Things to Do in Telavi

A small, unfenced hilltop park just above the town with a clear view over the Alazani Valley towards the Greater Caucasus. Benches, shade and a breeze in summer. No facilities.

🕐 24/7

💡 Walk up from the old town via Chavchavadze Street. Best at sunset for the light on the mountains. Bring water and wear decent shoes for the steep path.

The 19th-century estate of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, with a palace museum, winery and large landscaped gardens. The grounds alone cost 3 GEL entry, and the gardens are well kept, with old trees and a pond. The museum and wine tasting are extra.

🕐 Daily 09:00-19:00 (gardens), museum closes at 18:00

💡 If you just want the gardens, skip the palace tour (another 3 GEL) unless you're keen on period furniture. The wine tasting is touristy but decent value at 5 GEL for three wines.

A self-guided stroll through the old centre, with 18th- and 19th-century wooden balconied houses, cobbled streets and the 18th-century Batonis Tsikhe fortress complex. The main square has a giant plane tree, reputedly 900 years old.

🕐 24/7

💡 Start at Erekle II Square and head south along Akhvlediani Street for the best preserved facades. Most houses are private, so respect residents.

The former royal palace of the Kakheti kings, now a museum inside a 17th-century citadel. The palace has restored rooms, royal artefacts and a lower courtyard. Entry is 3 GEL (about £1).

🕐 Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00

💡 Go early morning to avoid tour groups. The museum itself is small—you can see everything in under an hour. Free on the last Saturday of the month.

An 11th-century Georgian Orthodox monastery with a 55-metre cathedral, still an active religious site. The grounds and exterior are free to visit. The interior is dark, atmospheric and has faded frescoes. Free.

🕐 Daily 07:00-19:00 (grounds always open, but church may close for services)

💡 Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. Women may be asked to cover their head. Best to visit on a weekday morning for quiet. The wine cellar here produces qvevri wines, but tastings are by appointment only.