Tbilisi to Gudauri: New Year, snow, and wine
Explore Tbilisi and the Caucasus in a calm winter setting, rich with art, history, wine, and quiet landscapes. Ideal for travellers who love depth & unhurried discovery.
Trip Overview
Description:
The Experience
Winter in Georgia unfolds quietly. Tbilisi slows down, cafés grow warmer, wine cellars feel more intimate, and the mountains turn still and white. This journey moves at a measured pace between the cultural depth of the capital and the alpine calm of Gudauri.
Days are shaped around art, history, food, and landscape rather than rushing from sight to sight. Evenings are unhurried, often spent wandering old streets, visiting winter markets, or sharing long meals. In the mountains, weather and light set the rhythm - some days active, others simply meant for taking in the view. Georgia in winter is reflective, grounded, and deeply human, and this itinerary is designed to honour that mood.
Who This Trip Is For
This trip is ideal for travellers who enjoy winter landscapes, cultural depth, and a slower style of exploration. It suits couples, small groups, and families with older children who value authenticity, good food, mountain air, and time to pause.
It is best for those comfortable with cold weather and flexible pacing, especially in the mountains where conditions can influence activities. This journey is not recommended for travellers with very young children or for those sensitive to winter temperatures.
Highlights
Day 1 – Arrival in Tbilisi
Arrive in Tbilisi, where your private driver will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is kept intentionally light, allowing time to settle in after the journey. You may choose to relax or step out for a gentle walk through nearby streets and cafés before resting for the night in the Georgian capital.
Day 2 – Art, Wine & Old Tbilisi
After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to the Georgian Museum of Fine Arts, home to an extensive collection of modern Georgian works that offer insight into the country’s creative spirit.
Later, experience Georgia’s ancient wine culture with a visit to a historic wine cellar, where traditions of winemaking stretch back centuries. After a relaxed local lunch, explore some of Tbilisi’s most iconic landmarks, including the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba), Metekhi Church, and views of the Narikala Fortress.
The day winds through Meidan Square and Shardeni Street, known for their cafés and artisan shops, before ending at a festive Christmas Bazaar filled with lights, local treats, and seasonal warmth. Overnight in Tbilisi.
Day 3 – Mtskheta & the Mountain Road to Gudauri
This morning, travel to Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital and spiritual heart. Visit the UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the hilltop Jvari Monastery, both deeply woven into the country’s history and legend.
After lunch in Mtskheta, continue north to the Ananuri Fortress overlooking the Zhinvali Reservoir. From here, the journey follows the Georgian Military Highway, one of the most scenic mountain roads in the region, before arriving in Gudauri. Overnight in Gudauri.
Day 4 – Winter Day in Gudauri
After breakfast, spend the day enjoying Gudauri’s alpine setting. Those interested can explore the ski slopes or choose optional winter activities such as paragliding or snowmobiling, depending on weather conditions.
Alternatively, the day can be spent at leisure, enjoying mountain views, walking through the resort area, or simply resting and soaking in the quiet beauty of the Caucasus. Lunch is taken at one of the local mountain restaurants. Overnight in Gudauri.
Day 5 – Gudauri to Tbilisi via the Chronicle of Georgia
Following breakfast, drive back toward Tbilisi. En route, visit the Chronicle of Georgia, a monumental structure overlooking the city, where towering pillars depict key moments and figures from Georgian history.
After lunch in the city, the evening is left free for individual exploration, whether shopping, walking through familiar neighbourhoods, or relaxing at your hotel. Overnight in Tbilisi.
Day 6 – Markets, Views & Winter Evenings in Tbilisi
Begin the day with a funicular ride up Mtatsminda Mountain, offering panoramic views over Tbilisi. The day continues through the city’s markets, including Meidan Bazaar and the Dry Bridge Flea Market, known for vintage finds, handmade crafts, and local art.
In the evening, revisit the festive atmosphere at the Christmas Bazaar in Orbeliani Square before concluding the journey with a fine dining experience, where modern Georgian chefs reinterpret traditional recipes. Overnight in Tbilisi.
Day 7 – Departure
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Tbilisi International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your winter exploration of Georgia.
Inclusions
- Professional English-speaking guide throughout the tour
- Professional driver and private transportation
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Accommodation: 4 nights in Tbilisi (with breakfast), 2 nights in Gudauri (with breakfast)
- Wine tasting experience in Tbilisi
- Lunch at a local restaurant on Day 2
- Fine dining dinner in Tbilisi on Day 6
- All entrance fees as per the itinerary
- All local taxes
Exclusions
- International flights
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Travel insurance
- Early check-in or late check-out
- Alcoholic beverages beyond inclusions
- Personal expenses
Request Add On Services
Extend Your Stay
Add nights, add cities, slow the pace, linger longer.
Milestone Moments
Birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations, planned to your brief.
Private Experiences
Art, culture, cuisine, and special access, arranged for you.
Tailored Requests
Dietary needs, accessibility, preferences, and thoughtful touches.
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