2026 Telavi Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

#hellonewyear As I stepped into the heart of Georgia's wine country, I was immersed in a world of ancient traditions and rich cultural heritage. I visited a local family's winery, where I witnessed the time-honored art of qvevri wine making. The clay vessels, buried beneath the earth, held secrets of a centuries-old winemaking technique. I watched as the grapes were carefully selected and crushed, and the juice was left to ferment in the qvevris. The result was a wine that was both complex and full of character. Learn about the ancient technique of making wine in clay vessels. Experience the warm welcome of Georgian wine makers. Savor the unique flavors of traditional Georgian wine. Georgia's traditional wine making is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and hospitality.

#hellonewyear As I wandered through the historic streets of Old Telavi, the golden light of autumn cast a warm glow over the ancient architecture. The air was filled with the scent of ripe grapes and freshly baked bread, enticing me to explore further. I visited the medieval Telavi Cathedral, marveling at its stunning frescoes and intricate stone carvings. The old town's quaint shops and wine cellars offered a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. As the sun set, the atmosphere grew cozy, with locals gathering to share stories and wine. - *Historic Landmarks*: Visit the medieval Telavi Cathedral and explore the ancient streets. - *Wine Culture*: Discover the region's famous wines and traditional qvevri fermentation. - *Local Hospitality*: Experience the warm welcome of the Telavi people. Old Telavi's autumn charm, rich history, and cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination.

If you want to experience Georgia without the hustle, crowds, and rush—just venture outside Tbilisi. The eastern part of the country is perfect for slow trips, weekend getaways, and a refreshing reset. 🌿 Alazani Valley My favorite destination. Telavi is an excellent base: I recommend staying at a hotel with views of the valley and the Caucasus Mountains, so your mornings start with tranquility and vineyards. Must-do stops: visit the Kindzmarauli winery, drop by the house of Niko Pirosmani, and head to Sighnaghi—the city of love, where you can simply wander without a plan. 🏰 Kojori Just 20 minutes from Tbilisi, you'll find an ancient fortress with panoramic views of the Georgian mountains. It's a quiet, atmospheric spot that remains surprisingly untouristed. 🏘 Bolnisi A small German village halfway to the Armenian border. It preserves fragments of old architecture, a unique sense of coziness, and is perfect for a peaceful weekend. 🌈 Mravaltskaro - the red mountains near Rustavi It feels like you're not in Georgia but on Mars. The best time to visit is near sunset when the colors become especially vibrant. 🌉 Dashbashi - glass bridge and waterfalls Impressive, beautiful, and highly photogenic. A great option for a day trip. ⛪ Mtskheta A place you always want to return to: ancient, bright, and filled with tranquility. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and a cup of coffee with a view. ♨️ Laznia Bathhouse Just 15 minutes from the city—a complete reset. A great way to end a day full of travel. Instagram: @lazniaspa 🌊 Bazaleti Lake A good option for nature relaxation: peace, water, and the feeling of being far from the city, even though it's quite close. Eastern Georgia is all about beauty without haste, routes "for yourself," and those unforgettable moments 🤍 Save this if you're planning a trip—and feel free to ask questions, I'd be happy to share ready-made Google itineraries.

#hellohalloween Dzveli Shuamta Monastery in Kakheti is a fascinating destination for those interested in Georgia’s religious and architectural heritage. Often called the Old Shuamta, this complex dates back centuries and features ancient stone churches, modest chapels, and remnants of monastic life that reveal the spiritual devotion of the past. The site is surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection, quiet walks, and photography. Visitors can admire traditional Georgian stone architecture, simple yet elegant frescoes, and the peaceful layout of the monastery grounds. Dzveli Shuamta offers a more tranquil experience compared to busier sites, allowing travelers to soak in both history and nature. For anyone exploring Kakheti, Dzveli Shuamta Monastery is a hidden gem that combines cultural significance with scenic beauty.

#hellohalloween Akhali Shuamta Monastery in Kakheti is a serene and captivating site that offers insight into Georgia’s rich religious heritage. Nestled in a peaceful valley, the monastery complex features a striking main church, smaller chapels, and ancient stone structures that reflect centuries of architectural and spiritual tradition. Visitors can wander through the grounds, admire intricate carvings and frescoes, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere that encourages reflection and contemplation. The surrounding landscape adds to the charm, with gentle hills, vineyards, and lush greenery creating scenic views perfect for photography. Akhali Shuamta provides a more tranquil and intimate experience compared to busier religious sites, allowing travelers to connect with both history and nature. For those exploring Kakheti, Akhali Shuamta Monastery is a hidden gem that beautifully combines spirituality, culture, and scenic beauty.

#hellohalloween Telavi in Kakheti is a vibrant town that serves as the cultural and administrative heart of Georgia’s renowned wine region. Steeped in history, it features landmarks such as the 18th-century Batonis Tsikhe Fortress, charming old streets, and lively local markets where you can sample traditional foods and wines. The town is surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, offering scenic views and opportunities for wine tours, nature walks, and photography. Telavi’s cozy cafes, artisan shops, and warm hospitality make it an inviting base for exploring Kakheti’s rich heritage. Nearby attractions like Alaverdi Monastery and the Tsinandali Estate add depth to any visit, combining history, architecture, and culture. Telavi in Kakheti beautifully blends tradition, gastronomy, and natural beauty, making it an essential destination for travelers seeking an authentic Georgian experience.

This giant in Telavi has witnessed 900 years of history. While its branches reached for the sun, the world transformed beyond recognition. It remembers everything. Why is this place a must-visit? 1️⃣ Magnitude: Standing 40 meters tall, its trunk circumference requires more than 10 people to embrace! 2️⃣ Impact: Standing under its canopy, touching its bark—you feel a connection to eternity. All the hustle and bustle fades away. 3️⃣ History: It was growing a hundred years before America was discovered. A living monument. Standing beneath it, you feel the power of time. This is not just a tree in Kakheti; it’s a reset for the soul. Would you like to stand under this giant? Share your thoughts in the comments! 👇

#chillandthrill The Giant Plane Tree in Telavi is one of those places that makes you stop in awe. Standing tall for over 900 years, this tree is not just a natural wonder—it’s a piece of Georgian history. I visited the tree on a sunny afternoon, and it felt like a moment frozen in time. The trunk is so wide that it takes several people holding hands to wrap around it, and the branches stretch out to create a massive canopy of shade. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for sitting under the tree, relaxing, and reflecting. The surrounding park is also lovely, with benches and walking paths. This ancient tree is a symbol of resilience and history, and I’m so glad I got to see it up close. #GiantPlaneTree #Telavi #AncientTree #NatureAndHistory #ExploreGeorgia #NaturalWonders #PeacefulRetreat #TimelessBeauty

The capital of Kakhety region is still a small town. If you pass by, it's nice to take a walk on the old street, see the old church, and check out the super large banyan tree near the square. Occasionally, you'll see very old cars running on the street.