Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 1
Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 2
Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 3
Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 4
Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 5
Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 6
Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 7
Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 8
Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 9
Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour) 10
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Mtskheta - Jvari - Samtavro, the Cradle of Georgian Christianity. (Group Tour)

(5)
Tbilisi, Georgia
Day Trips & ExcursionsCultural ToursWalking Tours

About this activity

Explore Mtskheta, Georgia's spiritual heart and ancient capital, on a guided 5-hour tour visiting three sacred Christian sites—Jvari Monastery and Samtavro Convent among them. This pilgrimage reveals why Georgians regard Mtskheta as their Jerusalem and provides essential insight into Orthodox Christian heritage and Georgian cultural identity.

Mtskheta is the religious center of Georgia and the ancient capital of our country. A holy place for every Georgian. Often locals call this city the second or Georgian Jerusalem, and for good reason. There is a huge number of relics of the entire Christian world, and if you want to understand the soul of the Georgian people, you should definitely visit this city, because Georgians are considered one of the most religious

Highlights

  • ✓Jvari Monastery perched dramatically on a clifftop overlooking the Mtkvari River confluence
  • ✓Samtavro Convent, home to revered relics and centuries of monastic tradition
  • ✓Ancient Svetitskhovloba Cathedral with its legendary relic of Christ's tunic
  • ✓Walking through narrow streets of Georgia's former capital filled with historical landmarks
  • ✓Learn how Mtskheta became the spiritual foundation of Georgian Christianity in the 4th century

Insider tips

  • ★Visit early morning to avoid tour groups and experience the monasteries in peaceful contemplation
  • ★Wear comfortable walking shoes—cobblestone streets and hillside paths are uneven but manageable
  • ★Local restaurants near the main square serve traditional Georgian khachapuri and khinkali at modest prices
  • ★Bring water and sun protection; shade is limited on the monastery terraces

Good to know

  • •5-hour duration includes transport from Tbilisi, walking, and time at each site
  • •Modest dress recommended when entering active monasteries (covered shoulders and knees)
  • •Group tour format—confirm meeting point and time with operator day before
  • •Accessible by minibus/van; some sites involve uphill walking and uneven terrain

Who it's for

History and religion enthusiasts seeking to understand Georgian Orthodox heritageCultural travelers wanting deeper connection to local identity beyond TbilisiPilgrims and faith-focused visitorsPhotography groups interested in dramatic monastery architecture and river landscapes

Best time to visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer ideal weather for walking and photography. Avoid midday summer heat; morning departures are preferable to explore sites when cooler and less crowded.

Frequently asked questions

From
€17
per person