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10 best places to visit in winter in Georgia

26 Dec 2022

Georgia’s Charming Winter Getaways

Whether you want to escape the crowds of the spring and summer months, get into the holiday spirit, or just see a different side of this incredible country, here’s a wanderlust-fueling Georgia winter travel bucket list.

While each of these 10 destinations are all terrific places to visit in Georgia at any time of year, I think they’re especially beautiful in winter.

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Nearby Gudauri takes the lion’s share of winter tourism thanks to its ski slopes. Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) is quieter and much more tranquil by contrast. Some restaurants and cafes close for the winter, but you can always find something open.

Venture up to Gergeti Trinity Church (it’s recommended to go by 4WD in winter unless you have proper hiking gear) and spend an afternoon on the deck at Rooms sipping glint wine.

1. KAZBEGI – SCENIC DRIVES & MOUNTAIN MAGIC

Under 3.5 hours by road from Tbilisi, Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) is the best place to get a peek at the Greater Caucasus without venturing too far from the city.

The scenic Georgian Military Highway remains open throughout winter, making it easy to reach Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) and visit a slew of winter-wonderful sights along the way, including Gudauri, Pasanauri and Sno Village. The views along this road in winter are nothing short of dazzling.

2. GUDAURI – SKIING & CHALETS

An obvious addition to any list of places to visit in Georgia in winter, Gudauri is the country’s most popular winter resort.

Skiing, snowboarding and heli-skiing on 64km of runs (serviced by 15 lifts and gondolas) are all available from mid-December onwards.

If you’re skiing, go all out and stay at great hotels. Otherwise, it’s much better to spend an hour in Gudauri on the way up to Kazbegi (Stepatnsminda), where the winter vibe is more pleasant and accommodation far more reasonable.

Bakuriani sits on the northern slopes of the Trialeti Range in the foothills of the Lesser Caucasus mountains. As you might imagine, the entire area is a winter paradise of ivory coloured trees and hoary hills.

Another must-do is to ride the historic Kukushka Train, Georgia’s only scenic rail that runs from Borjomi up to the ski resort. The track delves into deep forest and is absolutely gorgeous in winter.

3. BORJOMI & BAKURIANI – HOT SPRINGS, SKIING & WINTER HIKES

Located in southern Georgia’s Samtskhe-Javakheti region, Borjomi is one of many places in Georgia with natural hot sulfur baths. A trip to the open-air thermal baths is the perfect way to warm up in winter.

Bakuriani is the second most popular ski resort in Georgia after Gudauri. With 29km of slopes spanning all difficulty levels and 20 ski lifts, this is a snow bunny’s paradise. Ski season normally starts in mid-December.

4. SVANETI – TOWER HOUSES & MAJESTIC PEAKS

If you want a taste of a raw, rugged mountain winter in Georgia, it doesn’t get much better than Svaneti. Winter arrives early on Georgia’s highest peak and promises a good three months of snow-white landscapes that are almost too perfect to be real.

As a winter destination, Svaneti is quite diverse: Skiing and snowboarding are available at Hatsvali, Mestia town offers a range of cultural and historical attractions, and you can take a side trip to see the tower houses in UNESCO-Listed Ushguli. To top it off, Kubdari (Svanetian meat pie) might be the pinnacle of winter fare.

All this against a backdrop of the country’s most monumental mountains, with Shkhara as snow-clad sentinel. Snow is visible on the highest peaks from as early as the end of September.

5. BAKHMARO – CAT SKIING & ALPINE AIR

Located in western Georgia’s Guria region, Bakhmaro is a beloved alpine resort praised for its curative air. Some say this is the purest air in Georgia – that’s why a trip to Bakhmaro is often prescribed to people with respiratory issues.
Summer is the favourite time to visit for dramatic sunsets.

In winter, the air is a touch frostier to say the least. The storybook A-frame cottages that dot the mountain labour under heavy snow – up to 5 metres deep in a good year – enclosed by pockets of fir and pine tree forest.

6. LAGODEKHI – TRANQUIL LANDSCAPES

A hiker’s refuge in summer, in winter, Lagodekhi National Park takes on a completely different character. This little patch of warm, wet forest in arid Kakheti – located very close to the border with Azerbaijan – is all silvery rivers and vast swathes of snowy pasture in the cold months.

