Georgia is located in the central and western part of Transcaucasia. Compared to neighboring Russia, Georgia is very small - about 70,000 square meters. km, but geographically the country is located in both Eastern Europe and Western Asia. Georgia borders Russia in the north, Azerbaijan in the southeast, Armenia in the south and Turkey in the southwest.
The terrain of Georgia is mountainous, with plains accounting for only 20% of the territory. Along Georgia's northern border, from the Black Sea to the Caspian Sea, stretch the Caucasus Mountains, a natural barrier to Russia, and through this barrier was once built to link Russia with Georgia.
Currency of Georgia: Georgian lari (GEL)
1 GEL = 25 Russian rubles (as of March 2019)
1 euro (EUR) = 3 GEL
1 US dollar (USD) = 2.70 GEL
Language: Georgian (in remote mountainous regions, local languages are used - for example, Svan). Almost all middle-aged and older Georgians speak excellent Russian. Young people in large cities in most cases also speak Russian; in rare cases they have to switch to English.
Do you need insurance for a trip to Georgia?
If we talk about insurance for your personal health, I think it is definitely necessary (although the Georgian border guards are absolutely not interested in whether you have it or not). Still, it’s not like lying on the sofa at home – you never know, what will happen in the mountains, or you won’t be able to stop in time while eating khinkali..)) Anything can happen – and not only in Georgia. For the last few years, I have been purchasing insurance for my travels through an online service - here you have the opportunity to choose from the many products presented on the insurance market exactly what suits you in terms of price and insurance coverage:
Now regarding car insurance (if you do not plan to drive your car to Georgia, you can safely skip this point).
On March 1, 2018, the Georgian government adopted a law on compulsory motor liability insurance for cars with foreign license plates. Simply put, if earlier this type of insurance was optional in Georgia, now it has become necessary. An insurance policy (not a green card!) can be issued online on the website https://www.tpl.ge/ or purchase at the border. There are 4 types of policies - for 15, 30, 90 days and 1 year. If you are traveling to Georgia for less than 15 days, you will still have to take out insurance for 15 days.
The fine for the lack of compulsory motor insurance for the summer of 2018 is 100 lari (payable at any branch of any large Georgian bank, under no circumstances try to “resolve” this issue with the police on the spot!).
How to get to Georgia?
By land in a personal vehicle– if you are planning to travel to Georgia by car, I suggest reading an article about the Moscow-Tbilisi road and the specifics of traveling around Georgia by car:.
If the goal of your trip is not only Tbilisi, but also the “summer capital” Batumi, I recommend reading.
An article about Tbilisi city transport, as well as how to move around Georgia:.
Housing in Georgia - private sector, hostels, guesthouses, hotels, apartments
Before you start searching and booking accommodation for your independent holiday or travel around Georgia, I recommend reading a separate large article - in it you will find all the necessary information: classification of types of accommodation, where and how best to look for it, how to book, recommendations and tips to minimize costs and nuances of Georgian specifics.
If you are planning an independent trip to Georgia or just a vacation by the sea, I highly recommend looking at my articles dedicated to the best apartments and guesthouses in Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi in terms of price and quality:
Transfers throughout Georgia
If you are traveling to Georgia with your family or a large group, it may make sense for you to think about a transfer directly to the door of your booked hotel or to the desired attraction.
Comfortable transfers throughout Georgia can be ordered using a local online service GoTrip. During the booking process, you have the opportunity to select the class, car brand and specific driver based on reviews from previous passengers. Considering the horseman driving style of Georgian street taxi drivers and their cars, which are not always in good working order, this is a very useful option. The price on the website is final, you won’t have to bargain with anyone.
Transfer examples:
Travel routes around Georgia for 1, 2 and 3 weeks
What to see in Georgia
Below is a map of all the interesting places in Georgia mentioned in the guide. The numbers of attractions on the map correspond to the numbers in the text of the guidebook (indicated in brackets after the name of the city, church, fortress, etc.). By clicking on the number on the map, you will find a photo and a link to quickly jump to an article about this attraction.
Tbilisi
Tbilisi(number 1 on the map of attractions) is the capital of Georgia and one of the most beautiful and interesting cities of the former USSR. Old Tbilisi is a unique courtyard with drying laundry, lazy cats and sedate men playing backgammon. As well as the famous carved balconies, many of which are the size of a small Moscow apartment.
In addition to numerous antiquities, Tbilisi also has modern attractions: for example, the Peace Bridge, the Presidential Palace and the House of Justice.
And, of course, amazingly warm and hospitable residents and delicious food. In my opinion, the minimum you need to get to know Tbilisi is 2-3 days, and for a thoughtful inspection - no less than a week.
If you have more than a couple of days at your disposal, I recommend reading my guide articles dedicated to the most interesting areas of Tbilisi:
Be sure to take a walk around mine - there are only the best restaurants, cafes and khinkal towns.
And so that the waiter and bartender understand who they are dealing with, I first suggest studying two articles that are mega-valuable for any “culinary tourist”:
To better experience the unique atmosphere and energy of old Tbilisi, it is better to stay not in a hotel, but rent an apartment for daily rent from local residents in a real Tbilisi house with carved balconies, high ceilings and creaky wooden stairs in echoing entrances. For this purpose, my article can be very useful - in it, based on personal experience, I describe the best options in terms of price and quality ratio.
If you are traveling alone or do not plan to stay in Tbilisi for more than one or two days, then I would recommend choosing a good guesthouse over an apartment: .
And in order to more fully experience the unique atmosphere of this city, I recommend that the most inquisitive and sociable travelers book personalized tours of Tbilisi from local residents. Your guides will be Tbilisi residents themselves - writers, artists, photographers, journalists, winemakers - who are in love with their city and know everything about it.
Below is a selection of the most interesting and popular excursions in Tbilisi according to traveler reviews. To see all available options, click View All. At the booking stage, you will need to pay online only 20% of the excursion cost - the rest of the amount is given to the guide before it starts.
Georgian Military Road
Georgian Military Road- one of the most picturesque roads in the world and a complete attraction with a length of 208 km. It was built immediately after the annexation of Georgia to the Russian Empire to supply the Russian army, which was then fighting in the Caucasus with the highlanders, Turks and Persians - and this explains its name; nowadays there is nothing “military” in it for a long time.
Georgian Military Road in the Cross Pass area
The main attractions of the Georgian Military Road, located between the Russian border and Tbilisi:
Ananuri Fortress and Zhinvali Reservoir- number 3 on the map of Georgian attractions
Ski resort Gudauri(number 4)
Trinity Church in Gergeti (5)
Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)- number 6
Cross Pass and Monument to Friendship of Peoples (7)
Mtskheta
Mtskheta(2) - the ancient capital of Georgia, located 18 km north of Tbilisi, on the Georgian Military Road. It was from here that the Christianization of Georgia began through the efforts of St. Nino.
In addition to the Jvari Monastery, in Mtskheta you should definitely visit the huge Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the Samtavro Monastery, where, according to legend, Saint Nino lived under a blackberry bush.
Jvari Monastery coordinates: 41.83837, 44.73403.
