This February, choose the road less travelled and explore a brand-new destination that remains remarkably unhyped compared to the most clichéd European destinations like France, Switzerland, or Italy. Get introduced to a hidden gem of a destination nestled at the crux of the ancient and modern worlds, blending Greek, Persian, Roman and Ottoman influence with a visit to Georgia. This extraordinary amalgam of the Middle East and Europe is the highlight of this Central European destination. Experience a refreshing change from typical European holidays by exploring this off-beat destination. Planning a February trip? Here’s a rundown of what to expect on a Georgian adventure.
Is February a Good Time to Visit Georgia?
Georgia is a Caucasus country that spans across West Asia and East Europe. Straddled between two distinct continents, this gorgeous country offers a unique blend of Middle Eastern and European splendours amidst untouched scenery. Flanked by the Black Sea to the west and the Caucasus Mountains in the north, Georgia experiences diverse seasons throughout the year. In reality, the country has 12 dramatically diverse climate zones from subtropical to high alpine weather conditions. In February, the north becomes an alluring destination for winter wanderlusts while the coastal townships near the Black Sea enjoy warmer temperatures. As February approaches, the frigid cold that gripped the country in December begins to gradually start to ebb away replacing an ambience of apricity in low-lying regions and calmer winter landscapes in high-altitude. While still chilly, February is the best time to visit the Caucasus mountains if you love winter sports. Georgia temperature in February is pleasant as you move south and though mostly cold, it can surprise you with a refreshing sunny day!
Weather in Georgia in February
February falls within the winter season. The ambience remains cold, yet as it is the last month of the season, the temperature tends to rise slightly from previous months. In the northern region, the temperature stays below freezing point and nights are extremely cold. The capital city – Tbilisi records 5o to 10o Celsius, which further drops at night time. Coastal regions along the Black Sea also experience temperatures below 15oC. The northern region has the coldest temperatures recorded at -5o Celsius which can decrease further to touch -15o Celsius at some spots. Heavy snowfall is common in the north, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Some locations in coastal and interior Georgia receive rainfall, while higher altitudes experience snowfall. To sum it up, Georgia favors a wintry snowy climate in February and a visit during this month is best suited only if you are seeking a holiday amid wintry sceneries and temperatures.
- Temperature: Low: -2 degrees Celsius, High: 10 degrees Celsius
- Humidity: 70%
- Chance of Rain (%): 30%
- Daylight (Hrs.): 8 Hours
- Sunrise: 7: 30 am
- Sunset: 6.50 pm
Things to Do in Georgia in February
Gear Up For Winter Sports at Caucasus Mountain Ski Towns
February is the perfect time to dust off your skiing gear and head to the pristine white snowy slopes of the Caucasus Mountains in Georgia. The region is the best-hidden gem in Europe for ski enthusiasts who would love a fast-paced adventure in an uncrowded setting. There are plenty of options to choose from depending on what you prefer. Bakuriani is amazing for families with kids and beginners to get the gist of skiing and have fun in the snow. For adventurers, Mestia is the perfect choice for enjoying breathtaking views, amid dramatic slopes that have a mix of easy to challenging pistes. Places like Goderdzi and Kazbegi are not-so-crowded spots to enjoy skiing on a more off-the-beaten path amid jaw-dropping natural sceneries.
Sip On Warm Wines On Wine-Tasting Tours
While most tourists are drawn towards the popular European vineyards of Bordeaux and Tuscany, many overlook Georgia as a prime destination for making wine for decades. In reality, it has to its name the oldest wine-making technique in history dating 8000 years back and has been tagged as ‘The Cradle of wine’, thanks to its fertile valley and cooler conditions near the Caucasus Mountains. A wine-tasting tour in Dahlonega and Kakheti is the perfect way to experience this rich heritage in February. Stroll through the scenic vineyards, visit the wine cellars and understand the ancient traditional techniques of wine-making called qvevri. Lastly, you get to sample some of the best Georgian wines and even purchase one to take home as a souvenir!
Enjoy Warm Sulphur Baths in Tbilisi
When you visit Tbilisi, don’t just limit yourself to sightseeing tours. Make sure you take time to relax and soothe your tense muscles in therapeutic Sulphur baths in Tbilisi’s Abanotubani district. These Sulphur baths naturally sourced from the bubbling hot springs underneath the city are not only rejuvenating but have medicinal properties to heal skin and muscle-related illnesses, ease joint pain and improve blood circulation. Borjomi is yet another spa destination to visit in Georgia, where tourists can experience open-air thermal baths.
