourself trekking through the majestic Caucasus Mountains in the morning, exploring ancient cave cities like Uplistsikhe by afternoon, and unwinding in Tbilisi's legendary sulfur baths come evening.
It doesn’t matter what kind of traveller you are — adrenaline junkie, history buff, or foodie with a penchant for khachapuri (cheese-filled bread heaven) — Georgia's got your back. Let’s check out the unique things to do in Georgia to make the most of your experience.
Unique things to do in Georgia country:
Rioni River White Water Rafting
Bakuriani Skiing and Snowboarding
Gudauri Paragliding
Georgia’s Electronic Music Scene
Tbilisoba Festival
Art-Gene Festival
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
Jvari Monastery
Georgia's Enamel Tradition
Abastumani Observatory
Wine Tasting in Georgia
Discover Georgia’s Markets
Explore Georgia’s Culinary Scene
Rioni River White Water Rafting
This is a wild ride through heart-pounding rapids, with mother nature showing off her best work (think lush forests and dramatic cliffs). For both newbie paddlers and for those who have a few river miles under your belt, the Rioni serves up the perfect mix of challenge and awe. P.S — You will get wet.
Location & How to Get There
Starting Point: Oni, a small town in the Racha region.
Public Transport
Bus: Hop on a bus to Oni from Kutaisi (the closest major city). The journey takes about 2–3 hours and costs roughly 10–15 GEL ($3–$5 USD). From Oni, local guides will often provide transfers to the rafting spot.
Taxi: A direct ride from Kutaisi to Oni will cost you around 120–150 GEL ($40–$50 USD). Bolt doesn’t work out here, so you’ll need to haggle with local drivers.
What to Expect Onboard
Beginners' Rapids: If this is your first time rafting, don’t sweat it. Guides will take you through Class II and III rapids, making it just thrilling enough to scream, but not enough to cry. Georgia is generally a safe country and has high standards and safety protocol for adventure activities. Expect prices to start around 50–70 GEL ($17–$25 USD) per person.
Advanced Thrills: For the pros, there are stretches of Class IV rapids that’ll have you clutching that paddle for dear life (in the best way possible). Cost: around 100–150 GEL ($35–$50 USD), depending on the package.
Wear quick-drying clothes and water shoes. Leave your fancy kicks behind unless you want them to take a permanent swim.
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Bakuriani Skiing and Snowboarding
Bakuriani is Georgia’s winter wonderland; but it’s also where the slopes meet serious fun. Carve through fresh powder and snap some killer Instagram pics in your après-ski gear — this resort town’s got you covered. Oh, and it’s family-friendly, too, so bring the whole squad! So if you're considering the best times to visit Georgia, don't shy away from picking the winter months either.
Location & How to Get There
Location: Bakuriani, about 2.5 hours from Tbilisi.
Public Transport:
Train: The "Kukushka" (a scenic narrow-gauge train) runs from Borjomi to Bakuriani. Tickets cost 5–7 GEL ($2–$3 USD) and the ride is a whole vibe—think snowy forests and mountain views straight out of a postcard.
Taxi: From Tbilisi, a cab ride will set you back 120–150 GEL ($40–$50 USD), but if you’re carpooling, it’s a solid deal.
Highlights
Skiing for Beginners: The Didveli slope is perfect for newbies. Gentle inclines, English-speaking instructors, and affordable lessons make it a no-brainer. Ski rentals: 50 GEL/day ($17 USD), and lessons start at 100 GEL/hour ($35 USD).
Advanced Runs: Seasoned snowboarders can head to Kokhta for steeper challenges and less crowded runs. It’s where you can show off your skills and maybe eat some snow trying.
After you’re done, warm up with a cup of mulled wine at one of the cozy slope-side cafés. It’s basically a reward for surviving the falls.
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Gudauri Paragliding
If you’ve ever wanted to fly, Gudauri makes it happen. Paragliding here is a front-row seat to some of Georgia’s most jaw-dropping landscapes. Nestled high in the Caucasus mountains, you can soar above snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and look at the world below from a whole new POV.
Bonus: no prior experience needed. Just strap in, scream, and enjoy yourself.
Location & How to Get There
Location: Gudauri, about 2 hours north of Tbilisi.
Public Transport:
Marshrutka: Mini-buses from Tbilisi’s Didube Station to Gudauri cost 10 GEL ($3.50 USD) and take about 2 hours. They’re cheap and cheerful (so don’t expect luxury).
