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Attractions: tours & sightseeing, from food to movies & more, find the perfect atlanta tour for you.

In Atlanta, there is plenty to see and do, and no better way to experience it than with an expert. If you’re on a tight schedule and don’t want to miss a minute of all that Atlanta has to offer, try a city tour. Looking to get an in-depth look at one of Atlanta’s attractions or neighborhoods? Check out a behind-the-scenes or VIP tour. Want to get a glimpse at Atlanta’s blossoming film and television scene? Hop on a movie tour. No matter how you want to experience Atlanta, there is a perfect tour for you. Here are the best tours for seeing Atlanta up close.

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Black-Owned

ATL tours is a multi-service tour provider that features 10 different types of tours that…

ATL-Cruzers Electric Car & Segway Tours

Experience the best of Atlanta with ATL-Cruzers. Our 90 minute electric car tour, 2.5 hour…

Atlanta Preservation Center

The Atlanta Preservation Center is the agency for coordination, knowledge, research and advocacy for preservation…

BiteLines Atlanta Food Tours

Woman-owned.

Discover Atlanta's food scene on a Food Tour of the Atlanta BeltLine, the city's most…

Chick-fil-A Backstage Tour

The Chick-fil-A Backstage Tour is a rollicking journey through the history of the number one…

Funny Bus Atlanta

The Funny Bus is a 90-min sightseeing tour of metro Atlanta's most historic sites with…

History Afoot Atlanta

Are you ready to explore Atlanta? And explore the stories of the people who lived…

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Located in the heart of Atlanta, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium is home to the NFL's Atlanta…

The Sweeney Zone

The Sweeney Zone and the Shop ‘Till You Drop in partnership with Shop the Mart…

Cobb | Cumberland

Truist Park at The Battery Atlanta

Truist Park, the home of the Atlanta Braves Baseball Club, is a state-of-the-art ballpark centered…

Unexpected Atlanta Tours

Black-owned, woman-owned.

Atlanta Food Walks offers fun and delicious food tours for your small and large groups….

Wren’s Nest

The Wren’s Nest is the historic home of journalist Joel Chandler Harris. The Harris family…

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Get to know Atlanta, and discover the best things to do around the city.

Pet-Friendly Things To Do in Atlanta

Top 13 things to do for adult birthday parties in atlanta, off the wall interview with graffiti artist dr. dax, the best whiskey bars in atlanta, relax and rejuvenate: your ultimate atlanta wellness itinerary, unite and conquer: atlanta united fc.

Events define Atlanta like nothing else, warmly welcoming visitors to the city year-round. Discover events in Atlanta.

Playtime Pals!

Rosé the day away on july 4th at two urban licks, rnb mimosa festival.

Multiple dates until 07/20/2024

Barefoot in the Park – On Stage July 11 – 21

Meetup 050: creative meetup.

7/18/24 – 7/21/24

8th Annual Brown Girls Do Gymnastics Conference

Explore Georgia Tours

Embark on unforgettable georgia tours and witness the breathtaking beauty of this mesmerizing country with explore georgia tours..

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Georgia

69 fully guided tour packages in georgia with 171 reviews.

In-depth Cultural Family Christmas & New Year +1

All Georgia tour: from the Highlands to the Sea

"Hotels were all excellent and we saw some amazing places and met some wonderful people along the way." Fiona, traveled in May 2024

• 5% deposit on some dates

In-depth Cultural Family

6 Day Explore Georgia Along the Great Silk Road

"Good holiday package tours with nice guide cum driver. Prompt communications and humane approach."

Explorer Active Family

Georgia Adventure

"I traveled independently in Georgia and found it cheap and easy to eat great food, stay in really good accommodation." Sandra, traveled in September 2019

Taste Of Georgia

"I can't imagine any better version of my vacation there, love each moment of it." Lous, traveled in June 2023

7 Day Visit Georgia

"Was all very good. Would recommend it to others." Mark, traveled in September 2019

Active Christmas & New Year +1

Georgia GRAND Tour

"I loved everithing! This company and Tatia are always ready to make your trip special and unforgettably happy!" Jessica, traveled in August 2019

Explorer Family Christmas & New Year +1

Five-day vacation in Tbilisi

Educational Family Christmas & New Year +1

Around Georgia within 8 days

Active Family Christmas & New Year +1

Private adventure journey to Georgia

"This is the best trip I have ever had in my life! The destinations were selected for a reason, is to surprise me with beauty of nature or of traditions." Bandar, traveled in August 2021

Explorer Hiking & Trekking Wine tasting +1

Georgia and the Caucasus

"The range of the itinerary really impressed me. I know it would have taken me weeks to cover a visit as varied as this." Catherine, traveled in September 2022

• €100 deposit on some dates

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Georgia

This tour of Georgia exceeded all expectations and more. Paata the guide was very efficient, informative, knowledgeable and well spoken. I would highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting to see the beauty and history of Georgia.

Our 6 day 5 night tour was guided by Mr Tarik Taliel. He was an excellent driver using a spacious, comfortable vehicle. The first day was spent touring Tbilisi and close surrounds. He introduced us to many important sights that we had not discovered during 4 days wandering the city with a tourist map. We then travelled to Kutaisi where we were introduced to the surrounding landscapes, monasteries, it’s histories and cultures. On the final day we visited wine growing areas. The accommodations were typical 3 star hotels serving substantial breakfasts. I would recommend this tour and particularly its guide. He had an extensive experience and understanding of Georgian heritage and its various cultures combined with the capacity to convey this to our small group in excellent English.

A great 11 day intro to the republic of georgia including beautiful mountain views, a modern city of Batumi, a historical walk through Tbilisi, and wonderful meals with Georgian hospitality. I couldn't ask for a better weather for the trip. The guide Zurab was full of energy, super fun, and so informative on Georgian culture. He helped me out regarding booking a taxi, getting a sim card and providing ideas during free time. It was a relaxed trip into such an untouristed country with a European flair with old churches and great food. I really wished we had more than a day to explore Ushguli...that's a super cool old timey* place to explore. Long travel days, but lots of unexpected surprises along the way. Highly recommend!!!

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• Tbilisi City Tour

Tbilisi City Tour 1 Day | Ethnographic museum, Turtle lake, Metekhi church, Narikala fortress, Sulphur baths district, Central Mosque, Anchiskhati Church, Bridge of Peace and etc.

Our cultural one-day Tbilisi city tour is an amazing opportunity for those who are eager to find out as much as possible about Tbilisi and Georgia, but have only one day for that. The tour schedule designed in the way that guests of the capital can get a wholesome impression not only about the capital of Georgia and its history, but also to get an insight into nature, traditions and lifestyle across the country. This one-day Tbilisi tour features all must-see sights from centuries old church and fortress to contemporary symbols of the city. By the end of the tour, one can definitely say “I’ve been to the place!”.

Available: everyday, except Monday

Tour itinerary:

Our guide and driver will meet you at your hotel for a sightseeing tour in Tbilisi . Start at Holy Trinity cathedral , one of the largest orthodox cathedrals in the world. Continue to Metekhi church and the monument to Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of Tbilisi. Take cable car to Narikala Fortress to enjoy breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Walk down to the district of Sulphur bath houses passing by the only mosque in Tbilisi . Stroll through the Sharden area full of narrow streets with cozy cafés, wine tasting bars, souvenir shops, and breathe in the living past. Visit Sioni Cathedral , Anchiskhati Basilica , and the clock tower of famous Rezo Gabriadze Theatre . Cross the Bridge of Peace  leading to Rike Park and head to Open Air Museum of Ethnography , a miniature model of Georgia*. Transfer to hotel.

Duration:  5-7 hours

*Ethnography Museum can be substituted with National Museum of Georgia famous for its archeological exhibits, or Georgian National Gallery where works of famous Georgian artist Pirosmani are kept.

Price includes:

• Guided sightseeing tour;
• Entrance fees to all the sights as per itinerary;
• Personal transport throughout the tour;
• Cable car ride to Narikala fortress.

Prices, per person

Tour request.

The tour is private with your personal guide. There will be no other people joining the tour. Our guides will follow your own pace. The starting time of the tour is up to you and may vary from 09.00 am to 16.00 pm. We are happy to offer this tour for air/train passengers too. Our guide will meet you at the arrival station.

Tbilisi City Tour Reviews

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HISTORIC ATHENS TOURS

Take a tour of Athens, Georgia!  The Historic Athens Welcome Center provides a full range of tour and transportation services for individuals and groups. 

Visit the Historic Athens Tours website for downloadable self-guided tours and more information on reserving a guided tour of Athens, described below: 

Athens Heritage Tour:                                                 

Historic Athens guided tours depart daily from the  Historic Athens Welcome Center,  downtown on E. Dougherty St. Choose from a morning walking tour, or an afternoon driving tour. Or why choose; select both! Tours begin and end at the Historic Athens Welcome Center, where free parking is provided.  Reservations are required.

Dig deeper into what makes Athens  THE  Classic City of the South as Classic City Tours introduces you to this vibrant mecca of the arts, culture and classic Southern living.  Begin your tour inside Athens’ oldest surviving residence – the home to two University Presidents – and learn how this great college town was birthed in the up-country that was once Native American territory. 

Walking Tour, 10:30 AM daily:  

Stroll through Historic Downtown Athens and UGA North Campus with a local, knowledgeable tour guide and learn about the history of the Classic City. Tours run rain or shine. 90 minutes. $15 per person.

Driving Tour, 1 PM daily: 

You'll begin your tour inside Athens’ oldest surviving residence and learn how this great college town began in the up-country that was once Native American territory. Then board the bus for an overview of magnificent pre-Civil War homes and historic neighborhoods. See our eclectic Downtown, UGA campus, the Double-Barreled Cannon, and the Cobbham and Milledge Avenue historic districts. Tours run rain or shine. 90 minutes. $20 per person.

Reservations:  Purchase tickets at www.athenswelcomecenter.com/tours . Advance booking is highly recommended, as it is the only way to guarantee your spot on a tour. This is important to ensure you are not disappointed in the event you arrive to a tour that is already at capacity. In the event you choose to pay on site without a reservation, you may do so only if a tour is not full.          Groups: Please call 706-353-1820 to inquire about group rates.  

Other Historic Athens Tour Services: 

Shuttle services                                                 .

Professional shuttle service on the tour bus is available for weddings, events, meetings, and conferences.   Call for availability and details.

Custom Group Tour                                                      

Reserve the Shuttle for your group of up to 14. An expert local tour guide will take you on a guided tour of Athens. Allow one-hour for the Athens Heritage driving tour or spend all day in Athens and craft a special itinerary for your group. Other specialty and custom tours are available and a one-hour bus tour can be combined with step-off visits to local house museums, the State Botanical Garden, Georgia Museum of Art, and other local attractions. Call for availability and details.