Ananuri
Here, on the banks of the picturesque Zhinvali reservoir, is located one of the most famous attractions of northern Georgia - medieval castle of Ananuri(number 3 on the map of Georgia).
The castle was built by the rulers of these places - the Aragvi Eristavis - presumably at the end of the 17th century, when there was no reservoir here yet. But there was, on the contrary, the narrowest place of the Aragvi gorge, and it was impossible to go from the north, from the Dariali gorge, to the south to Tbilisi, passing the Ananuri fortress.
Coordinates: 42.16403, 44.70319.
Gudauri
Gudauri(number 4 on the map) is a relatively young, but, along with Bakuriani, one of the most famous ski resorts in Georgia (and the most popular, due to its proximity to Tbilisi and the Russian border). People come here for good skiing, Georgian hospitality and delicious food.
Coordinates: 42.4745, 44.48089.
Gergeti
A small village on the Georgian Military Road, famous for the fact that on the mountain above it is located the oldest and one of the most revered churches in Georgia - Trinity Church Sameba (5).
Trinity Church Gergeti
The place is really simply stunning and “atmospheric”, in addition, from the church there are excellent views of Mount Kazbek (Kazbegi in Georgian) - however, the mountain is very “capricious” and even in summer it very rarely peeks out from behind the clouds.
Coordinates: 42.66243, 44.62054.
Transfers along the Georgian Military Road
Adjara
A fertile land of beaches, mountain resorts, national parks and hospitable people. The capital of Adjara, Batumi, is the “showcase” of modern tourist Georgia, as well as the country’s third largest city (after Tbilisi and Kutaisi) and the largest Georgian city on the Black Sea.
Excursions in Batumi and Adjara from local residents:
Beach resorts of Adjara (as well as Guria and Megrelia)
Sandy beaches
Ureki (Magnetity)
The most unusual beach resort in Georgia, located 45 kilometers north of Batumi, on the very border Guria And Megrelia. Unofficially divided into two parts: the village itself is called By the river, and the coastal tourist area with a beach - Magnetity(number 9 on the map of Georgia).
Magnetiti is a 4-kilometer beach with black magnetic sand, which is considered very useful for the treatment of hypertension, joint diseases and for rehabilitation after a heart attack. Unlike the pebble beaches of Adjara, Magnetiti has fine, pleasant sand (albeit an unusually black color), which makes the resort comfortable for families with children.
Coordinates: 41.98689, 41.75924.
Shekvetili
Shekvetili(10) is a small sleepy village 10 km south of Ureki, known for its huge sandy beach and wonderful pine forest.
Considering that the resort is sparsely populated even at the height of the beach season, a holiday here is suitable for notorious introverts and those who are mortally tired of the crowds of big cities. The beach is quite good - black magnetic sand, the same as in Magnetity.
Coordinates: 41.92025, 41.76718.
Pebble beaches
Beach resorts south of Batumi (the cleanest sea):
Kvariati
Kvariati(number 11 on the map) is a small seaside village whose main attraction is its wonderful pebble beach.
Kvariati beach is considered the best in Adjara - some, however, will disagree with this, considering the best beach in Sarpi. This is a seaside resort with long traditions and well-developed infrastructure - there is a restaurant and a cafe, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, ride a jet ski and a cheesecake.
Coordinates: 41.54584, 41.56179.
Gonio
Gonio(12) is a small Adjarian village, famous not only for its beach (very good, by the way), but also for its ancient Gonio-Apsaros fortress, located a couple of kilometers from the village and the beach.
As for Gonio Beach, it is typical for this part of Adjara: long, wide, pebbly, with clean water, a standard range of tourist attractions and a relatively wide selection of accommodation. A boulevard of one and a half to two kilometers long was recently made along the sea, following the example of the famous Seaside Boulevard of Batumi.
Coordinates: 41.5675, 41.56591.
Sarpi (13)
The southernmost beach of Adjara and generally its southernmost seaside point. A village on the border with Turkey - on the other side it is called Sarp.
Under Soviet rule, there was a border zone here (after all, Turkey was and remains a NATO member), but now the border passes literally a few meters from sunbathing and swimming tourists.
Coordinates: 41.5213, 41.5478.
Beach resorts north of Batumi:
Cape Verde Beach (Mtsvane Kontskhi - number 14 on the map)
A sparsely populated pebble beach with clear water is relatively close to Batumi - you can get there in 20 minutes by minibus. Usually Cape Verde is visited at the same time as the Batumi Botanical Garden - it is located exactly above the beach.
Cape Verde beach coordinates: 41.69181, 41.70474.
Chakvi
Chakvi(number 15) - once a fishing village and the center of Georgian tea growing, and now a cozy and calm beach resort on the Black Sea coast of Georgia, located 13 kilometers north of Batumi and 12 kilometers south of Kobuleti.
Coordinates: 41.72181, 41.72929.
Tsikhisdziri
Village Tsikhisdziri(16 on the map) is located 15 km north of Batumi, the easiest way to get there is by minibus going from Batumi to Kobuleti.
Currently, Tsikhisdziri is quite rarely considered as a beach resort - the Byzantine town located nearby is much more widely known. Petra fortress. But this was not always the case - thanks to its eucalyptus grove, in Soviet times Tsikhisdziri was one of the generally recognized “favorites” for relaxation and treatment of people with diseases of the respiratory system, nervous and cardiovascular systems.
Coordinates: 41.74682, 41.73785.
Kobuleti
Kobuleti(17) is the second largest city in Adjara, located 25 km north of Batumi.
In addition to its huge (about 10 km long!) pebble beach, Kobuleti is famous for its peat swamps of Spain- a nature reserve located northeast of the town, as well as an amusement park "Tsitsinatela", which means "Firefly" in Russian. This name is no coincidence: with the onset of darkness, the park lights up with many multi-colored iridescent lights - many young visitors like to tumble on the Tsitsinatela rides just after sunset. The park looks especially impressive from the Ferris wheel.
Coordinates: 41.83887, 41.77516.
Transfers to Adjara
Sights of Adjara
Adjara is a land of countless attractions and, if you are interested not only in relaxing on the beach, I recommend turning your attention to national parks, ancient arched bridges, picturesque mountain roads and much more, located “in the depths” of the region, in its mountainous part.
Trans-Ajar route
Trans-Ajar route(18) is a highway through the Goderdzi pass, connecting Batumi with the capital of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, the city of Akhaltsikhe.
Almost along its entire length, the road is literally “stuffed” with the most interesting sights (waterfalls, ancient arched bridges, picturesque villages, wine cellars, etc.), so you can drive these 160 km for a very, very long time.
Queen Tamara Bridge in Makhuntseti
Machakhela National Park (19)
Not long ago, an excellent asphalt road was laid along the Machakhela River almost to the border with Turkey, thereby turning the picturesque gorge into one of the most interesting and easily accessible places in Adjara.
Fairy forest in Mirveti
Mtirala National Park
Mtirala(number 20 on the map) is a picturesque national park spread over six thousand hectares, 25 kilometers east of the Adjarian village of Chakvi.
Public transport does not go to the national park, but taxi drivers in Chakvi will gladly take you there for 40-50 GEL (the price includes a round trip and 3 hours of waiting).
