If you have only one free day around Tbilisi, this is the trip. Short drives, excellent roads and three of the most important historic sites in Georgia.
Mtskheta (≈ 25 km)
The ancient capital of Georgia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 30 minutes from the centre of Tbilisi.
- Jvari Monastery — a 6th-century church on the hill above the meeting of two rivers. Drive up first, for the view over the town.
- Svetitskhoveli Cathedral — the spiritual heart of the country.
- Samtavro Monastery and the old streets around it, with cafés and craft shops.
Gori (≈ 85 km)
Continue west on the highway. Gori is known for the Stalin Museum, with the house where he was born and his armoured railway carriage. Climb the medieval Gori Fortress for the view.
Uplistsikhe (≈ 12 km east of Gori)
One of the oldest towns in the Caucasus — streets, halls and a theatre cut into the rock over 3,000 years ago. Plan about 1.5 hours on site.
Ateni Sioni (≈ 10 km south of Gori)
A 7th-century church with remarkable frescoes in a quiet green valley, surrounded by vineyards. A perfect last stop before heading back to Tbilisi.
Stay south of the main highway around Gori. A few kilometres north lies the occupied Tskhinvali region (South Ossetia). Travelling there is strictly prohibited and impossible with our cars — ignore any navigation route that leads towards it.
Which car?
This is the easiest drive in our guides — a small economy car is perfect. Choose a crossover if you want to add Ananuri and the mountains on the same day.
Make it longer
- From Mtskheta it is 45 minutes north to Ananuri Fortress on the road to Kazbegi.
- From Gori, continue west to Borjomi (1 hour) or Kutaisi (2 hours).