Georgia is a transcontinental country, with a portion of it in the western side of Asia and another in the eastern part of Europe. Although Georgia is a small country with an area of 69,700 square km, it has a diverse geography. You will get to see mountains, volcanic plateaus, coastal plains, and eastern lowlands in this country. Apart from the different stunning landscapes, Georgia is also known for its rich history, unique culture, delicious food, ancient architecture, and adventurous opportunities. While the summer season (July to August) is the peak tourist season in Georgia, every season has its own charm. Of late, March has become an interesting time to visit the country. Here you will find all important details you need to know about visiting Georgia in March.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Georgia?
Yes, March is a good time to visit Georgia. The month is when the country transitions from winter to spring. Most parts of the country lose their extreme winter weather, ensuring that you have a comfortable experience. As it is just the onset of spring season, the tourist crowds are less. This ensures that you will get to explore the country and its attractions without too many people around you. Moreover, this will also bring down the cost of your holiday, as you will find good deals and discounts on hotels, flights, and even tour packages. Apart from this, you can still enjoy winter sports like skiing in March, as the high-altitude areas remain cold and covered with snow even during this month.
Weather in Georgia in March
The Georgia weather in March is between winter and spring. But this shows up in different ways in different areas of the country. The eastern side of Georgia like Tbilisi and the surrounding areas are warmer during the day with cool winds at night. The coastal area, i.e., the area near the Black Sea coast has a mild and humid climate. The area also receives occasional rainfall during the month. However, it is still winter in the mountain regions like Mestia and Kazbegi, where the temperature can go below minus degree. The area also experiences snowfall in March. So, the Georgia temperature in March is not the same throughout the country.
- Temperature: Low – -0-degree C; High: 13-degree C
- Humidity: 65%
- Chance of Rain (%): 20%
- Daylight (Hrs): 11.9 hours
- Sunrise: 7:13 AM
- Sunset: 7:06 PM
Things to do in Georgia in March
Wander Around the National Botanical Garden of Georgia
As March is the beginning of Spring, you will get to see colorful blooms at many places. One of the best places to enjoy a variety of flowers is the National Botanical Garden of Georgia. Located in Tbilisi, this botanical garden is spread around an area of 161 hectares and is home to more than 4000 varieties of plants. Here, you will find plants from different parts of the world, including the Caucasus Region, the Himalayas, China, North America, Siberia, Japan, Turkey, and the Mediterranean. Apart from plants, this botanical garden is decorated with ancient bridges, pavilions, playground shady alleys, and waterfalls.
Go on a Wine Tour in Kakheti
Georgia is the most popular for its wine culture, and going on a winery tour is one of the best things to do in Georgia. Kakheti is the wine capital of Georgia and is home to several wineries that offer vineyard tours and more. Choose a small, family-run winery for the best experience. During the tour, you will get to learn everything about the wine making process, including the exclusive Georgian (qveri) wine making method and other techniques used in Europe. Most of these tours also include wine making demonstrations, sit-down meals, and wine tastings. Giuaani Winery, Akido, Shalauri Wine Cellar, etc., are the best wineries here.
Plan a Skiing Trip
As mentioned earlier, the mountain areas of Georgia have snowy and cold weather even in March, making it the perfect time to go on a skiing adventure. The country has several ski resorts that offer you the chance to enjoy different types of winter and snow adventures. Apart from skiing, snowboarding, heliskiing, winter hiking, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, paragliding, ice climbing, tubing, sledding, and snow horse riding are some of the fun and challenging activities you can do here. The best places to enjoy skiing and snow adventures in Georgia in March are Gudauri, Mestia, Bakuriani, Svaneti, Borjomi, and Stepanstsminda.
Soak in the Sulphur Baths
Tbilisi can become windy and a bit chilly in the evening, and the best way to warm yourself up is to go for a sulphur bath. Under the city of Tbilisi are natural hot springs, which even gave its name, i.e., ‘warm place’. Today, there are several bathhouses in Tbilisi, where you can take a dip in this hot water with a temperature between 38 to 40-degree C. These baths are not only therapeutic and healing but also a great way to feel warm and cozy during the chilly winter evenings in Tbilisi. You can choose to go to a public or private bathhouse, while the former is cheap, the latter is more comfortable. Do not forget to opt for a kisi scrub that helps to scrub off all the dead skin from your body.
Enjoy a Stargazing Experience
Georgia has several spots that are perfect for stargazing. Due to less pollution, these places give access to clear skies that offer you the chance to spend time under a blanket of stars. Many of these places have stargazing experiences where an expert guide would help you to see different planets and stars using modern equipment. The best places to enjoy stargazing in Georgia are Kazbegi (Stepantsminda), Tusheti National Park, Vashlovani National Park, Juta Village, David Gareja Monastery Complex, Truso Valley, Bakuriani, and Uplistsikhe.
