Telavi - Discovering Georgia

Travelling to Telavi

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Telavi, a pretty good destination in Georgia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Telavi and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Telavi, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Georgia, here's everything to know about Telavi for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Telavi

Telavi is a city in eastern Georgia and the administrative center of the Kakheti region. It has a population of around 20,000 people. Telavi is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its winemaking traditions. The city has several notable landmarks, including the medieval fortress of King Erekle II, the 10th-century Alaverdi Cathedral, and the Batonis-Tsikhe castle. The surrounding area is also known for its scenic landscapes, including the Caucasus Mountains and the Alazani Valley.

What to visit in Telavi

Sure, here are some top tourist attractions in Telavi, Georgia, along with a brief description for each: 1. Alaverdi Monastery - This historic monastery is located about 18 km from Telavi and is known for its impressive cathedral and beautiful frescoes. It was built in the 11th century and is surrounded by stunning vineyards.
2. Batonis Tsikhe Fortress - Situated in the heart of Telavi, this 17th-century fortress was once the residence of the Kakhetian kings. It has been restored and now houses a museum showcasing local history and culture.
3. Telavi Market - A vibrant and bustling open-air market where locals gather to sell fresh fruits, nuts, spices, and other local goods. It's a great place to sample local cuisine and experience the authentic Georgian culture.
4. Gremi Citadel and Church - About 20 km from Telavi, this imposing citadel and church were built in the 16th century and were once an important political and social center of the region.
5. Ikalto Monastery - This 6th-century monastery is located about 8 km from Telavi and is known for its picturesque landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. It has a beautiful church and some impressive frescoes.
6. Chavchavadze Palace - This 19th-century palace was once the residence of Alexander Chavchavadze, who was a poet, wine-maker, and public figure. It's set within a beautiful park and includes a museum showcasing Georgian art, culture, and history.
7. Tsinandali Estate Winery - This winery is located near Telavi and is known for producing some of the best wines in Georgia. Visitors can take a tour of the estate, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some local wines.
These are just some of the popular tourist attractions in Telavi, Georgia, and there are many more places to explore and discover in this beautiful region.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Georgia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Telavi.

When to go on holiday to Telavi

The best time to visit Telavi, Georgia is from April to October. During these months, the weather is mild and sunny, and the city's beautiful gardens, vineyards, and historical attractions can be fully enjoyed. However, it's important to note that July and August can be very hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F). If you prefer milder temperatures, May, June, and September are great months to visit, with temperatures hovering around 25°C (77°F). If you're interested in winter sports, you can visit Telavi during December to March, when the nearby ski resorts are in full swing.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Telavi

Telavi is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Georgia and is relatively easy to reach. Here are some of the ways to get to Telavi: 1. By car: Telavi is located around 100km east of Tbilisi, and it is relatively easy to drive there by car. It should take around 2 hours to reach Telavi by car from Tbilisi.
2. By taxi: Taxis are easily available in Tbilisi, and you can hire one to reach Telavi. The drive should take around 2 hours.
3. By bus: You can take a bus from Tbilisi Isani bus station to Telavi. Buses run several times a day, and the journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.
4. By marshrutka: Shared taxis (marshrutkas) are also available from Tbilisi to Telavi. The journey takes around 2 hours, and the marshrutka will drop you off at the Telavi bus station.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Telavi. Let me know if you have any other questions!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Telavi, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Telavi

Sure, Telavi is a beautiful city in Georgia and is known for its delicious cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Telavi with a short description for each of them: 1. Khinkali - Khinkali is a traditional Georgian dumpling filled with meat, herbs and spices. It is usually served hot and steaming and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
2. Georgian cheese - Georgian cheese is a staple in Georgian cuisine and Telavi is home to some of the best Georgian cheese. You can try a variety of cheeses, including Sulguni, Imeruli, and Guda cheese.
3. Mtsvadi - Mtsvadi is a Georgian grilled meat on skewers. It is typically made with beef or pork and is marinated in a mixture of spices and herbs.
4. Khachapuri - Khachapuri is a Georgian cheese bread filled with melted cheese. It is a popular breakfast food in Telavi and is often served topped with an egg.
5. Badagi - Badagi is a traditional Georgian yogurt soup that is typically served cold. It is made with yogurt, water, and herbs and is a refreshing and healthy dish.
6. Churchkhela - Churchkhela is a traditional Georgian candy made from grape juice and nuts. It is often served as a dessert and is a popular gift to bring back home.
7. Lobio - Lobio is a traditional Georgian bean dish that is flavored with herbs and spices. It is usually served with bread and is a popular comfort food in Telavi.
You can find general info about typical foods in Georgia here.

