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💡 Buy a few churchkhela sticks for 3-5 lari each — much cheaper than Tbilisi. Try the fresh sulguni cheese (salted string cheese) from the dairy section; it's worth the 2 lari. Go before 11am for the best selection; many stalls pack up by early afternoon.

💡 Head around the back to the smaller, quieter bell tower. Climb its open staircase for a clear view of the cathedral dome and the surrounding hills. Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid coach parties.

💡 This church often gets overlooked because of its modest size. Walk down the narrow lane behind the main road — it's signposted but easy to miss. The garden has a well where locals sometimes leave candles. It takes 10 minutes to see, but pairs well with a walk along the riverbank afterwards.

💡 Look for the 4th-century stone cross inside the church, said to have been raised by Saint Nino. The garden behind the church has a peaceful, almost wild feel, with old tombstones and grapevines.

💡 Walk up from the main road rather than taking a taxi; the path starts near the concrete cross on the hill. The 20-minute climb is steep but gives you time to appreciate the view building. Go on a clear day — the river junction is best seen in autumn or spring when the waters differ in colour.