Georgia is famous for Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Batumi and Kakheti. But if you want to escape the crowds, the best solution is simple: rent a car and take a different road. Here are six routes for travelers who prefer quiet landscapes, small villages and places that are not packed with tour buses.
1. Tbilisi – David Gareja – Sighnaghi
Start in Tbilisi and drive east towards the semi-desert landscapes around David Gareja. Dry hills and rocky valleys make this area look completely different from the green Georgia seen in most travel brochures. Continue towards Sighnaghi and Kakheti. In one day, you can experience Georgia’s desert-like landscapes and then finish among vineyards and green hills.
2. Kutaisi – Racha – Lake Shaori
Racha is one of the best choices if you want to slow down. The road from Kutaisi leads through forests and mountain valleys towards Lake Shaori. There are small villages, beautiful viewpoints and very few international tourists. Don’t try to see everything. The best part of this route is simply driving through the landscape and stopping whenever you find a place you like.
3. Tbilisi – Javakheti – Lake Paravani
Southern Georgia offers a completely different experience. The high Javakheti plateau is dominated by volcanic landscapes, enormous open spaces and Lake Paravani. At an altitude of around 2,000 meters, the region can feel more like Iceland or Central Asia than Georgia. A rental car is particularly useful here because public transport between remote locations is limited.
4. Stepantsminda—Truso Valley
Most visitors heading to Kazbegi stop at Gergeti Trinity Church. Instead, continue further into the Truso Valley. Mineral springs, abandoned settlements, old towers and enormous mountains create an almost unreal landscape. Before driving there, check the road conditions and make sure your rental car is allowed on the route.
5. Zugdidi – Mestia – Svaneti
Svaneti is becoming more popular, but it is still possible to find quiet places away from Mestia. The road from Zugdidi into the mountains is spectacular in itself. As you climb higher, forests give way to dramatic mountain scenery and traditional Svan towers. Take your time and avoid planning too many kilometers in one day.
6. Kutaisi – Chiatura – Katskhi – Imereti
This is a great short road trip for travelers interested in unusual places. Start in Kutaisi and drive towards Chiatura, a former mining town built deep inside a valley. Nearby, you can see the extraordinary Katskhi Pillar with its small church on top. The route combines unusual architecture, mountain landscapes and a very different side of Georgia.
Why travel without a fixed plan?
A road trip gives you something a standard tour cannot: freedom. You can stop at a viewpoint, take a small detour, stay longer in a village or completely change your plans. Of course, remote mountain roads require more preparation. Check weather conditions, road access and the restrictions of your rental car before leaving the main highways.
For most of the popular routes, a standard passenger car is enough. More difficult mountain and off-road routes require a suitable vehicle.
Cars4Rent Georgia offers car rental with pick-up in Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi, including airport delivery. Standard rentals include unlimited mileage, a free additional driver and no deposit or prepayment. You don’t need to follow the tourist map. Sometimes the best Georgian road is the one that isn’t marked with a big red tourist icon.
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