Things To Do
in Telavi

Telavi is a picturesque town located in the heart of Georgia's Kakheti region, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant wine culture. Nestled at the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, it serves as a gateway to the Alazani Valley and is surrounded by vineyards and ancient monasteries. The town boasts an array of historical sites, including the impressive Telavi Fortress and various churches that reflect its cultural heritage.

Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions, including the famous Georgian hospitality and wine-making practices.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Telavi
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Telavi Fortress, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding vineyards. Afterward, explore the local market to taste some fresh fruits and traditional pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the Alaverdi Monastery, one of the oldest and largest in Georgia, and learn about its history and winemaking traditions. Then, take a leisurely walk in the nearby vineyards and perhaps join a wine tasting session.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant where you can indulge in traditional Georgian dishes, followed by a stroll through the town to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning hike to the scenic Gremi Fortress, an iconic symbol of Kakheti's history. Enjoy the views and explore the museum located at the site.

afternoon
:

After returning to Telavi, visit the local ethnographic museum to learn about the region's culture and traditions. Spend some time in the town square, where you can relax and enjoy a local coffee.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a traditional wine cellar for a wine tasting session and enjoy live music, reflecting the vibrant cultural scene of Telavi.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-20
☕Coffee$1-3
🍷Local wine bottle$5-15
🚕Taxi ride$1-5
🛏️Hotel per night$30-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
  • Delicious traditional cuisine and exceptional local wines.
  • Welcoming locals and strong sense of community.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • English is not widely spoken, which may pose communication challenges.
  • Some tourist attractions may be less developed.
  • "გამარჯობა" - Hello
  • "მადლობა" - Thank you
  • "ბოდიშით" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "როგორ ჎არ?" - How are you?
  • "მიმდინარე" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Telavi

Visit one of these nice places.

Telavi Fortress

Offers stunning views of the Alazani Valley, perfect for sunset photography.

Alaverdi Monastery

A historical site with beautiful architecture and surrounding vineyards.

Gremi Fortress

The ruins and landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Telavi

Telavi offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich traditions of Georgian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and hearty flavors.

Telavi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khinkali

Juicy dumplings filled with spiced meat and herbs, served hot.

Must-Try!

Khachapuri

Cheese-filled bread, often topped with an egg, and a must-try comfort food.

Mtsvadi

Grilled skewered meat, marinated and cooked over an open flame.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Telavi Central Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional snacks.

Street Vendors

Various stalls offering quick bites like Kachapuri and grilled meats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Telavi experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters are cooler, averaging around 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and occasional rain. Overall, the region enjoys a moderate climate conducive to agriculture, particularly viticulture.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Hospitality

Georgians are known for their hospitality; accepting invitations for meals is a sign of respect.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake is the common greeting; a kiss on the cheek is customary among friends.

Safety Guide

Safety

Telavi is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as safeguarding your belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Be cautious when hiking and always inform someone about your plans if exploring remote areas.

Tipping in Telavi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blossoming flowers and vineyards coming to life make it ideal for outdoor exploration.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for wine tours, but expect larger crowds during the tourist season.

Autumn

The grape harvest season adds vibrant colors to the landscape, making it a picturesque time to visit.

Winter

Cold temperatures can be expected; however, the region's quiet beauty is still captivating.

Nightlife Guide

Telavi at Night

Telavi's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring local wine cellars and tavern-like establishments where visitors can enjoy live music and traditional dances. Most nightlife spots offer a cozy atmosphere with a focus on social drinking, particularly wine. The town has a few bars and cafes that host occasional events, ensuring a pleasant evening out for both tourists and locals.

Hiking in Telavi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kazbegi National Park

Located a few hours from Telavi, this park offers breathtaking mountain scenery and well-marked hiking trails.

Lagodekhi Nature Reserve

A protected area offering diverse wildlife and beautiful hiking paths, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Telavi by plane.

Tbilisi International Airport (TBS)

Located approximately 100 km from Telavi, this is the main international gateway to Georgia, with numerous flights connecting to major cities around the world.

Getting Around

Walkability

Telavi is a compact town, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance of each other, and the streets are generally pedestrian-friendly. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Georgians

The majority of the population, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Minority Communities

Includes ethnic groups such as Armenians and Azerbaijanis, contributing to the region's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a highly popular sport in Georgia, with local teams often competing in regional leagues.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is celebrated in Georgian culture, with various competitions held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Telavi is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. The town is easily navigable by foot, and local taxis are available for longer distances. Public transportation options are limited, so personal vehicles or taxis are the best way to get around, especially for excursions outside the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Telavi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many Georgian dishes are vegetarian-friendly, but always ask for details.

Gluten-Free Options

Limited, but some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets if notified in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Telavi are basic but adequate for minor ailments. There is a local hospital and several pharmacies available. For more serious medical issues, it is advisable to seek treatment in larger cities like Tbilisi, which offer better healthcare services.

Discover Georgia

Read more in our Georgia 2025 Travel Guide.

Georgia Travel Guide