Take a Scenic Train Ride
Another not-to-miss, fascinating experience in Georgia is taking a scenic train ride that journeys from the capital city of Tbilisi to Kutaisi. Winding through gorgeous forested terrains, it offers delightful vistas of snowcapped mountains.
Places to See Georgia in February
Tbilisi
Tbilisi is comparatively warmer to visit in February. The capital city is brimming with UNESCO World Heritage sites, stunning architectural wonders and more. In February, there are fewer crowds; it’s quieter and the weather has mild wintry sunshine making it perfect to explore the city at your own pace. It does not snow heavily during February in the city, making it comfortable to explore outdoors. The city acquires a magical vibe in winter. The old town, with its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets, looks even more enchanting with a sprinkle of snow. Wander around, delving into Georgian winter cuisine and taking in the old-world charms of the city against the snowy background. Take your time exploring it. It’s a city best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
Kakheti
If you want to explore beyond Tbilisi, the Kakheti is your second perfect spot to visit. It’s quieter, less crowded than the capital city and is a wine wonderland! February is an ideal time to visit the wineries and relish some authentic, lip-smacking Georgian cuisine. Kakheti is also one of the most picture postcard-perfect places to capture captivating snowy mountain peaks looming behind ancient monasteries and fortresses like the Alaverdi Monastery and Gremi Fortress.
Gudauri
Gudauri, a popular destination in the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range, is the highest ski resort in Eastern Europe and an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts in February. During this month, the ski resort receives ample snow creating perfect conditions for skiing on pristine, powdery slopes. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views by taking ski lifts to admire the snowy panorama. In addition to skiing, this resort also offers exciting activities like heli-skiing, tandem paragliding, and speed riding.
Ushguli
Ushguli is known for its unparalleled, impressive natural sceneries. This Caucasus countryside located in high altitudes offer nature lovers an enigmatic scenery filled with koshki towers and centuries-old structures. For adventure enthusiasts, it offers the chance to hike through beautiful nature trails. In February, the layer of snow transforms this place into a cozy wintry wonderland. Winter sports lovers can explore the high-quality skiing slopes of Svaneti, which offers opportunities for various winter activities.
Batumi
The second largest city in Georgia takes you back to the contemporary world after spending days amid archaic structures, olden settlements and snowcapped mountain vistas. This seaside city edging along the Black Sea has winter sunshine, the warmth of which is a soothing change from the otherwise icy cold weather in Georgia. Though the weather isn’t pleasant to swim, there are plenty of things to do in February such as exploring Batumi Boulevard, the Botanical Gardens, The Alphabetic Tower, and the moving sculpture of Ali and Nino among many other modern architectural marvels.
Georgia Festivals and Events in February
While in Georgia during February, be sure to partake in the festive atmosphere of the destination. You can experience various festivals and events during your visit.
February Festivals in Georgia
The European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF)
The European Youth Olympic Festival, the largest event hosting an exhilarating competition of multi-sports for the youths from 14 to 18 years of age, comes to Georgia this year and will take place across Bakuriani, Tbilisi, and Batumi.
When: 9th to 16th February 2025
Location: Bakuriani, Tbilisi, and Batumi.
Lamproba
Image Credit : https://georgiaabout.com/
Celebrate the arrival of the early spring season in Georgia with locals who gather to celebrate Lamproba. This festival of lamps is primarily celebrated in Svaneti regions and symbolizes the end of winter and the beginning of spring weather.
When: 14th February 2025
Location: Svaneti Region
February Events in Georgia
Gemo Fest Mestia
If you’re a foodie yearning to sample some of the most delectable dishes of Georgia, be sure to attend the Gemo Fest Mestia in the Svaneti region. There, you can enjoy an epic assortment of Georgia’s rich culinary specialities crafted in traditional methods.
When: To be announced
Location: Mestia
Travel Tips to Visit Georgia in February
Now that you have an insight into Georgia, it’s time to prepare for a Georgia trip in February. Keep the following tips in mind and your Georgian holiday will be a breeze.