Seeking sanctuary from the harsh winter conditions in the mountains of Tusheti, herders bring their flocks down to pasture in Lagodekhi and Vashlovani in winter – hence why you’ll often see streams of sheep roaming the landscape at this time of year.

Roosting birds make off for warmer pastures as lakes Paravani, Saghamo and Bughdasheni freeze over. Ice crystals take up in every tree, while the surrounding meadows transform into fields of deep snow and the sleeping volcanoes in the distance gather powder on their crowns.

Also in this region, Vardzia Cave City takes on a completely unique appearance in winter as snow collects in its craggy rock cloisters.

7. JAVAKHETI – FROZEN LAKES & SNOW-CAPPED VOLCANOES

Bitterly cold and unforgiving, Javakheti demands proper gear, snow tires, and a lot of grit. But if you’re brave enough, it’s one of the most distinct landscapes in Georgia and truly a sight to behold in winter.

The Javakheti Plateau stretches across the southern part of the country along the borders with Armenia and Turkey, and encompasses a handful of small jewel-like lakes interspersed by vast prairies and deep canyons.

Houses huddle together in small villages as if to share warmth, some buried under turf roofs to squeeze every drop of heat out of the earth. Other colourful villages on the lake’s shore are almost Nordic.

8. FOREST SABADURI – FAIRYTALE LANDSCAPE OF FROSTY TREES

Just an hour by road from Tbilisi, Sabaduri Forest is the ultimate winter playground and the place to go for photos frolicking over snow-glazed paths amongst powder-puff trees. Find a quiet spot on the side of the highway that winds its way alongside Tbilisi National Park and wander off into a snowy paradise.

Half an hour further up the road, Sioni Lake looks pretty as a picture when mirroring frozen foliage. Nearby Martkopi Monastery, nestled deep in the forest, rounds out the ideal winter day trip from Tbilisi.

For a real winter treat, book a day trip to Sabaduri and Gudauri ski resort or a guided day trip to Sabaduri, Sioni and the nearby Chronicles of Georgian monument. Sabaduri is also a wonderful spot to see fiery foliage during the autumn months

Photo credit: Shermazana

9. UPPER ADJARA – SERIOUS SKIING & SWEET VILLAGES

The highlands above Batumi wear their winter cloak so well. Sweet alpine villages such as Beshumi sport similar A-frame cottages to Bakhmaro and are gorgeous in winter.

Georgia’s third ski resort, Goderdzi, is located in this region and despite being smaller (there is just one gondola and 8.4km of slopes) is probably the most scenic. With fewer tourists, the atmosphere here is more intimate. The season typically runs from December to March.

10. KAKHETI – CLEAR SKIES & FROZEN VINES

Most people suggest a trip to Kakheti in autumn during the Rtveli grape harvest. Having driven around Kakheti in February, I can tell you Georgia’s wine country is equally beautiful in winter – just in a different way.

The biggest advantage of visiting Kakheti in winter is clear skies. While haze obscures the view at other times of year (particularly in summer), in winter you can see all the way across the Alazani Valley to the Greater Caucasus.

What's New?

1. Old Tbilisi

Old Tbilisi is the most beautiful part of the city. The small streets, colorful wooden balconies, and old landmarks show the history of Georgia. At the same time, the area is full of life with cafés, wine bars, and quiet courtyards. It is one of the best places to walk and enjoy both history and the local atmosphere. Old Tbilisi is also the place where Asia and Europe meet, creating a unique blend of cultures, architecture, and traditions that you can feel at every step, and since every corner hides something interesting, here are a few highlights you definitely shouldn’t miss.

Highlights of Old Tbilisi:

Liberty Square – Start here at the main square connecting old and new Tbilisi. It is a lively spot where many events take place.

Meidan Bazaar – From Liberty Square, head underground to this market where you can buy souvenirs, local wine, and handmade items. It shows the old trading spirit of the city.

Sioni Cathedral – A short walk from the bazaar, this historic church is full of beautiful icons and is an important spiritual site for locals.