Taxi: From Tbilisi, a one-way ride will cost around 100 GEL ($35 USD). If you’re traveling with friends, split the cost and make it worth your while.
Highlights
Tandem Flights: No experience? No worries. You’ll be paired with a pro who handles all the technical stuff while you enjoy the views and wonder why you didn’t do this sooner. Price: around 300–400 GEL ($100–$140 USD) for a 15–20 minute flight.
Solo Flights: For the trained and certified paraglider (aka the unicorns among us), Gudauri offers some of the best launch sites. BYO gear and adrenaline.
Pro Tip: Spring for the GoPro footage—it’s worth the extra 50 GEL ($17 USD) to prove you actually did it. Otherwise, no one will believe you.
Georgia’s Electronic Music Scene
Tbilisi didn’t just join the global club scene—it kicked the door open and turned the volume up to eleven. Dubbed the “Berlin of the Caucasus,” the city’s electronic music culture is nothing short of legendary. Whether you’re a techno purist or just someone who wants to feel the bass in your bones, Tbilisi’s clubs are where the night turns into morning.
1. Bassiani
This iconic club is literally underground—beneath the Dinamo Arena soccer stadium, no less. Known for its pounding techno beats and a no-photos policy (because what happens at Bassiani stays at Bassiani), it’s a must-visit for hardcore ravers. Expect international DJs and a vibe so electric, you’ll swear you’re in Berlin.
Location: 2 Akaki Tsereteli Avenue, Tbilisi, Georgia.
How to Get There:
Metro: Take the metro to Station Square (Sadguris Moedani) and exit towards Tsereteli Avenue. The stadium is a short 5-minute walk from the station.
Taxi: A taxi from Freedom Square to Bassiani typically takes about 15 minutes, costing around 10–15 GEL ($3–$5 USD). Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Yandex are widely used in Tbilisi.
2. Khidi
Translating to “The Bridge,” Khidi is Tbilisi’s industrial-chic techno temple. The cavernous space, complete with pulsating lights and jaw-dropping sound systems, guarantees an unforgettable night. If Bassiani is the king of clubs, Khidi is its edgy cousin who lives for bass drops and gritty vibes.
Location: Vakhushti Bagrationi Bridge, Right Embankment, Tbilisi, Georgia.
How to Get There:
Bus: Several bus routes pass near the bridge. Check local schedules for the most convenient option.
Taxi: A taxi from central Tbilisi to Khidi takes about 10 minutes, with fares ranging from 7–10 GEL ($2.50–$3.50 USD).
What to Know Before You Go
Timing: Tbilisi’s nightlife doesn’t even yawn until midnight, and peak partying kicks off around 2 a.m. Don’t bother showing up early unless you want to hang with the bartenders.
Entrance Fees: Clubs like Bassiani and Khidi usually charge an entrance fee of 30–50 GEL ($10–$17 USD). For special events or big-name DJs, expect to pay a bit more.
Tbilisoba Festival
Tbilisoba is the event to mark on your calendar if you’re lucky enough to visit Tbilisi in October. Picture the city transforming into a buzzing carnival of music, dance, and mouthwatering smells wafting from street food stalls. This annual festival celebrates Tbilisi’s rich history, multicultural vibe, and modern-day charm.
Highlights
Traditional Performances: Stages across the city showcase Georgian folk music and dances that’ll make you wonder why you’ve been sitting still your whole life. Expect everything from polyphonic choirs to energetic dancers in colorful chokhas (traditional clothing).
Food & Wine Heaven: Local vendors bring out the best Georgian delicacies, from juicy khinkali to sweet churchkhela. Pair it all with sips of qvevri wine because, in Georgia, wine isn’t just a drink—it’s a cultural event.
Arts & Crafts Fairs: Stroll through open-air markets where you can snag handmade souvenirs, from traditional wool hats to intricate enamel jewelry. Perfect for a post-festival brag on Instagram.
Location & Getting There
The festival spans multiple venues, but the main action is centered in Old Tbilisi and Rike Park.
Public Transport: Take the metro to Avlabari or Freedom Square stations—both will put you within walking distance of the festivities. A single ride costs 0.50 GEL ($0.20 USD).
Taxi: Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Yandex are a quick and affordable option. Expect to pay 5–7 GEL ($1.70–$2.40 USD) for a short ride within the city center.