Kakheti
Kakheti is a land of stunning scenery and the main region of Georgian winemaking. It is located east of Tbilisi and is known primarily for the “granary of Georgia” - the Alazani Valley.
Alazani Valley
It is here that the grapes for most of the famous brands of wine in Eastern Georgia are grown, such as Kindzmarauli, Saperavi, Kvareli. And here there are several large wineries where you can come with. In addition, in the fall you can personally participate in the grape harvest.
To get to know Kakheti you need at least 2-3 days with overnight stays in Sighnaghi and/or Telavi.
Author's excursions to Kakheti from Tbilisi
The most convenient and educational way to get to know Kakheti (IMHO) is a private excursion from Tbilisi. In this case, you will be driven all day in a comfortable car to the most interesting places, told stories, legends, and in some places even toasts (without this, there is nowhere in Kakheti). Speaking of toasts - as a participant in the excursion, you will be able to forget that you are driving and enjoy excellent wines in the tasting rooms of the best Kakheti wineries.
Sighnaghi (Sighnaghi 23)
The main tourist “magnet” of Kakheti, the “Georgian San Marino”, the “city of love” is all Sighnaghi (number 23 on the map of Georgia). The small town is located on the top of a ridge - and for this reason, never in its long history has it been conquered or destroyed by anyone.
Monument to the doctor Benjamin from the film “Don’t Cry!” Georgiy Danelia
Due to its perfect preservation, during the presidency of Mikheil Saakashvili, Sighnaghi was chosen as the main tourist “brand” of Eastern Georgia. Some things were restored, others were built from scratch - for example, the Wedding Palace, which is open around the clock and “combines” everyone without an appointment - it is to this that Sighnaghi owes one of its unofficial names: “the city of love”.
Coordinates: 41.61098, 45.92718.
Telavi (24)
The capital of Kakheti and at the same time a quiet and cozy town, which became famous in the vastness of the former USSR after the release of the film “Mimino”. Many tourists use the city only as a base for traveling to mountainous Tusheti - but in vain, there is also something to see in Telavi itself.
Monument to King Irakli II in Telavi
Coordinates: 41.92092, 45.4791.
David Gareji Monastery (25)
One of the main Orthodox shrines of Georgia is a cave monastery founded by Saint David of Gareji after he decided to leave the hustle and bustle of Tbilisi and retire into the wilderness.
In addition to the complex of natural and man-made caves that make up the David Gareji Monastery, this place is notable for the fact that the monastery is located on the slopes of a ridge along the crest of which the state border of Georgia and Azerbaijan runs.
Coordinates: 41.4471, 45.37662.
Alaverdi Cathedral (26)
Alaverdi Cathedral is the first and most important temple of Kakheti, the second tallest in Georgia (for a long time it was the first, but after the construction of the Tsminda Sameba temple in Tbilisi, Alaverdi gave it primacy), and one of the four most revered Christian churches in the country - the so-called “Great Cathedrals” "
Coordinates: N42.03248, E45.3772.
Gremi Castle (27)
Medieval castle Gremi- this is all that remains of the former capital of Kakheti, the city of Gremi, destroyed by the Persian Shah Abbas. Along with the castle located on the Georgian Military Road, Gremi is the most famous object of its kind in Georgia. Both castles are easily accessible from a logistics point of view - they literally rise above the highway passing at their foot.
Coordinates: 42.00161, 45.66099.
Nekresi Monastery (28)
Nekresi is an ancient and very “atmospheric” monastery located on a mountain above the Alazani Valley. Once upon a time, at the foot of that mountain there was a whole city with the same name, but only the foundations of a few buildings have survived to this day. And, if the ruins of the city are not of particular interest, then the Nekresi monastery soaring high in the mountains is rightfully considered one of the brightest attractions of Kakheti.
Coordinates: 41.97249, 45.76027 (parking under the monastery).
Ikalto Monastery (29)
Ikalto- the oldest Orthodox monastery in Georgia. The monastery was founded by the Assyrian father Zenon of Ikalta in the 6th century. In the “golden” age of David the Builder for Georgia, an Academy appeared on the territory of the monastery, where Shota Rustaveli subsequently studied.
Coordinates: 41.93707, 45.38026.
Monasteries Old and New Shuamta (30)
Despite its proximity to Telavi, Shuamta is not a popular attraction in Kakheti. Thanks to this, the unique atmosphere of an ancient monastery has still been preserved here, where you can easily find yourself alone with centuries of history and your thoughts.
Coordinates of the New Shuamta monastery: 41.91253, 45.39015.
Coordinates of the Old Shuamta monastery: 41.90973, 45.40571.
Transfers to Kakheti
Imereti
Imereti- the largest and historically significant region of Georgia with a population of more than half a million people. Imereti is located in the Rioni River basin, the largest in Georgia. Even against the background of very hospitable Tbilisi residents, Imeretians stand out for their hospitality and friendliness. The capital of the region - the city of Kutaisi - during the reign of King David the Builder (Agmashenebeli) was the capital of all Georgia and at this time there was a period of its heyday.
Kutaisi
Kutaisi(number 31 on the map of Georgia) has been “challenging the primacy” of Tbilisi since ancient times and today is unofficially considered the second capital of Georgia. To confirm this status, in 2012 the Parliament of Georgia moved to Kutaisi from Tbilisi. Since then, this bizarre configuration of power has been legislated in the country’s Constitution: the president and government are in Tbilisi, the parliament is in Kutaisi.
Bagrati Temple in Kutaisi
Gelati Monastery (32)
Located 5 km from Kutaisi towards Tkibuli on a hilltop above the valley of the Tskhalitsitela River. One of the most revered Orthodox monasteries in Georgia, Gelati was founded by King David the Builder and the king was later buried in it - according to the will of the great monarch, his remains rest under a slab at the entrance to the monastery complex, right under the feet of the parishioners.
Coordinates: 42.29489, 42.76848.
Motsameta Monastery (33)
Motsameta Monastery dedicated to the holy prince-martyrs David and Constantine, located near Gelati, closer to Kutaisi.
Coordinates: 42.28226, 42.75909.
Tskaltubo (34)
Once a sanatorium and resort center of all-Union importance, it fell into decay in the 90s and is now gradually being revived. I recommend combining his examination with a visit Prometheus caves And Sataplia Park.
By the way, it was in Tskaltubo that we came across the most delicious khinkali in Georgia.
Coordinates: 42.32834, 42.60124.
Prometheus Cave (35)
The largest of all known caves in Georgia is located near Tskhaltubo. The cave is stunningly picturesque and very skillfully illuminated - you can see this by looking at the photographs in the article about.
Coordinates: 42.37664, 42.60082.
Sataplia Nature Reserve (36)
The reserve, located on a mountain above the Rioni River, is famous for the dinosaur tracks found on its territory. The name "Sataplia" means "honey place", and wild bees used to be found in abundance in this area.
Coordinates: 42.31257, 42.67384.
Pillar of Katskhi (37)
One of the relatively “new” religious attractions of Georgia, but it has already become one of its symbols.
A stunningly picturesque rock-pillar, on top of which there is a house of a hermit monk.
