Wandio

Upon arrival, the family steps into the enchanting maze of Tbilisi Old Town where colorful balconies draped with fairy lights create a warm welcome even on crisp December afternoons. Wandering through narrow cobbled lanes, the kids’ eyes widen at the sight of artisan crafts and street performers, while parents admire centuries-old architecture that reveals layers of the city’s diverse history. Feel the pulse of local life at the Dry Bridge Market, where friendly vendors invite you to browse unique Georgian souvenirs and vintage treasures – a perfect chance to teach children about local crafts and culture through engaging conversations. Next, ascend gently to the majestic Narikala Fortress, a 4th-century citadel whose rusty walls frame breathtaking views across Tbilisi’s winter-kissed rooftops and the meandering Kura River; the crisp air heightens the senses, making storytelling about the city’s past an immersive experience for all ages. Warm up with a soothing family soak at the Abanotubani Sulfur Baths, a centuries-old tradition offering restorative waters in ornately tiled pools where kids can splash and adults relax, creating a shared moment of Georgian hospitality and wellness to treasure.

Lunch and dinner recommendations will suggest places serving family-friendly Georgian dishes like khinkali (dumplings) and mtsvadi (grilled meat), with cozy atmospheres that welcome children and provide traditional musical accompaniment on select evenings.

Begin your family’s exploration with a short drive to Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital whose spiritual aura is palpable in its hallowed stone streets dusted lightly with early winter frost. Wander through Mtskheta Old Town, where small shops and local artisans invite the children to learn about traditional Georgian crafts such as wood carving and pottery, ensuring a hands-on cultural connection amid the town’s quiet beauty. Take your time inside the magnificent Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where soaring arches and intricate frescoes spark imaginations while adults reflect on centuries of faith and architecture – guided tours geared for families can transform this visit into a captivating storytime journey. Afterward, ascend a short hill to Jvari Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff’s edge. Standing where the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers converge, gaze together over the wide wintry panorama as children delight in the open space and crisp mountain air. The brief walk up to the monastery is manageable even with little ones and offers space for the family to share moments of awe beneath the gray-blue sky.

Return to Tbilisi in the afternoon, suggesting a quiet café with traditional Georgian pastries and warm herbal teas to help everyone relax after a day steeped in history and natural beauty.

Drive through the scenic Georgian Military Highway, blanketed in winter’s soft white sheen, arriving mid-morning at Gudauri Ski Resort where the family is greeted by towering snow-capped peaks and the hum of joyful winter activity. Beginners and kids can take advantage of the gentle ski slopes and professional instructors who specialize in family lessons, making the first experience with skiing or snowboarding not just fun but confidence-building. For those not yet ready for the slopes, a ride on the Gudauri Cable Car provides awe-inspiring views of the Caucasus range, giving children a thrilling perspective from high above the snowy forests and valleys. Midday, enjoy a hearty mountain lunch with traditional Georgian dishes like khachapuri warmed by a blazing hearth in a cozy restaurant, fueling the family for more outdoor fun. Late afternoon can be spent building snowmen or sliding on small sleds, a simple joy that brings laughter and warmth amid the invigorating alpine air. The resort's welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere ensures everyone has opportunities to engage at their own pace.

Return leisurely to Tbilisi in early evening with stops at lookout points to capture the glowing winter sunset, a serene end to a day of cold-weather magic.

Embark on a morning drive from Tbilisi to Uplistsikhe, majestic in its raw and rugged beauty as frost clings to the weathered stone walls of this ancient cave city high above the river valley. As you explore the network of caverns, communal spaces, rock-hewn churches, and Old Georgian inscriptions, the children’s imaginations ignite with tales of kings, traders, and early Georgian civilization who lived and thrived within these stony labyrinths. Take time to carefully navigate the historic terraces and overlook points where sweeping views of the winter landscape stretch to the horizon, the cold air charged with a sense of adventure and discovery. Parents can appreciate the fusion of pagan and Christian elements in the architecture, as Uplistsikhe represents a crossroads of culture and faith. Alongside the caves, picnic areas surrounded by frosted woodland provide a peaceful spot for a family lunch, allowing everyone to savor the silence and wonder of this remarkable site. On return to Tbilisi, consider a brief stop at a local bakery specializing in Georgian sweets – a small treat to cap off an inspiring day steeped in antiquity.