Specialty Tours and Corporate Tours                          

Yes, you can craft a memorable experience for your family reunion, wedding guests, meeting or conference. There are many options: Choose a walking tour of historic downtown and the UGA North Campus, and tours of Athens Music History, African-American History, Athens arts, and gardens. Any tour can be combined with visits to a number of local museums and attractions. Ask about seasonal tours such as the Athens History & Hauntings Tour.

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Perfect Georgia Itinerary 5 Days – Plan A Trip To Georgia

Georgia country is truly a worth visiting country with welcoming and hospitable people. Nowadays, Georgia is gaining popularity amongst tourists, so presenting you Georgia Itinerary 5 Days – Plan a trip to Georgia. Georgia has many places with history, culture, pilgrimages, natural landscapes, gastronomic zones, and travelers searching for the perfect Georgia Itinerary . I am bringing the combination of all places, presenting you Georgia Itinerary 5 days. 

Click here to book a reliable tour guide cum Driver with a private car in Georgia .

Also, you would know why to visit Georgia , and it should be on your bucket list.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK HOTELS IN TBILISI – COMPLETE THE TBILISI HOTELS GUIDE

Georgia Itinerary 5 Days – Useful Tips

Check below for useful and handy information about Georgia itinerary 5 days and below that detailed day-wise itinerary.

International Airport   ✈️

Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi   

Georgian Lari, US Dollars are also accepted at many places. Many currency exchanges exist in Tbilisi’s old Historic town, so you can easily exchange your USD from here. So take US Dollars to Georgia instead of Georgian currency and daily you can have exchange at better rates in Tbilisi.

Visa Process – 🛂

• For UAE residents , it is a visa on Arrival. You need to show your return tickets, hotel booking confirmations, and Travel Insurance documents to get a Georgia visa stamp on your passport.
• For most of Middle East countries , if you are a resident, then you get Visa On Arrival for Georgia.
• For other nationalities  – Apply E-Visa online , and very quickly, you get Georgia visa.

Best Time to Visit –  ❅ ❆ ϟ ☁ ☂ ☼ ☽ ☾

• Spring to Summer for enjoying outdoor nature and full blooms, bathing in rivers, springs, or waterfalls.  
• Winter for affordable snow adventure sports.
• Autumn for witnessing stunning forest colors.

Food Guide 😋

Georgian cuisine is a must-try. You get a lot wide vegetarian varieties in Georgian cuisine too. Read more about vegetarian-friendly Georgia cuisine .

Hotels – Where to Stay 🏨

Read my Detailed Guide on Hotels in Tbilisi with location maps, the proximity of tourist attractions, and budget

There are many tourist attractions near Tbilisi, so better to book hotels in Tbilisi and go for day trips nearby.  Click here to check my hotel in Tbilisi .

• Book affordable rental cars from Tbilisi , Georgia.

If your trip is longer than five days and you consider going to Batumi and Kutaisi, book hotels at Batumi and in-between places.

So mainly you are booking hotels in Tbilisi. But as Kazbegi is the jewel of Georgia, one night stay in Kazbegi is also worth it. So for five day Georgia tour, you would book hotels in Tbilisi and Kazbegi.

Tbilisi International Airport to Hotel – If you have booked a local tour guide, there is a culture in Georgia to pick up and drop off from the airport with tour guide services. You can request your hotel to arrange pick-up if you have not booked. Pick-up from the airport to the hotel is not very expensive in Georgia; sometimes, they do it for free.

Georgia Itinerary 5 Days – Plan a trip to Georgia 

Tbilisi being an international airport in Georgia, is well-connected with many countries. So it is always advisable to land in Tbilisi and take day trips from Tbilisi. 

DAY 1 –  Georgia Itinerary 5 Days

Kakheti winery tour & signahi love city tour.

Discover Sighnaghi, the enchanting city of love, with its wonderful Alazani Valley. Explore the wine-producing region of Georgia, Kakheti. Taste Georgian wine, unlike any other wine in the world. A wine tour in Georgia is a must-do on trip to Georgia. Wine tour in Georgia tops the list of Georgia tourist attractions. Book Khareba Wine tours in Georgia with a Signaghi day trip from Tbilisi .

Tour type  – Gastronomic, Nature

HIGHLIGHTS OF TOUR 

• Stopover at Bodbe Monastery – burial place of Saint Nino. A Saint for Georgians who converted their religion to Christianity.
• Try your hand at baking Georgian bread, cheese, and Chacha.
• Wander around ‘Love City,’ Sighnaghi – discover” The Great Wall of Georgia.”
• Explore the most extensive wine cellar in Georgia, Winery Khareba . 

GEORGIA ITINERARY 5 DAYS – VIDEO TOUR

DAY 2 –  Georgia Itinerary 5 Days

Gori caves & borjormi tour or gori caves & mtskehta city tour .

Discover one of the most historical places of Georgia, including the ancient rock complex of Uplistsikhe , the Stalin Museum, and 2 UNESCO heritage sites, Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, in the old capital of Georgia, Mtskheta. A perfect day trip from Tbilisi, Georgia, for history lovers. Click here to book full day Tbilisi city tour and Mtskheta attractions tour. 

Tour type  – Historical & Religious 

HIGHLIGHTS OF TOUR  – 

• Cathedral of Georgia, Svetitskhoveli – 3rd century BC
• Jvari Monastery – 6th-century Georgian Orthodox monastery
• Aerial view of the confluence of the rivers Aragvi and Mtkvari
• Discover Uplistsikhe cave town – Iron age antique rock-hewn town 
• Explore Gori and the Museum of Stalin – the birthplace of Soviet Union leader.

You can also do a Gori caves tour with a Borjomi sulfur bath tour. If time permits, you can proceed to the Rabati Castle tour too.

Visit Rabati Castle , a medieval castle complex that dates back to the 13th century. Relax in the healing town of Georgia – Borjomi, with sulfur baths.

Tour type  – Historical, Nature, Healing wellness

DAY 3 –  Georgia Itinerary 5 Days

Ananuri, gudauri & kazbegi (overnight stay at kazbegi).

Click here to Kazbegi trip from Tbilisi . Explore the Caucasus hilltop town Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church, surrounded by magical mountain peaks and stunning valleys. With stopovers in between at the spectacular slopes of Gudauri and the historical Ananuri Fortress

CLICK TO COMPLETE GUIDE ON THINGS TO DO IN KAZBEGI

This trip should be a must in your Georgia itinerary. 

Tour type  – Nature, historical and religious 

CLICK TO BOOK HOTELS IN KAZBEGI, GEORGIA

• Take a dip in the Ananuri river nearby.

DAY 4 –  Georgia Itinerary 5 Days

Return from kazbegi via mtskheta,.

Explore Kazbegi’s nearby hilltops and waterfalls while returning. And on return from Kazbegi to Tbilisi you can cover Mtskheta city tour in between.

DAY 5 –   Georgia Itinerary 5 Days

Tbilisi city tour.

Click here to know about the detailed guide on Tbilisi attractions and things to do on the city tour .

Tbilisi, Georgia’s largest and capital city (country) , is located in Eurasia. This strategic location of Tbilisi is also known as the “Balcony of Europe” –  a perfect blend of European and Asian cultures.  A little hidden gem in Eurasia, Tbilisi is a journey to hospitality and culture.  

So now you get the perfect Georgia Itinerary 5 days which covers nature, food destinations, culture, religious places, and historical places.

As Georgia has many places to visit, you can extend your trip to Batumi, Kutaisi, Mestia, and Ushugui regions. But as these places are far from Tbilisi, you need more days to cover all of these. For these places, 10 to 12 days are sufficient.

AZERBAIJAN TRAVEL VIDEO – TOUR ITINERARY

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) – Georgia Itinerary 

• Is Georgia worth visiting with kids?

Ans. Yes , Georgia is a very much kids friendly country. You will find many exciting gardens, rivers or lakesides, and horse riding for kids here.

• Is Georgia safe?

Ans. Georgia is pretty safe due to the lovable and peaceful locals. It would be best to have simple precautions like what you take in a new place.

• Do we get vegetarian food in Georgia?

Ans. Yes, we get delicious Georgian cuisine with many vegetarian varieties. You can read my article on Georgia vegetarian cuisine.

•   Is Georgia expensive or affordable?

Ans. Yes, very much. As compared to western Europe, Georgia is excellent on pockets. Food is relatively cheap, and even local guided tours. You find decent food in a good restaurant at 40 to 50 USD for a family of 4. One day locally guided trip costs you around 100 USD with car, gas, and conducted services included. Even tourist attractions don’t have considerable fees to enter. You get all types of budget hotels here in Tbilisi. Local transport is very cheap to visit nearby cities.

• How are Georgian people or locals?

Ans. Georgia is a top-rated destination nowadays, as per many famous travel websites. Georgians are amiable people; here you will find all warmth, love, and hospitality. People here welcome tourists like friends or family members. That is why Georgia is the most desired destination nowadays.

I hope you will find Georgia Itinerary 5 Days – Plan A Trip To Georgia article handy and helpful. So please save this Georgia travel guide as you know now worth visiting Georgia tourist attractions. 

I have written a lot on Georgia Itinerary or Georgia travel planner – so read more about specific places in Georgia at 

GEORGIA USEFUL READS – Plan a Trip to Georgia

• Georgia in Summers- COME AND PAMPER YOUR SOUL
• Discover Georgia in Winters
• Highlights of Tbilisi SightSeeing Attractions – Things to do in Tbilisi
• Full Guide on Georgia.

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DISCLAIMER  – The content of the blog is solely my views of a place or a thing. This is not to offend any class, religion, ethnicity, or nation. My views can change from time to time. This blog may contain some advertisements or links to commercial products and for that, this site is not responsible after you click those advertisements.  

We are the independent owner of this site and the views expressed in this are our own. All photographs are owned by me.  There can be slight differences in distances, locations, or some details for which I (owner) am not responsible.  This post may contain some affiliate links, which means at no additional cost to you.  I will earn if you will click through affiliates and make a purchase

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15 Best Places to Visit in Georgia — From Charming Mountain Towns to Sandy Beaches

The best places to visit in Georgia range from bustling college towns to barrier islands with wild horses and unspoiled beaches.

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While the state of Georgia may be synonymous with peaches and resounding chants of “Go Dawgs,” it’s also a region filled with history, charming small towns , bustling cities, and an incredible amount of biodiversity. There’s a high chance you’ve found yourself passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport — it is the busiest airport in the world , after all — but you’ll need to make your way outside of the terminals in order to experience the quaint bookstores of Savannah and the adrenaline-pumping hikes in Tallulah Gorge. During the hot, muggy summer months, nothing beats a dip in Lake Oconee or an oceanfront breeze on Tybee Island . 

With so many amazing places within Georgia’s nearly 60,000 square miles, it can be hard to narrow down your must-see list — so we did it for you. From the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains to the picturesque beaches of the Golden Isles, here are the best places to visit in Georgia.

