New Year in Georgia: What to Do and Where to Go

New Year in Georgia: What to Do and Where to Go?

Georgia is only a few hours’ drive from Armenia, but in winter it becomes a destination all its own: snow-covered mountains, streets decorated for the New Year and generous festive tables.

In Tbilisi: A Festive Mood

At New Year the capital fills with lights. Stroll along Rustaveli Avenue and Freedom Square, then head up into the old neighborhoods with their narrow streets, balconied houses and small cafés. Tbilisi in winter looks very different from summer: it is calmer and warmer.

Be on Freedom Square or in Old Tbilisi on New Year’s Eve for the festive atmosphere.

Go up to Narikala Fortress, or take the cable car to the Mother of Georgia statue, to see the city from above.

Visit Sioni Cathedral, Anchiskhati Church and Metekhi Church.

Mtskheta

Mtskheta is only 20 km from Tbilisi, so it can be visited in half a day. It is the ancient capital of Georgia (the former center of the Kingdom of Iberia) and is considered the spiritual heart of the country. The historic monuments of Mtskheta are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

What to see

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: This magnificent 11th-century cathedral is one of the most important churches in Georgia. According to tradition, a piece of Christ’s robe is kept here. The interior is quiet and very impressive.

Jvari Monastery: This 6th-century monastery stands on top of a hill. It offers a breathtaking view of the point where the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers meet. It is worth visiting close to sunset.

Old streets: In the center of Mtskheta there are small shops selling souvenirs, wine and handmade items, as well as cozy cafés.

Sighnaghi

Sighnaghi is a small town in Kakheti, about 110 km from Tbilisi (the drive takes around two hours). It is often called the “city of love” because it has a wedding registration office, and its picturesque streets create a romantic atmosphere.

What to see

The city walls: Sighnaghi is surrounded by a long wall with many towers. Part of it is open to climb, and from the top there is a wonderful view of the Alazani Valley and the Greater Caucasus mountains.

The town’s streets: Colorful houses, wooden balconies and cobbled streets, like a small Italian town.

Pirosmani Museum: Niko Pirosmanashvili is one of Georgia’s most famous painters, and his works are often presented in Sighnaghi.

Bodbe Monastery: A few kilometers from the town, this monastery holds the tomb of Saint Nino. The monastery garden is very beautiful.

Wine cellars: Sighnaghi is part of Kakheti, so it is worth tasting the local wine, including wine aged in qvevri.

The Georgian Festive Table

New Year in Georgia is unimaginable without the table. Typical dishes include: khachapuri (especially Adjarian), khinkali, gozinaki (a sweet of walnuts and honey made specially for the New Year holiday), local wine and chacha.

The festive table is usually led by a tamada (toastmaster), and dinner turns into a long evening of toasts and conversation.

Traditions Worth Knowing

A character of the Georgian New Year is Tovlis Babua (“Snow Grandpa”), who resembles Santa Claus.

January 2 is traditionally a day off in Georgia.

The Georgian Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas on January 7, so during those days there are festive church processions and services in the cities.

On the night of January 13, Old New Year is celebrated, which sometimes gives a chance for a second celebration.

Useful Tips for Travelers

Book in advance. At New Year, hotels and good restaurants fill up very quickly.

Check the border rules. Entry conditions and document requirements can change, so verify them with official sources before your trip.

Weather and roads. Winter tires are required on mountain roads, and some routes may close because of snow.

Bring warm clothes. Tbilisi sees below-freezing temperatures, and the mountains are much colder.

New Year in Georgia can be either a lively celebration or a quiet winter break, depending on what you are looking for. The lights of Tbilisi, the snow in the mountains, the sulfur water and the Georgian table together create the festive atmosphere worth traveling for.

Ready to spend your New Year in Georgia? Write to us, and we will help you choose a destination, book a hotel and organize the trip.