Things To Do
in Mtskheta
Mtskheta sits at the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers, just a short drive from Tbilisi. As one of Georgia's oldest continuously inhabited towns, it is a palimpsest of churches, monasteries, and centuries of history. The town is anchored by UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the hilltop Jvari Monastery, both offering sweeping views.
Stroll its stone lanes to feel the old-world charm, sample local wine, and experience warm Georgian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Mtskheta, absorbing the charming blend of ancient architecture and modern life. Visit the historic Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can marvel at its stunning frescoes and intricate stone work. Enjoy a traditional Georgian breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread and cheese.
After lunch, head to the nearby Jvari Monastery, perched on a hill overlooking Mtskheta, offering breathtaking views of the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Explore the monastery's beautiful grounds and reflect on its spiritual significance before wandering back into the old town to visit local artisan shops. Sample Georgian wine at a local winery, learning about the unique winemaking traditions of the area.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant, savoring Khinkali and Khachapuri while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town. Take an evening walk along the riverside, where you can see the beautifully lit churches in the distance. Wind down with a traditional folk music performance, immersing yourself in the rich Georgian culture.
Begin your day with a visit to the Ethnographic Museum in Mtskheta to learn about Georgian traditions and culture through various exhibits. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café, reflecting on the rich history of the region. Take a guided walking tour to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of Mtskheta.
In the afternoon, visit the Samtavro Monastery where you will have a chance to engage with monks and understand monastic life. Discover the local market, where you can taste fresh fruits, spices, and other regional delicacies while interacting with friendly locals. Attend a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Georgian dishes, enhancing your culinary skills.
For dinner, explore a local eatery that offers live music for an authentic Georgian dining experience. Share a toast with friends and fellow travelers using a traditional Qvevri wine. End your night with a leisurely stroll in the town's main square, watching the locals as they enjoy their own evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚶Local transportation (one-way) | $0.5-1 |
| 🎟Museum entry | $2-5 |
| 🍷Glass of Georgian wine | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich ancient heritage and UNESCO sites
- Beautiful river confluence and hilltop views
- Small town with limited nightlife
- Some sites can be crowded with day-trippers
- "Gamarjoba" - Hello
- "Madloba" - Thank you
- "Nakhvamdis" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Mtskheta
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop monastery with sweeping views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Impressive medieval architecture with red-brick arches and stonework; best photographed from the surrounding streets and courtyards.
Narrow, weathered streets and traditional Georgian façades offer authentic texture for street photography.
River junction framed by hills and lush landscapes, ideal for landscape and golden-hour shots.
Food in Mtskheta
Mtskheta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheese-filled bread, best enjoyed fresh from a bakery; try the Imeretian style for a gooey cheese pull.
Must-Try!
Spiced stewed beans served with mchadi cornmeal bread and herbs.
Pureed spinach or beet purée with walnuts and herbs, often served as a starter.
Nut-filled candy strung on twine, a seasonal snack commonly found in markets and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market near the old town selling fresh produce, nuts, and local sweets.
Try fresh khachapuri, khinkali, and seasonal fruit from outdoor stalls along the town lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Georgians value hospitality; guests are offered tea and food, and it is common to be invited to join in a feast.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats indoors and speak softly; photography may be restricted in certain areas.
A handshake is common; when addressing elders, use polite Georgian forms or titles.
Safety
Tipping in Mtskheta
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included; rounded-up change is common in smaller cafés.
Cash (Georgian lari) is widely accepted; many places also take cards, especially in larger establishments. ATMs are common in towns and near Tbilisi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with clear skies; carry water, use sunscreen, and plan early morning or late afternoon visits to avoid heat.
Mild days with colorful foliage; occasional rain; layer clothing and keep an umbrella handy.
Cool to cold with occasional snow; bring a warm coat and waterproof footwear; some sites may have reduced hours.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; rain can be common—pack a light rain jacket and comfy walking shoes.
Mtskheta at Night
Hiking in Mtskheta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hike to the hilltop monastery with panoramic views of Mtskheta and the river confluence.
Easy riverside path suitable for a relaxed morning or sunset walk.
Airports
How to reach Mtskheta by plane.
Georgia's main international gateway, about 20-30 km from Mtskheta; easy bus, taxi, or private transfer routes to the town.
Located several hours away by road; a viable alternative for regional travel, with connections to Georgia’s west coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group; a mix of urban and rural communities.
A growing number visit for UNESCO sites and wine culture, contributing to a multicultural feel in the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most-followed sport in Georgia; you’ll see matches and fans across the country.
Georgia has a strong rugby tradition and national teams and clubs are prominent.
A popular sport at schools and clubs; weekend games can be observed in larger towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mtskheta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Georgian vegetarian options are abundant: khachapuri, lobio without meat, pkhali, and fresh salads. When ordering, request meat-free broths and clarify that no hidden meat stock is used.