The Great Synagogue of Tbilisi – built in the early 20th century by Georgian Jews from Akhaltsikhe. It’s on Kote Afkhazi Street, right in the old town.

Jumah Mosque – unique because both Sunni and Shia Muslims pray there together, which is rare. It’s in Abanotubani, near the sulfur baths.

Tamada Statue – Nearby in the streets of old town, this statue of a Georgian toastmaster holding a wine horn celebrates the tradition of Georgian feasts.

Anchiskhati Church – Just around the corner, this is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, dating back to the 6th century.

Gabriadze Clock Tower – Continue walking to see the leaning clock tower, where every hour a small puppet show appears for visitors.

Statue of Berikebi – Close by, this playful sculpture shows characters from old Georgian theater, adding humor to the streets.

Balconies of Old Tbilisi – As you walk through the streets, notice the colorful wooden balconies that are a signature of the old town.

Metekhi Church – Follow the path to the cliff overlooking the river. The church gives amazing views of the city, and next to it is the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali.

Town Wall – On your way from Metekhi, you can see parts of the old defensive wall that once protected Tbilisi.

Mother of Georgia Statue – End your walk at the hill above the city. This iconic statue holds a sword and wine, symbolizing strength and hospitality.

2. Georgian National Museum

The Georgian National Museum is one of the best places to understand Georgia’s rich history and culture. Georgia is famous among other countries for its ancient civilization, unique alphabet, 8000 years of winemaking traditions, and location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The museum brings all of this together under one roof, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Tbilisi.

Colchis Gold Collection – unique gold and silver jewelry from the 2nd millennium BC, treasures of the ancient Colchis kingdom.

Archaeological Discoveries – artifacts from the Stone Age and Bronze Age, including tools, weapons, and pottery.

Medieval Art and Manuscripts – ancient Georgian manuscripts, icons, and religious items with traditional ornament designs.

Ethnographic Exhibits – traditional Georgian clothing, household items, and examples of folk culture.

Fine Arts – works by Georgian painters and artists from different centuries.

Modern History Section – the Soviet Occupation Museum, showing Georgia’s political and social history in the 20th century.

3. Holy Trinity Cathedral

Holy Trinity Cathedral, known as Sameba, is one of the largest and most impressive churches in Georgia. Standing proudly on Elia Hill, it can be seen from many parts of Tbilisi and has become one of the main symbols of the city. Construction of the cathedral was completed in 2004, making it a relatively new landmark, but its size and beauty quickly made it famous. The church is almost 100 meters tall, with a golden dome that shines brightly in the sun. Inside, you will find wide open spaces, high ceilings, and beautiful frescoes that create a peaceful atmosphere.

Sameba is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and spiritual center. Many visitors come here to admire its architecture, light a candle, or simply enjoy the quiet surroundings and views of the city.

4. Sulphur Bath

The story of Tbilisi begins with its hot springs. According to legend, King Vakhtang Gorgasali discovered the sulphur waters in the 5th century, and this is where the city was founded. Because of this, the baths are not just a place to relax but also a part of Tbilisi’s history.

The Sulphur Baths in Abanotubani have been popular for centuries. People came here not only to enjoy the warm waters but also to spend time together, celebrate, and even hold small family traditions. It was a place of social life as much as relaxation.

The baths are known for their healing powers. The hot sulphur water is said to improve blood circulation, clean the skin, and strengthen the body. The steam also helps with breathing, making it a natural therapy.

Today, both locals and travelers love to visit Abanotubani. Whether you want to try the traditional bath, book a private room, or walk around the unique dome-shaped buildings, it is an experience that shows you the real spirit of old Tbilisi.

5. Bridge of Peace

You can’t miss the Bridge of Peace when visiting Tbilisi. It stretches across the Mtkvari River, between Metekhi and Baratashvili bridges, and connects Erekle II Street with Rikhe Park. The bridge officially opened in May 2010. It was designed by Italian architect Michele De Lucchi, while the lighting design was created by Philippe Martineau.

The bridge has a modern and eye-catching style. It is built with a steel frame and glass panels, resting on four large pillars. With a length of 156 meters, it looks especially magical at night when thousands of LED lights shine brightly, creating beautiful reflections on the water.