Coordinates: 42.28759, 43.21569.
Okatse Canyon (38)
A natural attraction of Imereti, gradually becoming one of the most popular. The fact is that the picturesque canyon of the Okatse River (length 3 km, depth 50 m) is equipped with a suspended cantilever bridge, which is an amazing observation deck.
Coordinates: 42.45547, 42.52772.
Kinchkha Waterfall (39)
One of the most interesting attractions of Imereti is a complex of picturesque waterfalls (among which the highest in the country).
Coordinates: 42.49489, 42.55054.
Martvili Canyon (40) and Martvili Monastery (41)
Strictly speaking, Martvili is located not in Imereti, but in Megrelia, but it is more convenient to get there from Kutaisi. A very picturesque canyon that arose thanks to the waters of the Abasha River, which made their way through the rocks. I recommend combining a tour of the canyon with a visit Martvili Monastery Chkondidi- the main Christian monastery of Megrelia - and Salkhino (42), the summer palace of the Mingrelian princes Dadiani.
Coordinates of the monastery: 42.40558, 42.37771, canyon: 42.45743, 42.37712.
Racha-Lechkhumi
“Georgian Switzerland”, “Mountain Imereti” and one of the main wine-making regions of the country - for example, the legendary “Khvanchkara” is made right here, in the village of the same name not far from the town Ambrolauri (43).
Some call Racha mountain Imereti (by analogy with “mountain Kakheti” - Tusheti, and “mountain Megrelia” - Svaneti). Racha is famous for its landscapes and excellent wine - you can get to the center of Lower Racha, the town of Ambrolauri, from Kutaisi by an ordinary passenger car in 2-3 hours; the cities are connected by an excellent asphalt road. The main thing is to go back to Kutaisi along it, and not try to drive through the village of Khvanchkara - this path is only for off-road vehicles.
Ambrolauri coordinates: 42.51449, 43.14576.
Transfers to Imereti and Racha
Svaneti
Of the three highland regions of Georgia, Svaneti, located in the north-west of the country, is the most popular among tourists - thanks to its stunning nature, well-preserved Svan towers and the distinctive Svan culture, which has survived to this day with minimal distortion due to the isolation of this region from the rest of Georgia. A normal asphalt-concrete road from Zugdidi to the capital of Svaneti was built only recently - and before that, with the onset of winter, snow covered the passes and tightly blocked Svaneti and the Svans.
Svaneti has everything that people go to the mountains for: stunning landscapes, clean air, picturesque villages bristling with Svan towers, mountain lakes, glaciers, amazing mountain honey and much, much more - there is even a modern ski resort! True, getting to it in winter is very difficult.
Mestia (Mestia)
Capital of Upper Svaneti (Zemo Svaneti), small town Mestia(44) is located in the mountains at an altitude of 1500 meters at the confluence of two mountain rivers.
Mestia is extremely well located in terms of scenery: the town is surrounded by alpine meadows and forests, behind which majestic snow-capped mountains rise. You can get to Mestia from Zugdidi in 3-4 hours (there is a good asphalt and concrete road).
Historical center of Mestia
Coordinates: 43.03346, 42.68948.
To “experience” Svaneti to the fullest, you need to go from Mestia to remote mountain villages, such as Ushguli or Latali.
Transfers to Mestia
Ushguli (45)
A village that has preserved its traditional appearance much better than Mestia, which was subjected to merciless restoration. Ushguli is the second settlement in Europe after the Dagestan Kurush in terms of altitude and is famous for its large number of well-preserved Svan towers.
Coordinates: 42.91696, 43.01679.
Hatsvali (46)
Ski resort on the Zuruldi ridge, located at an altitude of 2400 meters. The resort is new (opened in 2011) and is currently actively developing. From Mestia to Hatsvali, located 8 km to the south, you can take a taxi along a mountain serpentine road. Hatsvali is also popular in the summer: you can take the cable car to the top of the ridge and enjoy stunning views and breathe in the rarefied mountain air - the main thing is to be lucky with the weather.
Coordinates: 43.01755, 42.73882.
Tusheti
Tusheti(47) - an isolated highland region in the northeastern part of Georgia, administratively part of Kakheti. Get to Omalo(this village is the “capital” of Tusheti) is only possible with a good SUV - the road is a dirt mountain serpentine.
Tusheti is home to stern (but not very warlike) mountaineers, stone sakli, ancient towers (vaguely similar to the Svan ones), excellent products made from sheep’s wool, sheep’s cheese “Guda” and special local khinkali with mountain herbs.
The views in the mountains of Tusheti are stunning - and for this reason, the main occupation of the Tush people is gradually becoming the reception and service of tourists, although there are still few in number.
Coordinates of the capital of Tusheti Omalo: 42.37085, 45.63346.
Khevsureti (48)
Another distinctive mountainous region of Georgia - along with Svaneti and Tusheti. Administratively, it is part of the central region of Mtskheta-Mtianeti, but due to the inaccessibility, it is better to allocate at least a couple of days to visit Khevsureti.
The main man-made attraction of this region is the defensive towers. But, unlike the Svan ones, they are not rectangular, but more reminiscent of pyramids and in this way are similar to the towers of Chechnya and Ingushetia.
The Khevsurs are mentally very little similar to the lowland Georgians, and there is a simple explanation for this. For a long time they were something like Georgian Cossacks - the Khevsurs did not pay taxes, but had to protect Georgia from invasions by mountaineers from the other side of the Caucasus ridge.
Coordinates of the capital of Khevsureti Shatili: 42.65813, 45.15457.
Georgia - from Tbilisi to Batumi
By train or bus, 300 km between two cities can be covered in 5 hours, by minibus - in 6. But it is much more interesting to go on this journey by car - your own or a rented one.
There are two ways to get from Tbilisi to Batumi by car: the first one is longer and goes through Imereti, the second is geographically shorter, but is available only in the summer, and even then only for SUVs - through Borjomi Valley and region Samtskhe-Javakheti, from where you can get to Batumi along a dirt mountain Trans-Ajar highway.
Now let's take a closer look at the attractions of each of the two options.
First route Tbilisi - Batumi
The first route lies through Stalin’s hometown - Gori, "cave city" Uplistsikhe, past pillar of Katskhi V Kutaisi. And from Kutaisi to Batumi you can travel along the Black Sea coast through Kobuleti, visiting some of the sights of Imereti along the way - for example, monasteries Gelati And Motsameta And Prometheus cave.
Stalin Museum in Gori (49)
Gori is located 80 km west of Tbilisi and is known primarily as the place where the Father of all nations was born and spent his childhood. And currently there is a large and very interesting museum dedicated to Stalin in the city.
Coordinates: 41.98694, 44.11348.
Rock city Uplistsikhe (50)
Once the main pagan cult center of ancient Iberia and the main stronghold of resistance to the Christianization of the country, Uplistsikhe is now one of the most interesting attractions located in the vicinity of Tbilisi.
Coordinates: 41.96737, 44.20724.
Second route Tbilisi - Batumi
It looks something like this: Tbilisi — Borjomi (Bakuriani) — Akhaltsikhe and Rabat fortress- cave city Vardzia, fortress Khertvisi and further to Batumi along the mountainous Trans-Ajara highway.
