Tbilisi (Georgia)

While in Georgia's capital be sure to visit the National Museum, the National Gallery, and visit its many churches, including Metekhi Church, lovely Anchiskhati Basilica and Sioni Cathedral.  Ride the cable car up to Narikala Fortress for fine views of the Old Town; in the latter take some time in one of its many quirky cafes.

Kakheti (Georgia)

The Kakheti region is an area of beautiful green valleys, famous for its traditional wine production.  Telavi has a raucous farmer's market while Tsinandalia is a historic estate once owned by the Georgian poet Chavchavadze.  Its gardens are beautifully laid out in the English style.  Alaverdi Cathedral is Georgia's tallest monastery and surrounded by a beautiful cypress grove.

Mtskheta (Georgia)

Mtskheta, the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia is home to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, one of Georgia’s most important religious monuments.  Nearby Jvari Monastery offers great views of the town below.

Georgian Military Highway (Georgia)

The Georgian Military Highway is a historic route through the Caucasus Mountains linking Georgia with Russia.  It is a stunning mountain road, culminating for most travellers in the view of Tsminda Sameba (a.k.a. Gergeti Trinity) Church, set against the backdrop of towering Mount Kazbek.

Tsminda Sameba a.k.a. Gergeti Trinity Church (Georgia)

One of the most instantly recognizable images of Georgia is that of Tsminda Sameba Church.  Stunningly located on a hilltop overlooking the snowy peaks of the Caucasus, it makes for a great destination for a hike.

Gori (Georgia)

The town of Gori is home to the Stalin museum, the Soviet dictator who was born here.  The museum lays homage to its most famous son, conveniently overlooking many of the horrors he perpetrated.  Nearby, the cave city of Uplistsikhe is one of the oldest settlements in the region.

Vardzia (Georgia)

One of Georgia's most famous sights, the cave town of Vardzia is cut into towering cliffs.  Over 500 caves, home to churches, halls, and wine cellars, are all connected by tunnels and stairways.

Gelati Monastery (Georgia)

The UNESCO listed monastery at Gelati is one of Georgia's most important churches.  Gelati turned out many great thinkers and the main Cathedral has some of the best-preserved frescoes in the country.

Svaneti (Georgia)

Surrounded by mountains, the Svaneti region in the Caucasus is famous for its tower-houses, built to protect villagers during times of invasion.  Mestia is the main town here and its Ethnography Museum is well worth a visit, while the surrounding area makes for great hiking.

Batumi (Georgia)

Located on the shores of the Black Sea, and set  against a backdrop of pretty mountains, Batumi was one of the premiere seaside resorts of the USSR.  Its parks, fountains and beaches are still popular with locals.

Baku (Azerbaijan)

Azerbaijan's capital is a city where old meets new, a city running headlong into the future.  Wander around the fortified Old Town or see how a steady influx of oil money has led to a building frenzy resulting in some jaw-dropping architecture.  Climb the ancient Maiden’s Tower for views over the town and bay and visit the Palace of the Shirvanshahs dynasty.

Qobustan (Azerbaijan)

A World Heritage site, Qobustan is one the world's largest open-air archaeological sites, famous for its ancient petroglyphs and even a Roman inscription.  The area is also known for its bubbling mud volcanoes.

Sheki (Azerbaijan)

Sheki, once a thriving market town, has a palace complex with magnificent frescoes and stained glass.  Sheki and nearby mountain villages offer many local craft workshops.  

Yerevan (Armenia)

Armenia's capital is  a town where old meets new and traditional meets designer-chic.  Enjoy its many outdoor cafes where locals come to linger and be sure to visit its History Museum and the Genocide Memorial & Museum.

Monasteries of Haghpat (Armenia)

The two Byzantine monasteries at Haghpat are listed by UNESCO on account of their outstanding ecclesiastical architecture, blending Byzantine and local styles.

Dilijan (Armenia)

Picturesque Dilijan is famed for its well-preserved 18th century houses and tis local handicraft studios.

Lake Sevan (Armenia)

One of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world, Lake Sevan, with its backdrop of mountains, is known for its ever-changing hues.

Noravank Monastery (Armenia)

This spectacular 13th century monastery is a must-see, especially in the evening when the red cliffs surrounding it light up in the setting sun.

Garni (Armenia)

Built in the first century, the Hellenistic temple at Garni was dedicated to the God of the Sun.

Geghard Monastery (Armenia)

The 12th century UNESCO listed Geghard Monastery is carved out of a cliff and set in a beautiful location and has some well-preserved carvings.  

Khor Virap Monastery  (Armenia)

Offering beautiful views of Mount Ararat, Khor Virap is the residence of the Armenian Catholicos and connected to the conversion to Christianity of the first Armenian king.