Don’t miss the grape-stomping sessions in Rike Park—a fun nod to Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions. And wear comfy shoes—you’ll be walking (and dancing) a lot.
Art-Gene Festival
The Art-Gene Festival is a full-on cultural deep dive. Held every July at Tbilisi’s open-air Ethnographic Museum, this week-long celebration is all about preserving Georgia’s folk traditions while giving them a modern twist. Imagine a mash-up of centuries-old dances, haunting polyphonic songs, and cutting-edge Georgian bands—all set against the backdrop of rustic village houses. It’s basically Georgia in a nutshell.
Highlights
Folk Music & Dance: Watch as traditional performers bring Georgia’s regional diversity to life, with everything from the slow, soulful Svan dances to the gravity-defying leaps of Kakhetian performers.
Modern Music Acts: The festival is a platform for contemporary Georgian artists. Get ready to discover up-and-coming bands that blend folk with modern genres like rock and jazz.
Crafts & Workshops: Learn how to weave, carve, or bake the Georgian way through hands-on workshops. Or just shop for traditional crafts.
Location & Getting There
Venue: Open-Air Ethnographic Museum, Turtle Lake Road, Tbilisi.
Public Transport: Take Bus 90 or 124 from Rustaveli Avenue to Turtle Lake Road. The ride costs around 0.50 GEL ($0.20 USD). From the stop, it’s a short uphill walk.
Taxi: A direct ride to the museum costs about 10 GEL ($3.50 USD) from the city center. If you’re traveling in a group, it’s a solid deal.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
Situated in the heart of the historic town of Mtskheta, the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is a stunning 11th-century masterpiece of Georgian architecture. It’s a living relic, revered for its intricate stone carvings, vivid frescoes, and centuries of history. The cathedral holds a profound spiritual significance as it’s believed to house Christ’s mantle, making it a major pilgrimage site for Christians worldwide.
How to Get There
Location: Mtskheta, about 20 km from Tbilisi.
Public Transport: Marshrutkas (minibuses) from Tbilisi’s Didube Station to Mtskheta cost around 2 GEL ($0.70 USD) and take about 20–30 minutes. Once in town, the cathedral is an easy walk from the bus stop.
Taxi: A taxi from Tbilisi costs about 20–25 GEL ($7–$9 USD), perfect if you’re traveling with a group or prefer direct access.
What‘s Inside?
Architectural Grandeur: From its tall, soaring arches to its detailed stone carvings, the cathedral is a testament to Georgia’s architectural genius.
Frescoes & Legends: Inside, marvel at the colorful frescoes and carvings that tell stories of Georgia’s religious past.
Dress modestly—this is an active place of worship. Women may want to carry a scarf to cover their heads inside.
Jvari Monastery
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, the Jvari Monastery offers jaw-dropping views and a sense of tranquility that’s hard to match. This 6th-century cruciform church is an architectural gem, representing the earliest days of Georgian Christianity. Bonus: it’s also the spot for unbeatable panoramic selfies.
How to Get There
Location: Just outside Mtskheta, a short trip from the town center.
Public Transport: Marshrutkas (minibuses) from Tbilisi to Mtskheta stop at the base of the hill, but you’ll need to hike or arrange a local taxi for the steep climb to the monastery.
Taxi: A taxi from Mtskheta to Jvari Monastery costs about 10–15 GEL ($3.50–$5 USD). Many drivers offer combined trips to both sites.
Significance
Hilltop Serenity: The breathtaking location makes it feel like you’ve stepped into another world, with sweeping views of Mtskheta below and the rolling Georgian countryside.
Architectural Significance: Jvari is one of the earliest examples of Georgian ecclesiastical architecture, embodying simplicity and harmony.
Historic Value: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it provides a glimpse into Georgia’s religious and cultural roots.
Georgia's Enamel Tradition
Minankari, or cloisonné enamel, is a meticulous technique where artists create intricate designs by filling compartments (cloisons) with vibrant enamel pastes, which are then fired to achieve a glossy finish. This method has been a cornerstone of Georgian artistry for centuries, adorning everything from religious artifacts to personal adornments.
Where to Purchase Minankari Jewelry
Ikorta Enamel Jewelry Studio: Located in Tserovani, this studio offers a range of enamel pieces crafted by local artisans. Visitors can explore their collection and even participate in workshops to learn the art firsthand.
Tamila Designs: Specializing in Georgian cloisonné enamel, Tamila Designs offers a curated selection of jewelry that reflects traditional aesthetics with a modern twist.
