Akhaltsikhe

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Akhaltsikhe's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Fortress
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Rabati Fortress, a historical site with stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll around the grounds and enjoy the views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the museum inside the fortress to learn about the region's rich history. Don’t forget to take pictures of the beautiful gardens that surround the area.

evening
:

Wind down by enjoying a traditional Georgian dinner in a local restaurant. Savor the flavors of khachapuri and khinkali as you relax.

day 2
Discover Vardzia
morning
:

Head out early to visit the Vardzia Cave Monastery, located just an hour from Akhaltsikhe. Marvel at the incredible rock-hewn architecture and frescoes that date back to the 12th century.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch near the monastery while taking in the stunning views of the river and cliffs. For the adventurous, consider a short hike in the surrounding area.

evening
:

Return to Akhaltsikhe and unwind at a cozy cafΓ©. Reflect on the day's adventures over a cup of freshly brewed Georgian coffee.

day 3
Scenic Nature Walks
morning
:

Start your morning with a light breakfast, then set out for a nature walk in the nearby Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the tranquility of the lush surroundings.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a designated picnic area within the park. Spend your afternoon exploring various trails and taking in the diverse flora and fauna.

evening
:

After returning to Akhaltsikhe, enjoy a calming evening at your accommodation. Consider enjoying a family-style dinner with fellow travelers.

day 4
Georgian Wine Tasting
morning
:

Begin with a tour of a local winery that showcases traditional Georgian wine-making techniques. Learn about the history of Georgian wine and its unique varietals during a guided tasting.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a delightful lunch paired with some local wines at the winery. Engage with the winemakers and learn more about their craft.

evening
:

Return to Akhaltsikhe and find a traditional restaurant to sample regional dishes. Pair your dinner with more local wines and enjoy the ambiance.

day 5
Capture the Culture
morning
:

Visit local markets to experience Georgian culture up close. Interact with vendors and taste local snacks as you stroll through the colorful stalls.

afternoon
:

Explore the Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum to learn about the traditions and history of the region. Take your time to appreciate the exhibits.

evening
:

Have dinner at a restaurant featuring live Georgian music. Enjoy the lively performances as you indulge in delicious cuisine.

day 6
Historical Towns
morning
:

Travel to the nearby town of Akhaltsikhe and visit the iconic St. Mary’s Church. Appreciate its architecture and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Explore the lesser-known historical sites in the area, like the Mtsvane Monastery. Have lunch at a local eatery to fuel your exploration.

evening
:

Indulge in a traditional Georgian dinner in a cozy restaurant. Savor classic dishes like lobio and pkhali while enjoying the local hospitality.

day 7
Adventure Activities
morning
:

Kickstart your day with breakfast and prepare for an adventure either hiking or rock climbing in the surrounding mountains. Engage a local guide for a safe and enjoyable experience.

afternoon
:

After the morning's adventure, have a hearty lunch to refuel. Continue exploring the trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the landscape.

evening
:

Return to Akhaltsikhe and relax at a local spa or wellness center. Treat yourself to a massage or sauna session to unwind.

day 8
Cultural Exchange
morning
:

Visit a local school or community center to engage with locals and understand their daily lives. Participate in a cooking class to learn the basics of Georgian cuisine.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch together, where you will share stories and experiences about your cultures. This will be a great opportunity to bond over food.

evening
:

Spend your evening at a community gathering, if available. Immerse yourself in lively conversations and traditional music and dance.

day 9
Stargazing Night
morning
:

Have a relaxed morning with brunch at a cafΓ©. Prepare for an exciting evening by researching celestial events that might be happening.

afternoon
:

Spend your day exploring nearby scenic spots or local attractions. Make sure to choose a location with minimal light pollution for stargazing later.

evening
:

Return to your chosen stargazing spot after dinner. Lay back, gaze at the stars, and perhaps catch a meteor shower if you're lucky.

day 10
Cooking Class
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local market to gather ingredients for the cooking class. Engage with vendors and learn about various Georgian foods.

afternoon
:

Join a local chef for an immersive cooking experience to learn how to prepare traditional Georgian dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor during a communal lunch.

evening
:

Spend your evening relaxing with a glass of wine at your accommodation. Reflect on your culinary adventure and plan your next day.

Discover Akhaltsikhe

Read more in our Akhaltsikhe 2024 Travel Guide.

Akhaltsikhe Travel Guide