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Famous for its highly walkable Historic Landmark District, Savannah is one of those rare cities that’s just as beautiful in person as it is in stylized, perfectly lit pictures. Its cobbled streets, tree-lined squares and parks, and gorgeous 18th and 19th-century buildings make it one of the South’s most photogenic cities — not to mention, its culinary scene is one of the best in the region. Be sure to grab an espresso from The Paris Market Cafe , pick up a new novel from E Shaver Booksellers , go on a ghost tour , and tuck into a meal at Chef Mashama Bailey’s The Grey .

You don’t need to be a die-hard University of Georgia fan to visit Athens, although we wouldn’t recommend going during football season if you’re rooting for the other team. Outside of sports, the college town has a lively music scene, numerous craft breweries, and a variety of family-friendly activities, including the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and Bear Hollow Zoo .

Lake Oconee

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A boat day is the perfect antidote to Georgia’s humid summers, and you’ll find plenty of respite from the oppressive heat on Lake Oconee. Halfway between Atlanta and Augusta, the man-made lake offers opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, and water sports. It’s also the backdrop for the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee , which hosts the Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival every year.

Cumberland Island

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Accessible only by ferry or boat (although public docking is temporarily prohibited), Cumberland Island is one of the most majestic places on the East Coast . Wild horses, historic ruins, long stretches of untouched beaches, marshes, and maritime forests can be found on the 9,800 acres of Congressionally designated wilderness. Its remoteness and sheer beauty were, no doubt, two of the reasons it served as John F. Kennedy, Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s wedding locale in 1996.

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It’ll take more than just one trip to hit all of Atlanta’s hot spots, so return visits are recommended if you want to see everything the capital city has to offer. First-timers, however, should make sure to reserve tickets to the Georgia Aquarium (the largest aquarium in the United States), have a meal at Ponce City Market , check out a Braves game at Truist Park, and stop by the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park , which includes the home where the Civil Rights leader was born, the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the resting place of both King and his wife, Coretta Scott King.

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You’ll only need to drive about an hour north of Atlanta to make it to Dahlonega, the site of America’s first gold rush and the setting of quite a few Christmas movies . The small town lies in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its charm leaks into every aspect of the area — from its art galleries and boutiques to its various wineries and vineyards. Dahlonega is also in the heart of Georgia’s wine country, boasting incredible spots like Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery , Wolf Mountain , and Montaluce Winery & Restaurant .

Each of Georgia’s Golden Isles has a distinct personality, and Sea Island is, by far, the grandest of the four. Resort reservations are required to get past the gates (unless you’re a Sea Island Club member), but once you do, you’ll find complete paradise. The Cloister at Sea Island is probably the most recognizable sight on the 5-mile-long island, but there are also pristine beaches, championship golf courses, a tennis club, and a world-class clay shooting school.

Jekyll Island

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In the winter months of the Industrial Age, the Rockefellers, Morgans, and Vanderbilts (among other wealthy families) ventured to Jekyll Island . Today, its draw is still strong, thanks to its stunning landscape, culinary feats, and concerted effort to preserve the land. Whether you’re staying at the storied Jekyll Island Club Resort or pitching a tent at the Jekyll Island Campground , the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the otherworldly Driftwood Beach deserve spots on your itinerary.

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When the mountains are calling, a trip to Blue Ridge, Georgia just might be the answer. Like many mountain towns, Blue Ridge has a thriving arts scene as well as seemingly endless outdoor activities. If you’d prefer to explore the area by train, hop on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway at the historic depot downtown for an out-and-back adventure along the Toccoa River.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

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Georgia’s mountains refuse to be overshadowed by its spectacular beaches, so it’s no wonder millions of travelers make their way to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest every year. Encompassing nearly 867,00 acres, the national forest is home to miles of freshwater streams and rivers, waterfalls, numerous campgrounds, and plenty of space to hike and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Every spring, fans of the “greatest game ever played” descend upon the city of Augusta and, more specifically, the Augusta National Golf Club. Washing down one of the famous pimento cheese sandwiches with an Azalea cocktail is basically a requirement of attending the Masters, but you can also find quintessential Southern cuisine outside of the golf club. Frog Hollow Tavern , Beck’s , and Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar frequently make the “best of” Augusta restaurant lists.

Tybee Island

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A 20-minute drive will take you from Savannah to Tybee Island, one of the best beach towns in the South . Here, you’ll find miles of bike-friendly beaches, unparalleled sunsets, and Georgia’s tallest (and oldest) lighthouse. House rentals are easy to find, but if you’re just visiting for the weekend, book a room at the historic, recently renovated 17th Street Inn .

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Tallulah Gorge State Park is rife with heart-pumping activities, including hiking along the two-mile Tallulah Gorge. One of the most popular trails includes a staircase descent to an 80-foot suspension bridge crossing over the Tallulah River. If you’re there in the autumn, your views of the powerful river and waterfalls will be accented by the colorful foliage that covers the region.

25 miles of shoreline outline Georgia’s Lake Rabun, an isolated body of water surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. While the phrase “stepping back in time” may be clichéd, it’s also accurate — especially if you take into account the flotilla of vintage wooden boats that traverse the lake.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

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Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is located in the southeastern corner of Georgia, just north of Florida. The 680-square-mile wilderness can be explored by foot or by boat (guests can rent canoes and kayaks), but no inch of the refuge is the same. No matter which area you choose to visit — the forested cypress swamps or the wet "prairies" — you’ll probably see at least one of the 15,000 alligators who call the Okefenokee Swamp home.

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Yesterday was our second and third time doing the tour. Yes,we did it twice in one day, and if we could have done it another time, we could have, but ... read more time caught up to us. Our first tour guide was Gracie. It was her 3rd day on the job, and she did a great job and was very interactive. We had a good driver also. We didn't die,lol. Oh, I forgot to mention that we did the on and off tour. So the second go around, we had Big E as our tour guide and got off to grab something to eat. He was very knowledgeable and funny at the same time. To know that he and his family was a part of the Savannah history was mindblowing. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone.

My family is vacationing in Hilton Head but we wanted to see Savannah again. Old Savannah Tours was the perfect choice. We did the on and ... read more off tour and was able to see so much of the beautiful city. Our first tour guide, Big E was extremely knowledgeable about the city and it's history as well as entertaining and fun. Our second guide was Cindy, she was very nice and welcoming. Did fantastic maneuvering around the squares and even circled back around when some folks changed their minds and decided they did actually want to get off at the pirate house stop after initially saying no. Cindy also handled a gentleman that wasn't very nice to her and threatened her with bad yelp reviews very well. I was impressed with her for handling him with professionalism. I highly recommend taking a hop on and off tour from Old Savannah tours no matter how many times you have visited the city. It's a great way to see everything and learn some history while also saving your feet and staying a little more cool. Thank you Big E and Cindy!

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What an amazing experience! We were blessed to have Mr Komedy as our trolley tour guide. What an entertaining character he is. He made the trip exciting and fun! He ... read more gave free drinks to people, as you stepped on board, gave great restaurant reviews and plenty of tips for the best places to visit. The trolley ride was comfortable and took almost 2 hours to complete the round trip, due to traffic in the downtown area. I'd recommend sitting on the right side of the trolley, kerb side, as sitting there you have a better chance to get great pictures. We sat on the left and we couldn't always see everything very clearly. The next day we did the River Cruise which was also very good. We sat top deck in the sunshine and had great views of everything. We also saw some dolphins as an added bonus! Get to River Street in plenty of time for the cruise so you're not way at the back of the queue for boarding. All staff were polite and friendly and everything was well organized.

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25 Practical Georgia Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

From pointers for planning the perfect itinerary to restaurant etiquette and staying safe on the roads, here are 25 essential Georgia travel tips to know before you go.

The first time I visited Georgia in 2017, I had absolutely no idea what to expect. I’m usually one to over-research and over-plan (can you tell?) – but on this particular trip, I was totally underprepared. 

This mostly worked in my favour. Almost everything I experienced in Georgia was a kind of ‘pleasant surprise’: Transport, money, safety, food, accommodation, hospitality – everything just flowed.

• Also read: Tips for visiting the Caucasus region – religion, etiquette and cultural curiosities .

Things have changed in the interim and travelling in Georgia is a bit different to how it was even 5 short years ago. Having lived here for over a year now and travelled to almost every corner of the country, I still learn something new every day.

My job is to absorb information, and over time I’ve picked up some really helpful tips that I wish I had known on my first trip. With so many people looking to visit Georgia for the first time this year, it’s finally time to put everything down on one page.

The last thing I want to do is give too much away or detract from your joy of discovering Georgia for yourself. If you’d rather come in blind like I did, stop reading this right now and go check out this list of amazing places to visit in Georgia instead!

If, however, you like to be prepared and you want to save yourself money, time and stress, then read on. Here are 25 things I think you should know before you visit the country of Georgia for the first time.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

25 practical Georgia travel tips for first-time visitors

1. late spring or fall is a nice time to visit georgia.

Georgia has a relatively mild climate outside of the high-altitude mountain regions. While there’s not exactly a definitive ‘best time to visit Georgia’, there is surely a period to avoid : Peak summer.

Summer is high season for international visitors. On top of that, when things start to heat up (and smog up) in Tbilisi , locals intuitively flock to the mountains or the villages. There’s increased pressure on transport and accommodation throughout the summer months as a result. On the Black Sea Coast, hotel prices go up considerably.

The nicest time to visit Georgia in my opinion is during shoulder season , either in late spring or in fall .

Once the spring rains clear (usually after Orthodox Easter ), temperatures are mild, wildflowers are blooming , and it’s not too crowded yet.

(Check the dates for the Eid al-Fitr holiday – this period does get busy with visitors from neighbouring countries.)

Fall or autumn (September to late October) is another great time to visit as the whole country is in a festive mood. The wine harvest, Rtveli , takes place around this time and if you’re organised, you can watch or participate in grape-picking in Kakheti .

In the capital, the Tbilisoba Festival is held in early October. Temperatures remain mild through to late October, and most mountain areas that are cut off in winter remain accessible until then.

Georgia has an extremely varied geography so temperatures and weather conditions vary a lot depending on where you go. Always do your research before you set out.

Key takeaway: Visit in late spring for hiking or fall for wine season. Avoid the summer months unless you’re going straight to the mountains. Consider winter for a Tbilisi city break but note that some mountain areas are inaccessible.

2. Top georgia travel tip: Buy a local sim card

A sim card is pretty much a necessity in Georgia if you’re going to be using taxis (see my next tip for more) or you need to navigate with Google Maps. It’s so easy and affordable to get set up with a local sim, there’s really no reason not to.

Magti is my preferred provider in Georgia for price, coverage and customer service. A sim card costs 10 GEL and the best deal is an unlimited 4G data package for just 9 GEL (2.50 USD) per week .

Don’t buy a sim card at the airport – prices are higher. Instead, wait until you get into the city and can visit a Magti branch. Registration is done for you at the shop (all you need is your passport) and takes all of 10 minutes.

