Mtskheta Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Mtskheta, Georgia with this travel guide.


Introduction to Mtskheta

Mtskheta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic city located in the Kartli region of Georgia. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered the spiritual heart of the country. Mtskheta has a rich history, with many important religious and cultural sites. The city is also known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for tourists in Georgia.

List of Places to Visit in Mtskheta

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Mtskheta:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jvari Monastery: This 6th-century monastery is located on a hill overlooking Mtskheta and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is considered one of the most important religious sites in Georgia.
  • Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in Georgia and is the burial site of many Georgian kings and queens.
  • Samtavro Monastery: This monastery was built in the 11th century and is said to have been the residence of St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia.

Natural Attractions of Mtskheta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Armazi Fortress: This ancient fortress was built in the 4th century BC and is located on a hill overlooking Mtskheta. It is a great place to go for a hike and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Shio-Mgvime Monastery: This 6th-century monastery is located in a beautiful forested area and is a great place to go for a nature walk.
  • Jvari Pass: This beautiful mountain pass connects Mtskheta to the town of Stepantsminda and offers breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mtskheta

For those who enjoy hiking and biking, Mtskheta has some great options:

  • Arsha Cave: This easy-level hike takes you to a beautiful waterfall and cave.
  • Zedazeni Monastery: This moderate-level hike takes you to a 6th-century monastery located on a hill overlooking Mtskheta.
  • Mtskheta Loop: This challenging-level hike takes you on a loop around Mtskheta and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Mtskheta: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Mtskheta:

  • Wine Tasting: Georgia is famous for its wine, and Mtskheta has many wineries where you can sample some of the best wines in the country.
  • Georgian Cooking Class: Learn how to make traditional Georgian dishes like khinkali and khachapuri in a cooking class.
  • Mtskheta Walking Tour: Take a walking tour of Mtskheta to learn about the city’s history and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mtskheta

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Mtskheta, explore the city
Day 2 Visit Jvari Monastery, Armazi Fortress
Day 3 Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Samtavro Monastery
Day 4 Hike to Zedazeni Monastery, wine tasting
Day 5 Georgian cooking class, Shio-Mgvime Monastery
Day 6 Visit Jvari Pass, Mtskheta walking tour
Day 7 Depart from Mtskheta

Food and Drink Scene of Mtskheta

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khachapuri: A traditional bread filled with cheese and sometimes other ingredients such as meat or vegetables
  • Khinkali: Georgian dumplings filled with meat, herbs, and spices
  • Badagi: Fermented grape skins, a popular Georgian appetizer

Local Beverages

  • Georgian wine: Georgia is one of the oldest wine regions in the world and is known for its unique traditional methods of winemaking.
  • Chacha: A Georgian brandy made from the residue of the winemaking process.

Where to Stay in Mtskheta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mtskheta offers a variety of accommodations for all budgets. Here are some options:

  • Hotel Armazi: A comfortable and affordable hotel located in the center of Mtskheta.
  • Hotel Andro: A luxury hotel with a great location and beautiful views.
  • Guesthouse Georgia Mtskheta: A guesthouse with a homely feel and excellent hospitality.

What to Buy in Mtskheta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best things to buy in Mtskheta:

  • Georgian wine: Georgian wine is a great souvenir to bring home, with many wineries offering tours and tastings.
  • Traditional Georgian handicrafts such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
  • Local honey: Georgian honey is renowned for its quality and taste.

Local Culture and Customs of Mtskheta

Georgians are known for their hospitality and kindness. It is customary to offer guests food and drinks, and to always take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or a place of worship.

Best Time to Visit Mtskheta

The best time to visit Mtskheta is from April to October, when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mtskheta

Do:

  • Respect Georgian customs and traditions.
  • Try traditional Georgian food and wine.
  • Explore the beautiful landscapes of the area.

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes in someone’s home or a place of worship.
  • Ignore local customs or traditions.
  • Be disrespectful to the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mtskheta

Mtskheta is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep yourself safe.

Health in Mtskheta

The tap water in Mtskheta is not potable, so it is recommended to stick to bottled water. It is also advisable to bring any necessary medication with you, as medical facilities in the area may not be up to Western standards.

Getting to Mtskheta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mtskheta

The nearest international airport to Mtskheta is Tbilisi International Airport, which is approximately 30 km away.

Bus Stations Near Mtskheta

Mtskheta does not have a central bus station, but buses to and from Tbilisi and other nearby cities can be found on the outskirts of the city.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also available for hire in Mtskheta.

How to Get Around Mtskheta

Mtskheta is a small city and can easily be explored on foot. Taxis and private cars are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Mtskheta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Mtskheta.

  • Tbilisi: Georgia’s capital city is located just a short drive away from Mtskheta and offers a wealth of attractions and activities.
  • Stepantsminda: A beautiful town located in the Caucasus Mountains, a few hours’ drive from Mtskheta.
  • Ananuri Fortress: A beautiful 17th-century fortress located on the Aragvi River, approximately an hour’s drive from Mtskheta.

Conclusion

Mtskheta is a beautiful and historic city in Georgia that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, Mtskheta has it all. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Mtskheta with confidence and make the most of your time in this amazing city.

View of Mtskheta with the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral View of Mtskheta with the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral Gamsakhurdia street Gamsakhurdia street Svetitskhoveli Cathedral interiors Svetitskhoveli Cathedral interiors Jvari Monastery Jvari Monastery