Discover Mtskheta: Your Guide to Georgia’s Historic Capital Near Tbilisi

Just 20 km north of Tbilisi lies Mtskheta, the spiritual heart of Georgia and its ancient capital. With a history dating back over 3,000 years, Mtskheta served as the capital of the early Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BCE to the 5th century CE, making it a pivotal ancient center. It is far more than just a day trip from Tbilisi. It is where Georgian Christianity was born, where two rivers meet, and where cobbled streets and hilltop monasteries offer a deep sense of timelessness. The town, home to approximately 8,000 people, is one of Georgia’s most popular destinations, renowned for its exquisite Orthodox Christian architecture and profound religious significance.

Top Things to Do in Mtskheta

• Jvari Monastery Perched on a hilltop, this 6th-century monastery offers breathtaking views of the town and the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura rivers. Believed to be the spot where St. Nino erected a wooden cross, it marks Georgia’s conversion to Christianity. The architecture represents early Georgian cross-dome style, blending simplicity with grandeur.
  Tip: Plan the time well. The sun was at an angle when we went so while we were there it was hard to see the clear colour difference of the two rivers meeting, however we saw it later at another location.
• Shio-Mgvime Monastery A short drive from the town centre, this lesser-known cave monastery is a peaceful and spiritual place surrounded by cliffs and greenery. It was founded in the 6th century by one of St. Nino’s disciples and still functions today.
• Svetitskhoveli Cathedral This 11th-century masterpiece is the spiritual anchor of Georgia. According to legend, it holds the Robe of Christ buried beneath its foundations. The cathedral impresses with its stone carvings, faded frescoes, and commanding presence. It remains a centre for religious ceremonies and a symbol of national identity.
• Old Town and Souvenir Shopping Wandering through the cobbled streets, you’ll find artisanal products like handmade ceramics, textiles, wine, and snacks like churchkhela. The atmosphere is laid-back and personal, with vendors often offering samples or stories.
• Mtskheta Antioch Church Tucked behind Svetitskhoveli, this small church is often missed by tourists. It’s a serene and intimate space that offers a quiet contrast to the more prominent religious sites.
• Samtavro Convent A tranquil complex where King Mirian III and Queen Nana are buried. The modest yet serene church, bell tower, and blooming gardens make it a peaceful place to reflect. Pilgrims come to visit the grave of St. Gabriel, a modern saint beloved by Georgians.
• Mtskheta Archaeological Museum and Tree of Life Mosaic A modest yet informative museum with artefacts from prehistoric to medieval times. Highlights include pottery, jewellery, tools, and a striking Tree of Life mosaic that captures local symbolism.
• Bebristsikhe Fortress These hilltop ruins provide scenic views of Mtskheta and are ideal for a short climb. Once a strategic fortress, only parts of the walls remain, adding a touch of ancient mystery to your visit.
• Zedazeni Monastery Located in the hills above Mtskheta, this secluded monastery is perfect for those seeking tranquillity and panoramic views. It’s slightly more remote but worth the drive.
• Armaztsikhe-Bagineti Explore the archaeological remains of an ancient Iberian city and pagan temple site. It provides insight into Georgia’s pre-Christian past.
• Ksani Fortress For adventurous travellers with extra time, this further-out site offers ruins and countryside views.
• River Confluence Viewpoint Near the old town, walk to the riverbank to see the Aragvi’s turquoise meet the Kura’s brown flow. It’s especially scenic around sunset and provides a peaceful pause from sightseeing.

Where to Eat in Mtskheta 

Mtskheta has some lovely spots to dine. Here are some of the best places to savour the local flavours:

• Tsiskvili in Mtskheta: A popular riverside spot offering a pleasant ambiance, often with live music. Enjoy traditional Georgian dishes like khinkali and grilled ribs with views of the Mtkvari River.
• Street Garden Mtskheta: A culinary gem set in a serene garden, providing authentic Georgian cuisine from local ingredients in a delightful outdoor setting.
• Old Mtskheta Restaurant: A reliable choice for traditional Georgian cuisine in a pleasant garden-like setting, known for its diverse menu and hospitality.
• Restaurant Check-In Garden: Enjoy traditional Georgian dishes in a charming garden setting with views of the Mtkvari River and Jvari Monastery. Offers both indoor and alfresco seating.
• Marani Hall: An elegant restaurant blending traditional Georgian cuisine with modern flair. Features an extensive wine list and often hosts live music and cultural events.
• Armazis Kheoba: A unique, park-like restaurant in a gorge along the Mtkvari River, known for superb mtsvadi (Georgian barbecue) and delicious vegetable dishes. Often features live traditional music.
• Cafe Inguru: A solid choice for straightforward, traditional Georgian fare in a comfortable setting.
• Adacafe: A delightful waterfront café offering a blend of Turkish and Georgian cuisine. Known for its magical atmosphere and friendly, multilingual owners.
• Ornament Express: Located near Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, this spot offers a diverse menu blending local Georgian specialties with international options like hamburgers and salads.
• Craft Wine Restaurant: Ideal for wine lovers, offering high-quality traditional Georgian food with a modern twist and an impressive selection of local wines.
• Old Armaz: A typical Georgian establishment with classic cuisine, primarily known for its breathtaking sunset views over the Mtkvari River.
• Café Guga: A cozy, family-run café serving generous portions of traditional Georgian dishes, particularly praised for its authentic vibe and excellent Khinkali.
  

Best Time to Visit Mtskheta

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for pleasant temperatures and scenery. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter brings a quieter, snow-dusted charm.

How Much Time Do You Need?

You can see the highlights in half a day or a full day in around 8-10 hours.
We wanted to experience living outside Tbilisi, so we stayed overnight. It was couple of degrees cooler in the summer and it allowed us to experience
a more authentic Georgian experience at our own pace. It’s definitely a nice get away spot with quite a few places listed on AirBnb so for an alternate place to Tbilisi so you can decide if you want to do an overnight accordingly.