Today I will take you on a Mtskheta Day trip from Tbilisi Georgia. You can read more on the best things to do near Tbilisi.
👉🏼Perfect Georgia Itinerary 5 Days – Plan A Trip To Georgia
Mtskheta – Ancient Capital of Eastern Georgia from 3rd century B.C. to 5th century B.C. houses outstanding medieval religious architectures. Mtskheta is also known as “Holy City” of Georgia. Mtskheta is a very small city and is located approximately 25 km(30 minutes drive) from the present capital city of Tbilisi.
Mtskheta is located at the confluence of Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers, making its location very strategic, and also soil of Mtskheta is very fertile and a suitable place for habitats from ancient times. Also, Mtskheta was a famous stopover during ancient trade routes.
Now Let’s Explore lanes of the antique 5th century, during the Mtskheta Day Trip from Tbilisi –We started early from Kazbegi to Tbilisi and, on the way, planned for the Mtskheta trip. This can be done from Tbilisi on the way to Kazbegi or Uplistsikhe.
Click here to book a full-day tour from Tbilisi to Mtskheta
The ancient capital of Georgia or a combo trip of Tbilisi and Mtskheta or Mtskheta-Gudauri-Kazbegi or Mtskheta and Gori caves.
Most Sought Attractions during Mtskheta day trip from Tbilisi | Places to visit near Tbilisi
Jvari Monastery (Monastery of Cross)
Jvari can be translated into “The Monastery of the Cross”. Jvari is a 6th-century monastery with a cross shape(hence got its name) and located on the highest clifftop of Mtskheta with stunning views of the confluence of rivers Agravi and Mtkvari, as well as Mtskheta town. Jvari is a UNESCO-listed site. That is why the Mtskheta Day trip from Tbilisi is really perfect.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (Curing Pillar Cathedral) – Day trips from Tbilisi
The most famous and most prominent cathedral in Georgia. This 10th-century structure has survived many harsh conditions. Also, this cathedral is listed as a UNESCO World heritage Site. Svetitskhoveli has been an important religious center for centuries due to one belief associated with it. There is a legend that a robe of Jesus Christ was buried within the premises. Also, a pillar inside the cathedral is known for curing diseases upon touching it.
Samtavro Monastery (Place of ruler)
It is a spiritual and famous landmark of Mtskheta, which was built in the 4th century but this monastery was severely damaged by earthquakes many times. It was reconstructed in the 15th & 19th centuries. Also, this is a nunnery of St. Nino.
Gvinis Plata – Mtskheta Day trip from Tbilisi
Georgian traditional theme restaurant offers stunning views of monasteries and scenic landscapes. Also famous among wine enthusiasts. This restaurant is spread over 4 floors, each with a different theme and décor. Like the Ground floor is for understanding the making of Georgian wines from grapes, the second floor, with many a variety of wines, offers the chance to learn the process of baking the authentic Georgian bread – Shoti Puri, all with live Georgian music and folk dances.
From the top floor, breathtaking views of Mtskheta can be enjoyed. Do not miss this themed restaurant during your Mtskheta Day trip from Tbilisi.
Bebris Tsikhe – Mtskheta Day trip from Tbilisi
It is an ancient castle spread over 1500 sq.m. located on the mountain top of north Mtskheta. Though this castle is ruined, the views from the top are amazing. That is why it is recommended in your Mtskheta Day trip from Tbilisi.
There are many more monasteries named Shio Mgvime, Armazi in Mtskheta. In short, Mtskheta is the religious/spiritual capital of Georgia.
Tips for Mtskheta Day Trip from Tbilisi – Mtskheta Georgia
- Adults should not wear shorts or dresses above the knees inside monasteries.
- Women must cover their heads when entering Orthodox churches. Scarves can be borrowed(free of cost ) at the entrance and returned only there.
- Check for clear weather before heading to Mtskheta, as many monasteries are on mountain tops with stunning views.
- Traditional Georgian gifts can be purchased Mtskheta, like handmade dolls or authentic Georgian wines.
- Hotel or Guest-House stay in Mtskheta is cheaper than Staying in Tbilisi. Some people prefer to stay in Mtskheta, only 25 km from Tbilisi.
- You can take Marshrutka (mini Bus) from Didube – Tbilisi’sBus stand for 2 to 4 USD. Then you have to walk a lot in the city. A taxi is available in Mtskheta city center for visiting all monasteries, and you can pay around 10 GEL for the trip, but it depends on hours and how much you make them wait.
- Many private guided tours run from Tbilisi. A private taxi with a guide can be hired. I hired a local guide cum driver with a private car to visit all the places.
After Mtskheta, one can return to Tbilisi but can go for Ananuri fort on the Northern side or Uplitsikhe Cave town tour on the western side.
I covered the Mtskheta day trip while going to Kazbegi city, as Mtskheta lies on the Georgian Military Highway running through the mountains to the Russian border. If you are staying in Mtskheta, then check some stays below on the map –
If you are going to Georgia in October then do not miss Georgian Air Balloon Competition.
There are many day tours from Tbilisi like – Day trips from Tbilisi
There are many itineraries for Georgia in summers and Georgia in winters. Read these links to know more about Georgia.
So, till then KEEP TRAVELING……………… KEEP EXPLORING……………………………………………………
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