A word of warning: Don’t always trust Google Maps in Georgia. Some streets and street numbers are way off. It’s pretty good for bus routes in Tbilisi, but TTC app is generally more reliable.

Key takeaway: Magti is the best mobile provider in Georgia. Don’t buy a tourist sim at the airport – wait to visit an office in the city. See my full step-by-step guide to buying a sim card and my recommended apps for Georgia.

3. Always use an app for taxis (and never take a taxi from the airport!)

Most regular taxis in Tbilisi and other cities do not have metres, meaning you need to negotiate the fare with the driver before you set off. To avoid confusion and overpaying, it’s much easier to use an app to book taxis.

Bolt is the most reliable local app and covers the major cities (there is no Uber in Georgia). It’s easy to use and in my experience, you never have to wait more than a few minutes for a driver. Prices are more than fair and you can tip the driver through the app if you want to.

If travelling from Tbilisi Airport to the city , use the airport bus 337, organise a private transfer with GoTrip , or use Bolt.

If travelling from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi, you can either use the train, use Georgian Bus or OmniBus, which are timed to depart as flights arrive, or book a private transfer . Find more info about travelling from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi in this transport guide .

Key takeaway: Always an app to book taxis – avoid hailing cabs on the street and never ever take a taxi from the airport in Tbilisi. See more tips for using taxis in Tbilisi and a comparison of the best apps.

4. Buy a transport card when you first arrive in Tbilisi

Tbilisi has a terrific public transport system that makes it very easy to get around the city. It has recently undergone a big overhaul – new minivans have been introduced, new routes planned, and most importantly, fares have doubled from 50 tetri to 1 GEL per ride .

As of May 2022, buses in Tbilisi no longer have coin machines . To use the buses, metro and cable cars in Tbilisi you first need to purchase one of two rechargeable transport cards.

The white MetroMoney Card is used for single journeys (each journey is valid for 90 minutes), while the blue Travel Card is suitable for anyone who uses public transport more frequently. With this new card, you can purchase a daily, weekly or monthly unlimited pass (capped at 20 rides per day). Both cards cost 2 GEL and are available at the cash desk inside any metro station. Top up with cash using an orange pay box.

International bank cards also work on public transport – meaning you can tap your credit/debit card on the machine as you would with a transport card (just as long as your card has a chip). Note that the fare is higher, around 1.50 GEL per ride versus 1 GEL.

Key takeaway: If you plan to use public transport in Tbilisi, buy a rechargeable MetroMoney or Travel Card when you first arrive. You can also use the MetroMoney card for buses in Batumi. In Kutaisi and most other smaller cities/towns, buses still have coin machines so you can simply buy a single ticket onboard.

5. Be conscious of road safety

The driving style in Georgia is pure madness. Speeding, filtering to create a new lane of traffic where there isn’t supposed to be one, and overtaking around blind corners on single-lane mountain roads are some of the biggest issues.

It would be funny if it wasn’t so serious: Georgia has a terrible track record with road accidents, especially on poorly maintained mountain roads. Things are improving gradually, but it’s something every traveller should be conscious of.

I personally don’t have the stomach for long marshrutka rides anymore (even short taxi trips in Tbilisi make me anxious). When booking day trips or organising transfers, road safety is something that should always be front of mind.

Key takeaway: Be hyper vigilant when it comes to road safety in Georgia. Don’t opt for the cheapest day tour as these companies often skimp on safety precautions. Avoid travelling on the roads after dark and never get into a car with a driver who you suspect has been drinking.

6. Use GoTrip for longer road journeys

One of the biggest mistakes people tend to make on their first visit to Georgia is thinking that because the country is so small, it will be fast and easy to get around. In truth, ‘public transport’ is still quite basic here and it can take a long time to get from A to B. Trains in particular are quite slow (with the exception of the Tbilisi Batumi high-speed train and the trains to Poti and Zugdidi ).

You will come to embrace the clunky marshrutka van as all travellers do, but know there are other (more comfortable and safer) transport options available that won’t break the bank.

GoTrip.ge is one of my absolute favourite services in Georgia. I can’t tell you how many times this platform has saved me. Essentially it’s a long-distance Uber for private one-way, round-trip or multi-day transfers – input your destination/s then choose a driver and vehicle based on their credentials and star rating.

The price is fixed when you book so there’s no need to negotiate the fare, and you can stop wherever you want, whenever you want along the way. Fares are very reasonable and up to 40% cheaper than if you were to find a driver on the street. I especially love GoTrip for journeys such as the Georgian Military Highway where there are lots of places to sight-see along the way.

Visit the GoTrip.ge website and use their Trip Planner to explore routes around Georgia.

Key takeaway: Consider a car and driver for longer journeys and dangerous mountain roads, even if it means paying a bit more. Avoid using marshrutka vans for very long trips, and try to break up long road journeys with an overnight stop.

7. If you hire a car, use a local agent

Georgia is extremely affordable but some things are disproportionately expensive, car hire being one of them. If you want to get off the beaten track by driving around Georgia , the best option is to go through a local agent rather than a brand-name company.

Local Rent is my favourite platform for booking cars in Georgia. They work exclusively with local agents and offer great prices, as little as $34/day for a 4WD. Insurance is typically included and most agents don’t ask for a deposit or credit card. Just note that the car might be a bit shabbier than you’re used to. Because these agents don’t have offices, they’ll even throw in free delivery to your address.

Check availability and prices for your travel dates here on Local Rent .

Remember what I said about road safety and exercise a higher level of caution than normal when you’re driving in Georgia. Most highways are in good nick and there aren’t too many curly road rules to wrap your head around – the main thing is to watch out for other drivers. Here are my insights into the local driving style and top tips for self-driving.

Key takeaway: Avoid renting a car through the usual channels and use a local agent instead. Local Rent is the best platform to find an affordable rental car in Georgia. BUT only hire a car if you’re a confident and experienced driver who doesn’t get spooked by erratic or aggressive drivers.

8. Always carry some cash

While 99% of restaurants and hotels in the city take credit card, smaller cafes, markets, taxi drivers (if you’re using them in rural areas) and smaller guesthouses only accept cash payment. Lari is the official currency in Georgia and you should always carry some on you – especially if you’re headed to the regions or the mountains.

Avoid the currency exchange at the airport – instead, use one of the ATMs in the arrivals hall (there are several) to withdraw GEL. All ATMs in Georgia accept Visa and Mastercard, while Bank of Georgia takes AMEX. Withdrawal fees are usually around 2 GEL (some charge nothing) but you’ll need to check with your issuing bank for other charges. Basisbank and Cartu Bank ATMs have higher withdrawal limits.

Don’t mistake a paybox for an ATM – payboxes are the jukebox-like plastic boxes on every street corner used for paying bills and other services. They don’t dispense cash. ATMs are everywhere on the street and in malls (but not in convenience stores). For peace of mind, it’s advisable to use the ATMs inside bank branches when you can.

Key takeaway: Card is accepted almost everywhere in the cities but it’s handy to have some cash for smaller purchases. ATMs are ubiquitous throughout Georgia but you should always carry cash with you when travelling in rural areas.

9. Understand the tipping culture

Tipping is not part of the culture in Georgia and it is not considered mandatory. But tipping is now expected in most service industries , especially in Tbilisi, and particularly when it comes to tourists.

The common-sense principle that you should only tip if you’re happy with the service applies. Personally I almost always tip because I understand that wages are low (40-60 GEL/day is the average for a restaurant server).

You’ll notice that many restaurants, bars and cafes add a 10% ‘service fee’ onto the bill (on top of 18% VAT). This almost never goes to the server, though – it’s used for other purposes, such as replacing broken plates and glasses.

If you want to be sure your server receives a gratuity, leave an extra tip in cash and try to hand it to them personally. I usually tip 10% for servers and 1-3 GEL for Bolt drivers.

Key takeaway: Tipping is not ‘the norm’ in Georgia, but it is hugely appreciated. If you’re happy with the service, tip your restaurant/cafe server in cash. Remember that the 10% ‘service charge’ added to your bill does not normally go to the waiter.

10. Tourist scams and corruption are rare

As long as you exercise common sense, Georgia is an extremely safe place and Tbilisi is a very safe city. Crime is very rarely targeted at tourists.

Scams do happen on occasion, though. Avoid eating or shopping in overly ‘touristy’ areas (such as the pedestrianised part of Aghmashenebeli Avenue in Tbilisi), and always ask for the price first before committing to purchase something from a market or food vendor. The biggest culprit is taxis and the best way to safeguard against this is to use an app in the cities and book drivers through your guesthouse when you’re in towns or rural areas.

There is one other perennial tourist scam in Tbilisi and Batumi to watch out for. A group or individual, either someone you meet on the street or through a dating app, will invite you for a drink at a local bar then ask you to foot the insanely overpriced bill. (This happened to friends of ours and they ended up getting fleeced for thousands of dollars.)

Be cautious when accepting invitations from strangers and if you do, meet at a place of your choosing. Avoid restaurants or especially bars that are not on Google Maps . Unless they’re brand new, if they don’t have a listing or past reviews you can safely assume this is a red flag.

A few decades ago Georgia embarked on a national project to stamp out corruption (notice how every police station is made of glass?). It mostly worked and today, corruption in all forms is extremely rare , especially where tourists are concerned. It’s not something you have to be wary of.

Key takeaway: Exercise a normal level of vigilance, especially in the big cities, but know that petty crime, scams and corruption targeted at tourists is extremely very rare in Georgia.

11. It’s (mostly) safe to drink the tap water

Can you drink the tap water in Georgia? This is always the subject of debate among expats. Georgians love their spring and mineral waters (e.g. Borjomi ) and for the most part, tap water is of a similarly high quality. Nine times out of 10 when you’re travelling in rural areas and small towns it will be more than safe to drink the tap water.

Many people choose not to drink the tap water in Tbilisi. In this case it’s more of an issue with the pipes than the water itself. If you’re staying in an old building, the water might be tainted with residue from old pipes. In all likelihood it’s still safe to drink but it might not sit well with you.

Key takeaway: Georgia is blessed with mountain springs and mineral waters – always carry a reusable water bottle when you’re travelling so that you can fill up at these natural springs. For the most part, tap water is safe to drink in towns and cities but some people choose to avoid it in Tbilisi. Bottled water is extremely affordable.

12. Understand that the days start late

Tbilisi in particular wakes up late and stays up late. Even in summer when the sun is out before 5am, if you’re on the street before 9, you can hear a pin drop. Banks open at 10am but many people start work mid-morning and continue late into the evening.

Don’t wake up early and expect everything to be open. Georgia doesn’t have a strong breakfast or brunch culture , so cafes in Tbilisi rarely open before 10am ( see a list of early risers here ). Shops, museums, galleries and other attractions tend to open between 10am and 11am. Peak hour falls later, and public transport is always very busy around 7pm on weekdays. Plan your days accordingly.