Highlights
Diverse Designs: Minankari jewelry ranges from delicate pendants and earrings to elaborate bracelets and rings, often featuring motifs inspired by Georgian folklore and nature.
Vibrant Colors: The use of bold, contrasting colors is a hallmark of Minankari, achieved through the careful application and firing of enamel powders.
Cultural Significance: Each piece tells a story, embodying centuries-old traditions and the artistic spirit of Georgia.
When purchasing Minankari jewelry, inquire about the artist's background and the inspiration behind the piece. This adds a personal connection and appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.
Abastumani Observatory
Nestled high in the Georgian mountains, the Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory is your ticket to a stellar experience—literally. Established in 1932, this place has been the OG spot for stargazers and science buffs alike. Perched at about 1,700 meters above sea level, it offers some of the clearest skies you'll ever lay eyes on.
How to Get There
Location: Abastumani, roughly 250 km from Tbilisi.
By Car: Road trip alert! Grab your buddies, some snacks, and hit the road for a 4-5 hour drive through some seriously Instagram-worthy landscapes.
Public Transport: Hop on a bus or marshrutka (that's Georgian for minibus) from Tbilisi to Akhaltsikhe. From there, snag a local taxi or another marshrutka to Abastumani. Heads up: schedules can be a bit unpredictable, so plan ahead.
Highlights
Guided Tours: Sign up for a tour and get the lowdown on the observatory's history, peep through some epic telescopes, and maybe even catch a shooting star. Daytime tours are cool, but the night ones? Out of this world.
Astrophysical Museum: Geek out over vintage space gear and learn about the cosmos in the on-site museum. It's like a time machine for astronomy nerds.
Stargazing: With minimal light pollution and those high-altitude vibes, the stars here shine bright like diamonds. Perfect for a romantic date or just flexing your constellation knowledge.
Wine Tasting in Georgia
Georgia isn't just about stunning landscapes and rich history—it's also the birthplace of wine. With a winemaking tradition that dates back over 8,000 years, this country offers a vino experience like no other. You’ll find yourself sipping your way through some of the world's oldest vineyards.
Kakheti Region
The heart of Georgian wine country, Kakheti is about a 2-hour drive east of Tbilisi.
By Car: Rent a car or hire a driver for the day. The scenic route through the Gombori Pass is a treat in itself.
Public Transport: Marshrutkas (minibuses) depart from Tbilisi's Isani Station to Telavi or Sighnaghi in Kakheti. Cost is around 10 GEL ($3.50 USD). From there, local taxis can take you to specific wineries.
Organized Tours: If you prefer someone else to handle the logistics, several companies offer guided wine tours from Tbilisi. These often include transportation, tastings, and sometimes even a hearty Georgian meal.
Highlights
Visit Traditional Wineries: Check out the ancient qvevri method, where wine is fermented in clay vessels buried underground. Wineries like Pheasant's Tears in Sighnaghi offer tours and tastings that delve into this unique process.
Sample Diverse Varietals: With over 500 indigenous grape varieties, Georgian wines range from crisp whites to robust reds. Don't miss trying Saperavi (a bold red) and Rkatsiteli (a refreshing white).
Enjoy Wine Festivals: Time your visit with events like the Tbilisi New Wine Festival in May or the Rtveli Harvest Festival in autumn, where you can stomp grapes and celebrate the harvest with locals.
Pair your wine with local cheeses and bread to keep things balanced.
Discover Georgia’s Markets
Dezerter Bazaar (Tbilisi)
Smack dab in the heart of Tbilisi, Dezerter Bazaar is the city's largest and most iconic market. Its name harks back to the 1920s when deserting soldiers sold their gear here. Today, it's a sprawling hub where you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to household items.
How to Get There:
Location: Tsinamdzgvrishvili Street, Tbilisi.
Public Transport: Hop on the metro to Station Square (Sadguris Moedani) and take a short stroll west. Buses 308 and 306 from Freedom Square also drop you nearby.
What to Expect:
Fresh Produce: A cornucopia of fruits, veggies, and herbs that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Spices and Herbs: Stalls brimming with colorful spices and aromatic herbs.
Local Delicacies: Artisan cheeses, cured meats, and traditional sweets.
Kutaisi Central Market (Kutaisi)
In Georgia's third-largest city, Kutaisi Central Market is a bustling center of commerce. It's renowned for its selection of local delicacies, fresh produce, and a variety of goods, reflecting the region's rich agricultural heritage.
