Telavi, Georgia is the gateway to the Kakheti wine region, offering visitors a vibrant tapestry of historic wineries and timeless architecture. From sipping unique local wines to exploring its ancient heritage, this guide provides you with a firsthand look at what to see, do, and of course, eat and drink in Telavi. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, history buff, or simply seeking a new travel experience, begin your journey right here.
Planning a Trip To Visit Telavi Georgia?
Here are our insider tips on tours and places to stay:
Top Tour
Eat This! Tours – Premium food and wine tours. Experience premium small-group tours providing an authentic taste of the region’s finest food & wine.
Top Hotels Telavi
Tsinandali Estate – 5 Star. Radisson collection, highest standard hotel in Kakheti. With spa and pool.
Chateau Mosmieri – 4 Star wine hotel with pool, vineyard, restaurant, and terrace with Caucasus views.
Esquisse Design Hotel – 4 Star wine and design hotel with a pool, in Telavi.
Exploring Telavi: The Heart of Georgian Winemaking Country
Telavi, the main hub of the Kakheti region, is a city steeped in history and tradition. Its fame as a wine-producing city is well-deserved, with local varieties like Saperavi and Rkatsiteli wines earning global acclaim. The city’s picturesque scenery including stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains, homes adorned with beautifully restored facades, carved balconies, and an authentic local markets provides a stunning backdrop to the wine tasting experiences available in this must-visit destination.
Yet, there’s more to Telavi than its wine. The city is a treasure trove of historical monuments, each with its own tale to tell. The charm of the city centre, with its well-preserved old buildings and tasty dining and drinking options, creates a comforting ambiance that entices visitors to slow down and savour the moment. Let’s delve deeper into the heart of Telavi and explore some of its noteworthy attractions.
Batonis Tsikhe Fortress
One of Telavi’s crowning jewels is the Batonis Tsikhe Fortress. Reconstructed in the 17th century, this complex exhibits a stunning example of Persianate-style architecture. Walking through the fortress is like stepping back in time, with every corner revealing a slice of Telavi’s rich history and the region’s past.
Within the fortress, you’ll find:
The Royal Palace of King Erekle II, furnished with royal bedrooms and his throne
The Telavi History Museum, where you can delve deeper into the region’s fascinating history
The Russian Kabarda Regiment’s headquarters and barracks (after the Russian annexation in 1801)
The Women’s College of St. Nino (after a reconstruction in 1865)
It’s also just a nice area to walk around and enjoy the peace and quiet.
The Giant Plane Tree Telavi
Another landmark that captures the heart of Telavi’s residents and visitors alike is the Giant Plane Tree. This tree, estimated to be over 900 years old, stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience and longevity. Towering at 46 meters (150 feet) in height, the tree’s grandeur is a sight to behold and provides a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs.
The Giant Plane Tree holds both historic and cultural significance. Some say it was planted by Queen Tamar herself and esteemed Georgian literary figures such as Ilia Chavchavadze, Akaki Tsereteli, and Vazha-Pshavela have visited the tree, also drawn by its size and grandeur. This tree is more than just a natural wonder; it’s an iconic symbol that has become an integral part of Telavi’s identity.
Traditional Homes and Woodworking Techniques
As you stroll through the streets of Telavi, you’ll notice the city’s traditional homes that reflect the region’s fine woodworking tradition. Intricately carved balconies with natural and religious motifs adorn these homes, showcasing the mastery of local artisans.
One of the most distinctive styles of Georgian homes is the Darbazi style, characterized by carved wooden balconies and verandas that serve both functional and aesthetic roles. A walk along Cholokashvili Street offers an up-close view of these beautifully carved balconies and traditional architecture, providing a window into the everyday life of the Georgian people.
Savouring Local Flavours: Food and Wine Experiences
Telavi’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its cultural landscape. The city is celebrated for its wine bars, family maranis (wine cellars), and immersive wine tours that offer a hands-on experience in local winemaking traditions. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a foodie, Telavi’s gastronomy promises a feast for your senses.
In addition to wine, Telavi offers a wealth of culinary delights, from local cheese to traditional sweets. The city’s restaurants and eateries take pride in their local specialties, perfect for pairing with Kakhetian wine.
Telavi Bazaar
No visit to Telavi is complete without a trip to the vibrant Telavi Bazaar. This bustling market offers a delightful array of traditional Georgian sweets, herbs, cheeses, and more providing visitors with an authentic and flavourful culinary experience. The smells, the sights of unique traditional Georgian foods, and meeting the local sellers – it’s all a wonderful experience.
From the unique Georgian ‘dessert’ Churchkhela, created by dipping strings of nuts into thickened grape juice, to Pelamushi, a sweet porridge made from grape must and wheat flour, the bazaar is a haven for sweet lovers. As you navigate the colourful stalls, don’t forget to try other specialties like Tklapi (Georgian fruit leather) and Gozinaki (caramelized nuts bound with honey).