Places to Visit in Georgia in March
Tbilisi
Tbilisi is one of the best places to visit in this month as the city has warm days and cool evenings in March. The capital city of Georgia is a quite blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Archeological findings point out that humans have lived in this part of the world since 4000 BC. To enjoy and appreciate the ancient world, a visit to the Old Town is a must. Apart from this, the cave city, Uplistsikhe, is also worth visiting. Bridge of Peace, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Narikala Fortress are places to visit and are usually included in most Tbilisi tour packages. Apart from all this, Tbilisi also offers an amazing nightlife for locals and tourists alike.
Mtskheta
Considered the most sacred place in Georgia, Mtskheta is also called the ‘second Jerusalem’. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was inhabited by the Meskhian tribe since the 5th century BCE. Today, it is the center of Christianity and is home to several Orthodox churches and Orthodox architecture inspired buildings like chapels, cathedrals, and shrines. Jvari Monastery, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Shimgvime Monastery, and Samtavro’s Convent are some of the most visited attractions in Mtskheta.
Kazbegi
Kazbegi is officially named Stepantsminda. Located close to the northern border of the country, Kazbegi is a small Georgian village known for its breathtaking beauty. At the center of Kazbegi is Mount Kazbeg, which stands at the height of 5000 meters. Hiking up this mountain is one of the best things to do here, and the view from the top is one of the best in whole of Georgia. The places you need to visit in Kazbegi are the Gergeti Trinity Church, Trusso Valley, Gveleti Waterfall, Stepantsminda History Museum, Gergeti Glacier, and more.
Batumi
Batumi is a coastal city as well as the second largest city in Georgia. Perched on the edge of the Black Sea, Batumi is known for its beautiful beaches and verdant greenery. While March in Batumi is both cool and humid, it is also a great time to visit the place without being bothered by crowds. One of the best things to do here is visit one of the beaches and enjoy a gorgeous sunset. Going on a sunset cruise is also a good idea. Other than this, visiting the Batumi Botanical Garden, Batumi Archaeological Museum, and Gonio-Apsaros Fortress are some of the interesting things you can do here.
Gudauri
It is still winter season in Georgia’s Gudauri, a ski resort in the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range. The snow remains thick even in March in Gudauri, making it perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Along with this, you can enjoy sledging and paragliding as well. One of the most fascinating activities here is heliskiing, where you can slide down from a helicopter that takes you up to the top of a mountain. After spending time in the snow, head to the sauna where you can warm yourself up with a hot bath. Gudauri is also one of the best places to visit in Georgia for its flavorsome, local food.
Georgia Festivals and Events in March
Berikaoba Festival
A pagan festival that was celebrated all over Georgia in the ancient times, today the festival of Berikaoba is celebrated only in few other villages. It is a festival of spring, rebirth, and fertility and involves people dressed in heavy and scary costumes (Berikas) and running around the village. The villagers offer bread and ale to the Berikas to ensure a fruitful spring for the year.
When: March 16, 2025
Where: Didi Chailuri and other villages in Kakheti
Rhythms of Spring
Rhythms of Spring is an international folklore festival hosted by the Georgian Union of Choreographers. This event brings together artists of folk art from all around the world. Stage performances of choreographic dance routines are a highlight of this event. It is also an opportunity to meet and collaborate with artists from different corners of the world.
When: March 2 to March 9, 2025
Where: Tbilisi and Mtskheta
Art Folk Fest
The Art Folk Fest is an attempt to preserve, protect, and popularize folklore art of the country. Artists from different parts of Georgia come together to showcase their folklore art, including folklore dances, songs, and even handcraft arts.
When: March 27 to March 31, 2025
Where: Tbilisi
Travel Tips to Visit Georgia in March
- You need to get a Georgia visa if you do not belong to one of the countries that come under Georgia visa waiver. It is possible to get the visa online.
- There are chances of rain in Georgia in March. If you are planning to spend your day outdoors, do have a backup plan to check some of the indoor attractions, so as not to waste your time.
- Spring is the time of blooming flowers in March, which can lead to pollen allergies. If you have any significant allergies, do not forget to take your antihistamines. Also, wearing a face mask would be a good idea while venturing out.
- While Georgia is a safe country, it would be prudent to keep your belongings safe while exploring the outdoors, especially when you are in crowded areas.
- The language of Georgia is Georgian, although English and Russian are widely spoken here. Still, it would be a good idea to learn a few Georgian words like saying hello and thank you, which will help you connect with the locals.
- Tap water in Georgia is safe, and you do not have to spend money on bottled water. Carry reusable water and refill whenever you see a water tap.
Things to Know Before Visiting Georgia in March
What to Pack for Georgia in March?