Key takeaway: Whenever possible, take breakfast at your accommodation (especially when you’re staying in a smaller town or village). Restaurant opening hours are sometimes flexible so it’s best to arrive 15-20 minutes after advertised opening time to be safe. Stick to outdoor activities in the mornings, especially in Tbilisi, and save your museums for the afternoon.

13. Take listed opening hours with a pinch of salt

As I mentioned earlier, Google Maps is far from 100% reliable in Georgia . Sometimes you’ll roll up to an address expecting to find a cafe there and zip, nada, nothing! (This still happens to me fairly often – sometimes I just can’t see the place, other times it’s moved.)

Business owners often neglect to update their opening hours or addresses on Google Maps, so it’s better to check on Facebook or Instagram instead. If I’m visiting a venue for the first time, I will always send a message on social media the day before to check they’re actually going to be open.

When a cafe or restaurant goes out of business, sometimes this doesn’t get updated either – so you’ll find places that are marked as ‘open’ on maps but are actually long abandoned, and other places marked as ‘permanently closed’ that are actually open.

In addition, lots of venues will open up later than their listed hours indicate or close the kitchen for the day at short notice (especially if the water or power is out). This is just something you have to get used to. Always have a Plan B up your sleeve just in case!

Key takeaway: Don’t rely on Google Maps – businesses are much more likely to update their Facebook or Instagram pages if they close down, move, or if their hours change. If in doubt, message ahead to double check.

14. Don’t rush through Tbilisi

If you’re starting or ending your trip in the capital, you might think a night in Tbilisi will suffice. While it’s true that you can see a good deal of Tbilisi’s ‘must-sees’ in a day, if you want to savour the city, you’ll need more time than that.

Tbilisi is the capital of course, but it doesn’t necessarily feel like it. Where other big cities are anonymous and cookie-cutter, Tbilisi has a very unique look and atmosphere that I can’t really compare to anywhere else. This has long been the most multicultural city in the region and all that wonderful diversity still shines through today.

Aside from the historical landmarks, museums and important churches, there are lots of offbeat things to do in Tbilisi , from visiting Stalin’s old printing press to taking an urban hike for a city view . On top of that, there are squillions of cafes, galleries , cute boutiques and wine bars that you can happily spend a day floating between.

Some of Tbilisi’s most interesting neighbourhoods, especially Sololaki, Abanotubani and Chugureti, should be explored at a slow pace by foot. Consider joining a free or paid walking tour for a more in-depth look at the city’s heritage architecture or Soviet history .

Plus, you’ll want at least six meals in Tbilisi so that you can sample a good range of the city’s best restaurants .

Key takeaway: Two to three days is the minimum amount of time you need in Tbilisi if you want to do it justice. If you love cities or you prefer slow travel, you can quite easily fill in 5-plus days in Tbilisi.

15. Remember to pack your bathers for the sulfur baths

I know this is very specific, but a trip to the sulfur baths is a Tbilisi experience most visitors want to have – just make sure it’s memorable in the right way!

Everyone goes nude at the public baths, but if you’re booking a private room with a Kisi massage/scrub treatment, it’s advisable to wear a bikini (women) or trunks (men).

Key takeaway: Pack your swimmers for Georgia, even if you’re visiting in winter. Read more about bathhouse etiquette in Abanotubani here.

16. Stay at family guesthouses when you can

Guesthouses are by far the most popular type of accommodation in rural Georgia. When you stay at a guesthouse, you’re spending the night in a family home – a bit like a homestay .

Home-cooked meals and home-made alcoholic beverages are part and parcel of the guesthouse experience. More than that, guesthouse host families are like travel agents who can organise taxis, tours and tickets, phone ahead to save you a seat on the next marshrutka, call the local restaurant to book you a table… And just about anything else you might need.

I swear by guesthouses, especially in small villages where you might need some help with travel logistics. It’s also a really nice way to meet a family and make a local connection , and to link up with other travellers too.

Needless to say this is one of the easiest ways to show your support for small business and community tourism in Georgia.

Key takeaway: When in doubt, book a family run guesthouse. Not only do they offer affordable accommodation and home-cooked meals, they can help you with all kinds of travel logistics too. Most can be booked online through Booking.com but many only accept cash payment. See here for a full list of my favourite guesthouses around Georgia.

17. Remember that Georgia is a good place to treat yourself

As soul-nourishing as guesthouse hospitality is, it’s nice to treat yourself to something slightly more luxurious once in a while. The good news is that Georgia – a budget-friendly destination by any measure – has a stellar range of high-quality accommodations that are extremely well priced.

In Georgia, you can spend the night in a historic wine chateaux in Kakheti , settle into a ski-in luxury mountain cabin in Kazbegi, go glamping in the heart of the forest in Racha, or curl up in a high-rise boutique hotel overlooking the Black Sea for a fraction of the cost of something similar in Western Europe (or even Eastern Europe for that matter).

It’s within almost every traveller’s budget to splash out on a nice hotel room or a private tour. If you’re supporting a local business at the same time, then why not.

The only area where you don’t really need to fork out extra cash is food . In my experience, a higher price tag rarely equates with better tasting food or more attentive service – so you’re safe to stick to the cheap (or mid-range) and cheerful when it comes to restaurants.

On a serious note: Don’t come to Georgia expecting everything to be dirt cheap or worse, for things to get handed to you for free. No doubt you’ll be the recipient of Georgia’s legendary hospitality at some point in your travels, but remember to be gracious and try not to take advantage of people’s generosity.

Key takeaway: Don’t be afraid to book that beautiful accommodation or private tour if it will enhance your experience. There are other areas where you can save money, such as on food and alcohol.

18. Make sure you do at least one hike

Even as a bonafide non-hiker, I can say this with absolute confidence: You must get out on foot in the mountains, even if it’s just for a half-day trek.

Many people come to Georgia for the sole purpose of hiking. The Mestia to Ushguli trail in Svaneti is arguably the most popular multi-day hike, but there are trails in every national park. Black Rock Lake in Lagodekhi, the Truso Valley near Kazbegi and St Andrews Trail near Borjomi are all great alternative options. If you’re serious about hiking, have a look at the Transcaucasian Trail , a route-in-progress that will soon connect the whole South Caucasus region.

Why hike? There’s no better way to connect with the mountain landscapes that make Georgia so special. It’s not just the scenery, but the cultural diversity and way of life in the mountains that makes hiking a must-do.

Key takeaway: Bring your comfy shoes because a hike in Georgia is mandatory. The Gergeti Trinity Church hike is easily the best half-day trek in the country.

19. Look beyond the mountains

We all know Georgia has majestic mountains, but did you know there’s also mud volcanoes, rainbow hills, volcanic plateaus and primordial Colchic forests in Georgia – sometimes all within the same region?

For a country of its size, Georgia is incredibly diverse in terms of the climate and landscape. Wake up in the mountains, off-road through a semi-desert then eat dinner on a black-sand beach – it’s possible in Georgia.

The Greater Caucasus are obviously a must, but I urge you to explore some of the other landscapes and outdoor adventures Georgia has to offer as well. Some of the most rewarding experiences this country has to offer can be found in the more remote, rugged corners: Start by looking at Vashlovani, Lagodekhi, Machakhela and the newly UNESCO-listed Colchic Forests and Wetlands for inspiration.

By the same token, don’t limit your horizons to the big three cities. Georgia has some incredible smaller cities and regional towns that are every bit as rewarding. My favourites are Gori , Telavi , Oni and Zugdidi .

Key takeaway: The best Georgia itineraries sample as many different landscapes as possible. This will help you appreciate the contrasts – and make those mountains seem all the more stunning. Here are 35+ places to visit in Georgia to get you started.

20. Understand the dress code for visiting religious sites

There is a strict dress code for visiting Orthodox churches, monasteries and convents in Georgia. The same applies for mosques.

For men, this means covered knees (no shorts) and covered shoulders (no singlet tops). Women must cover their shoulders and knees as well, and cover their hair. Some churches in rural areas require women to be wearing a long skirt rather than fitted pants. In my experience, a long jacket that’s zipped up will do.

Ninety-nine percent of religious sites have wrap-around apron skirts and headscarves that you can borrow at the door free of charge. However, I always recommend dressing appropriately if you know you’re going to be visiting a church or monastery. For hygiene reasons, I suggest women carry their own light scarf for their hair.

Remember that many tourist sites such as Vardzia and Uplistsikhe have chapels or churches so you’ll need to dress appropriately if you want to visit this part of the complex.

Although there are no hard and fast rules about how to dress outside of religious settings, Georgia tends to err on the conservative side in this department. It’s unusual for men to wear shorts or for women to wear microskirts (except in Batumi), for example. When visiting rural areas and small villages, it’s better to cover up to avoid making other people feel uncomfortable.

Key takeaway: If you’re going to be visiting lots of religious sites, make sure you pack appropriate attire. Ladies, pack a lightweight cotton scarf and always carry it with you. Try to dress more conservatively in rural areas. See here for my full Georgia packing list and what to wear in Georgia.

21. Watch out for monastery fatigue

Speaking of visiting religious sites – monastery fatigue is real, and it’s something many travellers experience. I have no idea just how many monasteries and churches there are in Georgia, but it’s probably in the tens of thousands. Kakheti in particular has dozens and dozens of splendid monuments to see.

I’ve been here long enough that I can start to appreciate the little design details and historical quirks that set each one apart. But on my first few visits to Georgia, I didn’t know enough to appreciate the differences so everything just started to blend into one.

Something important to mention here is that monasteries are much more than just religious sites: They’re equally historical sites. Georgian culture, literature, music, food, wine – the list goes on – is all so interwoven with the church, it’s impossible to find one without the other. When you visit a monastery, you’re not just learning about religion, you’re immersing yourself in history and culture as well. Where else in the world but Georgia would you visit a monastery to do a wine tasting!?

My advice is to pace yourself – don’t pack too many monasteries/churches into one day, and try to split them up with other activities (in Kakheti, wine tastings do the job perfectly). Look for something memorable, maybe a distinctive icon, to help you differentiate each place.

And be selective about the ones you do visit – don’t feel pressured to visit a monastery you’re not interested in just because someone says you should. (Unless it’s me telling you, because I am very selective about the monasteries I recommend!)

Key takeaway: Most monasteries have little or no signage beyond a basic information plaque so if you want to gain an appreciation (and you don’t speak enough Georgian to converse with the priest), either go with a guide or read-up as much as you can before your visit. This will help you better appreciate each monastery and church that you visit and keep you feeling motivated to see more.

22. Don’t skip the wine region

Cultivating grapes, fermenting wine and raising a glass of Saperavi at a Supra feast are all fundamental aspects of Georgian identity. Just as you can’t visit the country without seeing a few monasteries, no trip to ‘the cradle of wine’ is complete without a jaunt through the wine region.