Is Telavi an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other tourist destinations in Georgia, Telavi can be considered as slightly more expensive as it is the main city of the Kakheti region and one of the most visited places in the country. However, compared to other popular tourist destinations in Europe or other parts of the world, Telavi is still relatively affordable. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation may vary depending on the season and type of services you choose. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before planning your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Telavi

The best areas to find accommodation in Telavi, Georgia are the city center and nearby areas such as the Old Town, Akhvlediani Street, Rustaveli Street, and Mushtaidi Park. These areas are close to most of the city's shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, which makes them convenient for travelers. Additionally, some hotels in Telavi offer stunning views of the surrounding Alazani Valley, so it is worth exploring these options as well.
You can check hotel prices at Telavi here:
Booking.com

Is Telavi a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Telavi, Georgia is generally a safe place for tourists. Georgia is known for its hospitality and friendly people. Violent crime is rare, and petty theft is the most common type of crime that tourists need to be aware of.
However, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Basic safety precautions for tourists, such as not carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items in public, apply in Telavi and throughout Georgia.
Additionally, it is recommended to follow any travel advisories or warnings issued by your home country and the Georgian government.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Georgia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Telavi.

What type of travelers will enjoy Telavi the most?

Telavi is a city in Georgia well suited for all types of travelers- couples, young people looking for fun, and families. The city is rich in history, and families and couples can take a stroll through the ancient streets and explore the ruined castles and churches. Young people can enjoy the nightlife of the city, which is filled with numerous bars, clubs, and cafes. In addition, Telavi is famous for its wine, and wine lovers can indulge in wine tasting tours or visit the numerous vineyards in the surrounding area. Ultimately, the place has something to offer to every kind of traveler visiting the city.

How to get around Telavi

In Telavi, you can use various modes of transportation to move around the city. The most common mode of transportation is by minibus or "marshrutka". Taxis are also available, and they are a convenient way to move around the city. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a private guided tour. Bicycles are also available for rent if you prefer to explore the city at a slower pace. Walking is a great way to see the sites in Telavi, especially for short distances.

What to see around Telavi

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Telavi in Georgia: 1. Tsinandali Estate - The Tsinandali Estate is an impressive 19th-century mansion and winery near Telavi. It is famous for its lush gardens, picturesque vineyards, and the museum devoted to the 19th-century Georgian poet and composer, Alexander Chavchavadze. 2. Ikalto Monastery - Ikalto Monastery, situated close to Telavi, is a historic site that dates back to the 6th century. It is well known for its wine-making traditions, religious schools, and exquisite architecture.
3. Bodbe Monastery - The Bodbe Monastery is a significant pilgrimage site for Georgian Orthodox Christianity, situated in the town of Sighnaghi. It is dedicated to St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century. 4. Sighnaghi - Sighnaghi is a beautiful hilltop town located just a few kilometers from Telavi. It is surrounded by a medieval fortress wall with several towers, which is a great site for a leisurely walk. Sighnaghi is known for its wine, traditional Georgian cuisine, and stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains.
5. Gremi Citadel and Church - Gremi Citadel and Church are among Georgia's most significant architectural landmarks, situated on the Silk Road, just a few kilometers from Telavi. The citadel was built in the 16th century and comprises a bell tower, a chapel, and a royal palace.
6. Shuamta Monastery - The Shuamta Monastery is a cultural architectural complex, located in the village of Shuamta, near Telavi. The complex consists of three churches, which showcase Georgian religious architecture from different eras. The oldest church dates from the 5th century. I hope this information is helpful in planning your day trips from Telavi.
For every travel information about Georgia you can click here.

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