Mtskheta

Mtskheta is Georgia's ancient capital and its spiritual heart, about 20 km north of Tbilisi where the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers meet. Its historic monuments were inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1994.

On a hilltop above the confluence stands the 6th-century Jvari Monastery, with the finest view of the two rivers and the town below, especially before sunset. In the centre of the town, the 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral rises inside its stone walls.

The old town is small, with a main street of shops selling local sweets and crafts, and simple restaurants. It is usually visited in half a day from Tbilisi, or on the way to Kazbegi.

Mtskheta is lovely all year, and at its best in spring and autumn.