I say ‘the’ wine region, but what I really mean is a wine region. Kakheti might be the biggest, most productive and most popular wine route, but there are vineyards all over Georgia . Maranis (cellars) in Imereti (outside Kutaisi ), Upper Adjara ( a day trip from Batumi ) and Racha all showcase traditional winemaking methods.

You don’t go to a winery just to drink wine – you also go to learn about Qvevri technology , Georgia’s 8000-year tradition of fermenting grapes underground in clay vessels . Even if you don’t drink alcohol or you have no interest in wine, it’s an opportunity for a hands-on lesson in Georgian culture.

Key takeaway: Kakheti is a great choice for a wine tour, but remember there are vineyards and cellars all over Georgia. Wherever you go, be sure to visit a mix of commercial and small family wineries that use Qvevri techniques so you can observe the traditional methods.

23. Come hungry!

Is it rumours of ‘soup dumplings’ as big as your hand and ‘cheesy bread’ topped with melted butter and egg yolk that are drawing you like a magnet to Georgia? Don’t worry, you wouldn’t be the first traveller to be lured here by their stomach.

It doesn’t take long to realise there’s way more to Georgian cooking than just Khinkali and Khachapuri – though both those dishes really are very good.

Marigold, blue fenugreek, sour plum, kiwi, pomegranate, homemade cheese, tandoor bread and the best tomatoes on earth – it’s all waiting for you in Georgia, and in combinations and concoctions you’ve likely never encountered before.

The food here continues to blow me away every time I eat out, especially when I’m travelling in the villages. Unexpectedly fresh, always packed with flavour and fiercely regional, Georgian must be one of the most underrated cuisines on the planet.

Just be strategic with your meals! It’s not a bad idea to skip breakfast so that you can concentrate on lunch and dinner, the two biggest meals of the day traditionally.

Key takeaway: Get your fill of Khachapuri and Khinkali then look beyond the typical dishes to discover the wonderful world of Georgian cuisine. Tbilisi has many restaurants that specialise in regional dishes but it’s even better if you can taste them in-situ. Samegrelo, Upper Adjara and Racha are my personal favourite foodie destinations in Georgia.

24. Never eat Khinkali with a knife and fork

This one is fairly self-explanatory. There’s only one way to eat Khinkali and that’s with your fingers – it’s the only way to ensure you don’t miss a single drop of that delicious meat juice!

There are of course some exceptions: Non-meat Khinkali is sometimes eaten with cutlery, and you can use the tip of your fork to harpoon the meat dumplings if you don’t want to get your hands dirty.

Key takeaway: Put that knife and fork away. Read more restaurant etiquette tips here, and don’t forget to download a free copy of my Tbilisi Khinkali Guide so you know where to find the best dumplings!

25. Learn a bit of Georgian before you arrive

Someone once told me that state, religion and language are the holy trinity in Georgia.

The Georgian language has monumental significance as a symbol of cultural identity and sovereignty. Unlike some other post-Soviet countries , Georgia held onto its tongue through thick and thin. People are incredibly proud of their language and everything it represents.

Learning a few words of Georgian will not only help you interact with people and break the ice, it’s also a nice way to demonstrate your respect for the country and the people. Believe me when I say that locals will hugely appreciate you making even the smallest effort.

As someone who’s spent the past year or so trying to learn Georgian, I can tell you it’s very challenging. Learning the characters of the Georgian alphabet is a great place to start. Helpfully, every letter is ‘pure’ and pronounced the same way no matter how it’s written or where it falls in a word. Once you know your k from your k’ , you’ll be surprised how much you can read and understand.

Georgians are normally very open (beneath that sometimes hard exterior) and happy to chat about any topic. But it’s a good idea to warm up to each other’s company before you start talking politics or religion . By the same token, don’t be surprised if someone you just met asks you your age, marital status and whether or not you have children (and if the answer to the last one is ‘no’, they might weigh in with their opinion on your life choices!). Personal questions are fairly common , don’t be surprised if people pry. But money is rarely discussed.

Key takeaway: English is widely spoken in Georgia but it pays to learn a bit of the language. Use an app such as Write Georgian to master the beautiful characters and watch free YouTube tutorials such as this one to practice basic conversational Georgian.

What did I miss? Do you have any extra Georgia travel tips to share? Let me know in the comments below.

Georgia essentials

Here are the websites and services I personally use and recommend for Georgia. Check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Search for affordable flights to Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance (get 5% off when you book with my link).

SIM CARD: Magti is my preferred provider, with prices starting from 9 GEL/week for unlimited data. See this guide for all the details about buying a Georgian SIM card .

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Most flights into Georgia arrive in the early hours. For ease, pre-book a private transfer from Tbilisi Airport to your hotel (from $17) or from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi (from $90) with my partners at GoTrip.ge.

ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is the most widely used platform in Georgia. Use it to find family guesthouses, private apartments, hostels and hotels around the country.

CAR HIRE: Find a great deal on a rental car in Georgia – use the Local Rent website to book through a local agent (prices start from $20/day).

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Use Viator or Get Your Guide to browse a range of day trips and city tours. For off-beat programs, I recommend Friendly.ge (use the promocode wanderlush for 10% off). For in-depth day trips to Georgia’s wine regions, I recommend Eat This! Tours (use the promo code wanderlush for 5% off).

PRIVATE TRANSFERS: GoTrip.ge is a terrific service for booking a private professional driver and car for the day. Use it for A-to-B transfers, a customised round-trip itinerary, or a multi-day trip. You can stop wherever you like for as long as you like without the fixed price going up.

NEED SOME HELP?: Need feedback on your itinerary or personalised travel tips? I offer a one-on-one consultation call service for Tbilisi and Georgia. More information and bookings here .

You might also be interested in…

• The ultimate Georgia itinerary : Four detailed & custom-designed itineraries
• Georgia Travel Guide : All of my 200+ posts plus my top travel tips
• Georgia travel tips : 25 essential things to know before you go
• Places to visit in Georgia : 50+ unique & underrated destinations around the country
• The best things to do in Tbilisi : Favourites, hidden gems & local picks
• 35+ best restaurants in Tbilisi : Where to eat Georgian food
• 15 best day trips from Tbilisi : With detailed transport instructions
• The best time to visit Georgia : Month-by-month guide to weather, festivals & events

29 Comments

Thanks for a fantastic guide to Tbilisi and Georgia, it has been priceless help for our first visit this last week!

Thanks so much, Johannes!

Hi Emily, Fabulous article. This and the rest of your site is helping us considerably with planning our trip to Georgia this September. We love the detail you go into. Thanks heaps.

Thanks Ken, very happy to hear it!

Hi Emily, First of all, I would like to thank you for sharing so many updated tips for a great discovery of Armenia and Georgia. Your website is definitely my 1st source of information for my oncoming trip to both countries. From what I read on your website, you are away visiting Albania, etc at the moment, but could you possibly tell me if there is a train between Tbilisi and Yerevan on Monday, Oct 23. With the changes in the timetable, it is difficult to know for sure which is which between odd and even days. I asked the hostel people in Tbilisi, but they did not bother to check and said they did not know… Looking forward to your answer. Have a great time in the Balkans, Guy (France)

Hi Guy, the timetable does indicate that there is a train on October 23 (Tbilisi to Yerevan). If you are in Tbilisi now, I would pop down to the station to check and buy tickets if you can.

Thanks very much for the well wishes. Safe travels!

Mrs Emily, I would like personally to thank you for this amazing blog. It has really helped me organise my trip to Tbilisi this November!

Thanks Eirini! So happy to hear that. Have a wonderful trip to Georgia!

Wow, this is a bunch of information…. It is not easy to find good information about Georgia as it is still an underestimated holday destination .

Thanks Jos! Glad you found it helpful.

Hello Ms. Wander Lush, your blogs have been my BIBLE for planning my trip to Georgia this September. Thank you for all the information for any possible question I had in mind. Really looking forward to the holiday!

Thanks Vinodini, so glad the site has been helpful. Wishing you a terrific trip!

Hi Ms Emily,

Me and my friend will be travelling to Georgia and Armenia this coming Friday. And I’m so lucky to find your blog about these two countries which is very informative and useful for our travel plans. We we’re able to arrange our trip smoothly because of your blog as our reference…such as taking overnight train for Armenia trip, group tours, souvenirs shops, food and budget tips. Keep it up and thank you so much.

Hello Jasmin, that’s so great to hear! Thank you for your comment. I hope you both have a wonderful trip! Safe travels!

Hi again Ms Emily.. just quick question, which one they prefer for currency exhange, euro or in dollars? Thanks again.

Hi Jasmin, it is better to withdraw local currency (lari) directly from an ATM if possible.

wow couldn’t find a better blog about Georgia,we are on our initial stage to plan a trip to Georgia from India and we have got the perfect itinerary from this blog,thank you so much Emily for this amazing blog, going thoroughly in and out of it.

Thanks so much Suchi!

Wow! Such an elaborate post! I just bumped on this link and with the information given here it sounds so easy to me now. I might plan a trip soon but do you recommend coming to Georgia with a 15month old?

Hi Akanksha, thanks! Georgia is generally a family friendly destination, you just have to be aware of a few things such as road safety. But there are certainly lots of fun things for families to do!

Thank you so much for your insight! I plan on traveling there with a group in May, do you have any travel tips for groups of 10?

Hi Jasmin – transport will be your biggest consideration. Feel free to email me with any specific questions and I will try to help out.

Thank u for ur guidance. We should book red bus tour or should we visit the places by ourselves? Can we get Halal food easily in Tbilisi?

Hi Imran – it’s really up to you, but in my opinion walking around Tbilisi is bliss so I think it’s much better to explore on foot. You’ll see a lot more! There are plenty of Halal restaurants in Tbilisi, especially around Aghmashenebeli Avenue and Marjanishvili Metro Station. Enjoy your trip!

DIDI MADLOBA I just moved to Georgia and your tips are extremely helpful. Well done, informative and interesting. I am so glad I found your blog. Thank you!

Thank you Lucie! Welcome to Georgia!

thank you very much for information

I am planning to travel to Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan next Spring. I cannot eat gluten. Is this going to be a problem do you think?

There will be limitations but I think you’ll be fine as long as you plan ahead. A lot of guesthouses can cater to dietary requirements. Lots of dishes in this region are veg and meat based.

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9 best places to visit in Georgia

Jun 21, 2024 • 7 min read

From deeply significant religious sights, like Tsminda Sameba Church (pictured), to a rich winemaking tradition, Georgia packs a lot into its modest footprint © Pikoso.kz / Shutterstock

Where Europe and Asia grind up against each other, magical Georgia sits on the southern slope of the Great Caucasus mountain range, whose snowcapped peaks run from the Black Sea to the Caspian.

Though relatively small in terms of area, Georgia offers a huge variety of scenery and activities, and its mountainous landscape and limited transport infrastructure combine to make getting about more time-consuming than you might imagine. While there’s no need to limit yourself to just one region, you’re best off deciding what kind of trip you want to have, and then choosing a few parts of the country to focus on.