Borjomi (51)
A tiny resort town with a population of 15 thousand people, which has gained worldwide fame thanks to the brand of mineral water produced here.
Curl bridge in Borjomi
In addition to mineral water, Borjomi is famous for its sanatoriums, a huge park, a cable car, an outdoor swimming pool with water from hot springs and a culinary “trick”: pine cone jam.
Coordinates: 41.84119, 43.38298.
Ski resort Bakuriani (52)
In the past, it was a ski center of all-Union significance; today it is the best (IMHO) ski resort in Georgia, located 37 km from Borjomi at an altitude of 1700 meters.
Coordinates: 41.7509, 43.52839.
After Borjomi, the route from Tbilisi to Batumi lies through Akhaltsikhe, the capital of the region Samtskhe-Javakheti. The city itself is not particularly interesting, but it houses the largest fortress in Georgia - Rabat.
Rabat Fortress (53)
The former Turkish fortress Rabat, being the largest in Georgia, was recently restored and became one of the tourist attractions of Samtskhe-Javakheti.
According to popular opinion, the restorers went a little overboard: the ancient fortress now really shines with a new-made gloss. Whether this is true or not, you can find out from the article about.
Coordinates: 41.64211, 42.97537.
Before driving further west to Batumi along the most picturesque Trans-Ajar highway, I highly recommend taking the time to stop by for half a day cave city Vardzia (Vardzia), located 60 km southeast of Akhaltsikhe (200 km southwest of Tbilisi). On the way there, about 45 km southeast of Akhaltsikhe, there will be another attraction of Samtskhe-Javakheti - Khertvisi fortress.
Khertvisi (54)
Khertvisi (54) is an extremely photogenic fortress on a rock at the confluence of the Mtkvari (Kura) and Paravani rivers. The place is extremely historical - according to legend, the first Georgian city was here in the era of Alexander the Great.
Khertvisi coordinates: 41.47947, 43.28535.
Cave city of Vardzia (55)
A unique cave city, a symbol of the struggle of Georgians against foreign invaders and a monument to the will and fortitude of people who chose life in caves over surrender to enemies.
Coordinates: 41.3812, 43.28416.
After visiting Vardzia and Khertvisi, we return to Akhaltsikhe, from which there are two options for the road to Batumi:
If it’s summer, you have a good SUV, and you are confident in yourself and in the car, you can go to Batumi along the shortest route - through the mountains along the Trans-Ajar highway. The road is dirt, very difficult in places - but the views are stunning.
The second option is for those who have an ordinary passenger car, or who simply feel sorry for killing the suspension and tires of their SUV: we drive to Batumi along an excellent highway through Borjomi, Khashuri, Kutaisi and Samtredia.
Have a nice holiday in Georgia!
Your Roman Mironenko
The May holidays and summer vacation season are approaching in Russia. The Caucasian Knot has compiled some advice for Russians who are thinking about traveling to Georgia.
1. Do I need a visa to visit Georgia?
Russian citizens do not need a visa to enter Georgia for up to 360 days. All you need is a passport valid for the entire duration of your stay in the country.
Entry into Georgia through South Ossetia and Abkhazia is prohibited.
Moreover, Georgian authorities may refuse entry if you have notes in your passport that you have visited Abkhazia or South Ossetia before. Most likely, such problems will not arise, since Abkhaz and South Ossetian border guards usually do not put any marks on passports. But in any case, the fact that you visited Abkhazia or South Ossetia should not be advertised. According to Georgian law, this is considered a criminal offense, for which you can go to prison or receive a large fine.
If you want to visit Abkhazia or South Ossetia, detailed advice on organizing your trip can be found in the special information from the Caucasian Knot.
2. Is it better to go to Georgia in summer or winter?
In winter, it is best to spend time at the ski resorts, which in Georgia are usually open from November to May.
3. Is it worth going to Georgia by car?
In Georgia, the main tourist attractions are located compactly, and traveling around the country by car is quite convenient. In addition, if you decide to travel to Georgia from Russia by car, your path will lie along the picturesque Georgian Military Road.
The downside is that for crossing the border by land you will have only one option - the Verkhniy Lars checkpoint, which is located 38 km from Vladikavkaz, the capital of North Ossetia. There is a risk of standing in line at the border for many hours, especially during high season. You can find out what the current situation is at the checkpoint by looking at the picture from the web cameras.
The road is also sometimes closed due to bad weather and the danger of avalanches. When this happens, the Caucasian Knot always reports about it.
If you don’t want to spend time in queues at the border and risk getting stuck on the way due to bad weather, you can rent a car directly in Georgia. The technical condition of rental cars often leaves much to be desired. But there is an opportunity to find very cheap options for cars with high mileage, produced 10-15 years ago.
4. Where is the best place to stay?
Well-known international hotel chains operate in Georgia, but if you want to feel what real Georgian hospitality is, we recommend taking a closer look at small family hotels. The Caucasian Knot talked about them in a special article.
5. Is it necessary to bargain?
In Georgia, by haggling, you can almost always bring down the price in markets, in souvenir shops and especially in taxis. If the taxi does not have a meter (and it almost never does), be sure to agree on the price of the trip right away.
6. Where to buy souvenirs?
Souvenirs will be much cheaper if you buy them away from popular tourist areas. In Tbilisi, you can buy something cheaper at the flea market near the Dry Bridge. But it’s worth bargaining there too.
For those who want to learn more about holidays in Georgia, the “Caucasian Knot” has collected information on its pages about Georgian attractions: about colorful Batumi with its cozy coffee shops, about the ski resort of Gudauri, about the tiny town of Signaki in Kakheti and, of course, about the hospitable Tbilisi.
7. Where is the best place to eat?
Although there are McDonald’s and other well-known fast food chain restaurants in Georgia, the Caucasian Knot definitely does not recommend stuffing yourself with hamburgers. Better try the local cuisine. Khinkali, pkhali, khachapuri and other national dishes are what you came to Georgia for.
8. Where to buy churchkhela?
If you want to be sure of quality, it is better to buy the Georgian national delicacy in a supermarket, where it is sold in vacuum packaging. You can also buy churchkhela at the market, but then you should be more careful.
9. To smoke or not to smoke?
Georgia still remains a paradise for suicides who poison themselves and their neighbors with nicotine. They smoke everywhere. If your choice of travel destination is related to your bad habit, feel free to head to Georgia. True, then you should hurry. Georgia is rapidly integrating into Europe, and authorities are already discussing a new law to restrict smoking in public places. The next expected date for introducing the innovation was set for May 1, 2018.
10. How much wine can you bring from Georgia?
The export of wine from Georgia is not limited, but, according to Russian customs rules, each adult can bring no more than 5 liters of alcohol with them from a trip. Of these, 3 liters can be imported without paying any fees, and another 2 liters - by paying a fee of 10 euros per liter.
Although Georgia is a great place to travel, the country has had turbulent periods in the last 25 years due to wars and revolutions. When planning your trip, keep an eye on
When planning a vacation by the sea, the choice of most Belarusians, as a rule, fluctuates between the classic Turkey, Egypt, and Bulgaria. At the same time, today there is an opportunity to enjoy not only the warm sand and bronze tan, but also get to know the unforgettable splendor and unique culture.
