Winter in Georgia is truly magical and offers unforgettable experiences for families and travelers of all ages. Ski resorts in the majestic Caucasus Mountains, such as Gudauri, Bakuriani, and Mestia, offer the perfect winter getaway with powdery snow, breathtaking views, and slopes for all skill levels. Away from the slopes, explore the enchanting Sabaduri Forest, where snow-covered trees create a fairytale setting for hiking and photography. Whether you're looking for adventure or peaceful family moments, Georgia in winter has it all.
Discover Winter Wonders: Top Georgia Adventures in 2025
Is Tbilisi Safe to Visit During These Days?
Yes, Tbilisi is a warm and welcoming city, perfect for travelers, including families. While we recommend avoiding the immediate area around the parliament building, the Old Town and other tourist areas remain peaceful and safe to explore. Businesses are open and daily life goes on as usual, creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Tbilisi's charm, festive spirit and family-friendly experiences make it an ideal destination to create lasting memories this winter. Be sure to enjoy the magic of the city with your loved ones!
Experience the Magic of Tbilisi’s Winter Markets and Festivals
Looking for a family-friendly winter getaway? Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital, is the perfect destination. The city comes alive during the festive season with twinkling Christmas lights, joyful markets, and exciting events for all ages.
Start your adventure at the Christmas and New Year's Village on Orbeliani Square, where you’ll find handmade crafts, delicious festive treats, and live music that will get everyone in the holiday spirit. For something unique, head to the Dry Bridge Flea Market to browse vintage treasures and handmade items while enjoying a warm cup of spiced wine or hot chocolate.
Tbilisi’s streets and squares are adorned with dazzling Christmas lights, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for family photos and memories to cherish. Whether you’re exploring the markets or strolling through the Old Town, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For an unforgettable, family-friendly winter adventure, Georgia offers a variety of experiences that everyone will love. Just outside Tbilisi, the enchanting Sabaduri Forest is transformed into a magical winter wonderland. The snow-covered trees provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful walk or a playful, snowy afternoon with the kids. Nearby, the Bear Sanctuary offers a unique and safe opportunity to feed and learn about rescued bears and wolves - an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.
Combine this natural beauty with culture on a half-day tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the impressive Chronicle of Georgia Monument. This awe-inspiring landmark features massive sculptures telling the country's rich history and offers stunning views over Tbilisi and the surrounding countryside. It's an ideal way to combine education, culture, and fun for the whole family.
For snowy adventures, head to Borjomi or Bakuriani, perfect for family-friendly winter fun. Experience the thrill of dog sledding, horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowball fights and snowman building in stunning snow-covered landscapes. We offer safe and winterised private transfers from Tbilisi and other major cities at affordable rates, ensuring a stress-free journey for your family. Create unforgettable memories in Georgia's winter wonderland!
A visit to the stunning Paravani Lake adds a touch of magic to any winter trip to Georgia. With its frozen waters and serene atmosphere, it’s a place that feels like a scene from a fairytale. Whether you’re exploring the snowy wilderness, wandering through charming villages, or enjoying fun-filled activities with your children, Georgia offers a winter holiday full of unforgettable moments. Pack your bags and prepare to create memories in this enchanting country!
Winter holidays in Georgia
Georgia offers a rich tapestry of public holidays and cultural events from December through March, each providing unique experiences for visitors. Here's a breakdown of key dates and their potential impact on your travel plans:
December:
- December 31: New Year's Eve
Celebrated nationwide with vibrant festivities, including fireworks and public gatherings. Major cities like Tbilisi host events that may lead to crowded streets and limited accommodation availability. It's advisable to book reservations in advance.
January:
- January 1-2: New Year's Holidays. These are public holidays, and many businesses, including shops and restaurants, may operate on reduced hours or close entirely. Public transportation might also have altered schedules.
- January 7: Orthodox Christmas. A significant religious holiday marked by church services and family gatherings. Expect closures of many establishments and possible disruptions in services.
- January 19: Epiphany. Another important religious observance with ceremonies, particularly near water bodies. Some businesses may close or have reduced hours.
March:
- March 3: Mother's Day. Celebrated with various events, but it generally doesn't affect business operations.
- March 8: International Women's Day. A public holiday in Georgia, often involving celebrations and events. Some businesses and government offices may be closed.
General Tips for Travelers:
- Accommodation and Dining: During major holidays, especially in December and January, it's recommended to book accommodations and restaurant reservations well in advance due to high demand.
- Business Hours: On public holidays, many businesses, including tourist attractions, may have limited hours or be closed. It's advisable to check ahead for specific venues.
- Transportation: Public transport schedules may vary during holidays, with potential reductions in service frequency. Plan your travel accordingly to avoid inconveniences.