- Purchase a local SIM card for connectivity which you can get for under 10 Georgian Lira.
- Mostly, locals speak Russian and Georgian, but in popular tourist regions, the locals are well-versed in English.
- Georgia’s local currency is the Georgian Lari. It’s best to carry some cash if you are travelling to smaller villages.
- Prefer drinking bottled water than tap water.
Things to Know Before Visiting Georgia in February
What to Wear in Georgia in February
February is cold and snowy in most parts of Georgia. So pull out your finest woolen clothes and thermals to pack for your Georgia trip. It is best to dress in layers so that you can add or deduct a piece of attire as the weather temperature changes. Choose closed, comfortable waterproof boots for your travel. Pack swimwear for soothing soaks in Sulphur baths in Georgia. Since there are ample chances of encountering snowy or rainy days in Georgia, it’s best to carry waterproof accessories like umbrellas to make your visit hassle-free. If you plan on visiting religious sites in Georgia, take note of the dress code and dress conservatively.
Getting Around Georgia in February
Georgia has 3 international airports but the most frequently used airport for foreign travelers is the Tbilisi Shota Rustaveli International Airport. Once you reach Tbilisi, travelling around the capital city is convenient with abundant taxis, buses and Metro at your disposal. You even have the option of renting electric scooters to explore the city. To travel from Tbilisi to other regions of Georgia, local buses and minibuses (marshrutka) are the ideal choices. Some regions are connected by train as well which offers a beautiful scenic journey of Georgia’s natural beauty.
Where to Stay in Georgia in February
You do not need to stress about where to stay in Georgia as the country offers a variety of accommodation options that suit all budgets. From homestays and hostels to 3-star hotels, budget travelers can find comfortable spaces to stay overnight in this destination. Midrange hotels with good restaurants can be an upgrade if you do not mind a slightly higher vacation budget. Staying in a guesthouse is the best way to experience local hospitality and be pampered with home-cooked food. For luxury seekers, Georgia has Sheraton Batumi Hotel, Rooms Kazbegi, Crowne Plaza Bojormi and more. The majority of luxury hotels from brands like Swissotel, Ramada, and Le Meridien Radisson are situated in Tbilisi and Batumi. In February, the ski resort towns in Georgia offer warm and cosy stays at cabins and hotels such as Gudauri Lodge, and Hotel Khokta to name a few. These accommodations are well equipped with all the necessary facilities, including ski equipment rentals, onsite restaurants, warm spas and hot pools, Wi-Fi, and gyms. Since February is a low season, you can often find quality hotels at very low costs.
What to eat in Georgia in February
Once you taste the flavorsome Georgian cuisine, you’ll wonder why it hasn’t taken the world by storm. Georgian cuisine is quite popular in Eastern cuisine and dishes like Khachapuri could easily rival Italian and French delicacies. Wholesome and delicious, khachapuri – the traditional cheese-stuffed bread of Georgia is the perfect way to start your day. Pair it with Chirbuli and a glass of hot milk. Fancy a quick bite while sightseeing in Georgia, try Mtsvadi and Tklapi. Meals are hearty and leave you feeling energized throughout the day. The favourite dishes to try are Tabaka chicken with tkemali sauce, Kharcho (beef stew with walnuts), Khinkali (Georgian dumplings) with grilled aubergines and sided with fresh vegetable salads. Complete your meal with a delicious serving of Pelamushi – a soul-soothing grape pudding, and a glass of Georgian wine.
FAQs about Visiting Georgia in February
1. Is February a good time to visit Georgia?February is the low season in Georgia, hence you can explore the destination with fewer tourists and lower costs for travel amenities. However, as a winter month, it’s ideal for winter sports enthusiasts or those who enjoy cold weather.
2. Which is the most popular activity to do in Georgia in February?Georgia is known for its stunning mountain landscapes which become a hotspot for skiing in February’s snowy days. Skiing, snowboarding and other snow sport adventures take the spotlight as the popular activity to do in Georgia in February.
3. Will it rain or snow during a February trip?There are possibilities that you can witness rainy or snowy days in February. It’s best to pack accordingly and check the Georgia weather in February forecast before your trip.
So, with this useful information in hand, plan away your Georgia trip and scratch it off your travel bucket list!
