Exploring the Four Must-See Sites of Tbilisi: Jvari Monastery, Ananuri, Gudauri, and Kazbegi Tour in Stepantsminda

If you’re planning a trip to Tbilisi, Georgia, then you’re probably looking to explore some of the city’s most iconic sites. Between the forests, ancient ruins, and sweeping mountaintops that have so much to offer in terms of beauty and history, it can be difficult to decide which attractions to visit.

This guide will help make planning your trip a breeze by exploring the four must-see sites around Tbilisi—Jvari Monastery, Ananuri, Gudauri, and Kazbegi—so you can maximize your sightseeing and get the most out of your vacation.

Jvari Monastery

The Jvari Monastery is an incredible feat of devotion and engineering, towering at the top of Mt. Mtacminda. It’s about 20 minutes outside of Tbilisi and it is an incredible sight to behold. The monastery was constructed in the sixth century around a wooden church built on the site where Saint Nino was said to have worked her miracles converting Georgians to Christianity. The monastery is a cross-shaped structure composed almost entirely of stone, with its foundation dates back to the fifth century AD. It still serves as an active monastery today, so you’ll encounter priests and religious faithful here.

Ananuri

Set atop a rocky outcrop near the Aragvi River, the Ananuri Castle consists of two churches and a set of defensive towers. In its heyday, it functioned as both fortification and residence for the Aragvi Dukes, who governed the strategically located area for at least several centuries. Nowadays, it’s a great spot to visit for its breathtaking views of the river below as well as its classic Georgian architecture. The cathedral located within the castle walls is intricately designed with elaborate iconography that makes it feel as if time stands still here.

Gudauri

Gudauri is a beautiful ski resort town located on the Georgian Military Road at an altitude of 2,000m (6,500ft). It’s one of the most popular ski and snowboard destinations in Georgia, but in summer it still offers plenty even when the snow has melted on the slopes. Stunning panoramas entice visitors with rolling mountains surrounding an expansive valley, while downhill activities and hikes are great ways to experience the beauty of Gudauri firsthand. The attractions in and around Gudauri include cable rides, extreme sports, horseback riding and more.

Kazbegi

Kazbegi is a small town in northern Georgia that marks the border with the Russian region of North Ossetia–Alania. It’s home to some breathtaking mountain scenery that’s hard to beat. The main attraction here is Mount Kazbeg (also known as Mount Dzhimarai-Kharuli or Mount Shkhara), which requires significant hiking in order to reach its summit. The mountain is so impressive that its image is printed on the back of every Georgian banknote—so it’s worth making the trek up to see it in person.

Stepantsminda

Stepantsminda is a town in Northern Georgia, near the Russian-Georgian border. It’s home to some of Georgia’s most stunning landscapes and natural wonders, like The Truso Valley and Gergeti Trinity Church. Stepantsminda is also the starting point for the hike up Mt Kazbeg—which acts as borders between North Ossetia–Alania (Russia) and Georgia. Stepantsminda is also a great place to experience Georgian cuisine, as it’s close to South Ossetia—which has a distinct culture and cuisine that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Make Sure to Take an Organized Tour for a Hassle-Free Experience

An organized tour through Tbilisi’s attractions offers travellers an easy and worry-free way of getting the most out of these must-see sites. A guided tour allows you to experience the sites without having to worry about organising transport or securing tickets for each individual attraction—plus it makes for a much more immersive experience through the help of local experts on Georgian culture. For those looking for a convenient day tour that includes all these four must-see attractions with transport included, check out this Get Your Guide experience. This guided tour departs from Tbilisi on an air-conditioned coach with an experienced guide who will ensure you get the most out of every stop on your trip. The route also includes a stop for lunch where you’ll get to sample some delicious Georgian dishes as well as explore more of everyday Georgia. So rush now and book your tour while they are still available!

Overall, exploring these four amazing sites around Tbilisi will definitely give you an appreciation for all that the city has to offer and will surely be a highlight of your trip to Georgia!