Winter in Georgia: Top Day Trips from Tbilisi & Ski Resorts (2026)

When winter descends on the Caucasus, Georgia undergoes a breathtaking transformation. The emerald valleys of summer turn into pristine white wonderlands, the aroma of woodsmoke and sulfur baths in Tbilisi becomes even more inviting, and the towering peaks of the Great Caucasus Mountains call out to adventurers from around the globe.

While many associate Georgia with warm vineyard tours and summer hikes, visiting Georgia in winter (December to February) is a hidden gem for the savvy traveler. In 2026, the secret is out: Georgia offers world-class skiing, unique cultural festivities, and incredible cuisine, all without the overwhelming crowds or sky-high prices of the Alps.

Whether you are chasing adrenaline on the slopes of Gudauri or seeking the cozy warmth of a traditional wine cellar, here is your extensive guide to experiencing the best winter tours in Georgia with Vitis Travel.

1. Skiing in Gudauri: The Winter Capital of the Caucasus

Just a scenic 2-hour drive from Tbilisi along the historic Georgian Military Highway lies Gudauri, the country's premier ski resort. Unlike European resorts that can feel manicured and overly commercial, Gudauri offers a sense of vastness and freedom that is rare to find. Sitting at an elevation of 2,200 meters, it guarantees excellent snow cover from late December through April.

Why Choose Gudauri in 2026?

• Slopes for Everyone: With over 64km of ski runs, Gudauri caters to every skill level. Beginners can enjoy wide, gentle slopes perfect for learning, while advanced skiers can tackle steep black runs.

• Freeride Paradise: Gudauri is world-famous for its off-piste and freeride opportunities. The lack of trees at high altitudes creates endless powder fields that are safe and accessible.

• Night Skiing: On weekends, the lifts keep turning after sunset, allowing you to ski under the floodlights—a magical experience followed by mulled wine at the base.

How to get there safely:

Driving in the mountains during winter requires experience and the right vehicle. The Georgian Military Highway is stunning but can be icy. Instead of risking a rental car, we recommend our comfortable Kazbegi & Gudauri Day Tour.

We provide professional drivers and vehicles equipped with winter tires and chains. On this tour, we stop at the breathtaking Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument, a circular balcony hanging over the edge of a deep gorge, offering one of the most Instagrammable winter views in the country.

2. Tbilisi in Winter: Sulfur Baths, Lights, and Festivals

Tbilisi in winter has a charm entirely its own. The temperatures are generally mild (rarely dropping far below freezing), making it comfortable to explore the city's eclectic architecture on foot.

The Warmth of Abanotubani

There is no better winter ritual than visiting the Sulfur Baths in the Old Town. Imagine walking through the crisp, cold air and then plunging into a private room with a hot, naturally sulfuric pool (40°C). It is not just relaxing; it is a centuries-old tradition believed to cure various ailments and boost immunity—perfect for the flu season!

A City of Lights

If you visit in late December or January, you are in for a treat. Georgians love the New Year (even more than Christmas!), and the city pulls out all the stops. Rustaveli Avenue and Freedom Square are draped in millions of elaborate lights, looking like a scene from a fairy tale. The Christmas Village on Orbeliani Square offers local crafts, mulled wine, and street food.

Explore with a Local:

To truly understand the history hidden in these winter streets, join our Tbilisi City Tour222. Our guides know exactly where to find the coziest cafes and the most interesting hidden courtyards that you might miss on your own.

3. Winter Solitude in Mtskheta & Jvari

The ancient capital, Mtskheta, takes on a solemn, spiritual beauty in the winter months. In summer, these UNESCO World Heritage sites are bustling with tourists. In winter, you often have them to yourself.

The Jvari Monastery, perched on a high hilltop overlooking the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, is particularly dramatic in winter. The wind howls around the 6th-century stone walls, and the view of the rivers below—often framed by snow-dusted hills—is stark and beautiful.

Combine this with a trip to Uplistsikhe, the ancient cave city. Exploring these rock-hewn dwellings when the air is crisp feels like stepping back into the Iron Age.

• Recommended Tour: Mtskheta, Jvari & Uplistsikhe Day Trip

4. Culinary Comfort: What to Eat in Winter

Georgian cuisine seems as if it was designed specifically for cold weather. It is rich, hearty, and warming. When you are on a food tour in Georgia, here is what you must try:

• Khinkali: These giant soup dumplings are the ultimate winter comfort food. There is an art to eating them: bite a small hole, drink the hot broth, and then devour the rest. The black pepper warms you from the inside out.

• Ostri: A spicy, slow-cooked beef stew in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for dipping fresh bread (Shotis Puri).

• Chacha: You cannot talk about winter in Georgia without mentioning Chacha. This potent grape vodka (grappa) is the traditional way to warm up after a day on the slopes or a long walk.

• Amber Wine by the Fire: Visit a cellar in Kakheti to taste robust Saperavi red wine or tannic Amber wine by a crackling fireplace.

5. Important Dates: The Georgian Holiday Season

If you are planning your trip, keep in mind that the holiday calendar here is unique:

• December 31st: New Year’s Eve (The biggest celebration of the year with massive fireworks).

• January 7th: Orthodox Christmas (A religious celebration featuring the "Alilo" parade, where people walk through the streets singing chants).

• January 14th: "Old New Year" (A traditional celebration marking the New Year according to the old Julian calendar).

FAQ: Essential Tips for Winter Travel in Georgia

Here are the most common questions we get from travelers planning a winter trip to Georgia.

Is it safe to drive in Georgia during winter?

Mountain roads can be icy and challenging for inexperienced drivers.

While the main highways are generally cleared, the Georgian Military Highway (to Kazbegi/Gudauri) and the Gombori Pass (to Kakheti) can be treacherous due to snow and black ice. We highly recommend hiring a professional driver or booking a transfer rather than renting a car yourself in winter. At Vitis Travel, all our vehicles are equipped with high-quality winter tires and snow chains to ensure your safety.

Does it snow in Tbilisi?

Snow in Tbilisi is relatively rare and usually melts within a day or two.

The capital is located in a valley which keeps it warmer. However, the surrounding hills and nearby towns are often covered in snow. If you want a "Winter Wonderland" experience, you only need to drive 45 minutes out of the city to find deep snow.

Are tourist sites and wineries open in winter?

Yes, Georgia is a year-round destination.

Almost all major museums, monasteries, and wineries remain open. In fact, visiting wineries in winter can be a more intimate experience, as winemakers have more time to chat with guests compared to the busy harvest season. Note that some remote high-mountain regions (like Tusheti) are completely inaccessible in winter due to road closures.

What should I pack for a winter trip to Georgia?

Layers are key to comfort.

The weather can vary greatly between Tbilisi (mild) and the mountains (freezing). Pack a warm waterproof coat, thermal underwear, gloves, and a hat. If you plan to visit churches or monasteries, bring a scarf (for women to cover their heads) and ensure you have sturdy, non-slip boots for walking on cobblestones or snow.

Embrace the Georgian Winter

Don't let the cold stop you. From the adrenaline of the ski slopes to the warmth of a sulfur bath and the hospitality of a Georgian "Supra," winter is an unforgettable time to visit.

❄️ Book Your Gudauri Ski Transfer & Tour today, or Contact Us to let us build a custom winter itinerary just for you