Friends, ready for an unforgettable adventure? Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan – the captivating trio of the South Caucasus – promise stunning landscapes, deep history, and incredible flavours.
Forget generic tours; this is about crafting your perfect journey through ancient cities, towering mountains, and vibrant cultures. Let's map out your ultimate Caucasus trip!
Planning Your Route
Whether you have two weeks or six, the Caucasus delivers. Tailor your adventure: the Grand Tour (4-6 weeks) offers deep immersion, the Quick Version (3 weeks) hits major highlights efficiently, and the Brief Encounter (10-14 days) provides a thrilling taste.
Our focus? The essence, packed with specifics to make your planning smooth.
First Stop: Tbilisi
Launch your adventure in Tbilisi, Georgia's buzzing heart. Spend 3-5 days soaking in its unique charm. Wander the maze-like Old Town, admiring colourful balconies and hidden courtyards. Ride the cable car (€1) up to the ancient Narikala Fortress for panoramic views.
Don't miss soaking in the legendary sulfur baths (from €10/hour). Feast on cheesy khachapuri at local eateries (meals €5-€10).
Essential Day Trips
Base yourself in Tbilisi for key excursions. Visit Mtskheta, Georgia's ancient capital (30 mins by marshrutka, €1), to see the UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Venture to the striking David Gareja cave monasteries (half-day tour €25-€40 pp). Another must is Kazbegi, but save it for an overnight stay.
Budget €25-€35 per day for comfortable hostels or guesthouses in Tbilisi.
Mountain Majesty: Kazbegi
Journey north to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda). The marshrutka ride from Tbilisi takes about 3 hours (€5-€10). Stay 2 days to embrace the High Caucasus. Enjoy breathtaking vistas, especially at sunrise. Cozy guesthouses offer warm hospitality (€20-€40/night), and hearty mountain cuisine.
History Unearthed: Gori
En route west, pause in Gori for 1 day. Explore Georgia’s ancient heritage at the Gori Fortress, a medieval stronghold with panoramic views over the city. More captivating is the ancient Uplistsikhe cave city (€5 entry, short taxi ride €5 from Gori), a labyrinthine complex carved into rock over 3000 years ago. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia's deep past. Find simple accommodation (€15-€25) before moving on.
Charming Kutaisi
Georgia's second city, Kutaisi, deserves 2-3 days. Marvel at the majestic ruins of Bagrati Cathedral and the serene beauty of Gelati Monastery (UNESCO sites, combined entry €3). Dive into local life at the bustling Green Bazaar. Adventure calls nearby: kayak through the stunning turquoise waters of Martvili Canyon (entry + boat €10). Unique stay? Try the quirky Tskaltubo Spa (€25-€50/night).
Wild Svaneti: Mestia
Head deep into the mountains to Svaneti. The journey to Mestia (6-8 hours by marshrutka from Kutaisi, €10-€15) is an adventure itself. Stay 3-4 days amidst medieval stone towers. Hike scenic trails, visit the Svaneti Museum (€3), and take a thrilling day trip to Ushguli (Europe's highest village, 4x4 taxi €50-€70 round-trip).
Stay in traditional guesthouses (€20-€35/night) and savor chvishtari—a hearty cornbread stuffed with melted cheese, often served with tangy Svanetian salt.
Into Armenia: Gyumri
Cross into Armenia, starting with Gyumri. Spend 1-2 days exploring this city known for its distinctive black tuff architecture and resilient spirit. Stroll through Vartanants Square, browse artisan workshops, and relax in the central park. It's a quieter, authentic introduction to Armenia. Travel by shared taxi or minibus from Tbilisi (approx 5 hours, €15-€20). Find cozy B&Bs (€15-€25/night).
Capital Pulse: Yerevan
Armenia's heart beats in Yerevan. Base yourself here for 3-5 days. Explore the massive Cascade Complex for city views and art. Wander through Vernissage Market for souvenirs. Use Yerevan as a hub for incredible day trips. Budget €30-€50 daily for comfortable stays. The city buzzes with cafes and street life – perfect for people-watching over strong Armenian coffee (€1).
Armenian Day Trips
From Yerevan, explore wonders. Visit the Hellenic-style Garni Temple (€3 entry, combined taxi/marshrutka €5-€10 return). Then see the stunning rock-hewn Geghard Monastery nearby (€2 entry). Another essential is Khor Virap Monastery, offering iconic views of Mount Ararat (entry free, taxi €25-€35 round-trip).
Factor €20-€30 per person for guided tours covering multiple sites.
Azerbaijan Beckons: Baku
Fly or take an overnight train to Baku, Azerbaijan's dazzling capital. Spend 3-4 days discovering its contrasts. Explore the UNESCO Old City (Icherisheher), climbing the ancient Maiden Tower (€5). Admire the intricate exhibits at the Carpet Museum (€5). Wander the futuristic Flame Towers area and the waterfront Boulevard. Mid-range hotels average €40-€70/night.
Baku's Unique Outing
Dedicate a day to Gobustan National Park (45 mins from Baku). Witness thousands of ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings, €5 entry) and the bizarre, bubbling mud volcanoes (access via park taxi, approx €15 extra). It's a surreal landscape unlike any other. Combine this with the nearby Burning Mountain (Yanar Dag) (€2 entry). A half-day tour costs around €25-€40 per person.
Adventure Awaits
Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan offer an extraordinary travel tapestry. With smart planning using specific costs and timings, your journey becomes seamless and deeply rewarding. Embrace the spontaneity, savor every bite, capture the moments, and let the spirit of the Caucasus captivate you. Your unforgettable adventure through this breathtaking corner of the world starts now!
