Mtskheta: Georgia's Ancient Capital as a Day Trip from Tbilisi
- Mtskheta lies about 20 km north of Tbilisi and was Georgia's capital for centuries.
- Its churches have been UNESCO World Heritage since 1994 (Svetitskhoveli, Jvari, Samtavro).
- Getting there: marshrutka from Didube bus station, approx. 2 GEL, about 15–30 minutes (guide value).
- Take a taxi up to Jvari Monastery on the hill (approx. 20 GEL, guide value).
- Half a day to a full day is enough – a perfect first trip after arriving in Tbilisi.
Mtskheta is the perfect first trip in Georgia: short, cheap and full of history. The small town was the country's capital for centuries, and Georgia became Christian here. Its churches have been UNESCO World Heritage since 1994.
Mtskheta at a glance
| Distance | about 20 km north of Tbilisi |
| Getting there | marshrutka from Didube, approx. 2 GEL, 15–30 min (guide value) |
| Time needed | half a day to a full day |
| Highlights | Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery, Samtavro Monastery |
The sights
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral – the great walled cathedral in the centre, one of Georgia's most important churches.
Jvari Monastery – the small church on the hill opposite, overlooking the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura. A taxi costs around 20 GEL according to guides.
Samtavro Monastery – a convent on the edge of town, also part of the World Heritage site.
Getting there
- Marshrutka: metro to Didube, then the bus station. Vans signed “Mtskheta” leave roughly every 20–30 minutes, about 7 am to 8 pm; fewer on Sundays.
- Taxi: via app from Tbilisi around 20 GEL (guide value).
- Guided tour: often combined with the Military Road and Kazbegi.
Read more
Georgia itinerary · Kazbegi travel guide · Tbilisi travel guide
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Tbilisi to Mtskheta?
Take a marshrutka from Didube bus station (next to Didube metro). Minibuses run roughly every 20–30 minutes, cost about 2 GEL according to travel guides and take 15–30 minutes. A taxi via app costs around 20 GEL.
Is Jvari Monastery worth it?
Yes. The monastery stands on a hill above the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura rivers – one of the best-known views in Georgia. It's a long walk, so most people take a taxi.
What should I wear in the churches?
Cover shoulders and knees; women usually wear a headscarf. Scarves and wrap skirts are often available at the entrance. Please be quiet during services and don't take photos.
Can I combine Mtskheta with Kazbegi?
Yes, Mtskheta lies at the start of the Georgian Military Road. Many Kazbegi tours stop briefly at Jvari or in Mtskheta.
Sources: UNESCO World Heritage: Historical Monuments of Mtskheta · GoTrip: How to get to Mtskheta · Wander-Lush: Didube Bus Station Tbilisi. All information without guarantee; rules can change at short notice.