12-Day Hardcore Guide to the Caucasus Countries
12-Day In-Depth Journey Through the Caucasus Countries: Savor Fine Wine, Traverse Millennia, Embrace Mountains, Seas, and History
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One trip, three distinct charms. The Caucasus countries—Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan—are like three gems embedded at the crossroads of Europe and Asia 🏰, boasting fossil-like historical heritage, picturesque natural landscapes, and rich, unique regional cultures. Extremely cost-effective, a must-visit in a lifetime!
🗓 Selected Itinerary
DAY 1|Departure
Arrive in Baku, the "City of Winds and Fire" (Azerbaijan), and start your Caucasus adventure 🎉
DAY 2-3|Baku and Silk Road Heritage
Explore the futuristic Heydar Aliyev Center, stroll through Baku Old City (a World Heritage Site), climb the Maiden Tower, and visit the Shirvanshah’s Palace
Head to Gobustan to admire millennia-old rock carvings and explore the magical mud volcanoes
Walk along the Caspian Sea promenade to feel the blend of modernity and tradition 🌊
Drive to Sheki, an ancient Silk Road stop, visit the Sheki Khan’s Palace (famous for its stained glass), and experience the historic caravanserai atmosphere
DAY 4-5|From Georgia to Armenia: Songs of Faith and Lakes
Cross the border into Georgia, visit the romantic town of Sighnaghi, overlook the Alazani Valley from the city walls, and tour Bodbe Monastery
Arrive in Tbilisi, rest briefly, then head to Armenia
Arrive at Lake Sevan—the Blue Gem of the Caucasus—visit Sevanavank Monastery by the lake, and soak in the tranquil poetic scenery 🏞️
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Geghard Monastery (partly carved into rock) and the Greek-style Garni Temple
In Yerevan, climb the Cascade (Socialist Staircase) for city night views and stroll through Republic Square
DAY 6-8|Religious Sites and Snowy Mountain Secrets
Visit the Khndzoresk Cave Monastery, Etchmiadzin Cathedral (one of the oldest Christian churches), and Zvartnots Archaeological Site
Return to Tbilisi, tour the ancient capital Mtskheta (Svetitskhoveli Cathedral), and the hilltop Jvari Monastery
Head north along the Military Highway, check in at Ananuri Fortress (a lakeside castle featured on Lonely Planet’s cover), the Friendship Monument, and enjoy views of Mount Kazbek and the misty Gergeti Trinity Church ⛰️
DAY 9-10|Black Sea Charm and Stalin’s Legacy
Travel to Kutaisi, visit Bagrati Cathedral (a World Heritage Site)
Arrive in Batumi, stroll along the Black Sea promenade, watch the moving statue of Ali and Nino’s touching encounter, and take a boat tour to enjoy the sea views
Explore Turkish Street and Europe Square to experience multicultural fusion
Head to Gori, visit the Stalin Museum, his former home and train, and explore the cave city of Uplistsikhe 🏰
DAY 11-12|Tbilisi Old Town Stroll and Departure
Climb Narikala Fortress (by cable car) for panoramic views of the old town, and gaze at Metekhi Church (the cliffside church) and the modern Peace Bridge
Visit the dazzling Holy Trinity Cathedral, stroll through Freedom Square, and check out the fairy-tale Puppet Clock Tower
Experience a traditional sulfur bath (optional) to wash away travel fatigue
Fly back from Tbilisi, concluding an amazing journey ✈️
🌟 Must-Visit Highlights
Ananuri Fortress|Featured on Georgia’s National Geographic cover, a poetic lakeside castle reflection
Tbilisi Holy Trinity Cathedral|Dazzling pure gold dome, climb to the top for a full view of the old city 🌆
Mother Fortress|Guardian of Tbilisi’s turbulent history, witnessing millennia of change
🍽️ Food Recommendations
Georgia: Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), Khinkali (soup dumplings)
Armenia: Khorovats (charcoal-grilled meat) + Lavash (traditional flatbread)
Azerbaijan: Plov (lamb pilaf), Dolma (grape leaf stuffed meat)
Pair meals with Georgian red wine (one of the birthplaces) and famous Armenian brandy
📌 Travel Tips
Transportation: Mainly private car or long-distance bus between the three countries, allow time for border crossing; have small change ready for taxis at airports, apps like Bolt/Yandex Taxi are useful
Shopping: Georgian wine is affordable and easy to carry; Armenian handicrafts are negotiable; Azerbaijani carpets are best bought in Baku Old City
Climate (especially winter): December is cold with heavy snow in mountainous areas ❄️, be sure to wear windproof down jackets, waterproof boots, and bring hand warmers
Visa: Georgia and Armenia offer visa-free entry for Chinese passport holders; Azerbaijan offers e-visa, check the latest policies before travel
Currency: Different currencies in the three countries, it’s recommended to bring USD/EUR for exchange; some places accept international credit cards
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The charm of the Caucasus goes far beyond this. For more hidden gems and in-depth experiences, visit the homepage for more itinerary inspiration and practical guides ✨
Where mountains, seas, and civilizations meet, waiting for you to embark and write your own epic journey.