Location: Kutaisi city center, near the main square.
What to Expect
Local Delicacies: Unique regional products like Imeretian cheese and spices.
Handicrafts: Traditional Georgian crafts and souvenirs.
Clothing and Accessories: A variety of apparel and household items.
Batumi Central Market (Batumi)
Situated in the coastal city of Batumi, this market offers a unique blend of seaside charm and bustling commerce. It's a go-to spot for fresh seafood, local produce, and a variety of goods, capturing the essence of Batumi's vibrant culture.
Location: Chavchavadze Street, Batumi.
What to Expect:
Fresh Seafood: A wide selection of fish and seafood, reflecting Batumi's coastal heritage.
Fruits and Vegetables: Seasonal produce from the surrounding regions.
Clothing and Accessories: Various stalls offering apparel and household goods.
Pro Tip: Morning visits offer the freshest seafood selections. Don't miss trying local specialties like Adjarian khachapuri from nearby vendors.
Explore Georgia’s Culinary Scene
Must-Try Dishes
1. Khachapuri
Georgia's answer to comfort food, Khachapuri is a cheese-filled bread that's a staple across the country. The Adjaruli variant is particularly indulgent, featuring a boat-shaped dough filled with molten cheese, topped with a runny egg yolk and a pat of butter. It's a carb lover's dream and a must-try for any visitor.
Where to Get It: Sakhachapure #1 (multiple locations), Machakhela (Old Tbilisi), and Retro (Vake District).
Cost: Approximately 10–15 GEL ($3–$5 USD).
Pro Tip: Tear off the crust and dip it into the cheesy center for the full experience.
2. Khinkali
These juicy dumplings are a Georgian favorite, typically stuffed with spiced meat and a burst of savory broth. The trick is to hold them by the top knot, take a careful bite, slurp the juicy filling, and then devour the rest. It's a hands-on experience that's as fun as it is delicious.
Where to Get It: Zakhar Zakharich (near Dry Bridge), Pasanauri (Rustaveli Avenue), and Amo Rame (Marjanishvili).
Cost: Around 1–2 GEL per piece ($0.30–$0.60 USD).
Pro Tip: Pair with a cold Georgian beer for the ultimate combo.
3. Badrijani Nigvzit
Thin slices of eggplant fried to perfection, smeared with a garlicky walnut paste, and rolled up like little flavor cigars. Top them off with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a sweet crunch. These bites are a testament to Georgia's knack for combining simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Where to Get It: Café Littera (Sololaki), Shavi Lomi (Chugureti), and Barbarestan (Marjanishvili).
Cost: Approximately 12–18 GEL ($4–$6 USD).
Pro Tip: Enjoy as a starter alongside a glass of Georgian white wine.
4. Lobio
Who knew beans could be this exciting? Lobio is a hearty stew of red kidney beans simmered with onions, garlic, and a medley of spices. Often served with Mchadi (cornbread) or pickled veggies, it's comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the belly.
Where to Get It: Salobie Bia (Rustaveli), Ezo (Sololaki), and Keto and Kote (Vera).
Cost: Around 10–15 GEL ($3–$5 USD).
Pro Tip: Mash the beans slightly and mix with fresh herbs for added flavor.
5. Chakhokhbili
Chakhokhbili features tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich tomato base, infused with fresh herbs and a kick of spices. It's the kind of dish that makes you want to mop up every last drop with a piece of crusty bread.
Where to Get It: Café Gabriadze (Old Tbilisi), Tsiskvili (Didube), and Samikitno (Meidan Square).
Cost: Approximately 15–20 GEL ($5–$7 USD).
Pro Tip: Best enjoyed with a side of fresh bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Recommended Restaurants
1. Barbarestan
Housed in a charming 19th-century building, Barbarestan offers a unique dining experience inspired by the recipes of Barbare Jorjadze, a 19th-century Georgian duchess and the country's first female cookbook author. The restaurant combines traditional Georgian dishes with a modern twist, all served in a cozy, family-run atmosphere.
Location & How to Get There
Address: D. Aghmashenebeli Ave. 132, Tbilisi, Georgia.
Public Transport:
Metro: Take the metro to Marjanishvili Station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk along Aghmashenebeli Avenue. Metro fare is approximately 0.50 GEL ($0.20 USD).