1. Mountains
Two-thirds of the country's territory is mountains: the highest peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, alpine meadows, nature reserves, and breathtaking landscapes. It is here that you can feel the full power of the Caucasus Mountains and see the famous five-thousanders.
2. Amazing photos
– just a paradise for a photographer! The cities delight the eye with the thick greenery of grass and trees; when we rise a little higher, the flowering trees around us will sparkle with delicate colors, and the snow-white ridges will be sprinkled with powdered sugar. Just a photographer's paradise! Your friends will definitely be jealous of your photos!
3. Wine
– this is a real paradise for wine connoisseurs. You will taste a variety of fine wines made from different grape varieties. During our travels we will meet winemakers and learn from them the ancient traditions of wine production. They will also show us wine cellars - maranis, some of which are centuries old. Well, those who like something stronger should try homemade chacha, made, among other things, from fruit.
4. Georgian cuisine
The food in Georgia is truly amazing! Satsivi, khachapuri, lobio, chakhokhbili, khinkali and other famous Georgian dishes can be eaten in Russia, in cafes and restaurants, however, these dishes are still tastiest here - here the water is different, and the products are the same, natural and sunny.
5. Hospitality
Hospitality, which is talked about so much. You will be greeted like family, helped to check into a hotel, and fed with the whole family.
6. Prometheus Cave
It is located near the village of Kumistavi. Discovered in the last century, today it is completely open to tourists. The rock formations and cave lake deserve your attention.
7. Mineral water
Try a healing drink. Famous mineral water with wonderful properties of Borjomi directly from the springs!
8. Tbilisi
All the wealth of monuments and attractions of Tbilisi is divided between two parts of the city. This is the historical center “Old Town” and Rustaveli Avenue. It is here that the most interesting objects of history and architecture are concentrated.
9. Temples
A very religious country, perhaps even more religious than Ukraine. Churches, no matter how big or small, new or old, have always been full of believers. Georgian Orthodoxy was founded one of the first - in the 1st century AD.
10. Ancient and beautiful architecture of Georgia
The opportunity to visit the most ancient monasteries of the Caucasus, famous Orthodox churches, the city of love Sighnaghi, the cave city of Uplistsikhe... And the capital itself - ancient and forever young Tbilisi - amazes with its unique architecture. Sung in many songs, it makes an indelible impression.
Gamarjoba to everyone! Today I’ll tell you about the weather in Georgia by month, about the holiday season at sea and in the mountains in Georgia, when it’s best to go to Sakartvelo, I’ll show you photos of the regions of Georgia at different times of the year.
You can go to Georgia when you have the opportunity and desire. The peak tourist season is July-August. As for me, the ideal time to visit Georgia is May and September, when it is warm, but not hellishly hot. You can swim in the sea; there is no snow in the mountains. There are not many tourists yet, there is a large selection of housing for rent at affordable prices. Read more about this below in the text.
When is the best time to relax at sea?
In general, the climate of Georgia is milder and hotter than in Moscow, Minsk or Kyiv.
On the coast of Adjara (Batumi, Ureki) the climate is mild subtropical. Relatively warm (but wet and chilly) winter (+7) with rain and hot summer (+27+30).
The weather in Batumi and other coastal cities can be changeable. It often rains in spring. Comfortable temperatures for swimming in the sea are from mid-June to early October. We swam at the end of May, the water was still cool at that time. You can swim in the sea until mid-October, but the water is already cold (+20C)
Holidays in the mountains
For the sake of mountain landscapes and beautiful views, it is best to go to the mountains of Georgia from May to October, when the roads are open, the snow has already melted, everything is growing and blooming, there is no rain or fog. From late October to April there may be rain, snow, fog, and ice.
It is clear that you can go to the mountains all year round. We went in February, March, May and June. Each season has its own charm and beauty.
Gudauri in winter 
Hatsvali in winter (Svaneti) Holidays in Georgia in winter
Georgia in December
- During the day in Tbilisi +5+10, at night 0+5. There is sub-zero temperature in the mountains.
- Winter in Georgia is warmer than in Minsk or Moscow, but the sun is not always there.
- If you don't know how to dress, you can read ☞. Need warm clothes.
- There may be fog and rain in the valleys, and snow in the mountains.
- There is almost no one in Batumi. Fountains don't work
Georgia in January
- January is not the best month to explore Georgia
- Winter is winter. In 2015 there was no snow in January, the winter was warm, but this is not an indicator. In 2016, there was snow in Tbilisi, and even in Batumi there were snowdrifts on the boulevard
- There may be fog and sleet in Kakheti and Batumi
- In winter, many fly to Georgia for ski resorts, which have lower prices than resorts in southern Russia
- I recommend reading it
Tbilisi center in winter 
You can drink wine and eat khinkali at any time of the year! Georgia in February
- From February to mid-March I walked around Tbilisi in a hat and winter jacket. ☞
- The temperature remained +5+7, sometimes dropped to 0 C, it snowed a couple of times, but then melted.
- There is relatively little sun in February
- There is no snow in the cities (Tbilisi, Kutaisi), but sometimes it rains. Cold and chilly
- If you are traveling in winter, look for accommodation with normal heating. There is no central heating in Georgia, so everyone warms their home as best they can. If there is no heating in your apartment or hotel, you will freeze. Read more about
- There is snow everywhere in the mountains
- Traffic is periodically blocked due to avalanches and landslides
- There are enough people at the ski resorts of Bakuryani, but there are no queues for the lift. Nobody really bothers anyone
Tbilisi February 23 
Children in Tbilisi in February wearing warm clothes 
Tbilisi in February 
Turtle Lake Tbilisi in February 
Gudauri in February Holidays in Georgia in spring
Weather in Georgia in March
- At the beginning of March, gardens bloom in western Georgia, Tbilisi blooms from the end of March
- During the day in the first half of March it was still snowing, in the second half of March it was warm during the day (+15-20), but cold at night. The weather is changeable. Today it can be +19, and tomorrow it can be sharply +7, and at night it can even drop to 0.
- Closer to the middle of the month, you could wear a dress with short sleeves, but the wind is cold, in the evenings you need a jacket
- There is snow in the mountains (from 2000 m), below that there is no more snow by the end of March. At this time you can already go to Svaneti, but it’s better later.
- At the end of March 2016, the Upper Lars crossing was closed for several days due to snowfalls in Gudauri. If you are planning a trip to Georgia via Vladikavkaz in March, keep in mind that the road may be closed on any day
- In Mestia and the surrounding area there was snow at the end of March, the temperature was minus at night, +8 during the day
- Batumi is still sleeping in March. Damp, no tourists
- In March in Tbilisi you can wear an autumn jacket, and sometimes a winter one won’t hurt.