What makes the Bridge of Peace so special is how it brings together the old and the new. On one side, you can see the historic part of Tbilisi with its churches and narrow streets. On the other hand, you’ll find modern parks and contemporary buildings. The glass design of the bridge stands in strong contrast with the traditional architecture around it, but together they tell the story of a city that is both ancient and modern. It’s a favorite spot for photos, evening walks, and enjoying views of the city from the middle of the river.

6. Funicular and Cable car rides

One of the best ways to see Tbilisi from above is by taking the funicular or the cable car. Both rides give you a unique view of the city, the river, and the surrounding hills, making them a highlight for any visitor.

The funicular takes you up Mtatsminda Mountain, where you will find Mtatsminda Park, restaurants, and walking paths. The ride is smooth and fun, and once you reach the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and relax in the park. It’s a perfect combination of transport and sightseeing.

7. Nutsubidze Sky Bridge

Nutsubidze Sky Bridge is one of the most unusual and hidden gems in Tbilisi. It connects three large apartment blocks built on the hillside of the Saburtalo district during the Soviet era. Construction began in the 1970s, when the city started expanding into the steep slopes. The first building was completed in 1976, and the others, along with the bridges, were finished in the mid-1980s.

The project was created by Georgian architects Otar Kalandarishvili and Gizo Potskhishvili. Their inspiration came from the mountain village of Shatili, where bridges and passages linked medieval stone towers. In Shatili, these connections made the village safer during attacks. The architects brought the same idea to modern Tbilisi, giving the buildings a fortress-like design.

The bridge itself is very special. It starts on the 14th floor of the first block, continues to the 12th floor of the second block, and ends at the 10th floor of the third block. For many residents, it’s not just an architectural curiosity; it’s part of daily life. People use the bridge to cross between buildings and then take the elevator down, instead of climbing up and down the steep hill. This makes moving around the area much easier.

Another striking feature is the horseshoe-shaped balconies, which come from traditional designs in Georgia’s mountain regions and symbolize good fortune.

8. Fabrika

Fabrika is one of the coolest and most creative spots in Tbilisi. Once an old Soviet sewing factory, it has been transformed into a modern urban space that brings people together. Today, Fabrika is a mix of a hostel, concept stores, art studios, bars, and cafes.

It has become a favorite meeting place for locals and travelers alike. Visitors love it because it’s not just a place to eat or have a drink, it’s where you can experience Tbilisi’s modern culture, meet new people, and feel the city’s creative energy. Many friendships start here, and it’s common to see groups of people talking, laughing, and enjoying their late evenings.

Fabrika is also about community. For years, it has been a hub for artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs, creating a lively space where ideas and people connect. Whether you want to grab a coffee, shop for something unique, or simply sit and soak up the atmosphere, Fabrika is the place to be.

9. Tbilisi Botanical Garden

Tbilisi Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful places in the city, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. It is loved by visitors of all ages, as everyone can find something special here. Some people come to enjoy peaceful walks among blooming gardens and shady alleys, while others try activities like rock climbing or explore the scientific collections.

The garden is home to more than 3,500 plant species, including a rose garden, a lilac collection, many types of conifers, and even a Japanese garden. You will also find exotic plants, a tropical greenhouse, and small fountains hidden among the greenery. One of the highlights is the beautiful waterfall, along with wooden bridges, ponds, and cozy gazebos where you can rest.

Walking through the garden feels like stepping into another world, surrounded by nature in the heart of the capital. It is a popular spot for both locals and travelers who want to enjoy fresh air, amazing views, and the calm atmosphere of nature.

10. Chronicles of Georgia

Chronicles of Georgia is a massive monument that overlooks both the city of Tbilisi and the Tbilisi Sea, offering one of the most unique views around. Travelers and locals often come here to take photos and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The monument was created by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli in the 1980s. Although it was never fully finished, it still tells the story of Georgia’s history through giant stone pillars decorated with kings, queens, and important events.

You can reach the monument in about 20 minutes by taxi or car from the city center. Since it is located above the city and close to the sea, the area feels calm and refreshing. Many visitors also enjoy combining the trip with a short walk by the Tbilisi Sea.