Welcome to a truly special Christmas journey to Georgia! Here, Christmas is celebrated according to the Julian calendar, which means that the festive season reaches its peak on January 7th. This unique cultural feature lends a distinctive touch to Christmas celebrations in Georgia.
In Georgia, Christmas is primarily about the church and the significance of faith. People gather in the venerable churches of the country to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and reflect on the message of love and peace. However, Christmas in Georgia is not solely religious; it's also a time for joyful gatherings with family and friends. During this season, the festive tables are particularly lavish, and Georgian hospitality shines brightly.
In recent years, modern traditions have also emerged, such as Christmas markets and open-air concerts. The capital, Tbilisi, dazzles during this time with its festive charm. The streets are beautifully adorned and illuminated with thousands of lights, transforming the city into a true winter wonderland. Christmas markets offer handicrafts, local delicacies, and the opportunity to find unique gifts for your loved ones.
Your readers will undoubtedly be excited to embark on this unique journey. Enjoy your Christmas trip to Georgia!
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Charming 19th-century hotel, steps from Tbilisi State Opera, elegantly restored.
Arrival in Tbilisi on this day or next day early in the morning. Transfer to your hotel in Tbilisi.
Today, you'll immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, as we embark on a city tour to explore its renowned Old Town landmarks. This includes the Metekhi Church, the Sulphur Baths District, a cable car ride to the Narikala Fortress, picturesque historic trading lanes, and the Anchiskhati Church.
In the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to explore Christmas markets, enjoy concerts, and soak in the festive ambiance. Later, unwind with a visit to the sulfur baths before indulging in traditional Chinkali dumplings at a local restaurant.
To conclude the day, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated city, adorned with enchanting decorations and festive lighting, to cap off your Tbilisi experience on a magical note.
Our full-day excursion will take you to the historical treasures of Georgia. Start your day with a visit to the Jvari Church, majestically perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Afterward, we will explore the Svetitskhoweli Cathedral in Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia. Continuing our journey, we will delve into the impressive cave city of Uplistsikhe, dating back to the 1st century BC, providing fascinating insights into ancient Georgian culture.
On the way back, a truly special highlight awaits you: a guided tour and wine tasting at the princely estate of Mukhranbatoni, dating from the 19th century. Here, you'll have the opportunity to savor exquisite Georgian wines in the charming cellars of the estate. The evening is yours to enjoy an individual dinner in Tbilisi, rounding off your day in Georgia.
Boutique
A cozy hotel, just a 10-minute walk from Telavi's center. It blends traditional Georgian elements with a modern style. Most rooms feature balconies with stunning views of the Greater Caucasus. The wine cellar and outdoor pool are fantastic spots to unwind.
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Venture into Georgia's winter wonderland, known for its astonishing 8,000 vintages and the UNESCO-recognized traditional Georgian winemaking method using underground clay vessels known as 'Qvevri.' Our first stop is the estate of the 19th-century Chavchavadze princely family, credited with introducing the bottling of wine in Georgia and European-style influences in house construction, garden design, and furnishings in Kakheti.
Next, we continue with a guided tour and wine tasting at the renowned Schuchmann Winery. En route to Telavi, we pause for a leisurely stroll in the festively adorned town with views of the snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Here, we check into our hotel.
In the evening, you have the unique opportunity to visit a local family with generations of experience crafting clay vessels for winemaking. Enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner featuring local dishes and wine with this family. Optionally, you may choose to attend a solemn church service in one of the local churches during the night. Overnight stay is in Telavi.
Today is Christmas Day in Georgia, a special occasion when people traditionally attend church services and gather with friends and family to celebrate either at home or in restaurants. One of the central aspects of this celebration is the wide array of food and wine. Many Georgians fast leading up to this day, making it even more significant for them.
You will return to the capital city, Tbilisi, and have the option to participate in the traditional Alilo procession, a cherished Georgian tradition that occurs on Christmas Day, January 7th. During this event, people dressed in religious costumes process through the streets of Georgian cities, collecting food, sweets, and gifts while singing traditional Georgian Christmas songs. These gifts are gathered in a church where a Christmas service is held. After the service, the food and gifts are distributed to orphanages, nursing homes, and penitentiaries as an act of charity and goodwill. Following the Alilo procession, we will visit the Sameba Cathedral, a significant religious landmark in Tbilisi. You will then check in to your hotel in Tbilisi, say good-bye to your guide and have free time to enjoy the city at your leisure.
Transfer to the airport. Departure.
