Georgia: a destination on the rise
Before setting off on their trip, many travelers wonder what to see in Georgia — a country that has established itself as one of the most fascinating emerging destinations in Europe. With just 3.8 million inhabitants and an area of around 70,000 square kilometers, Georgia recorded a historic 5.5 million international tourist visits in 2025, reflecting sustained growth year after year. Interest from Spain has grown notably: visits from the European Union and the United Kingdom increased by 14% in 2025, with Spain among the fastest-growing markets, surpassing 40%. Its rich diversity of destinations, renowned safety, and legendary hospitality make Georgia a magnet for European travelers eager to discover the hidden charms and cultural gems this country has to offer.
What to see in Georgia? Cities, villages, and nature
Despite its compact size — 20% of which remains under Russian occupation — Georgia offers an impressive array of places of interest that captivate any traveler. From picturesque medieval villages and vibrant cities to mysterious caves, towering Caucasus peaks, and sunny Black Sea beaches, there is something for every taste. Every corner of this country promises a unique adventure, whether you're exploring its millennia-old historical heritage, immersing yourself in its rich culture, or simply enjoying wild and spectacular nature.
Cities to visit in Georgia
Tbilisi – The capital of Georgia
Tbilisi means "warm," a name linked to the famous sulfurous hot springs that bubble up from the hillside and have been one of the city's main attractions for centuries.
Today the city has more than ten bathhouses offering luxurious relaxation with massages and exfoliating treatments. Tbilisi is home to nearly half the country's population, with approximately 1.2 million inhabitants, making it Georgia's largest city.
Its main attractions include the Tbilisi Old Town, spread across both banks of the Mtkvari (Kura) River. A stroll through the old city, visiting Narikala Fortress, its centuries-old churches, museums, and charming alleyways, is the perfect introduction to start a multi-day journey through Georgia.
Kutaisi – One of the oldest cities in the world
Georgia's second-largest city and one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world: Kutaisi has at least 3,500 years of history, beginning with the legend of the Argonauts.
With its cultural pride and love of the arts, Kutaisi welcomes those wishing to explore Georgia from the west. It offers a wide variety of excursions in its surroundings: UNESCO World Heritage churches and monasteries, monumental caves, lush canyons, and natural parks that leave no one indifferent. If you have just one day with private transport, we recommend visiting at least the Gelati Academy, Prometheus Cave, and Martvili Canyon.
Batumi – Georgia's most modern city
Batumi is Georgia's main Black Sea coastal city, a favorite of visitors from the former Soviet countries and Turkey. In a single glance you can take in neoclassical architecture, Soviet-era housing blocks, and on the other side, modern skyscrapers, casinos, and luxury hotels. Its nightlife is especially lively in summer, though we recommend visiting Batumi outside of peak season to enjoy its varied beauty at a more relaxed pace and without the crowds.
Telavi – Capital of the cradle of wine
Telavi is the most important city in the Kakheti region, the cradle of wine. Dense forests surround it to the west, while on the other side stunning views open across the Alazani valley, framed by the Great Caucasus mountain range.
It is well worth spending at least one night in Telavi, visiting the 18th-century walled royal palace, and dining at one of its wineries while tasting excellent local wines.
Gori – Stalin's birthplace
Gori is world-famous as the birthplace of dictator Stalin, where he spent his childhood. The museum dedicated to his life and the early Soviet period remains open to this day. From anywhere in the city you can see Goristsikhe Fortress, perched on a hill in the urban center — and it is from this hill that the name "Gori," meaning "hill," derives.
If you visit Gori, don't miss Uplistsikhe, a prehistoric rock-hewn city and one of Georgia's oldest settlements, located just 12 kilometers away.
Villages to visit in Georgia
Mtskheta – The ancient sacred capital
Mtskheta is the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Iberia. It became the most important city following invasions in the 4th century BC and maintained that status until the 5th century, when King Vakhtang Gorgasali moved the capital to present-day Tbilisi.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari (Cross) Monastery are both on the UNESCO World Heritage List. As the most sacred city for the Georgian Orthodox Church, Mtskheta has the highest concentration of churches, monasteries, and basilicas in the country, with buildings dating back to the 6th century. It is just 30 minutes from Tbilisi, and if you dedicate a full day you can explore several of the temples and monasteries that make this historical gem so special.
Mestia – A mountain lover's paradise
Mestia is the administrative center of the Svaneti region, and its wild mountain beauty draws tourists year-round. It is the ideal starting point for everything from easy hiking routes to professional mountaineering. Much of the village retains its ancient architecture and style, with its famous defensive towers. It has two ski resorts, several museums, and lively restaurants perfect for a relaxed evening out.
Ushguli – The highest permanently inhabited village in Europe
Ushguli is the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe, situated between 2,100 and 2,200 meters above sea level and protected by UNESCO. Despite the roughly two hours of unpaved road from Mestia, once you arrive you understand it was worth it: Ushguli becomes one of the best places to visit in Georgia.
You can wander through the different parts of the village along muddy paths, observe the authentic lives of its inhabitants, visit Lamaria Monastery, and stop by some of the family ethnographic museums whose owners are delighted to welcome visitors.
Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) – At the foot of the Great Caucasus
Without a doubt one of Georgia's most visited villages. About 3 hours along a spectacular road from Tbilisi, you can come for a day trip or stay longer to explore this village surrounded by the towering peaks of the Great Caucasus.
It is the starting point for mountaineers wishing to summit the famous Mount Kazbek (5,033 m), where according to Greek mythology Prometheus was chained.
Signagi – The city of love
Its name means "refuge." It was built with a wall stretching over 4 kilometers and 23 towers to protect against the invasions the region suffered during the 17th–18th centuries. In recent years, Signagi has become a very popular tourist destination thanks to its picturesque streets and growing offering of hotels and restaurants.
It is a true paradise for wine lovers: the village is filled with wineries and bars serving local wines, from homemade varieties to professionally produced bottles.
Tago – A village suspended in the air
Tago is a unique village in the Adjara region, connected to the rest of the world by a 1,720-meter cable car. If you don't have a fear of heights, you'll enjoy an 8-minute ride crossing the Adjaristskali River at up to 240 meters above ground.
Perched at 1,000 meters above sea level, Tago is home to beautiful wooden houses where locals still live. As a Muslim village, it has a small mosque. Free from tourist crowds, as you walk through its streets people watch you with curiosity — and don't be surprised if they invite you into their home.
Shatili – The living fortress of Khevsureti
Shatili is a village in the Khevsureti region that for centuries defended the country against raids by tribes from the North Caucasus.
The defensive towers of Shatili are unique monuments that have been remarkably well preserved. It is a village steeped in legends, myths, and ancestral traditions. Despite the rough road, it is a site of great interest for both Georgians and international travelers. It opens in early June when accommodations begin operating. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended to enjoy the spectacular scenery and arrive without incident.
What to visit in Georgia? Plan your trip with us
If you're planning your next trip to Georgia and haven't yet worked out your itinerary, Iberogeorgia is here to help — with no obligation. Based on your tastes and interests, we'll help you choose what to visit in Georgia so you fall in love with this beautiful country and its people.
Iberogeorgia, an inbound tour operator in Georgia, offers the best prices and conditions for both families and travel groups. Our tourism service starts with getting to know you and your preferences, and ends with a farewell at the airport.
Leave a comment below telling us which must-see places in Georgia you would add to this list.