Taxi: A taxi ride from Freedom Square to Barbarestan takes about 10 minutes, costing around 5–7 GEL ($1.70–$2.40 USD). Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Yandex are widely used in Tbilisi.
What Dishes to Try
Badrijani Nigvzit: Fried eggplant rolls stuffed with a rich walnut paste, garnished with pomegranate seeds. A delightful blend of flavors and textures. Priced around 18–20 GEL ($6–$7 USD).
Chakapuli: A traditional Georgian stew made with tender lamb, tarragon, and sour plums, offering a unique tangy taste. Costs approximately 35–40 GEL ($12–$14 USD).
Pelamushi: A classic Georgian dessert made from grape juice and cornflour, resulting in a sweet, jelly-like treat. Priced at about 15–18 GEL ($5–$6 USD).
2. Heart of Batumi
Tucked away in the cobblestoned charm of Batumi’s Old Town, Heart of Batumi isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an edible love letter to Georgian cuisine. From hearty traditional dishes to lighter modern twists, this spot has a knack for making you feel like a VIP guest at grandma’s house (if grandma had a flair for plating). Expect a mix of laid-back vibes and delicious fare that’ll make you unbutton your jeans by dessert.
Location & How to Get There
Address: Baratashvili St. 1, Batumi, Georgia.
Public Transport:
Bus: Hop on any bus heading to Batumi’s Old Town and get off near Baratashvili Street. Tickets are a breezy 0.40 GEL ($0.15 USD), and the bus stops just a 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
Taxi: A quick 5-minute ride from the Batumi Boulevard area will set you back around 5–7 GEL ($1.70–$2.40 USD). Bolt and Yandex are your go-to apps for fair fares.
What Dishes to Try
Adjarian Khachapuri
This isn’t your average cheesy bread—it’s a boat-shaped carb masterpiece brimming with melted cheese, butter, and a sunny-side-up egg. Mix it up for the ultimate gooey bite. Price: 15–20 GEL ($5–$7 USD).Grilled Trout with Walnuts
A fresh, local trout grilled to perfection and topped with a nutty walnut sauce that’s a little tangy, a little creamy, and entirely irresistible. Expect to pay around 30–35 GEL ($10–$12 USD).Churchkhela Plate
Georgia’s beloved "candle-shaped snack" gets the royal treatment here. Think nuts wrapped in concentrated grape juice for a chewy, sweet finish. A plate costs about 10–15 GEL ($3.50–$5 USD).
3. Café Littera
Located in the historic Sololaki district, Café Littera offers a fine dining experience in the garden of a beautiful 20th-century building that houses the Writers' House of Georgia. The restaurant is known for its creative approach to Georgian cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques.
Location & How to Get There
Address: 13 Ivane Machabeli St, Tbilisi, Georgia.
Public Transport:
Bus: Bus number 31 stops near the restaurant. Fare is approximately 0.50 GEL ($0.20 USD).
Taxi: A taxi from Freedom Square to Café Littera takes about 5 minutes, costing around 3–5 GEL ($1–$1.70 USD).
What Dishes to Try
Satsivi: Chicken in a rich walnut sauce, flavored with garlic and spices. A traditional dish often served during special occasions. Priced around 30–35 GEL ($10–$12 USD).
Pkhali Trio: A selection of vegetable and walnut spreads, typically made from spinach, beetroot, and eggplant, served with bread. A flavorful and healthy appetizer. Costs approximately 20–25 GEL ($7–$8.50 USD).
Tklapi with Cheese: A unique dish featuring traditional Georgian fruit leather paired with local cheeses, offering a sweet and savory combination. Priced at about 15–18 GEL ($5–$6 USD).
Georgia Offers The Best of Europe and Asia
So, you've hiked through Georgia's breathtaking highlands, explored Tbilisi's Prometheus Caves, sipped wine older than your great-grandma, and maybe even tried to out-toast a local at a supra (spoiler: you can't). You'll realize that exploring Georgia is practically full-on immersion into a land where Europe shakes hands with Asia, creating a cultural cocktail that's as intoxicating as their homemade chacha.
What’s even more interesting is that unlike its neighbors, Georgia doesn't just sit on the fence between continents—it throws a party on it. It's this blend of old and new, East and West, that sets Georgia apart and keeps you guessing what's around the next mountain bend.
And remember, the best tales often come from the unplanned moments. So, ditch the rigid itinerary, follow that winding alley, accept that unexpected invitation. In Georgia, spontaneity is how you dive into the main course.