Wine Tasting and Wine Tours in Kakheti
Kakheti, the cradle of classical winemaking in Georgia and the heart of the Kakheti wine region is renowned for its traditional and natural wines. Some of the local grape varieties of the Kakheti region include:
Rkatsiteli
Saperavi
Kakhuri Mtsvane
Cabernet Sauvignon
Telavi wine tasting can of course be done all year round in Kakheti. And the opportunity to sample these unique georgian grapes and learn about the region’s ancient winemaking traditions that stretch back over 8,000 years, all while savouring delicious wine and food is best done on a wine tour (no drinking and driving please!) Georgian wine pours are hearty and it’s best to have a professional driver to take you to the best wineries and also make sure you get around safely!
The region’s vineyards are home to at least 11 indigenous Georgian grape species, showcasing the diversity of Georgian viticulture. From the pioneering European winemaking innovations at Tsinandali Estate to the traditional qvevri winemaking method, where wine is fermented and stored in large earthenware vessels, a wine tasting tour in Kakheti is a journey through time and taste.
Must-Try Local Dishes
The culinary delights of Telavi extend beyond its sweets and wines. The city’s diverse and flavourful cuisine is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage. From hearty meat dishes to vegetarian plates, Telavi promises a gastronomic experience to remember.
Mtsvadi, a traditional Georgian barbecue made with marinated meat (usually pork), is an essential culinary experience in Kakheti, often accompanied by tkemali plum sauce and raw onion rings. Honestly, you’ve never tried pork BBQ until you’ve had it in Kakheti – it is fresh, juicy, and tender, and then smother it in tkemali sauce…..literally drooling right now thinking about it!
Chakapuli, (considered to be one of the most popular dishes in Georgia) is a herby stew usually made with lamb or veal, with sour plum sauce, wine, and mixed herbs – lots of tarragon. Khashlama, a traditional boiled beef dish often served at a family supra meal, both dishes showcase the rich and hearty nature of eastern Georgian cuisine. Of course, don’t forget to try some Georgian classics including khinkali while you’re there.
For vegetarian options, Pkhali, minced vegetables combined with ground walnuts, and Lobio, a traditional Georgian bean stew, offer a tasty meat free alternative. Badrijani Nigvzit, featuring fried eggplant rolls filled with savoury walnut paste, is another popular vegetarian dish.
Telavi Restaurants
Now you know what the must try dishes are, here are a few of our top Telavi restaurants to add to your Georgia travel itinerary for incredible local food in Telavi Georgia.
Zodiako
Zodiako is an authentic restaurant that all the guides rave about dishing out incredible Kakhetian flavours that will delight your taste buds. This rustic restaurant, tucked away in a charming courtyard, offers succulent mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers), flavourful pkhali (vegetable spreads), and juicy khinkali (meat-filled dumplings) are all fan favourites.
The warm, folk music-filled atmosphere adds to the authentic dining experience. Fair warning – the generous portions are fit for a feast, so bring a seriously empty stomach.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FbZFhc2PWK5ZzH8A7
Odlisi – Cheese Bar
Odlisi – Cheese Bar in Telavi is a quaint yet extraordinary spot in the heart of the city. This family-run cafe, born from their own cheese farm, serves an array of homemade cheeses that are simply a slice of heaven (see what I did there – ‘slice’ of heaven, cheese slice – oh you get it!). The decor, a delightful blend of vintage chic, creates a cosy atmosphere, enhanced by the gentle glow of candlelight. Their offerings of scrumptious snacks and top-notch wines perfectly complement the high-quality cheeses. Spending an evening here is undoubtedly the best way to immerse yourself in Telavi’s culinary scene, offering an experience that’s both authentic and charming
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DzSsEbuaeVUHUUKW8
Badia
Badia Restaurant is our go to choice for any occasion in Telavi, whether it’s a family dinner, a casual lunch, or just a relaxed outing. This restaurant, with its delightful little front garden, is a lovely place to sit on a warm day and enjoy the views accompanied by a tasty meal. It’s a popular spot so it is best to make a reservation.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7SBtwYBXauTcu9N87
Doli Telavi
Communal along with their incredible hotels also have their Doli Restaurants across the country and they never ceases to impress. Doli in Telavi offers up a homely vibe. Here, the menu is a mix of familiar favourites and exciting new tastes, all cooked just right. Whether it’s a quick meal or a relaxed evening, Doli’s charm makes your dining experience memorable. It’s a spot in Telavi that’s not to be missed for anyone who loves a good meal in a great setting.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/y5acFerKiW7MSNZV6
Exploring the Surrounding Attractions
The allure of Telavi extends beyond the city’s boundaries. Surrounding the city are several attractions that offer a deeper exploration of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. From ancient monasteries to historic wineries, these attractions serve as windows into the region’s past and present.
