Things to Do in Mtskheta

A small outdoor market near the main square selling local produce, churchkhela (walnut candy), homemade cheeses, spices, and souvenirs. It's lively but not pushy, with vendors more curious than aggressive.

🕐 09:00-16:00 daily, but quieter after 14:00

💡 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.

An 11th-century Georgian Orthodox cathedral, one of the country's holiest sites. The current building replaced earlier churches and includes a reproduction of the Chapel of the Holy Sepulchre. The interior has faded frescoes and a stone column said t

🕐 08:00-20:00 daily

💡 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.

A small, 4th-century church dedicated to Saint Nino, built on the site where she is said to have lived in a bramble bush. The current structure dates mostly from the 10th-12th centuries. It's a quiet, off-the-radar spot with a simple stone interior a

🕐 24/7, but the gate may be locked at night; best visited 10:00-17:00

💡 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.

A compact monastery complex housing the Church of the Transfiguration, the tomb of King Mirian, and a small convent. The 4th-century origins are attributed to Saint Nino. The site remains active, with nuns living on the grounds.

🕐 09:00-18:00 daily

💡 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.

A 6th-century church perched on a hilltop at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. It offers expansive views of Mtskheta and the surrounding valleys. The cross-in-square design is an early example of Georgian church architecture.

🕐 10:00-17:00 daily; closed Mondays in winter

💡 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.