Telavi: Top Attractions and Experiences in Georgia

Telavi is the main city and administrative center of Kakheti. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-destination for anyone traveling to Georgia.

Telavi was the capital of the Kakheti States and became part of Georgia during the time of David the Builder. Nowadays, Telavi is a small city with a population of about 20,000. In the Middle Ages, it was an important transportation hub and industrial, agricultural, and cultural center of Eastern Georgia.

Telavi is located 500 m above sea level. The city is famous for its best wineries and delicious wines such as Saperavi, Tsinandali, Kindzmarauli, and more.

If you prefer more freedom during travel, we recommend you use Getmancar's car rental services. We are the most trustworthy and affordable rental service in Georgia. We offer cars of any class at reasonable prices, with or without a driver.

Central Telavi

The central part of Telavi Municipality is a charming area that is home to many of the city’s historical sites. The historic center of Telavi is surrounded by an ancient fortress dating back to the 17th century. Walking along the walls, you can take in stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with the majestic Caucasus mountains in the distance.

Central Telavi's main street, Rustaveli Avenue, is a busy hub of shops, wine bars, and restaurants, offering a delightful mix of local and international flavors. Here, you can enjoy a walk, sample delicious local cuisine, or relax with a cup of coffee.

The Telavi Historical-Ethnographic Museum, located in the city center, is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about Telavi's history and culture. Housed within the Batonis Tsikhe Complex, it offers a fascinating journey through the region’s past, with exhibits ranging from archaeological finds to fine arts.

Giant Plane Tree of Telavi

Address: Chadri Street, Telavi, Kakheti

Coordinates: 41.916675° N, 45.4782099195° E

In the center of Telavi stands an ancient plane tree, over 900 years old. With a trunk circumference 12 meters and 40 meters high, it’s one of Georgia's oldest and biggest trees. This natural monument has been around for centuries and is part of local folklore.

Explore the Batonis Tsikhe Historical Complex and Fortress Walls

Address: Anton the 1st Catolicos Street, Telavi, Georgia

Coordinates: 41.917416° N, 45.476210° E

The Batonis Tsikhe historical complex, or "Master's Fortress," is situated in the heart of Telavi. It was built in the 17th century by King Archil and later fortified by King Erekle II. This complex is one of the oldest buildings in the city.

The Batonis Tsikhe fortress was the palace of the Kakhetian kings. It has defensive walls, towers, two churches, a palace, and remnants of a royal bathhouse.

Today, it houses the Historical-Ethnographic Museum, where you can learn about the region’s history and ethnography.

Telavi Historical Ethnographic Museum

Address: King Erekle II Str., Square 1, Telavi, Georgia

Coordinates: 41.918713° N, 45.474963° E

One of the main attractions is the Telavi Historical-Ethnographic Museum, affectionately known as Erekle’s Museum. It takes visitors on a journey through Georgia’s history and culture.

Founded in 1927, the Museum is located in the Batonis Tsikhe complex, the only royal palace in Georgia. This historic building on Erekle II Avenue was the birthplace of King Erekle II, a legendary figure in Georgian history. The Museum's exhibitions include historical artifacts from the Bronze Age to the 19th century.

Exhibits include the following:

Archaeological Items: Tools, weapons, jewelry;

Ethnographic Items: Household items, tools from the feudal era;

Religious Icons: Engraved and painted icons, crosses, and embroidery (12th century and older);

Fine Arts: Paintings and artworks by local and foreign artists from different eras - Kakheti region;

Exploring the Complex:

17-18th century King’s Palace;

Royal Chapels: 2 basilica chapels;

Fortress Walls and Towers: Panoramic views of the city of Telavi and Alazani Valley;

Travel Info:

Located in the heart of Telavi, easy to get to for travelers in Kakheti.

Must see for those interested in Telavi and the whole of Kakheti.

Open daily 10:00-18:00, except Mondays.

How to Get There

Erekle’s Museum is located in the Batonis Tsikhe complex. To get there from Tbilisi, you have a few options:

Rent a Car:

The journey from Tbilisi to Telavi is 94 km, and the journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

The most common route is via the Gombori Pass, which offers scenic views of the Gombori Mountains. Alternatively, the route through Gurjaani is available.