Tsinandali Estate: History and Wine Tastings
The Tsinandali Estate holds a pivotal place in wine history. The European style corking of the first bottle of Kakhetian qvevri wine here marked a significant milestone in Georgian winemaking. It signifies the beginning of a new era in the country’s winemaking tradition. Today, the Tsinandali Estate continues to be a significant attraction for visitors interested in Georgian culture, history, and the winemaking traditions of the Kakheti region.
The estate is more than just a winery; it’s also a beautifully maintained garden that offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Here, you can:
Stroll through the lush greenery
Soak in the serene ambiance
Sample a variety of Georgian wines
Learn about the region’s winemaking traditions and taste the famous Tsinandali wine.
Nekresi Monastery
Nekresi Monastery, located on a hill in Alazani Valley near Telavi, is a 4th-century site combining historical importance with architectural beauty. Its robust stone walls and defensive structures speak of its past significance. Inside, churches reveal Georgia’s spiritual history through well-preserved frescoes and relics. The monastery offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a noteworthy destination for those interested in Georgian culture and history
Alaverdi Cathedral
Another noteworthy attraction near Telavi is the Alaverdi Cathedral.
Founded in the 6th century by Joseph Alaverdeli, an Assyrian monk
The cathedral is a significant religious monument in Georgia
Recognized for its rich history and monastic traditions
Honoring an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition, monks at the Alaverdi Monastery use qvevri, traditional Georgian clay pots buried underground, to produce natural qvevri wines. Visitors to the monastery can explore the large 11th-century cathedral, the biggest in Kakheti, and purchase the monastery’s own wine, but sadly a visit to the marani (wine cellar) is only by special invite only and closed to the public.
Where to Stay in Telavi
Telavi offers a range of accommodations, from hotels to guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors in the city and surrounding wine country. Whether you prefer the luxury of a high-end hotel or the charm of a family-run guesthouse, you’ll find an array of options catering to diverse preferences and budgets.
From the Holiday Inn Telavi, an IHG Hotel, known for its outstanding reviews, to the Esquisse Design Hotel, celebrated for its peaceful location and excellent amenities, there’s an accommodation to suit every traveler’s need. For those wanting to stay amid the vineyards, Tsinandali Estate and Chateau Mosmieri offer high-standard accommodations with beautiful vineyard views.
Getting to Telavi
Travelling to Telavi from Tbilisi is a scenic journey that can be enjoyed via the main Kakheti Highway or the picturesque Gombori Mountians Pass. The city is easily accessible by marshrutkas (starting at the Navtlughi Bus Terminal), and private taxis departing from your choice of pick up location in Tbilisi.
The cost of travel varies depending on your choice of transport, with marshrutkas and shared taxis being the more affordable options. A private taxi or a transfer service like GoTrip can provide a more comfortable journey at a higher cost.
If you are looking for a small group size 1 day wine tour or private tour experience, check out: VINES & MOUNTAINS – 1 DAY KAKHETI (TELAVI) FOOD & WINE TOUR (MEET THE WINE ARTISANS!)
When to Visit Telavi
The best time to visit Telavi is from May to October, when the weather is usually pleasant and sunny. Autumn, especially late September and October, is the most atmospheric time in Kakheti, aligning with the grape harvest season. Also known as Rtveli Wine harvest, this is the time where families come together to pick the grapes to make the new years wine. Rtveli involves traditional Georgian polyphonic singing, feasting, and lots of drinking with toasts to celebrate a bountiful harvest. It really is the best time of year to visit and book a wine tour.
Spring also marks one of the best times to visit Telavi and the broader Kakheti region, with the landscape bursting into colour. Whether you’re planning a spring escape or an autumn adventure, Telavi promises a memorable journey filled with rich cultural experiences, authentic family wine tastings, and stunning natural beauty. I’m not saying that you can’t visit in winter – of course you can! But Spring and Autumn is just the very best time to visit in my opinion.
In the heart of Georgia’s wine country, Telavi stands as a testament to the region’s rich history, vibrant culture, and revered winemaking tradition. From its historical landmarks and traditional architecture to its bustling bazaar and indulgent food and wine experiences, Telavi offers a wealth of attractions that captivate the senses. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a food lover, or a history buff, Telavi promises an immersive journey into the very heart of the Kakheti region. So, why wait? Embark on your adventure to this charming city and savor the authentic flavours of Georgia’s wine country!
–> Cap off your Telavi adventure with our signature Vines & Mountains Telavi Wine Tour – a journey through exquisite vineyards and authentic family wine tasting sessions. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the rich wine heritage of Kakheti.