- Festivals and Events: Georgia hosts various cultural festivals during this period, such as the Tbilisi Christmas Market and New Year's Village. These events offer rich cultural experiences but can also lead to crowded areas and traffic disruptions.
By staying informed about these holidays and planning accordingly, you can fully enjoy the cultural richness Georgia offers during the winter months.
What to take with you to Georgia in Winter
- Definitely warm clothing: Georgians can get quite cold in the winter, so it's important to pack warm clothes such as coats, hats, gloves, and scarves. Layering is also a good idea for staying warm in fluctuating temperatures.
- Comfortable shoes: Georgia is a country with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must. Make sure to pack sturdy, waterproof shoes that will keep your feet warm and dry in the winter weather.
- Waterproof gear: Georgia can be prone to rain and snow in the winter, so it's a good idea to bring a waterproof coat or umbrella to keep you dry.
- Entertainment for kids: If you're traveling with children, it's a good idea to bring along some small toys or activities to keep them entertained during the trip. This can be especially helpful during long car rides or if you find yourself stuck indoors due to bad weather.
- Snacks: Georgia is known for its delicious cuisine, but it's always a good idea to bring some snacks with you in case you get hungry between meals. Pack some non-perishable treats such as nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit to keep you sustained during your trip.
- Cash: It's a good idea to have some local currency (Georgian Lari) on hand for small purchases or in case you need to pay for something in cash. Make sure to have some small denominations as well, as it can be difficult to break larger bills in smaller towns or villages.
- Travel insurance: It's always a good idea to have travel insurance, especially when traveling to a foreign country. This can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of any unexpected events such as illness, accidents, or lost luggage.
- A good map: Georgia can be a bit tricky to navigate, especially if you don't speak the language. Make sure to bring a good map (either physical or digital) to help you find your way around.
- A travel adapter: Georgia uses European-style plugs, so if you're coming from a country with a different plug type, you'll need a travel adapter. Make sure to bring one with you to ensure that you can charge your electronic devices.
Weather in winter
During the winter months, the temperature in Georgia can vary widely depending on the location. In the low-lying areas, such as the capital city of Tbilisi, the average temperature in December, January, and February is around 0°C (32°F) but can drop to -10°C (14°F) at night.
The temperature in the mountainous regions, such as Kazbegi and Svaneti, tends to be much colder, with an average temperature around -10°C (14°F) and can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F) or lower, with strong winds and snowfall.
When it comes to winter in Georgia, it's not just the temperature you need to be aware of. The higher elevations in the country can experience significant snowfall and icy conditions, which can make traveling on the roads a challenge. In fact, many roads in mountainous regions may be closed or impassable due to the snow and ice. So, if you're planning on hitting the road during the winter months, it's important to exercise caution and be prepared for potential disruptions.
What to eat in Georgia:
Georgian cuisine is known for its combination of Greek and Mediterranean flavors, as well as influences from Turkey and Persia
- Khinkali - Georgian dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, suitable for vegetarians and non-vegetarians
- Pkhali - a vegan dish made with finely chopped vegetables and walnuts, mixed with spices and pomegranate seeds
- Lobio - a thick bean soup, suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Perfect for the cold weather
- Khachapuri - a Georgian cheese bread, suitable for vegetarians but not vegans
- Eggplant with walnuts and pomegranate seeds - a vegan dish made with roasted eggplant and a paste of walnuts and pomegranate seeds
- Kebabs - grilled minced meat with spices, suitable for non-vegetarians and those following halal diets
- Churchkhela - a traditional Georgian candy made with nuts and fruit juice, suitable for vegetarians and those following halal diets
- Kharcho - a hearty soup made with beef, rice, and vegetables, suitable for non-vegetarians and those following halal diets
- Acharuli Khachapuri - a Georgian cheese bread with an egg in the middle, suitable for vegetarians and non-vegetarians
Facts about Georgia:
- Georgia is a safe and welcoming country for travelers, with friendly and hospitable people.
- The official language of Georgia is Georgian. So try to learn a few words of Georgian. While many people in Tbilisi speak English, it's always appreciated when tourists make an effort to learn a few words of the local language.
- Georgia is a predominantly Christian country, with the majority of the population belonging to the Georgian Orthodox Church.
- Lari (GEL) is the currency of Georgia
- Credit and debit cards are widely used in Tbilisi, but less so in the regions. ATMs can be found in major towns. Travellers’ cheques are rarely accepted. Make sure you have sufficient cash in local currency if traveling to rural or remote areas.
- Don't be afraid to try new things. Georgia is a country with a lot to offer, from adventure sports to cultural experiences. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.