At Getmancar, we have the right car to provide comfort and flexibility for your trip.

Book a Taxi:

You can also hire a private taxi.

Price: $24-$30

Agree on the price before you start.

Marshrutka (Minibus):

Regular marshrutkas from Ortachala Bus Station in Tbilisi to Telavi.

Time: 2-2.5 hours;

Price: $4-$5

Visiting these sights will give you an idea of Telavi’s importance in Eastern Georgia’s history. These ancient walls and centuries-old architecture will take you back in time.

Visit Telavi Bazaar

Address: Chavchavadze Street, Telavi, Georgia

Coordinates: 41.922330° N, 45.471070° E

Telavi Bazaar - Telavi Food Market - is an example of the authentic life of locals. Since the 17th century, it has been the main commercial hub of the entire Kakheti region.

Walking through the Bazaar’s alleys, you will see a rainbow of colors and smells. Stalls contain fresh local products: tomatoes, cucumbers, peaches, and apricots.

This Telavi market is also famous for its spices, homemade cheeses, and traditional sweets, including the renowned churchkhela, a delicious grape juice and nut treat.

In addition to food, the Bazaar is a social and cultural center for locals and tourists. Small talk with vendors will give you a taste of Georgian hospitality and traditions.

The market's atmosphere reflects the history of Telavi and the Kakheti region, so it’s a must-visit if you want an insider experience.

Travel Information and Restaurants

The Bazaar is conveniently located in the center of Telavi, so it’s easy to get to from other city attractions, such as the Giant Plane Tree and Nadikvari Park.

It’s best to visit in the morning when the market is lively, and the products are freshest.

Whether you want to try local food, buy souvenirs, or enjoy the atmosphere, the Bazaar will give you an unforgettable experience of Georgian life.

Visiting the Telavi Bazaar will help you learn about the culture and support local producers and farmers who keep traditions alive in this old town.

Visit the Alaverdi Monastery

Address: Alaverdi Village, near Telavi, Georgia

Coordinates: 42.032292° N, 45.376174° E

You will find Alaverdi Cathedral, 20 km from Telavi city, which is one of Georgia’s most important religious monuments. Built-in the 11th century, it’s a classic example of Georgian architecture with a dome and brickwork.

The Alaverdi Monastery is an important spiritual center of the Kakheti region and is still an active church. Surrounded by vineyards, it also reflects the region’s wine-making traditions.

Explore the Ikalto Monastery

Address: Ikalto Village, near Telavi, Georgia

Coordinates: 41.937248° N, 45.380646° E

In the village of Ikalto in the West Telavi, you will see the Ikalto Monastery Complex, founded in the late 6th century by Saint Zenon, one of the 13 Assyrian Fathers. We recommend setting aside a few days to explore the Ikalto Monastery Complex fully.

In the 12th century, King David the Builder founded the Ikalto Academy here, a famous theological and secular education center. The academy taught theology, philosophy, astronomy, viticulture, and more.

It’s said that the famous poet Shota Rustaveli studied at Ikalto Academy. The academy's ruins, the main Khvtaeba Church, and ancient wine cellars reflect the region’s wine-making heritage.

Nadikvari Park and Alazani Plain

Address: Nadikvari Street, Telavi, Georgia

Coordinates: 41.913774° N, 45.479250° E

Nadikvari Park is a peaceful haven situated on a hill and offers views of the Alazani Valley and surrounding mountains. The park is located in east Telavi next to the historic Batonis Tsikhe Castle, the royal residence of King Erekle II.

The park’s beautifully designed gardens, shady trees, and flowerbeds are perfect for a slow walk. An amphitheater for cultural events, children’s playgrounds, and charming fountains make the park even more attractive.

Alazani Plain

The Alazani Plain is a wonderful place in Kakheti province. This big valley, fed by the Alazani River, is the heart of Georgia’s wine country and offers travelers plenty to explore. The Alazani River, with its basin, is the main hydrological artery of Telavi Municipality.

The Alazani Plain has fertile soils and a moderately humid subtropical climate between the Greater Caucasus to the north and the Gombori Range to the south. Perfect for viticulture with an average annual air temperature of +12. The plain also has deciduous forests, which are very beautiful.