To help you do that, here are some of the very best places to consider including in any itinerary. 

Best place for urban pursuits 

Quickly beguiling anyone who visits , the Georgian capital offers up a fascinating Old Town, a wealth of avant-garde Soviet architecture, traditional sulfur baths, and an extraordinary array of medieval churches. Spread out along the narrow valley of the Mtkvari River, Tbilisi is the kind of place you have to get up high to really appreciate – try taking the cable car to the Sololaki ridge where you’ll find the Narikala Fortress and iconic Mother Georgia (aka Kartlis Deda) . You can also take the funicular to the city’s highest point, Mtatsminda , where, on top of stellar city views, you also get a campy fairground and a huge Ferris wheel. 

Tbilisi is also the best place in Georgia to eat out, drink wine and go partying, with dozens of innovative menus available at establishments such as Barbarestan , Azarphesha , Alubali and Keto & Kote . This is also one of the best places in the country to sample a range of Georgia’s famous wines and take part in its thumping nightlife.  Tbilisi offers you plenty to keep you entertained for days, but can also serve as a base from which to do day trips to various other parts of central Georgia. 

Planning tip: Book at least a week ahead for the best Tbilisi restaurants in the summer months.

Best city on the Black Sea

Batumi , Georgia’s second city, is the subtropical yin to Tbilisi’s yang, with its beachfront location, charming Old Town, seemingly endless seaside esplanade and an ever-growing number of glitzy skyscrapers – Georgia’s answer to Dubai, locals will tell you with a grin.

The city is built for pleasure, and functions as Georgia’s unofficial temporary capital during the height of summer, when most of Tbilisi's locals decamp en masse to the Black Sea’s beaches for sunshine, cocktails and partying on the seafront. Georgia’s best beaches can be found to the south of the city, between Batumi and the Turkish border. Inland, the autonomous Adjaran region offers wonderful rafting and hiking, as well as the famously rickety cable car in Khulo. 

Best base for exploring nature

Sleepy Kutaisi  has found itself relegated to Georgia’s third-largest city in recent years as coastal Batumi booms. But this ancient town, which may once have been home to the golden fleece of Greek legend, has nonetheless managed to establish itself as the center of Georgia’s burgeoning tourist industry . 

The nearby David the Builder Airport brings dozens of low-cost airline flights to Kutaisi from all over Europe each week, and there are dozens of hostels and a competitive short-term apartment rental market. Not only is Kutaisi bang in the center of the country (making it a more obvious base than either Tbilisi or Batumi), but it’s also surrounded by a wealth of sights, natural wonders and diverse attractions including the Martvili Canyon , Okatse Canyon , the Gelati Monastery and two astonishing relics of communism, the towns of Tskaltubo and Chiatura.  

4. Stepantsminda

Best for easy access to the High Caucasus

The extraordinary Georgian Military Highway takes you to the town of Stepantsminda (still commonly referred to by its Soviet-era name, Kazbegi), on the border with northern neighbor Russia. Though the epic journey here has lost some of its charm in recent years (it's become a busy truck route for imports to Russia), there is no denying the incredible setting of the town, not least the iconic silhouette of the hilltop church  Tsminda Sameba against the glacier of Mt Kazbek. It's truly a sight that never ceases to amaze, despite its reproduction on a million postcards. 

Planning tip: Head to Tsminda Sameba Church first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is better, and – crucially – when you’ll not have to share this magical spot with the crowds.

Best mountain scenery  

Georgia’s mountains are extraordinary and jaw-dropping wherever you encounter them. But if you want to see the best scenery in the country, there’s nowhere that can compete with the ancient and mysterious region of Svaneti. As well as Georgia’s highest peak, Shkhara (5068m; 16,627ft), which towers over the wonderful highland village of Ushguli, there is almost limitless potential for hiking here, not least the now well-known Mestia to Ushguli four-day hike, which allows you to sleep each night in a different village. 

Planning tip: You can skip the taxing eight-hour drive to Svaneti from Tbilisi and get there in under an hour by taking one of the affordable daily flights to Mestia with  Vanilla Sky .

Best monastery 

In a country with more than its fair share of staggering monasteries and churches in perilously remote places, Vardzia  is unquestionably the most magnificent of the lot. Its 13 floors are hewn into a cliffside and boast no fewer than 13 churches among its 400-plus rooms. The monastery’s jaw-dropping setting in a dramatic river valley makes it a real showstopper, and the undulating drive to get here from Akhaltsikhe is a wonderful treat to boot. 

7. Sighnaghi

Best place to enjoy Georgian wine 

There’s magic in the air in Sighnaghi , and that’s not just down to its high altitude and the vertiginous views it affords into the vast valley below. This hilltop delight has more than a hint of Tuscany about it, with its terracotta roofs, cobbled streets and enviably slow pace of life. 

Take a walk along the incredibly well-preserved city walls and visit the town museum, which has one of the best collections of paintings by Georgia’s most famous artist, Niko Pirosmani. Then settle in at one of Sighnaghi’s many wine bars to sample the result of the grape harvest in the country’s premier wine-producing region. 

Planning tip: Call ahead to enjoy a delicious, organic lunch at the Lost Ridge Inn , just a few kilometers outside Sighnaghi.

8. Mtskheta

Best place for a spiritual experience

So close to Tbilisi that the sprawling capital’s suburbs threaten to engulf it, Mtskheta enjoys a magical setting at the picturesque confluence of two rivers. It was also the location of one of Georgia’s most important historical events – its conversion to Christianity at the hands of St Nino in the 4th century. That vital event, which still forms a huge part of Georgian national identity, is memorialized in the Jvari Church , Georgia’s holy of holies, which commands terrific views over the town from its soaring hilltop location. Meanwhile, down in the town itself is the stunning 11th-century Svetiskhoveli Cathedral , an architectural gem of Georgia’s early Golden Age. 

Planning tip: You only need a couple of hours to see Mtskheta, and its location just northwest of Tbilisi makes it an obvious pit stop on any journey up to Stepantsminda or west towards Kutaisi. 

Best spa town 

There’s more than a little touch of the Russian empire about this glorious 19th-century spa town tucked away amid the thickly wooded hills of the Lesser Caucasus. Borjomi’s salty-sour mineral water is Georgia’s most famous export and is instantly familiar to almost anyone from the former Soviet Union. However, the elegant resort town that produces it is worth a visit even if you’ve never heard of its eponymous sulfurous water.

As well as visiting the sprawling Borjomi Central Park ⁠(once you get past the tacky rides and children’s entertainments it opens up into a gorgeous riverside walk that brings you to a trio of delightful thermal pools), you can use the town as an excellent base for hiking in the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park , and take the small gauge railway line to the nearby alpine resort of Bakuriani.

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• 2024's 9 Most Adorable Small Towns in Georgia

So named after King George II of England , the state of Georgia is home to some of the most adorable small towns this 2024. Beyond the major cities of Atlanta and Savannah, you can enjoy the paradisical beauties of Tallulah Falls or the cultural aptitudes in Dahlonega. Notwithstanding the historic hallmarks Georgia has contributed to the world, like the invention of Coca-Cola and the Civil Rights Movement , there are other epochs and episodes that can only be learned from the small towns in which those moments transpired. You will be soaking in memorable experiences in towns like Darien and Brunswick, which are near the Golden Islands of Georgia. Most importantly, you will be enamored by 2024’s most adorable small towns in Georgia for their unique attractions and other surprises.

Two young boys fishing in Darien, Georgia. Editorial credit: Bob Pool / Shutterstock.com

Dare to explore the adorable small town of Darien , a nature-lovers destination only 17 miles away from Brunswick. In 1733, highlanders from Scotland settled on the Altamaha, a marshy region around the Altamaha River that the Gullah-Geechee clan once owned. These highlanders built Darien to be one of Georgia’s oldest cities. During the American Revolutionary War and American Civil War , Darien was a pivotal port and sanctuary that the Fort King George Historic Site exemplifies—a military outpost that General James Edward Oglethorpe, the same man who founded the whole of Georgia, erected.

Today, Darien is a convenient gateway to some of Georgia’s most beautiful and historically significant islands called the Golden Isles of Georgia , such as Sapelo Island and Little St. Simons Island. History enthusiasts can tour the Butler Island Plantation for the ongoing rice production that has fed Darien and Georgia for generations. Feel free to observe the masterful artworks at the Old City Jail Art Center, formerly an unusual jailhouse for the county’s convicts. Churchgoers can pray at the smallest church in the US. Take care when roaming about in the Altamaha if you chance upon Altie, the Altamaha Sea Monster. And if you want to stay indoors, then stay a while at the Open Gates Bed & Breakfast or Darien Waterfront Inn.

Dahlonega is a golden destination to explore because it was the site of the first major US Gold Rush . Only an hour away from Atlanta , visitors can enjoy the sweet splendors of the Heart of Georgia Wine Country deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains’ foothills. The Dahlonega Gold Museum highlights the tragedies and treacheries pervading the first Gold Rush in the United States, and historical markers such as “The Trail of Tears” depict the unfair eviction of the Cherokee from their homeland and their exodus towards the Mississippi River.

Visitors can undertake guided tours through the old gold mines in the Consolidated Gold Mine, or you might apply the “Dahlonega method” to scoop gold nuggets from the many rivers and streams crossing Dahlonega. If you are not interested in gold, then perhaps the scenic and wine-making delights of the Blue Mountain Vineyards will sate you deeply. Or maybe petting the lovely animals of the Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo is more to your liking. Whatever you decide on, remember to pick a place to settle down like The Mountain Top Lodge or Dahlonega Inn on Main.

Approximately 29 miles from the city of Athens , Madison welcomes travelers to simple livelihoods and a handful of historic attractions. Among these humble historic sites are the Rogers House, Richter Cottage, and Rose Cottage, a trinity of antebellum architecture that preserves the different aspects and cultures of old Americana life in Morgan County. One can learn all about the African-American histories of Morgan County and Madison at the Morgan County African-American Museum. The Scull Shoals archaeological site and Hard Labor Creek State Park are two excellent locations for scenic walks and hiking. Newcomers should not miss out on the annual Chili Cook-Off and Fall Festival, one of Madison’s prettiest celebrations in October 19. There is also the magical Firefly Festival every July when the entire town brightens with the glow of thousands of fireflies. Consider occupying your blissful nights at the James Madison Inn while enjoying your trip to Madison.

Downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia. By Harrison Keely, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

As the name implies, the remote town of Blue Ridge is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains and about an hour away from Dahlonega. Aside from trekking through the southernmost reaches of the Appalachian Mountains on the Appalachian Trail , travelers will fall in love with Lake Blue Ridge, the Ocoee River, and the Toccoa River, where fishers can catch some prized trout in the Trout Fishing Capital of Georgia. Let yourself wander liberally and merrily through the sylvan majesties of the Chattahoochee National Forest or the roaring rapids of the Chattahoochee River. Pluck fresh bounties from the Mercier Orchard, one of the oldest local farms in Georgia. Most importantly, head over to the Sasquatch Museum to undertake Bigfoot expeditions or to simply learn more tidbits from cryptozoology . Need a place to rest up and refresh? No worries because the Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast has you covered.