Evening free to rest or enjoy warm Georgian hospitality with a family-friendly dinner at a restaurant featuring folk music and interactive elements tailored for children.

Upon arrival in Batumi, feel the invigorating breeze off the Black Sea as the family sets out on the expansive Batumi Boulevard, where winter’s gentler touch allows for long stretches of seaside walking without the summer crowds. Colorful modern sculptures and festive light installations spark curiosity and perfect photo moments, while playgrounds tucked among palm trees and fragrant winter blooms offer joyful pauses for children’s play. At the nearby Batumi Dolphinarium, watch eyes light up during interactive shows where dolphins and sea lions demonstrate their playful intelligence, bridging fun with educational insights into marine life that inspire respect and wonder for the natural world. The family then ascends the iconic Alphabet Tower, reaching the observation deck for sweeping views of the city’s eclectic skyline against the deep navy waters of the sea—a breathtaking tableau that captures Batumi’s lively spirit and cultural pride. Wrap up the day with a cozy seaside dinner featuring fresh Black Sea fish and regional favorites in restaurants known for welcoming families with warmth and local charm.

Throughout the day, easy walking distances combined with occasional taxi rides keep the pace relaxed and enjoyable for young travelers, ensuring everyone can savor the maritime charm of this subtropical Georgian gem.

Set out on a scenic drive through Kakheti’s rolling hills to the renowned Tsinandali Estate, where the family is welcomed not only by the serene gardens dusted with early winter frost but also by the warmth of Georgian winemaking tradition. Tour the beautifully preserved wine cellars that date back to the 19th century, with guides narrating the history of legendary Georgian vintners while children listen wide-eyed to tales about ancient qvevri pottery used for fermentation. In the estate’s museum, art and artifacts invite all ages into a greater understanding of the region’s heritage. To enrich the experience, participate in a family-friendly workshop where kids and adults alike try their hand at traditional Georgian bread baking or crafting simple pottery, creating cherished keepsakes. Afterward, visit the historic Gremi Fortress and nearby Church of the Archangels where architecture and nature combine to offer a peaceful stroll among pastoral winter landscapes, perfect for storytelling and exploration by little ones and adults alike. The day ends with a shared lunch in a local guesthouse serving authentic Kakhetian dishes, providing a sensory feast of flavors and laughter that exemplifies Georgian hospitality in winter’s calm glory.

Return to Tbilisi in the late afternoon, filled with memorable stories and the delight of connecting deeply with Georgian culture.

Spend your last morning at the Georgian National Museum where the past leaps vividly to life through carefully curated exhibits highlighting Georgia's archaeological treasures and folklore – interactive displays and child-focused galleries ensure young explorers remain captivated, making history a shared adventure. After soaking up culture indoors, head to nearby Rike Park, a bright winter playground featuring modern sculptures and thoughtfully designed spaces where children can clamber and run free beneath the crisp blue sky. Pause at the Bridge of Peace, its futuristic glass-and-steel canopy shimmering against December’s low sun, to marvel at the contrast between the old city and modern innovation from this perfectly crafted vantage point. Meander along the Mtkvari River Embankment where street vendors offer steaming cups of local tea and sweet treats, a cozy way to savor your final afternoon as the festive spirit of Tbilisi swells. Capture the family's photo against the backdrop of winter-lit historic houses and graceful minarets, sealing your Georgian adventure in memories as vivid as the city itself.

In the evening, consider a farewell dinner in a family-friendly restaurant showcasing Georgian music and dance, a joyful conclusion to a week woven with culture, landscape, and warm hospitality.