Cultural and Historical Value

Alazani Plain is the birthplace of Georgian winemaking traditions. Viticulture dates back to the Bronze Age. The traditional way of making wine in qvevri - big clay vessels buried underground - is part of Georgia’s intangible cultural heritage.

House Museum of Alexander Chavchavadze

Address: Tsinandali Village, near Telavi, Georgia

Coordinates: 41.896350° N, 45.567265° E

The Museum is located in the charming village of Tsinandali, just outside of Telavi. This historic estate was the home of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, the father of Georgian Romanticism. The Museum offers a journey through different eras and periods of history.

The beautifully restored brick buildings of the house will transport you back to the 19th century. Walking through the Museum, you will see a small collection of exhibits about the Chavchavadze family and their societal role in the region and all of Georgia. The palace itself, with period furniture, will give you a look into the life of the Georgian aristocracy.

The Garden

The palace is surrounded by a beautiful garden with exotic plants from Europe, Asia, and America. The garden combines natural and decorative elements and is often compared to Richmond and Kew Gardens in London.

Wine Experience

The historic winery Tsinandali Estate is a must-see for wine lovers. Alexander Chavchavadze pioneered modern Georgian winemaking, introducing European methods while maintaining traditional ones. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the restaurant located on the Tsinandali Estate.

The Tsinandali Estate winery has an impressive collection of local wines, including 19th-century wine samples. In the winery, they provide a local wine tasting for everyone.

A significant aspect of this heritage is the traditional Qvevri winemaking process, in which large clay vessels with wine are buried underground as it was 8000 years ago.

Cultural Center

Besides its historical significance, the Tsinandali Estate is still a cultural hub. The venue hosts:

Exhibitions;

Concerts;

Literary events and master classes;

They are keeping its tradition as a meeting place for intellectuals and artists. Whether you are into history, art, or wine, the Tsinandali Estate is a must-visit destination. Located near Telavi, the Museum is open daily from 10:00 to 19:00.

One-Day Trip to Telavi

There are two ways to get to Telavi, the biggest city in Kakheti, from Tbilisi:

Through Gombori pass;

Through Gurdiani's pass;

We will share the Gombori pass route with you. If you decide to travel through the Gurdiani pass, you will pass the city of Sighnaghi.

The Route We Offer

Ujarma fortress:

The first stop is Ujarma Fortress, 50 km from Tbilisi.

The time from Tbilisi to the fortress – is 1 hour, and the time to visit the fortress – is 20 minutes.

Sasodilo village:

The next stop is Sasodilo village, located 20 km from the fortress.

The driving time is 20-30 minutes.

During the drive, you will see Cold Mountain. The name comes from the fact that one side of the mountain is covered with trees, and the other is bare.

Subalpine meadow views:

After Gombori passes, you will see subalpine meadows. There is no vegetation except grass. It looks like the Alps.

From here, you can already see the Caucasus range.

Natural springs:

You can stop at the natural springs and fill your bottle with fresh, cold water from the Caucasus mountains.

It's drinking water, so no worries.

Shuamta monasteries:

Shuamta means “between the mountains”.

In the monastery, enough to spend 30-40 minutes.

Telavi municipality:

The last stop after the monasteries is Telavi town.

Usually, people stay overnight here and continue their journey through the region.

If you decide to have only a one-day trip, you can have lunch there and return to Tbilisi.

The road back will take about 2 hours.

Planning Your Visit to Telavi

Planning a visit to Telavi is easy, with various resources available to help you make the most of your trip.

The city offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.

You can enjoy a range of activities, including:

hiking in the foothills of the Caucasus;

horseback riding through the Alazani Valley;

wine tasting at local wineries;

The Telavi's restaurants serve delicious local dishes, including traditional Georgian cuisine and fresh seafood, providing a culinary experience that’s hard to beat.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Telavi’s shops and markets, where you can find various local products, including:

handicrafts;

herbs;

spices;

Whether you visit Telavi for a day or a week, there’s always something to do and see, making it a destination that promises a memorable experience for everyone. Renting a car from our fleet is the best way to see all places at once.