Tallulah Falls

Tallulah Falls is a premier resort town within the Tallulah Gorge State Park , where Victorian-era architecture mingles with far more ancient forests and riverways from the Tallulah River. As a town that once rivaled Niagara Falls , one can feel enchanted by Tallulah Falls’ trails and treks within the gorge and along the river. Naturally, there are several grand waterfalls, such as the dramatic and dynamic Hurricane Falls and the magical Bridal Veil Falls , that will whet your appetites with lush and lovely sprays.

You can venture into the Chattooga Sounds Camp and pitch your tent for days and nights in these soothing woodlands. And if you want to, you can wade through Lake Rabun or Tugaloo Lake, the latter marking the state borders between Georgia and South Carolina . When it comes to lodgings, the Glen-Ella Springs Inn & Restaurant and the Historic Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant do not disappoint. So travel 35 minutes from the town of Helen and embrace the natural ambiance of Tallulah Falls.

Have a healthy and happy time while touring the mountainous town of Helen . Bavarian-themed buildings line the serene Chattahoochee River, and the town takes full advantage of this major waterway by promoting the Helen Waterpark for all to have fun. Aside from buildings inspired by Bavaria or Germany , Helen also has the Hardman Farm Historic Site, an Italian-style mansion from 1870 that is adjacent to an old Native American burial mound .

Helen is most famous for its vineyards and wineries, as the Habersham Winery and Cenita Vineyards exemplify with their exquisite nectar. You can learn more about the indigenous cultures that make the Blue Ridge Mountains their home at the Sautee Nacoochee Cultural Center. Journey through the mountainous landscape to appreciate Anna Ruby Falls or Smithgall Woods State Park. For those of you who desire to explore Helen for a longer period, you ought to camp out at the Unicoi State Park Campground or seek accommodations at the Alpine Village Inn, Loreley Resort, or Valhalla Resort Hotel.

Similar to Darien, Brunswick serves as a gateway to four barrier islands of the Golden Isles, such as Jekyll Island and Saint Simons Island . Visitors can admire the Victorian-era architecture and well-preserved edifices in the Old Town Brunswick National Historic District. There is also an old Lover’s Oak Tree that has thrived and grown since 1787. Mary Ross Waterfront Park and Turtle River are two vibrant playgrounds for you to soak in the watery wonders of Brunswick. One can watch vintage or modern movies at the Historic Ritz Theatre, built in 1898 when it was once called the Grand Opera House.

On Turtle River, you can set sail aboard the Emerald Princess Casino, a four-deck cruise ship for gamblers and gamers eager to lose and win while skimming the waves. Some of you might be intrigued to tour the Hamilton Plantation Slave Cabins, a haunting reminder of America’s darkest chapter in slavery . There is more to admire and discover in Brunswick, especially in the Golden Isles connected to the town such as the 18 th -century stronghold of Fort Frederica National Monument in Saint Simons Island.

Saint Marys

With the Saint Marys River delineating the border between Georgia and Florida , the town of Saint Marys embraces newcomers from two different states—even people from Jacksonville , Florida, can travel 43 miles north to enjoy Saint Marys’ many cultural and natural attractions. There is, for example, the Dungeness Ruins on Cumberland Island, the remnants of a 59-room Queen Anne-style mansion from the 1800s. Next to this illustrious ruin is the Ice House Museum, a former storage depot for ice boxes long before refrigerators were in vogue.

Aside from historical landmarks, Cumberland Island promotes one long stretch of beach that the Atlantic Ocean constantly bombards with incredible waves. Consider trekking through the Crooked River State Park or attending the town’s own version of Mardi Gras every February. Perhaps the Saint Marys Seafood Festival in October or the Woodbine Crawfish Festival in April is your preference. Either way, you should definitely stash your belongings at the Cumberland Kings Bay Lodges Motel or Riverview Inn.

The town of Dublin in Georgia, less than two hours from the city of Savannah , should not be mistaken for the city of Dublin in Ireland . This little town along the Oconee River, dubbed “The Emerald City,” will thrust visitors to a different world due to its Southern hospitality and its Irish influence. Head over to the Dublin-Laurens County Veterans Building to pay homage to the many American soldiers who gave their lives to their country. You can learn more about Dublin’s past at the Downtown Dublin Audio tour, or you can go straight to the First African Baptist Church, where African-Americans freely preached their faith. You might also be interested in visiting the MLK Monument Park, where Martin Luther King Junior gave one of his first speeches for liberty and equity. For those who want to roam about, then let the Beaverdam Wildlife Management Area and the River Bend Wildlife Management Area enthrall you with its arboreal atmosphere. Finally, book a room at the Page House Bed & Breakfast.

An Unforgettable Journey Through Georgia

Munch on Georgia’s official state crop, the peanut, and slurp some refreshing Coca-Cola as you journey through 2024’s most adorable small towns in Georgia. Participate in the festive Mardi Gras in Saint Marys and embrace the Bavarian charms of Helen. Brave the mountainous landscapes of Blue Ridge and Dahlonega, and treat yourself to tidbits of knowledge at Madison and Brunswick. Most of all, it creates merriment and memories while exploring the largest state, east of the Mississippi River. So, rev your vehicle and kickstart your adventure through the lovely state of Georgia.

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Soon-to-open Wexford Irish Pub tells a singular story through its design and architecture

This article is the second in a series about the Wexford Irish Pub.

It’s a mystery why the City of Savannah does not have an Irish heritage museum. The soon-to-open Wexford Pub in City Market comes close, however, with the way its architecture and interiors work seamlessly to tell the unique story of Irish immigration to Georgia’s first city, which was driven not by potatoes but by prospects and prosperity in the mid-1800s.   

The Wexford’s co-owners, Tim and Jennifer Strickland and Chris Swanson, stumbled upon the narrative thread that would anchor their newest endeavor in the archives of Georgia Southern University’s Center for Irish Research and Teaching, led by Howard Keeley. That research provided the soul to every aspect of The Wexford’s design, furnishings and finishes, explained Darren Fagan, managing partner of U.S. operations for the Irish Pub Co., the Dublin-based global design-build firm that brought the Stricklands’ vision for a truly authentic Irish pub in Savannah to life.

“I had a broad vision in my head of the direction that this was going to go, and it was crystal clear to me how it should look,” said Fagan. “Once we got Howard involved – and I love the micro-details, love getting into the weeds – he provided us all the fodder to do that. We took it to an intense level with Wexford.”

Fagan admits that getting into the weeds caused him to take “probably five times longer than we would normally” to develop the of-place details of such a singular space, “but it’s still a great design.”

“Every single piece in there has to have value,” said Fagan, whose background in mechanical engineering, metal fabrication and building displays for such companies as Estee Lauder for high-end department stores such as Harrods gave him the distinctive skills to do this work.

The millwork from the first-floor bar and the stairs to the landings and the partitions between intimate enclaves called “snugs” reflect Irish craftsmanship across years, as if The Wexford had existed the same 150 span as the building it occupies and had been altered and added onto as a pub would be in Wexford Town or Kilrane.

No two cabinets are the same, said Fagan. “So, the attention to every layer… floor finishes, glass light fixtures, bric-a-brac, which is the memorabilia and knick-knacks around the walls and in the cabinets, the wallpaper to paint…

“The story supports the architectural design and the aesthetics support everything. So, every time you walk through, you see something different, and it makes you think… Because Ireland, and the export of pubs is about the story of Ireland.”

'There's a sciene to pubs'

And it’s also a story about creating an intentional experience never seen before in Savannah.

“There’s a science to pubs in Ireland… and that relates to the way you enter, how many steps it is to the bar, the types of places you sit, where you sit,” said Brian Felder, lead architect and principal of Savannah-based Felder and Associates . “[The Irish Pub Co.] essentially come[s] in and do[es] a schematic layout of where the humans go, where the bar is placed, how big it is. They know the science of how much space you need to serve beer and how many beer taps you should have, and where they should be and how far apart they should be.”

Felder and his team served as the liaison between the owners’ wants and the pub company, working with engineers to translate how to drop a finished interior surface into a historic structure. “It’s extra challenging in terms of codes and preservation guidelines, which are part of the ordinance.”

Felder described how there are “five layers of things going on over your head in 9 inches of space – beer lines, electrical lines, lighting, HVAC … it’s very complex.”

Felder had to figure out how to “shoehorn” modern conveniences and systems by flattening out ducts that are 30 inches wide by 4 inches deep to cool a space where up to 500 patrons across two floors are drinking beer and listening to live music. That intricate systems design and engineering involved cutting through steel beams, running up the middle of columns, hiding boxes behind mahogany wood panels so that they would not detract from the design but would make the spaces comfortable enough to linger a while.

“It’s a little like designing a Gulfstream jet,” said Felder. “Every cubic inch in that space is occupied by something.”

Those somethings include custom stained- and leaded-glass windows and panels with flourishes like a barley plant – winking across the room at a whiskey barrel. Mirrored insets hold a bit of wisdom from famous Irish poets and artists such as Brendan Behan . A wall leading to the second-floor restrooms will be populated by a rotating exhibition of research by Keeley’s students.

“I think that because there are different points of access in the pub – the architecture, the imagery, the music, the food, the broader kind of ambience – somebody is going to connect to one of those things, right?” said Keeley, whose students also are developing neighborhood walking tours to tell an even fuller narrative around Savannah’s unique Irish immigrant experience. “I think that the magic is that we have a kind of anchor story, which is that Wexford story.”

Origin Story: An authentic Irish pub to open in Savannah in June. Here's the story of how it came to be

Country Connections: Economic cooperation possible between local businesses, Emerald Isle

Take a tour through the telling details of The Wexford, Savannah's Irish Pub

This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Soon-to-open Wexford Irish Pub tells a singular story through its design and architecture

News Center

President cabrera begins annual summer tour.

President Cabrera visits LaGrange, Georgia, on his 2024 summer tour.

Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera hit the road this week for his annual summer tour, visiting with alumni and Georgia Tech stakeholders around the state. 

The first stop Tuesday was in LaGrange, Georgia, where he had breakfast with alumni, followed by a visit to the Kia Georgia facility in West Point. Cabrera and other tour participants observed the automaking process before moving on to Camp Academia, a participant in Georgia Tech’s APEX accelerator .  

Other stops on the tour, which runs through Thursday, include Carrollton, Villa Rica, Douglasville, Rome, Calhoun, Dalton, Canton, Gainesville, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, and Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Additional Media

President Ángel Cabrera visits Kia in West Point, Georgia.

Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera visits the Kia Georgia facility.

Related links

• Georgia Tech Office of the President

Kristen Bailey

Institute Communications

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