- Follow the link ☞
Kutaisi in March 
Kutaisi in March 
Streets of Mestia (Svaneti) in March 
Svaneti in March 
Road to Svaneti in March 
When there is no sun, everything is not so rosy. Svaneti in March 
Georgian Military Road in March Weather in Georgia in April
- April is the most unpredictable month in Georgia. The temperature jumps between +6 and +25. Mostly sunny in Tbilisi, Kakheti, Borjomi, Kutaisi
- It can be damp and chilly in Batumi, especially in the evening and at night. Daytime temperature up to +12+22, cold sea +7+11
- Everything is blooming, aromas fill the city streets
- Be sure to visit in April if you're on the coast
- In the mountains +5+10, at night it drops to 0, sometimes sub-zero temperatures. Above 1800 there is still snow
- There may be snow in the mountains along the Georgian Military Road, there may also be snow near the Trinity Church in Gergeti, but the road itself is most often open in April
- You can read about it in detail - with photos about the weather in different regions, what clothes to take and what vegetables and fruits to eat at this time
Relaxing on the balcony in an apartment in Tbilisi, early April 
Batumi Botanical Garden in April
Holidays in Georgia in May
- It’s already warm in Georgia in May, but at the end of the month it can be +30
- Ideal month to visit Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Kakheti, David Gareji
- In May there is a festival of young wine
- In the Mountains at night up to +10, during the day +15+20. Kazbegi is already possible
- The beaches of Batumi, Ureki and Kobuleti are deserted. Dolphins in Batumi swim straight to the shore
- You can swim in the sea at the end of May, but the water is still cold (+18+19)
- May 26 is Independence Day of Georgia. The main public holiday of the country. On this day and the day before, Rustaveli Avenue is blocked, a parade is held, fireworks display in the evening
Kakheti in May 
Mtskheta in May 
Kakheti in May 
Georgian Military Road in May 
In the Kazbegi region in May 
In May, there was still snow in some places in the mountains along the Georgian Military Road 
Trinity Church of Gergeti in May 
Tbilisi in May Georgia in summer
Georgia in June
- A good month to visit Georgia. You can go to the mountains and to the sea.
- Tourists are actively traveling
- The sea in Adjara and Guria is already warm. At the beginning of June +20C, in the middle of the month +21+23C, by the end of June it warms up to +24
- From mid-June the beaches are filled with people. There are no people yet in early June
- In Batumi during the day +25+29, at night +15+19. In Kakheti the temperature is +30, in Tbilisi it has also been hot since the beginning of June
- The temperature in the mountains is comfortable (+25), but it is better to conquer peaks above 3-4000 meters (Kazbek, Tetnuld) in July
Lake Lopota in Kakheti in June 
Batumi in June 
Beaches near the Batumi Botanical Garden at the end of May 
Batumi beach in early June. In July and August there is no place for apples to fall Holidays in July-August
- Peak season
- The cities are very hot and stuffy (+32+36), even a bit hot in the mountains
- tiring and uncomfortable, especially during the day
- In August it is better to go to the mountains or to the sea. I recommend reading the article about the features - it answers most questions about beaches, cleanliness of the sea, where it is better to go with children, etc.
- If you decide to visit David Gareji, then go early in the morning (at 7 am) so that you can leave there by noon. Bring water and a snack with you.
- It is better not to visit David Gareji and Vashlovani during the day in July-August. Maybe under 40 - evaporate in the desert
- Many tourists in Tbilisi, Svaneti, Batumi, Kakheti, on the Georgian Military Road
- It is better to book accommodation in advance, especially if you need something on a budget. You can read the link,
- There are a lot of people on the beaches
- If you want to find a secluded place for a tent on the coast, then in July or August it makes sense to look for such a place in the north of Kobuleti, in the villages of Shekvetili or Grigoleti, on the wild beaches of Tsikhisdziri.
- An abundance of fresh vegetables and fruits at low prices (buy at the markets and bargain!)
- If you are planning to rent an apartment, read other people's reviews and rent one with air conditioning or high ceilings
Batumi in summer 
Batumi in summer My dear friend Anna Romanova, who was vacationing in Batumi in the summer, kindly shared a photo of the beaches of Batumi in the second half of August:
There may be waves in the sea 
There are a lot of empty sun loungers. People come with their own towels and lie down for free. 
The beach is big, there is a lot of space. People are located along the edge of the sea. 
There are a lot of people closer to the shore Georgia in September
- The weather in Georgia in September is simply perfect (+25+27)
- The grapes ripen in September. It is collected from the beginning of September to October 10
- If you are traveling in September, be sure to leave at least a couple of days for the grape harvest.
- Fresh grape juice and churchkhela appear
- Watermelons, tomatoes, tangerines, hazelnuts are available in abundance
- It is comfortable to swim in the sea until the end of September - beginning of October (water +25C)
- Comfortable temperature for sightseeing (not as damn hot as in summer)
- It's warm in the mountains (+20+23)
- The tourist season is on the decline, so they are decreasing
If you are thinking about going to Georgia in the fall, I recommend reading my article about - there I talk in detail with photos about the weather and features of recreation and living on the Black Sea coast of Georgia in the fall, as well as about the weather in Tbilisi and Mtskheta.
Deserted beach in Gonio in September 
Persimmons are ripening in Adjara 
Ureki at the end of September. There are few people on the beach Georgia in October
- In October the weather starts to change
- In the first half of the month you can still swim in the sea. In 2015, people swam in the sea in Batumi until October 30th. The air is warm (+25), the water is cool (+20, drops to +16 by the end of the month)
- In the Batumi area the temperature is +23+25C, and it rains more often. At night the temperature drops to +10+13
- Because of the rains, apartments in Batumi become damp. You have to turn on the heating.
- In Adjara, golden autumn is just beginning in the second half of October
- If you want to catch the grape harvest in Kakheti, you need to go before the 20th of October
- In the mountains it can be +8+10, frost at night
- There is a golden autumn in Svaneti in October (until the end of October)
- At the end of October there will most likely be no snow below 2000 m, but there may be fog and rain
- More about ours (weather, water temperature, what to do)
October 27 on the beach in Batumi 
Tsikhisdziri (Adjara) in mid-October. Everything green, +25
Georgia in November
- In the mountains there is a high probability of fog, rain, hail and snow
- On the Cross Pass (on the road to Kazbegi) there may be snow and ice already at the beginning of the month.
- Temperatures can drop to -5C
- If you go to the mountains for landscapes and colors, then it is better to do it in September and October. There will be no more colors in November.
- If you want to see golden autumn in the mountains, then go to Adjara - there it lasts until the end of November
- It may rain in Batumi, +18+20
- In Tbilisi up to +15+20, sunny. At night the temperature can drop to +3+5. If you rent a home, look for an apartment with heating. We filmed in November - it was warm.
- More about ours (air temperature, rain, what to do)
Tbilisi at the end of November 
Adjara in November - there’s no smell of autumn in the valleys 
In November it rains often in Batumi and the sea is stormy 
It's golden autumn in mid-November in Adjara Conclusion
Thus, the weather in Georgia (and especially in Adjara), as elsewhere, is unpredictable. For example, in 2011 there was no snow in the mountains, and in 2015 it snowed even in Batumi in March, when the gardens in Tbilisi were already blooming.
The summer of 2015 and summer of 2016 were rainy in Adjara, but in the fall it was hot and the sun shone more often. The winter of 2016 became unusually cold and snowy for Batumi; in the spring the weather was also changeable.