As the temperature is still low in March, pack warm clothes for your Georgia trip. As the chances of rain are high, a raincoat or umbrella should also be on your packing list. A hat, scarf, and gloves are also needed. To keep yourself protected from the sun, sunscreen and sunglasses are a must. Do not forget to pack lip balm and moisturizer for your face and body. A backpack and a reusable water bottle will be useful for your outings. If you are planning to go skiing, it would be a good idea to pack your skiing gear. In the case of electronics, your camera, universal adapter, and power bank should also be a part of your packing list.
What to Wear in Georgia in March?
It is best to dress up in layers in Georgia in the month of March. Jeans or trousers are best for bottom wear, while you can go for long-sleeved T-shirts, shorts, and tops for your upper wear. Light sweaters and cardigans are also a good choice. Do not forget to wear thermals in extremely cold places, where it still snows in March. A warm jacket, socks, hats, gloves, and scarves should be a part of your wardrobe to keep you warm. For footwear, go for comfortable walking shoes for your sightseeing experiences. You may have to wear waterproof shoes in cities where it rains in March. Hiking boots are necessary if you are planning to visit the mountain regions of the country.
Getting Around Georgia in March
Traveling within Georgia is not a hassle as there are plenty modes of transportation in the country.
- Flight: Most of the cities in Georgia are connected by flight. However, if you are planning to travel to the mountain regions by flight in March, you need to consider the weather too.
- Trains: Another option for long-distance travel is trains. Most of the major and minor cities of the country are well-connected by trains. Sleeper trains are also available for overnight train journeys.
- Long Distance Buses: The country also has inter-city buses that connect its major cities. You can travel from Tbilisi to cities like Kutaisi, Batumi, and more via buses.
- Private Transfers: If you do not want to rely on public transfers, you can choose private transfers while traveling within the country. This may be more expensive than public transportation, but it is more comfortable. Buses and taxis are the best way of traveling within the cities. Tbilisi also has the metro system, which is reliable and convenient. Walking and cycling are some of the ways of sightseeing and getting around in the tourist cities, towns, and villages of Georgia.
Where to Stay in Georgia in March?
Your accommodation would depend on your budget, the places you are visiting, and the experiences you are seeking.
- Hotels: The most common accommodation option preferred by tourists is a hotel. You can choose to stay at boutique hotels, mid-range hotels, or luxury hotels.
- Budget-Friendly: If you are traveling to Georgia on a budget, you can save money by staying at a hostel. Hostels in the country have both dormitories and private rooms with common kitchens. Another budget-friendly option is a guesthouse. These are usually available in small towns and rural areas.
- Long-Term Accommodation: If you are traveling to Georgia with your family or are planning to stay in the country for a long time, it is best to opt for an apartment or vacation rental. This will be like a home away from home, where you can relax in your own space.
- Unique Accommodations: If you do not mind spending money and want to experience something unique, Georgia has several special accommodation options. These include ski resorts, spa resorts, castle hotels, historic homes, glamping spaces, and more.
What to Eat in Georgia in March?
The Georgian food is something you need to try when in the country. Georgian cuisine is influenced by the cuisines of Greece, Persia, Russia, and Turkey. Breads and pastries as well as vegetable, meat, fish, soups and stews made with dried and fresh herbs and spices are an integral part of the Georgian cuisine. The popular foods that you will get to taste during the tour include Khachapuri Adjaruli, Churchkhela, Khinkali, Ajapsandali, Lobio, Mtsvadi, Tklapi, Kharcho, Phkali, Lobiani, and more. The best way to enjoy the cuisine of Georgia is by going on a food tour. You will find several tours in Tbilisi that gives you the chance to enjoy the authentic Georgian fare.
FAQs About Visiting Georgia in March
1. Is it safe to travel to Georgia on a solo trip?
Yes, Georgia is generally a safe city, the crime rate being low. But still, it is important to be mindful when in public places.
2. Are the roads in Georgia safe in March?
The roads in the lowland areas are quite safe for driving in March. But the mountain roads are laden with snow, and it would require an experienced driver to drive around the place.
3. Should I get a travel insurance while traveling to Georgia?
Yes, it is important to get travel insurance, as it would help you to save money during medical emergencies. It also covers things like adventure activities and trip cancellations.
4. Is Georgia expensive in March?
No. March is at the end of winter season in Georgia, and hence not many people visit the country in this month. So, you would find great discounts on flights, hotels, and holiday packages during this month.
5. Are all the attractions in Georgia open in March?
Yes, almost all attractions of Georgia are open in March. However, some mountain regions may be closed during this month due to heavy snow. You need to make enquiries regarding the same before you plan your trip.
Conclusion
Visiting Georgia in March is the best way to explore the country peacefully, without running into too many tourists. While the weather is not ideal, Georgia has a different charm and allure in this month.