The ideal time for a seaside holiday is June and September. There are a lot of people in July and August, but the sea is warm.
It is better to go to the mountains in the Kazbegi region and to Svaneti for the sake of beautiful scenery and camping with a tent from May to mid-October (golden autumn). If you want to see golden autumn in November, then go to the highlands of Adjara.
In winter, the Georgian Military Road may be closed due to avalanches and landslides. Take this fact into account and check the weather on the Georgian Military Road on the day of your trip. Also in winter, the minibus to Mestia (Svaneti) may be canceled.
You can explore Tbilisi at any time of the year, but in July and August it is very hot and stuffy, and in December and January it can rain or snow.
I recommend reading my article about how and in which areas it is more convenient to live. The site I used during my travels to the Caucasus: link to apartments in Georgia
Be sure to read my articles:
Dear travelers and vacationers! This article is for informational purposes only and describes historical weather. Based on this data, you can roughly imagine what the weather will be like in different regions of Georgia during your trip.
I am not involved in weather forecasting for a specific date.
Have a nice weather! Sincerely,
For many tourists visiting, the most attractive part of the country is, of course, its rather long coastline. The choice is so great that novice travelers often get lost and cannot immediately decide on a particularly profitable and interesting option.
It’s not surprising, because everyone has their own, unique and inimitable elements of relaxation. So, for example, a small one borders on Turkey and from it it is most convenient to travel from Georgia “abroad” with clothes, there is something to entertain even the most demanding tourists, and tiny Ureki will help treat some diseases in adults and children.
The sea, despite the fact that it washes all resorts equally, also has different physical properties, including temperature. We will talk more about this and more in the article.
What is the sea like in Georgia?
It can be useful: If you are thinking of taking your kids with you, be sure to bring them comfortable slippers.
On the Batumi beach, as well as on the beach in the village of Sarpi, there are paid changing cabins. Not everyone, however, uses them.
Along the beaches there are changing cabins, fresh showers, and clean toilets. It is worth noting that the indicated benefits of civilization in Batumi, for example, are paid. To rinse off you have to pay 1 lari GEORGIAN GEL RATE:
1 lari = 0.33 euros;
1 lari = 0.38 dollars;
1 lari = 25.22 rubles;
1 lari = 10.64 hryvnia;
1 lari = 0.85 Belarusian rubles.
, change clothes - 50 tetri GEORGIAN GEL RATE:
0.5 lari = 0.17 euros;
0.5 lari = 0.19 dollars;
0.5 lari = 12.61 rubles;
0.5 lari = 5.32 hryvnia;
0.5 lari = 0.43 Belarusian rubles.
Exchange rates and prices may not be accurate.. But since the waters of the Black Sea are not very salty, you can take a shower upon returning to your room or apartment (especially if you live nearby), and change clothes simply by wrapping yourself in a towel.
Sea water temperature in Georgia
Sea water off the coast of Georgia during the season can reach a pleasant +27 °C (according to weather forecasts). In fact, the temperature usually fluctuates somewhere around a comfortable +25 °C. From time to time, the Black Sea experiences cold currents or storms. In the latter case, tourists have to go to or while away the time having fun in local establishments. Some do not pay attention to the slightly cooled water and continue swimming.
The sea will seem warmest to tourists who choose the month of August for their vacation. The water has already warmed up enough, and the air temperature does not scorch due to its proximity to the water, as a result of which there is no stuffiness.
In winter, the sea in Georgia does not freeze. The water temperature rarely drops below +10 °C.
Beaches of Georgia
The coastal strip of Georgia from the border village of Sarpi to the beginning of Abkhazia occupies approximately 105 km. There are several popular resorts with good beaches along this stretch. Most of them are large or small pebbles, but there are also some sandy ones. Wild beaches can also be found, but they are few and inconvenient to get to. To get a little sense of the diversity of the coastal zone, let us briefly describe the popular Georgian resorts.
There is a convenient bike path along the Batumi embankment, there are benches and a convenient descent to the sea. Recreation and entertainment at sea in Georgia
On popular beaches in Georgia, such as in Batumi, there is always more than enough. The most unusual, perhaps, include: parachute riding, gliding and flyboarding. And in the village of Kvariati, those who want to see the beauty of the underwater depths can contact a specialized diving center. A small note: in small villages, there is nothing like this even close. You will most likely be bored in them.
Where can you go from Georgia and most importantly what?
From Georgia you can organize a short trip to other neighboring countries, such as Turkey, Azerbaijan and Armenia. It’s a little problematic, but also possible, to go to Abkhazia. Some travel agencies offer organized excursions to the listed countries, but most likely it will be too expensive and uninteresting. To travel to Turkey (to pick up things), citizens of the Russian Federation and Ukrainians only need to have a valid passport. Every day minibuses run from Batumi. After crossing the border, you need to take a bus to the cities of Hopa, Kemalpasa or the Instanbul Bazaar shopping center.
Buses from Batumi take tourists straight to the end of the village of Sarpi, to the border with Turkey. Travelers from Georgia to Azerbaijan and Armenia also need a foreign passport. The most convenient way to get there is by train from Tbilisi. And since 2017, Armenia has been accepting tourists from the Russian Federation even with internal passports.
But to travel to Abkhazia from Georgia you will need an official entry permit and an Abkhaz visa. To do this, you need to fill out an electronic form on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Abkhazia, send a photocopy of your passport and wait for the result within 5 days. Only with a printed permit and international passport is it worth going to the border (checkpoint near the bridge over the Inguri River). Then, within 3 working days after entry, everyone tourists need to go with a confirmed permit to the consular department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Abkhazia in Sukhumi and receive the visa itself. Citizens of the Russian Federation and CIS countries are issued it free of charge, but other foreigners will need to pay a visa fee of 660 rubles. Important Feature: You definitely need to return back through the same Inguri checkpoint if you do not want to become persona non grata in Georgia.
Alina's review
Personally, I really liked the Georgian beaches, it was especially pleasant to relax near the Batumi Botanical Garden, in the Cape Verde area. The water seemed amazingly warm and clean, and the beach was almost deserted.
Another pleasant surprise was swimming in the Zhinvali reservoir - a wonderful place for tourists. It is full of amazing places and magnificent views. The water has time to warm up much better than in the sea, and its color fascinates and delights. Swimming in it is really pleasant and comfortable.
Review by Victor
To be honest, the sea is far from the main reason why you should go to Georgia. The beaches here are pebbly. The water will be cleaner than in the version with sand, but going into the sea is not very pleasant, and even difficult for girls.
Georgian resorts do not have particularly clean beaches. Of course, they clean up there, but since tourists are mainly from the CIS, garbage still comes across. But there is also a positive side. Even in Batumi, during the peak tourist season, the beaches are not crowded. There are few tourists. At any time you can find a great place at the very edge of the water.
As a result, I wouldn’t go to Georgia just for the sea, but lying on the beach here after a tiring excursion can be very pleasant.
Resorts and sea of Georgia on the map
On the map we have marked all the resorts listed in the article (so that you can correctly navigate your vacation).
